OpenTracker
OpenTracker
Stand Alone GPS Tracking Unit
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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 :-
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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
OpenTracker Pricing |
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OpenTracker Kit – A$70 | Includes a OpenTracker chip, PCB, and all components excluding cables. Includes Case. With large 5V regulator |
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OpenTracker Chip – A$35 | Replacement IC |
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OpenTracker Built and Tested – A$110 | For those not interested in soldering together the kit. Case included. |
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OpenTracker Case – A$10 | The OpenTracker is designed to fit this translucent plastic case. The case is pre-cut with holes for the DB-9 connectors. Also suits the WeatherTrak and the TinyTrak3. |
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Programming Cable – A$10 | OpenTracker3 Female To Female Gender Changer needed to connect a OpenTracker to the computer for configuration. |
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GPS for OpenTracker – A$176
| A cheap GPS with integrated voltage regulator to plug straight into the OpenTracker |
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Postage – A$5 | Postage per order |
After ordering a kit or a chip, be sure to download
the configuration software and documentaion.
You can view the files HERE
Postage – $A5
NOTE: This is *PER ORDER*, not per item.
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.
A
Gender Changer Null Modem Adapter
is needed to connect a OpenTracker to a computer.
GPS to Suit
Haicom Hi-204 series waterproof – $180
