Affordable, programmable device with gprs and simple sensors?

Question

I've got quite a fun challenge / work assignment. I'm to monitor a couple of 5V light bulbs (warning lights) on a machine standing far out in no man's land. I'm looking for an affordable device with an input which allows me to hook into the light bulb circuit to tell whether it's lit or not.

Requirements:

• GPRS
• Inputs for at least two light bulbs
• Programmable in C or something similar.

Bonus (not required, but it would be kind a nice):

• Waterproof casing / chassis (I could make this my self, but it would be nice if I didn't have to)
• Option to add other sensors like humidity, temperature and gps.

Any tips?

Answer 1

Have you looked at Arduino?

Answer 2

I'd recommend an arduino

Arduino is an open-source electronics prototyping platform based on flexible, easy-to-use hardware and software. It's intended for artists, designers, hobbyists, and anyone interested in creating interactive objects or environments.

Arduino can sense the environment by receiving input from a variety of sensors and can affect its surroundings by controlling lights, motors, and other actuators. The microcontroller on the board is programmed using the Arduino programming language (based on Wiring) and the Arduino development environment (based on Processing). Arduino projects can be stand-alone or they can communicate with software on running on a computer (e.g. Flash, Processing, MaxMSP).

there's an article here on hooking one up with gps

http://www.arduino.cc/playground/Tutorials/GPS

and for more information on the arduino platform in general, and where to buy

http://www.arduino.cc/

Edit: just noticed you were looking mainly for GPRS and not GPS - doh, however, quick look on google brings up this: http://www.libelium.com/squidbee/index.php?title=New_GPRS_module_for_Arduino_%28Hilo_-_Sagem%29 which is a GPRS module for the arduino :]

Answer 3

in fact, what you are asking already exists: many companies which produces electrical component for the industry provides a rail-mounted GPRS modem for remote signaling.

• here is one example, made by phoenix contact
• another one from another company
• the tele-control range of product from wago
• telit is well-known for its GSM chips, and provides a complete module with GPRS and programmable in python.
• you can find some fancier systems including GPS and linux-based, here for example

there are countless other solutions...