The document describes the process of developing a prototype SMS display device using an Arduino and mbed microcontroller board. It details how the author designed their own printed circuit board using EagleCAD software, had it manufactured, and assembled it with the microcontroller and mobile broadband dongle. The completed device is then able to display incoming SMS messages on an LED matrix. The document concludes by discussing some potential improvements and uses for the SMS display device.
1. From idea to finished product
By Andrew Lindsay at Reading Geek Night 09/07/2013
@AndrewDLindsay
2. About me
Started programming Sinclair ZX80 as a kid
Software developer for over 25 years, now freelance.
Experience of TV, Government, Telecoms, ISP, Transport,
Utilities and Finance.
Instrumentation and Embedded Systems Roles
Java, C, C++, Basic, Pascal, web etc…
Interest in microcontrollers re-ignited with Arduino
Then mbed and ARM processors
Regular at IoT London meetups
3. The idea
IoT London Meetup number 9, June 2012
Vodafone demonstrating K3370 Mobile broadband
dongle and mbed connected to printer to display sms
Already used Arduino with multiple LED Matrix displays to
create network enabled scrolling display
Familiar with mbed technology
5. Beyond a prototype
Design own PCB
Learn EagleCAD for schematic and PCB layout
Generate gerber files
Have small batch of PCBs manufactured
Used Seeedstudio Fusion PCB service
16. Uses
Integrate with services that send SMS, e.g. IFTTT
Display Foursquare checkins, weather alerts, Google
calendar events.
Rude messages from friends
Add small thermal printer for hard copy output
React to commands, e.g. Balance check.
Other USB devices, e.g. Bluetooth can be used
17. Improvements
Reposition dongle to outside of board
Or provide a cutout so USB socket is at correct angle and
copper pour is not shielding dongle
Use alternative USB socket footprint with plated
mounting holes
Add sound notification of new messages
Silkscreen updates and corrections
Add logos for open hardware and publish CAD files
19. Featured sites
mbed.org – Prototype platform
mbed.org/handbook/Vodafone – Mobile dongle
www.meetup.com/iotlondon - IoT London Meetup
www.cadsoftusa.com – Supplier of PCB design tools
mayhewlabs.com/webGerber – 3D gerber viewer
www.seeedstudio.com – Fusion PCB service
ifttt.com – Making the internet do things
blog.thiseldo.co.uk/?p=703 – my blog with more info