Everyone sooner or later begins to think about controlling their health. The ideal option is a complete medical examination using specialized equipment and technology. However, it is not possible to conduct such a survey all the time. Bluetooth trackers that monitor a person’s physical activity around the clock do an excellent job of solving this problem. They not only allow you to count the number of steps or calories burned, but also have a number of other functions:
- tracking heart rate, which is especially important for people who have problems with the cardiovascular system;
- diet monitoring - an innovative feature that is present in the flagship models;
- sleep monitoring, as well as the ability to use the smart alarm function;
- a built-in personal trainer that reminds you when to warm up or do a certain exercise.
Distinctive features and functions of Bluetooth trackers
Although a Bluetooth tracker can outperform some of the latest technology, its main job is to motivate its owner to an active lifestyle and help control the level of stress. Among the main measuring functions of this device are the following:
- determination of the pulse and constant monitoring of indicators;
- the number of steps taken;
- the amount of calories burned;
- sleep quality and movement speed.
Most of the models on the market are characterized by the function of integrating with an application on a smartphone or tablet, so that all received data is stored on a portable device. A special program will calculate activity, analyze changes in health and, if necessary, provide recommendations. For example, it can remind the user that he is not moving much.
Some models of Bluetooth trackers can monitor your health around the clock, even while you sleep. Such health monitoring not only helps athletes or lovers of an active lifestyle, but also people who have health problems. That is why such devices are becoming more relevant and in demand every day. In addition, manufacturers pay close attention to the appearance of fitness bracelets, making them a stylish accessory that can fit into any outfit.
Features of choosing a Bluetooth tracker
Of course, the most popular and sought after forms of Bluetooth trackers are watches and bracelets. However, there are more original models on the market that resemble clip-on earrings, tablets, and even headphones. Some innovative models can measure heart rate and other indicators using a special belt, while others are distinguished by the presence of built-in shoe sensors. In other words, a Bluetooth tracker is a health monitoring device 24 hours a day.
In the process of choosing the most optimal device, you need to pay attention to the following factors:
- The presence of a screen. It should be noted that most devices of this kind on the market are devoid of screens. Because of this, it is very difficult to quickly assess the current results and you have to constantly look at the data on your smartphone. But without a display, charging is enough for a record number of days. Of course, there are models on which small displays are installed, allowing you to quickly assess the main indicators. There is a direct relationship between the screen size, the amount of data displayed and the price of the tracker. In order to ensure maximum usability and autonomy, some manufacturers have developed and use special types of screens. These can be Amoled displays or monochrome options. Color displays are more comfortable, but they drain the battery much faster.
- Additional functions. Among the basic functions that all Bluetooth trackers have are a step meter and a calorie counter. The rest already depends on the imagination of the developers. Recently, engineers have been paying close attention to such a function as sleep monitoring. Some gadgets can independently determine that a person has gone to bed, while others need to be informed about this using a special button. The most advanced bracelets are able to independently determine in which phase of sleep a person is and are able to control the operation of the alarm clock in such a way as to wake the user during a light phrase. There are two other necessary features that can be found on expensive Bluetooth trackers - GPS and an altimeter. . Such opportunities will be relevant for connoisseurs of outdoor activities or athletes.
- Protective technologies. Almost any similar device available for sale boasts a shockproof case and dust protection. Some options are moisture resistant, making them suitable for showering, swimming and even snorkeling. In any case, before buying it is imperative to look at the operating conditions of the new gadget. This is the only way to understand whether it is suitable for use under water, what air temperature and humidity are optimal.
- Autonomy. Battery life is one of the most important criteria. For most models, charging once a week is enough, but if you have a color display, you will have to “replenish” the battery with energy every 3-4 days. It should be taken into account that the fewer functions, the less often you will have to charge the device. Some Bluetooth trackers with a minimum number of functions are able to work on a single charge for about six months.
- Applications. The trackers themselves are not capable of storing data on the number of steps taken, distance, etc. in memory. For this, special applications are used that receive data from gadgets, store and process them. Applications from different manufacturers differ: some provide data in the form of tables and graphs, others simply create charts or display information in a list.
Popular models of Bluetooth trackers
There are many Bluetooth trackers on the market today, which differ in their functions, design and other parameters. This mini Bluetooth GPS tracker, smart Bluetooth tracker and other varieties.
- Xiaomi Mi Band 2- the second generation of the popular tracker from Xiaomi has a small screen, so now you do not need to wear a regular watch on your second hand. The device is equipped with a touch button that displays all the necessary information and time. A distinctive feature of this gadget is the battery life, which is about three weeks. Sensors include a heart rate monitor, an accelerometer, and a sleep monitoring function.
- Samsung Charm- the original model, which is famous for its nominal capabilities. The fact is that in this gadget, the Korean company has focused on the appearance, not functionality. Given the fact that Samsung Charm was created mainly for a female audience, it has small dimensions and minimal weight. The bracelet boasts a stylish appearance, but you don’t need to expect any extra features from it: the accelerometer only counts steps, distance and calories burned.
- Withings Go- one of the most striking models, which boasts a record battery life. This model can be worn on hands, clothes or keys. A distinctive feature of Withings Go is the presence of an E-Ink screen. The tracker can track not only running, but also swimming. Withings Go is able to analyze sleep and display statistics in a mobile application.
- Moov Now It features high measurement accuracy, which is made possible by the use of a nine-axis Omni Motion sensor. In addition, the device can track activities such as running, cycling, swimming or boxing. A proprietary application allows you to use several trackers at the same time. One of the advantages of Moov Now is the presence of the virtual coach feature. In the application, you must specify the physical data, the type of training and follow the voice prompts.
- Xiaomi AmazFit- the first smart watch of the Chinese company, which is a full-fledged fitness tracker. The presence of a ceramic body and glass Gorilla Glass provides the maximum level of safety and security. The clock not only displays notifications, but also gives you the opportunity to interact with them. You can save music to the memory of the device and listen to it during training.
I decided to get acquainted with GPS navigation a little, bought an inexpensive module. At the same time, in order not to get lost in the three pines, I decided to assemble a compact tracker based on it, which can be easily connected to a cell phone or laptop.
The device is based on the GPS module from Quectel - L10. Compact (22×17mm), inexpensive (~300 rubles), easily solderable chip (1.1mm pitch). On board which contains UART, USB, I2C, SPI, in general, a wide variety of interfaces for interfacing with a computer, even with a microcontroller, at least with anything. Supports both passive and active antennas of various types. The standard protocol for such devices is NMAE.
First of all, I was interested in UART, because. it is most convenient for interfacing with MK and other peripherals. Thus, I hooked up the output of the global positioning system module to one UART and, despite the existing built-in USB, my own. The result is the following animal:
The diagram shows that the module is connected to the USB-UART converter and the BT module via UART. USB and Bluetooth power is supplied through the Schottky diodes (VD1 and VD4) to the GPS module, which allows it to start up with each of them without powering unclaimed tracker parts, the LED1 or LED3 also indicates the communication source used. The blue tooth and the GPS module have their status LEDs LED4 and LED2, the second blinking every second indicates that the satellites are detected and the module is receiving location data. For a hot start, the GPS has a 3.3V battery to store data in volatile memory; without this battery, the module takes half a minute to a minute to search for satellites.
In order to place all this in a compact case for 3 AA batteries, the board had to be made double-sided.
Its dimensions are 50x30mm. GPS module - L10. Bluetooth HC-05 with linvor V1.5 firmware. GPS active antenna ANT GPS GA-240 UFL-F10CM is glued on . The USB-UART converter is based on the CP2102 chip in a QFN-28 package. Stabilizer VR1 for 3.3V L78L33ABUTR in the SOT-89 package, its binding capacitors C1, C2 0805 0.1uF and chip tantalum capacitor C3 size A or B at 10uF. Schottky diodes are used - MBR0540T1 VD1-VD4, of which the excess battery voltage is extinguished on VD2 (possible replacement for SS16), VD1 and VD4 decouple the power supply circuits from the battery and from USB. Diode VD3 can be replaced by any diode. LED1-LED4 any LED chip with a current consumption of not more than 10mA, they have resistors R1-R2 of size 0805 and R5-R6 of size 1206 with a resistance of 360-510 Ohm as current limiters. R4 0805 100 ohm. R3 is a jumper that also acts as a fuse, in addition to R3 there are 5 more jumpers on the board, all of them are made in the form of 0 Ohm resistors in the 1206 package, two of which S1 and S2 should be installed when using an active antenna, but with low current consumption. Capacitors C5 and C6 are size A chip tantalum at 4.7 and 10 microfarads, respectively. C4 0.1 uF 0805. The Bat2 CR120 3.3V battery is fixed with two homemade brackets obtained from some kind of output part. Applied SMD socket mini-USB. Socket for U.FL antenna connection. A closed holder for three AA batteries - ZH292 is used as a case. When running on battery power (Bat1), the design is powered by Li-ion cans 14500 at 3.7V.
During the installation of the Bluetooth module on the board, it is necessary to isolate the contact pad located on the reverse side of its contact pad from the short circuit with the Rx, Tx and power lines, this can be done by applying a small amount of zapon-lacquer on the lines on the board under the module and the pad on the module itself.
Practice has shown that one blue tooth is enough for comfortable work, so I propose a simplified version of the device diagram.
The board has turned into a one-sided one, but it has become 2 mm longer, nevertheless, you can shove it into the same case. The main parts are the same as on the previous board. The binding has changed a bit. R1 and R2 360-510Ω 0805. VD1 Schottky diode SS16 or MBR0540T1. VD2 Schottky MBR0540T1 or any other diode. C1 chip tantalum 10uF size A or B. C2 ceramic 0.1uF 0805. R3 0805 100Ω. The battery is placed on the opposite side of the board. I was able to get by with one jumper. Just like in the first version of the board, you need to isolate the pad under the Bluetooth module.
The tracker does not require a microcontroller and should start working immediately after assembly if the components are configured as default: speed 9600, 8N1.
After turning on the tracker immediately becomes visible among the available Bluetooth devices for connection. After pairing and connecting with it, you can start working from any navigation program that supports GPS.
After powering up, the GPS receiver immediately starts working, first it searches for satellites. When using a battery, the search takes a few seconds, then it starts processing them. In good weather outdoors, location data is available within 5 seconds after being turned on. On cloudy days, it may take several minutes to enter a building near a window.
A few words about the means used. On the phone I use MapNav, Yandex maps and Mail tubes. Of the programs for the computer, 2GIS and Google Earth cope well with their tasks.
All purchases were not only successful, but also profitable. Thank you for this CashForBrands!
WiFi Router - Xiaomi Mi WiFi Router 3 128MB
Price: 28.70$
Specifications:
Processor MT7620A 580MHz;
- ROM: 128MB SLC Nand Flash;
- RAM: 128MB DDR2;
- 2.4 Ghz Wi-Fi 2x2 (up to 300 Mbps);
- 5 Ghz Wi-Fi 2x2 (up to 867 Mbps);
- WAN (up to 100 Mbps);
- LAN x2 (up to 100 Mbps);
- No built-in HDD (can be connected via external USB);
- External omnidirectional antennas - 4 pcs.
On the back of the package everything is written in English. In the upper left corner there is a QR code for downloading a program to control the router from an Android mobile device.
Through the ventilation holes at the bottom, you can see that the board occupies half of the router case. Probably, so much empty space was left for ventilation, because. there is no active cooling. But even so, the device does not heat up much, it is slightly warm.
Wi-Fi Signal Repeater - Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi
We increase the Wi-Fi coverage area to improve the quality of communication and the speed of the Internet connection!
This model connects to the main router via Wi-Fi and organizes its own wireless network, which allows you to increase the coverage area.
The device allows you to combine two or more routers into one network. Routers in the coverage area will automatically connect to the router whose signal at the connection point is better. In this case, the network will be one, with the same name and the same password for access.
The ideal option is direct radio visibility between the source and the repeater, which is almost impossible to achieve in the real conditions of an ordinary apartment.
Characteristics:
Possibility of simultaneous connection of 16 devices;
- Speed up to 300 Mbps;
- Light weight (50 g);
- Special USB connector with 180 degree rotating module.
The repeater comes in a branded zip-lock bag. In addition to the repeater itself, there is nothing in the package, the characteristics and a QR code with a link to the proprietary MiHome application are located on the back of the package.
The USB port is used here for two purposes - synchronizing settings with the Xiaomi router and for powering the repeater. The specifications indicate the need to provide a current of 0.5 A, which most power supplies can handle. In reality, the maximum consumption level noted during testing was 220 mA. So, if necessary, you can organize mobile use with a portable power bank battery.
Xiaomi Mi Wi-Fi USB Adapter Wireless Router
This is a Wi-Fi adapter that allows you to connect your computer or laptop to a Wi-Fi network wirelessly. The adapter works in access point mode and can distribute the Internet to several devices at once.
The adapter is very compact - less than a five-ruble coin. The kit includes a special strap for using the adapter as a keychain, which allows you to always carry it with you.
Useful on vacation, in the country or at home where you can create a Wi-Fi network without buying expensive routers.
This mini router works with 802.11n/g/b protocols. Data transfer rate - up to 150 Mbps. Supports automatic network detection and switching between them.
The adapter provides app access to a shared folder on your PC, making it easy to view and copy files from your PC to your mobile phone or tablet, wherever you are.
Bluetooth Dongle Module 4.0 - ORICO BTA - 403 Mini USB
Characteristics:
USB 2.0 connection interface;
- Supported protocols: Bluetooth 2.0/2.1/3.0/4.0/LE;
- Supported profiles: PAN, GAVDP, HFP, HID, EDR 3.0, A2DP, GATT, HCRP, OPP, ATT, AVRCP;
- Radius of action outdoors - 20 meters;
- Data transfer rate: 3 Mbps.
The device looks like a compact flash drive. There is a blue LED on the case, when the device is working, it blinks at a frequency of a couple of times per second.
We insert the device into the USB port of a computer or laptop. The system detects it as a new device, a prompt appears to install drivers. We agree. In a minute, everything is ready. Then we activate the search for new devices, turn on our gadget (bluetooth headphones, smart, etc.), pairing occurs and that's it. You can listen or transfer files.
Bluetooth Receiver Receiver with Handsfree Function - TS-BT35A08 AUX
Specifications:
- Bluetooth: v3.0 + EDR, A2DP support;
- Bluetooth chip: OVC3960;
- Stereo amplifier chip: PT2308-S;
- Output: Jack 3.5 mm;
- Reception distance: up to 10 m;
- Power supply: 5V;
- Working time: up to 8 hours;
- Sleep mode: yes;
- Dimensions: 54 x 25 x 11 mm;
- Weight: 12 g.
The gadget is designed to wirelessly receive an audio signal and transmit it to any device that has an AUX audio input.
If your car radio, active stereo speakers, headphones, old music center or other playback device does not have bluetooth, then you can transmit sound from any phone or tablet through this receiver. Power is supplied from any USB connector.
Smart Bluetooth 4.0 Tracer GPS Locator
Anti-loss! Allows through a mobile application to track the movements of your child, luggage, pet in noisy, crowded, cramped places and simply absentmindedness.
It also effectively prevents theft by alerting everyone with a loud signal if this device moves away from you.
Characteristics:
Bluetooth 4.0 low energy consumption.
-Range of action - up to 20 m without barriers.
- Runs on CR2032 battery.
- Lightweight, weight - 10 g.
- Compatible with both Android (4.3 and up) and iOS (for iPhone 4S and up, iPad 3 and up).
-Works with iTracing app.(or iTAG the old way)
You need a smartphone or tablet with Android version 4.3 or iOS 7.0 (or higher) and Bluetooth version 4.0. We take the instruction and it contains QR codes for applications, iTAG is downloaded from some Chinese site.
Button on Tracer GPS hold for 3-4 seconds until 2 beeps sound - the blue LED blinks twice and thus turn on Tracer GPS. We return to the already installed application, turn on the bluetooth, through the magnifying glass in the upper left corner we find the iTAG device, establish a connection with it and go to the settings.
You can add at least a dozen such iTAGs and name each one accordingly.
1) Keys
2) Child
3) Child 2
4) Dog
5) Suitcase.
You can set features for each iTAG, you can turn on “anti lost” - if the bluetooth connection is lost, this is 10+ meters, then the iTAG starts beeping loudly, and a notification pops up on the phone and the selected melody plays.
I hope my article was helpful. If you liked the article, then share it with your friends!
Every year, each of us loses at least a few items. And especially for such forgetful users, a startup from the USA has developed Hiro, a Bluetooth tracker that is a little larger than a coin.
What's this?
Hiro is a Bluetooth tracker that, according to its creators, is much smaller and better than other beacons on the market. It can be attached to any thing that you are afraid of losing, whether it's a bunch of keys or a laptop bag. It works in conjunction with a special mobile application, thanks to which the smartphone plays an alarm if you move away from Hiro. Also, the user will be able to find out the location of a forgotten item with a tracker attached to it. The range of the Hiro is 200 feet (about 61 m). He himself can give a signal, lighting up in red thanks to the built-in LED.
Hiro, according to the developers, is the "most friendly" tracker in relation to the consumer. The easy-to-use gadget can be attached to any valuables. It is dressed in a case protected from moisture ingress and is presented in five colors: white, black, blue, green and pink. The tracker dimensions are 25.3 x 45 x 5.2 mm.
The Hiro is powered by a rechargeable battery that needs to be replaced. It will provide him up to 6 months of work in standby mode and up to 3 months of work with intensive use.
Compatibility
As already mentioned, for the full operation of Hiro, you need to install a special mobile application. It is compatible with iOS and Android devices and will be available for download as soon as Hiro ships. Connection to smartphones and tablets will be carried out via the Bluetooth wireless interface.
http://youtu.be/NNNi-78O8Xg
Issue price
Users who supported the project at the funding stage can order Hiro for only 10-12 dollars. What will be the cost of the Bluetooth beacon after the end of the campaign is not reported. Deliveries of devices to customers will begin in February next year.
The Hiro Kickstarter campaign will end in five days, on December 26th. But now the amount of fees has exceeded 17 thousand dollars, while the initial goal of the startup was 5200 dollars.
There is a video: Phone Halo presents the world's smallest Button TrackR, which is a beacon in the form of a coin or a button-button. It can fit comfortably in a pocket, purse, be used as a key ring, or anywhere a regular coin can fit. The beacon has additional features and works with all smartphones.
ButtonTrackR is a miniature device for tracking people, pets, things or vehicles - for example, . It comes with a handy free app that you can install on your tablet or smartphone. The range of the device is approximately 30 meters.
One can track up to ten Button TrackR beacons simultaneously. The app is designed to work with both iOS and Android operating systems. As the tracker moves away from your device, the latter will show a distance indicator and give appropriate signals.
Another interesting feature of the beacon is the ability to work in both directions. That is, if the tracker is near you, but you cannot find the smartphone, just press the beacon button for the smartphone to signal and attract your attention.
Since the Button TrackR beacon works with smartphones, the application is able to remember its location and show it on Google maps in the same way as trackers do. The beacon button can be attached to a bicycle frame or to another surface either with a regular adhesive tape or with a special connector for laces and rings.
In the application, for each of the 10 beacons assigned to a smartphone or tablet computer, the user can attach the corresponding image. In this case, the application will give a signal in case of removal from any of them. You can also set different signals.
In addition, the application has a mode " ", which will give signals constantly if your smartphone is stolen. To do this, just simply click on the only button in the beacon.
No less interesting is the beacon's response option if you and your smartphone are too far away from it. In this case, the collective tracking mode is activated and the smartphone of any user in which the same application is installed will give you signals indicating the GPS location of its location. However, a paid subscription to GPS services is not required.
Button TrackR specifications include Bluetooth Low Energy 4.0 (LE) energy efficient operation, one year of battery life without the need for replacement, and measures 4mm thick and 25mm in diameter.
The company applied for an innovative web project Indiegogo, where it intended to collect 15,000 evergreen currency units. Probably, the developers were very disappointed when they saw at the moment the amount that is 2000% of the required amount. This is true - users are so interested in a miniature novelty that they laid out almost a third of a million dollars from their bourgeois pockets.
So far, each user can leave their order to get the smallest beacon in the world - the Phone Halo Button TrackR tracker in August 2013. Moreover, to receive one unit, you need to sponsor a project for 25 USD, for two - for 40, for five - for 90, and for 100 pieces - for 900 USD.
Materials used:
indiegogo.com/projects/button-trackr-find-lost-items?browse_v=old_no_dropdown&c=home
