An open-source, coin-sized 3cm LoRa and GPS module designed for wearables and IoT devices, featuring the Quectel L86-M33 GPS chip and Ai-Thinker RA-02 LoRa module.
This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.
This compact IoT tracking system integrates satellite positioning and long-range wireless communication into a tiny 3cm form factor built around the IndusBoard Coin platform. At the heart of the hardware are two primary subsystems: the Quectel L86-M33 GPS chip and the Ai-Thinker RA-02 LoRa module, interconnected via a flexible printed circuit (FPC) cable. The Quectel GPS chip continuously tracks satellite constellations to calculate precise geographical coordinates, utilizing an internal or external antenna setup to lock onto location data. Once position data is acquired, the microcontroller processes the coordinates and passes them to the Ai-Thinker RA-02 LoRa module. Operating on radio frequency principles, the LoRa transceiver modulates this digital data into long-range, low-power packets using a 32 MHz crystal to maintain precise internal timing and frequency control. These radio packets are then transmitted through a U.FL external antenna interface across vast distances with minimal power consumption, allowing remote base stations or gateways to receive the asset's real-time location. Because the entire assembly operates within a footprint of only 3 centimeters, power distribution and signal integrity are managed closely across the compact PCB layout, ensuring that both high-frequency GPS reception and RF LoRa transmission operate smoothly without mutual electromagnetic interference.
Why Build This
Design and deploy miniaturized wearable safety bands and fitness trackers that require simultaneous position tracking and long-range wireless telemetry.
Implement low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) communication protocols using discrete radio modules for remote asset tracking.
Integrate multiple high-frequency subsystems—specifically GPS and LoRa—onto a constrained, coin-sized printed circuit layout.
No specific precautions noted for this build — always follow general electronics safety practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
The project is designed to interface with an IndusBoardCoin or a compatible microcontroller platform such as Arduino, ESP, or nRF that supports standard serial communication protocols.
The U.FL connector allows you to attach an external antenna, which is crucial for achieving reliable signal reception and long-range transmission for both the GPS and LoRa modules in compact enclosures.
It uses the Ai-Thinker RA-02 LoRa module to transmit small packets of location data acquired by the Quectel GPS chip over radio frequencies to a compatible LoRa gateway or receiver.
Gallery
This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.
Kitkraft Project Hub — curated from the maker community, credited at the source.
ESP32 CAM WiFi Module Bluetooth with OV2640 Camera
Rs. 810.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Male 20cm
Rs. 45.00
400 Points Mini Solderless Prototype PCB Breadboard High Quality
Rs. 89.00
MB102 Adjustable Breadboard Power Supply Module (3.3V & 5V) for Arduino & Raspberry Pi
Rs. 139.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Female 20cm
Rs. 45.00
