Build a Covert GPS Vehicle Tracker
Build a covert DIY GPS Vehicle Tracker for less than $20. The tracker needs to sit in the car under the trim and live GPS track the vehicle. You don't want to have to switch it on/off or do any maintenance.
After buying the bits this project takes about an hour to put together and fit.
Steps
- Buy a cheap 12v to 5v USB converter. You'll need a 12v to 5v (micro USB) voltage dropper like the one the picture
- Buy a cheap unlocked Android phone from eBay. This is a Samsung Galaxy Y.You can now pick one up from Ebay for less than $20.
- Get a really cheap SIM. If you want live data then you need a SIM with data credit on it. If you google M2M SIMs you can find some companies that do really cheap data sims with a small data allowance per month. You need less than 10Mb.
- Download and install an Android tracking App. There are a number of different choices but most importantly you need an App that will automatically start tracking when the vehicle moves. Try for example, 'Pay as you Track'.
- Locate a constant 12v supply in your vehicle. You need a constant supply as the phone will go flat in about 24 hours if it isn't being charged. Vehicles often have a constant 12v cigarette lighter in the trunk.
- Connect the 12v to 5v USB converter to the 12v supply. Now plug in the phone and check that it shows that the power is connected
- Hide the phone. Carefully conceal the phone in the trim of your vehicle.
Tips
- Use a 'Cable Lock Connector' to connect to the constant 12v supply.
Warnings
- Make sure you locate a *constant* 12v supply
