Where to start a bit help would be great

Community General Discussion
1

I'm totally new to this and really excited about starting but have no idea where to start

What I'd like to do is built a small GPS data logger that can fitted to a hardhat so I can collect data (Its data fro a data location experiment)

Any suggestions where to start, this is what I am looking at:
GPS Module - https://core-electronics.com.au/adafruit-ultimate-gps-breakout-66-channel-w-10-hz-updates-version-3.html

Then use the Arduino Uno

Then follow these instructions - Logging GPS Data to an SD Card with Arduino - YouTube

Can you tell me if I'm on the right path?

2

That is the easy part. Powering the system for any length of time is the hard part. Add up all your current requirements multiply by the time and find a battery to put in your hard hat that will supply that power for the necessary time.

3

Most all GPS and all SD cards are nativly 3.3V supply and logic.

So if you want to use them with a 5V Arduino UNO you need to be sure all the GPS boards and SD card boards you are using are suited for use with the Arduino UNO.

Myself, I have done a fair bit of stuff with GPSs and SD cards, including loggers, but I always use 3.3V Arduinos such as the 3.3V Pro Mini.

Your very unlikley to be able to build a 'small' GPS logger for a hat with an Arduino UNO.

4

Thanks for replying
In terms of size what would you recommend so it can be fitted to a hard hat?

5

Is there a solution to making it smaller? I could also put it on a belt - they main thing it can't be obstructive

6

3.3V Arduino Pro Mini, not many Arduinos smaller than that.

1 Like
7

srnet,
I've read that since the Pro Mini does not have a USB port it draws less current than say, a Nano, at all times (I mean whether or not there are any comms taking place thru the USB).
Is that right and is the current savings significant?

I found the Pro Mini awkward to work with as it can't be programmed thru a USB port. Next time I want to use a Pro Mini I think I'll do the development and testing on a Uno or Nano and commit to the Pro Mini when the program is proven.

8

You use a standard USB to serial adapter and plug it into the connector on the end of the Pro Mini.

Why is that in any way akward ?

9

I wasn't doing it that way. I used the RX/TX pins of a Uno. That requires pressing the Pro Mini reset button at just the right moment. Will try your method next time.

What about the current issue? Would a Nano use significantly more current than a Pro Mini just to support the USB port?

10

I dont have a Nano, being 5V its of little use to me.

Considering there is a GPS and SD card bing used, I doubt the extra current the Nano would use will have a big impact.

11

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