How to Add GPS to SenseCAP Indicator

Adrelien -

Adding GPS to your SenseCAP Indicator might seem daunting, but with the right steps, you can expand its capabilities and make it a more versatile Meshtastic device. In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of adding GPS functionality to your SenseCAP Indicator.

What You'll Need

Step 1: Flash GPS Firmware to the RP2040

This is a crucial first step to prepare your device for GPS integration:

  1. Locate the internal button on the SenseCAP Indicator (it's a small button that requires a pin to press)
  2. Press and hold this internal button
  3. While holding the button, connect the device to your PC using a USB Type-C cable
  4. Release the button once the device is connected
  5. Download the UF2 firmware file specifically for GPS
  6. Copy the firmware file to the RPI-RP2 drive that appears on your computer
  7. The device will automatically reboot, applying the new firmware
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Pro Tip: Be careful when handling the internal button. Use a needle or a small pin to avoid damaging the device.

Step 2: Connect the GPS Module

For this guide, we recommend the Grove - GPS (Air530):

  • This is a high-performance, multi-mode satellite positioning module
  • Supports multiple location systems including GPS, Beidou, and Galileo
  • Connects easily via Grove connector

Installation steps:

  1. Take your Grove GPS module
  2. Connect it to the Grove ADC port (the port closest to the antenna)
  3. Ensure a secure connection

Step 3: Enable GPS in the Meshtastic App

Final configuration happens in your Meshtastic app:

  1. Open the Meshtastic App (this guide uses iOS, but the process is similar on Android)
  2. Navigate to Settings > Device Configuration
  3. Under the Position section, enable Device GPS
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If you enable GPS in the app without connecting a module, the device will continuously search for GPS, potentially causing slow boot times. Always disable GPS in the app if you're not using a module.

Potential Challenges

While adding GPS sounds straightforward, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • The Grove connectors on the SenseCAP Indicator are wired to the RP2040, not directly to the ESP32
  • This means you'll need a middleware solution to relay data between the microcontrollers
  • Seeed provides firmware to handle this, but future updates might require custom firmware

Why Bother Adding GPS?

Great question! Adding GPS transforms your SenseCAP Indicator from a stationary display into a more dynamic, location-aware device. It's perfect for:

  • Car nodes with precise location tracking
  • Portable Meshtastic setups
  • Expanding your IoT and mesh networking capabilities

Final Thoughts

The GPS addition isn't plug-and-play, but it's definitely achievable. The Grove - GPS (Air530) module makes the process relatively straightforward, and the expanded functionality is worth the effort for Meshtastic enthusiasts. Happy mesh networking!