OpenTracker

Stand Alone GPS Tracking Unit

OpenTracker is a GPS position encoder which, when connected to a GPS and a radio, will transmit its location at an adjustable rate. It works by modulating the GPS data into tones that can be transmitted through any radio system - UHF, VHF, Trunked. If you are looking for a tracking system using another technology you may like to look at our Choosing page. OpenTracker is a construction project providing an inexpensive way to build a mobile tracker without the need for a full TNC. It is configured by connecting to a computer's serial port, and running a simple configuration tool which allows setting of all user options. OpenTracker includes the following features :-    OSI Certified Open Source Software    FLASH memory allows firmware to be updated or replaced in seconds    On-board temperature and battery voltage sensors    Counter function - count input signals with optional reset on transmit    Uses the same cables as the Kantronics KPC-3/3+ and Byonics TinyTrak3    SmartBeaconing support for adaptive transmit rate    APRS support for position, course/speed, altitude, symbol, and comment    APRS compressed position formats (optional)    1200 baud and 300 baud firmware versions available    Uses any combination of $GPRMC, $GPGGA, and $GPGLL NMEA sentences    Quartz crystal clock source for excellent temperature stability    Dual configuration support - selectable by jumper, voltage, altitude, speed, or temperature    Can report number of satellites in use and HDOP    Low voltage inhibit to prevent draining car batteries when unattended

Usually the OpenTracker is connected to the microphone input of a radio (generally a 2-meter handheld or mobile.) Data from a GPS receiver gets encoded and transmitted in APRS format, and in many parts of the world there's an extensive digipeater and gateway network that'll get the data onto the Internet. From there you can access it through websites like OpenAPRS, APRS World and Findu.com.

It has onboard temperature and voltage sensors, and it'll also connect to a number of different weather stations, including the 1-Wire weather instrument from AAG.

The OpenTracker is a transmit-only device. It can't receive or decode any data itself. If you're using the APRS network and you've got Internet access, you don't even need to decode anything off the air - IGate stations will do that for you. For other applications, the simplest way to start receiving data is to install a soundcard modem program like AGWPE, and simply connect a scanner or radio to your computer's audio input.

Free firmware updates are released on a regular basis to add new features. Upgrading the firmware version, or switching between tracking and weather firmware (or any other special purpose firmware) is easily done through a serial cable using the configuration program.

See the hardware section for schematics and board layout files if you want to build your own unit from scratch, or buy a kit or assembled unit from the online store.

Pricing

Postage - $A5

Payments

We accept a number of payment methods. The most popular are Direct Deposit, Cheque and PayPal. B-Pay, PostBillPay and Credit Card are available too. To find out more about paying us, please visit our payments page

Orders can be placed by sending a cheque or money order to :-

Radioactive Networks
POBox 169
Ingleburn NSW 2565
Australia

When ordering please provide an email address so that I can advise when the units have been shipped.

Haicom Hi-204 series waterproof - $180

Who is Radioactive Networks?

Radioactive Networks is a consulting company with extensive experience in mobile tracking technologies. We have used these technologies successully in events as diverse as the Olympics, the IronMan World Championships in Hawaii to a technology demonstration in Hollywood, Ca. Our unique catalog of Hardware and Software allow us to provide an economical solution to almost any business need.

Based in Sydney, Australia, Radioactive Networks have the experience needed to complete even the most demanding mobile tracking projects.

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Copyright © 1994-2006 Radioactive Networks , darryl@radio-active.net.au
This page was last updated 2006-02-21 14:28:46
This page was last compiled 2006-11-21 08:45:52
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