Build an Arduino Laser Security System Alarm that Calls You!

Summary

In this video, Max upgrades his existing GSM Laser Tripwire Alarm with help from Instatronic. The project uses an Arduino Nano, BC547 transistor, and the SIM800L GSM module to send notifications when the alarm is triggered. Max demonstrates the process of wiring, coding, and troubleshooting the GSM module, including adding a capacitor to improve network connectivity. After several tests and adjustments, including incorporating a laser diode, the system successfully sends alerts and makes calls when tripped. Max highlights key lessons in working with GSM modules and thanks Instatronic for their crucial assistance in making the upgrade possible.

Takeaways

• 😀 The project focuses on upgrading an existing laser tripwire alarm with GSM functionality for remote notifications and control.
• 😀 Collaboration with Instatronic, an expert in electronics and coding, played a significant role in the project's success.
• 😀 The laser tripwire alarm uses a laser diode and photoresistor to detect interruptions, triggering a notification to the user.
• 😀 The key components of the project include an Arduino Nano, GSM module, laser diode, photoresistor, and a transistor for the reset mechanism.
• 😀 Setting up the GSM module involved ensuring the right voltage, current, and a good antenna connection for reliable network communication.
• 😀 A 3.7V, 1000mAh battery was used to power the GSM module, with a recommendation to provide at least 1A of current for optimal performance.
• 😀 A crucial troubleshooting step was adding a capacitor (470-560µF) to improve the GSM module’s connectivity to the network.
• 😀 The code required several iterations, including test codes to verify communication between the GSM module, Arduino, and the phone.
• 😀 The final code integrates the alarm activation and deactivation system, with security passwords for control and a call-back feature when triggered.
• 😀 The upgraded system allows the user to activate, deactivate, and receive notifications about the alarm remotely, making it much more practical.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the laser tripwire alarm project discussed in the video?

The laser tripwire alarm project is designed to alert the user via a phone notification when someone trips the laser. The alarm can also be remotely armed and disarmed through a GSM module, adding a layer of security to a location.

Who collaborated with the creator on this project and what role did they play?

The creator collaborated with a person from Instatronic, who provided guidance on coding and electronics. Instatronic helped solve several technical issues, especially with the GSM module and coding.

What is the function of the BC547 transistor in the circuit?

The BC547 transistor acts as an electronic switch. It replaces the manual reset switch, linking the reset to ground and enabling the alarm's control through the Arduino.

How does the GSM module communicate with the user’s phone?

The GSM module communicates by sending text messages or making phone calls. Once activated, it sends notifications to the phone when the alarm is triggered, allowing the user to control the system remotely.

What problem did the creator face with the GSM module and how was it resolved?

The GSM module initially failed to connect to the network, blinking erratically. The solution was to add a capacitor between 470 and 560 microfarads, which stabilized the module's connection and enabled it to successfully connect to the GSM network.

What were some important considerations when powering the GSM module?

The GSM module requires a power supply that provides at least 1 amp of current, with 2 amps being ideal. The creator used a 3.7V 1000mAh battery, which worked well despite the module's recommended higher current requirement.

Why was a second BC547 transistor added to the circuit?

A second BC547 transistor was added to ensure that the system could correctly detect when the alarm was triggered. The updated configuration allowed the Arduino to read whether the alarm was beeping, improving the system's responsiveness.

What issue did the creator encounter with the activation and deactivation passwords?

The system had trouble reading passwords longer than three characters. It could only process passwords up to three characters long, which was a limitation in the final setup.

How does the laser tripwire alarm system activate and deactivate?

To activate the alarm, the user sends a text message containing the activation password, and the system replies with a request for the correct password. To deactivate the alarm, the user sends a message with the deactivation password, which turns off the system.

What is the role of the laser diode in the laser tripwire alarm?

The laser diode creates a continuous laser beam, which is directed at a photoresistor. When the beam is interrupted, such as when someone crosses the tripwire, the alarm is triggered, and a notification is sent to the user’s phone.