GPS modem interfacing with controllers

Question

Hi,

I am a student and I plan on making a final year project. I am trying to connect a controller to a mobile device using a wireless connection. I have no ideea what kind of wireless module to use. Are there some kind of GPS modems that can do this task? I am planning on transfering large data if possible. Maybe a GPRS or EDGE connection can be realized some how.

I have also heard about some long distance wireless kits ( can go up to 7km). Can these be connected to my smartphone/PDA?I know these are using 802.15 protocol while the phone WiFi is 802.11g.

Chris_Pinter · Accepted Answer

Well....you could use a cellular phone simulator. However, that would be costly in the order of $5,000 per month to rent or over $150,000 to buy. You could buy a SIM card from your local cell phone store and put it into the module. However, this would be bad because you would be putting an untested device on the network and the phone company will not like that. Putting an untested device on the network will cause potential problems for the system and you could get in trouble with the carrier, FCC or other regulator body. It is best not to do it as it is very unprofessional. Not a good way to start your career. It is always better to get a test account. It only costs $15 to $30 per month and the company will be able to provide you with technical support when you have problems accessing the networks. Forming this relationship with a phone company is also very important for your career. You get to work with a technical person in the industry who might be able to be convinced to provide you with a reference or could become a potential employer.....Also when you do your thesis your instructors will ask you about how you did the testing and doing it right will get you a better mark. I hope this answers your questions. Chris

Chris_Pinter · Answer

Hello Alexandru, Please take the time to explain your thought clearly. It is very important to use the correct acronyms because the engineers in the community can focus on your needs and not correct inconsistencies and guess at your true intention of questioning. The module you have selected is a good choose. You can also check out Sierra Wireless. I have used a couple of these modules. http://www.sierrawireless.com/productsandservices/AirPrime/Embedded_Modules.aspx The most important thing you will need to do is secure a test account with a cellular phone company. I found a couple of companies that can provide you a development account without contacting the large cellular phone providers. Here is a short list. www.m2mglobal.com www.waveroute.com www.m2msim.com Hope this helps, Chris http://www.pinterec.ca/services/wireless-development/wireless-capabilities