LoRa_Tracker

Description:

This device aims to be a GPS tracker which connects over LoRa to the Things Network, which then in turns makes the GPS position available to the internet. The PCB roughly has the footprint of a 18650 Lithium-ion rechargable cell, which is widely used and available.

Hardware:

• Battery charging (using BQ24040)
• Battery protection (using BQ2970)
• LoRa module (RFM 95)
• GPS (ublox SAM M8Q)

Progress so far:

• PCB design done
• PCB design verified (first prototype assembled)
• Ported IBM LMIC to STM32F103

TODO and next steps

• Implement persistent memory writing for TTN keys
• Add Gerber files to repository
• Add STL files to repository

Known issues

• ADC pin for battery voltage measurements wired wrongly (fixed next PCB iteration)
• SAM M8Q footprint very hard to solder (fixed next PCB iteration)
• Charger thermal management not adequate (fix to be evaluated)