How to get started with ARDUINO GSM SHIELD 2

Projects Networking, Protocols, and Devices
1

Hi! So I'm a new member of this forum and made this account to find out a little more about how to use an Arduino for a project I'm working on. We are still in very early stages, so this might not even be the right approach, but currently we are trying to figure out how to use the GSM Shield 2 to be able to send SMS messages from Jamaica, based on data we get from a flowmeter (we are trying to measure the flow rate of a water distribution system).

Some of our current problems and confusion lies in if 2G coverage is available in the US (what kind of SIM card might we need). I think the first step we want to complete is to simply send a text from the Arduino to one of our phones.

I was wondering if any of you could connect me with any resources, tutorials, or advice on how to get started?

Thank you so much!

2

Shouldn't you be trying to figure out what cell service is available in Jamaica?
Isn't there where you have the Arduino and the GSM shield?

3

I currently use a Ting (google for them) 2G sim card here in the US. It uses the T-Mobile network and it's basically a pay per use system plus a small monthly fee.

As to tutorials, here again, you'll have to search for them if the seller doesn't have any posted.

I'm currently sending data & commands back and forth between my cell and a remote arduino, so it's totally possible.

Randy

4

Hi! Thank you for your responses.

@ieee488 yes in the long term we will need a functioning SIM card in Jamaica, but for now we are simply prototyping and want to test the product in the US before we try to bring it overseas.

@revolt_randy We will definitely try a T-Mobile sim card and I found this tutorial https://www.arduino.cc/en/Guide/ArduinoGSMShield online, so hopefully this will work!

5

Many countries are phasing out 2G. [updated ]

You'll want to rethink this.

6

I think they're phasing out 2G in most countries. I haven't seen any dates for fading out 3G.

The idea still remains the same independent on which network the data is transmitted.

7

jockwr:
The idea still remains the same independent on which network the data is transmitted.

I am more concerned about the GSM hardware. Whether he would need to buy a different if he needs 3G.
And whether that new shield will be the same or different than the one he debugged on.
These shields are not often well-documented.