Compass Repeaters / Tripmasters

schattat · 03-22-2009, 07:32 AM

FOR ALL NEW READERS, PLEASE READ THIS FIRST
Ever since this thread was started it has grown with many pages showing the development and growth of my devices. So, if you don't really care about all that and want ro cut right to the chase, I suggest you skip ahead to here where you can find some pics of the final products as well as the final prices!
Otherwise, please feel free to read on (you'll be able to see many computer generated 3D models of the devices before they were ever made

).

Hey guys,

Well, they're finally done!

As you may know from my Africa Race thread (see my signature below), I was asked by a number of people here at ADVrider whether I could make a couple of compass repeaters, just like the ones used at major rallye events, such as "Dakar".
Well, I did. I custom designed and fabricated my own circuit boards, and depending on which components are mounted, they work as a compass repeater, or a tripmaster. These repeaters are a cheaper alternative to the Touratech ones for almost 700€!

In order to have the compass repeater working, you'll either need your own GPS (such as a Garmin), or a simple GPS antenna, like the ones for PDA navigation. To see whether your handeld GPS device is compatible with these repeaters, take a look at your user's manual, and see whether it supports "NMEA Output". If this is the case, check whether is has the "$GPVTG" as one of its output sentences (the majority of the modern devices do, but just check in case

). I can already confirm that the GPS 60 series (CSX, CX, CS, C) are 100% compatible with my repeaters. Many of the other Garmin GPSs too, but as I said, check beforehand! You'll just have to get hold of the appropriate connection cable for your device.

If instead you want to operate the repeater with a standalone antenna, like ones for PDA navigation, I recommend antennas, such as the Rikaline 6010 GPS Mouse. This mouse is waterproof (the majority of other mice aren't!), and fairly accurate (accurate enough for your average joe

). I've used it before on several occasions, and was very satisfied with it.

Now, to the circuit board. I've kept the concept simple, to avoid any trouble that may arise during use. 1 microprocessor controls averything, unlike other manufacturers who tend to use more than 2 (more chances of a fault). The highlight of the whole thing is obviously the LCD. It's a special transflective kind, which means it can be perfectly read, whilst having the backlight running (which runs all the time). It still stays perfectly readable during very strong sunshine, (LED backlight still running).

As you can see on the pics, the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) has several pads made to solder a few wires on to. For the compass repeater, you'll only need 3 wires to operate it with. Positive power lead (10-18V), GND and data. It's also possible to power your GPS/antenna from the device. Whatever you prefer...
The primary job for the reapeater is to show the current true compass course. But several people have asked me to add a feature for speed (also taken from the GPS data). If you want this feature enabled, you're going to have to solder a push button on to one of the designated pads (the other pin to GND). If there is no button attached, the repeater will only show the compass course.
For the tripmaster you'll need 2 buttons to operate it. For this, there are 2 designated pads. The wheel sensor is a standard reed switch (2 wire operation), like the original ICO uses. Again, another pad.

Soldering these few wires shouldn't be much of an issue. A soldering iron costs, what $10?? A bit of solering wire, $2? If you can't solder, I'm sure you can find some helpful videos on youtube, or I can always be of assistance.

Just to be sure, for sale are only the fully soldered circuitboards, without a casing. You'll have to make your own casing for it!
The PCB come ready to run (race?), meaning all necessary parts are mounted, and the device is programmed. You just need the solder a few wires...

I currently only have 20 pieces available. If there's a greater demand, I'll make a couple more...
Mode models were successfully tested during the Africa Race, with no faults whatsoever!

Measurements: 72mm x 49mm x 11mm
Price:
Compass Repeater - 160€
Tripmaster - 80€

If there are any open questions, please do ask!!!

Oh yeah, some pics

HogWild · 03-22-2009, 07:50 PM

Great product, though it will be a bit of a chore packaging it.

Can you confirm that it works with the GPS unit used in Dakar? What type of connector is needed to make that connection to the Dakar GPS? Pinouts?

I didn't find a convenient source to purchase the Rikakin GPS receiver you suggested. I did find a similar waterproof unit for a very good price on eBay: PolStar GPS on eBay But, I can't tell if your unit is compatible with the PolStar GPS receiver voltage levels. Can you check the specs and let me know. Does the repeater have a 5V output to power such a GPS? At under US$20 with shipping, this PolStar GPS seems like a good choice, if it would work. Better yet, if you provided an option to purchase your repeater packaged with a GPS receiver like this, that would be even better! I'm not sure a lot of people are ready to take on the project of packaging the repeater, finding a compatible "mouse" GPS, building their own cables, and figuring out voltage compatibilities and how to wire everything up. But I'm ready for it!

I don't fully understand the pricing. Does your Compass Repeater also have the functions of your Tripmaster, or are they completely different units? Ideally, I would like to see one unit with both functions (with pushbutton to toggle between functions). Is that possible?

Do you accept Paypal?

schattat · 03-23-2009, 06:19 AM