INTRODUCTION In this modern, fast moving and insecure world, it is become a basic necessity to be aware of ones safety.

Maximum risks occur in situations where in an employee travels for money transactions. Also the Company to which he belongs should be aware if there is some problem. What if the person traveling can be tracked and also secured in the case of an emergency. In this Project it is proposed to design an embedded system which is used for tracking and positioning of any vehicle by using Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global system for mobile communication. Here we are using PIC microcontroller is used for interfacing to various hardware peripherals. The current design is an embedded application, which will continuously monitor a moving Vehicle and report the status of the Vehicle on demand. For doing so a PIC 16F877A microcontroller is interfaced serially to a GSM Modem and GPS Receiver. A GSM modem is used to send the position (Latitude and Longitude) of the vehicle from a remote place. The GPS modem will continuously give the data i.e. the latitude and longitude indicating the position of the vehicle. The GPS modem gives many parameters as the output, but only the data coming out is read and displayed on to the LCD. The same data is

sent to the mobile at the other end from where the position of the vehicle is demanded. An EEPROM is used to store the mobile number. The hardware interfaces to microcontroller are LCD display, GSM modem and GPS Receiver. The design uses RS-232 protocol for serial communication between the modems and the microcontroller. A serial driver IC is used for converting TTL voltage levels to RS-232 voltage levels. When the request by user is sent to the number at the modem, the system automatically sends a return reply to that mobile indicating the position of the vehicle in terms of latitude and longitude.

BLOCK DIAGRAM

RS 232
In telecommunications, RS-232 (Recommended Standard 232) is the traditional name for a series of standards for serial binary single-ended data and control signals connecting between a DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) and a DCE (Data Circuit-terminating Equipment). It is commonly used in computer serial ports. The standard defines the electrical characteristics and timing of signals, the meaning of signals, and the physical size and pin out of connectors. The current version of the standard is TIA-232-F Interface Between Data Terminal Equipment and Data Circuit-Terminating Equipment Employing Serial Binary Data Interchange, issued in 1997. An RS-232 port was once a standard feature of a personal computer for connections to modems, printers, mice, data storage, un-interruptible power supplies, and other peripheral devices. However, the limited transmission speed, relatively large voltage swing, and large standard connectors motivated development of the universal serial bus which has displaced RS-232 from most of its peripheral interface roles. Many modern personal computers have no RS-232 ports and must use an external converter to connect to older peripherals. Some RS232 devices are still found especially in industrial machines or scientific instruments.

Communication as defined in the RS232 standard is an asynchronous serial communication method. The word serial means, that the information is sent one bit at a time. Asynchronous tells us that the information is not sent in predefined time slots. Data transfer can start at any given time and it is the task of the receiver to detect when a message starts and ends. In computing, a serial port is a serial communication physical interface through which information transfers in or out one bit at a time (in contrast to a parallel port). Throughout most of the history of personal computers, data transfer through serial ports connected the computer to devices such as terminals and various peripherals. While such interfaces as Ethernet, FireWire, and USB all send data as a serial stream, the term "serial port" usually identifies hardware more or less compliant to the RS-232 standard, intended to interface with a modem or with a similar communication device. Modern computers without serial ports may require serial-to-USB converters to allow compatibility with RS 232 serial devices. Serial ports are still used in applications such as industrial automation systems, scientific instruments, shop till systems and some industrial and consumer products. Server computers may use a serial port as a control console for diagnostics.

GSM MODEM

GSM modem is a specialized type of modem which accepts a SIM card, and operates over a subscription to a mobile operator, just like a mobile phone. From the mobile operator perspective, a GSM modem looks just like a mobile phone. When a GSM modem is connected to a computer, this allows the computer to use the GSM modem to communicate over the mobile network. While these GSM modems are most frequently used to provide mobile internet connectivity, many of them can also be used for sending and receiving SMS and MMS messages.

A GSM modem can be a dedicated modem device with a serial, USB or Bluetooth connection, or it can be a mobile phone that provides GSM modem capabilities. For the purpose of this document, the term GSM modem is used as a generic term to refer to any modem that supports one or more of the protocols in the GSM evolutionary family, including the 2.5G technologies GPRS and EDGE, as well as the 3G technologies WCDMA, UMTS, HSDPA and HSUPA. A GSM modem exposes an interface that allows applications such as Now SMS to send and receive messages over the modem interface. The mobile operator charges for this message sending and receiving as if it was performed directly on a mobile phone. To perform these tasks, a GSM modem must support an extended AT command set for sending/receiving SMS messages, as defined in the ETSI GSM 07.05 and 3GPP TS 27.005 specifications. GSM modems can be a quick and efficient way to get started with SMS, because a special subscription to an SMS service provider is not required. In most parts of the world, GSM modems are a cost effective solution for receiving SMS messages, because the sender is paying for the message delivery. A GSM modem can be a dedicated modem device with a serial, USB or Bluetooth connection, such as the Falcom Samba 75. (Other manufacturers of

dedicated GSM modem devices include Wavecom, Multitech and iTegno. Weve also reviewed a number of modems on our technical support blog. To begin, insert a GSM SIM card into the modem and connect it to an available USB port A GSM modem could also be a standard GSM mobile phone with the appropriate cable and software driver to connect to a serial port or USB port on your computer. Any phone that supports the extended AT command set for sending/receiving SMS messages, as defined in ETSI GSM 07.05 and/or 3GPP TS 27.005, can be supported by the Now SMS & MMS Gateway. Note that not all mobile phones support this modem interface. Due to some compatibility issues that can exist with mobile phones, using a dedicated GSM modem is usually preferable to a GSM mobile phone. This is more of an issue with MMS messaging, where if you wish to be able to receive inbound MMS messages with the gateway, the modem interface on most GSM phones will only allow you to send MMS messages. This is because the mobile phone automatically processes received MMS message notifications without forwarding them via the modem interface. It should also be noted that not all phones support the modem interface for sending and receiving SMS messages. In particular, most smart phones, including Blackberries, iPhone, and Windows Mobile devices, do not support this GSM

modem interface for sending and receiving SMS messages at all at all. Additionally, Nokia phones that use the S60 (Series 60) interface, which is Symbian based, only support sending SMS messages via the modem interface, and do not support receiving SMS via the modem interface.

GPS
Introduction The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a space-based satellite navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather, anywhere on or near the Earth. It is maintained by the United States government and is freely accessible by anyone with a GPS receiver. The GPS program provides critical capabilities to military, civil and commercial users around the world. In addition, GPS is the backbone for modernizing the global air traffic system. The GPS project was developed in 1973 to overcome the limitations of previous navigation systems, integrating ideas from several predecessors, including a number of classified engineering design studies from the 1960s. GPS was created and realized by the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and was originally run with 24 satellites. It became fully operational in 1994.

Fig. GPS satelites

GPS technology was originally developed for defense purposes and later brought to the consumer market as a navigation technology. However the price of the technology went down and this prompted companies to find new applications for the technology. GPS Tracking is one such innovation. The Technology Before we get into the applications of GPS, let us examine briefly how GPS works. Well, GPS is based on the technique of trilateration. where GPS receivers use this technique to calculate the co-ordinates of their location on earth. This calculation is done by measuring the time signals from different satellites take to reach them. The signal strength and clock differences between the device and the satellite network are adjusted by using signals from four separate satellites. This way we get a fairly accurate reading of location, usually in an error range of within 100 metres. The co-ordinates come into use to locate the device on a map. This map may be displayed to the user who may either be the device holder or the tracker. The co-

ordinates can also be used to calculate routes, navigate or as input into mapping programs. WORKING A GPS receiver calculates its position by precisely timing the signals sent by GPS satellites high above the Earth. Each satellite continually transmits messages that include the time the message was transmitted precise orbital information (the ephemeris) the general system health and rough orbits of all GPS satellites. The receiver uses the messages it receives to determine the transit time of each message and computes the distance to each satellite. These distances along with the satellites' locations are used with the possible aid of trilateration, depending on which algorithm is used, to compute the position of the receiver. This position is then displayed, perhaps with a moving map display or latitude and longitude; elevation information may be included. Many GPS units show derived information such as direction and speed, calculated from position changes. Three satellites might seem enough to solve for position since space has three dimensions and a position near the Earth's surface can be assumed. However, even

a very small clock error multiplied by the very large speed of light the speed at which satellite signals propagate results in a large positional error. Therefore receivers use four or more satellites to solve for both the receiver's location and time. The very accurately computed time is effectively hidden by most GPS applications, which use only the location. A few specialized GPS applications do however use the time; these include time transfer, traffic signal timing, and synchronization of cell phone base stations. Although four satellites are required for normal operation, fewer apply in special cases. If one variable is already known, a receiver can determine its position using only three satellites. For example, a ship or aircraft may have known elevation. Some GPS receivers may use additional clues or assumptions (such as reusing the last known altitude, dead reckoning, inertial navigation, or including information from the vehicle computer) to give a less accurate (degraded) position when fewer than four satellites are visible.

GPS for Tracking The simplest techniques in GPS tracking enable the user, who carries a portable GPS device, to keep track of where they are, rectify if they have moved in the wrong direction or follow the same path in future if necessary.

Fig. GPS tracking This device can be used in combination with other GPS devices such as GPS phones. This way another user carrying a GPS phone can follow the initial user, which is a useful application in field activities. GPS tracking can also work in combination with broadcast technologies like radio. Here, a GPS device calculates its position and also broadcasts the information using a radio transmitter. This signal reaches a central command location which has a GPS receiver. This way the central command can track the wearer, store the information or relay it to another party depending on the requirements.

This has many uses- for defense and police personnel as well as households. For example, an anxious parent can track where their ward is at any time of the day or night. GPS in Vehicle Tracking One application of GPS is for tracking vehicles, where GPS devices are attached to vehicles with a distinctive identification like a chassis number. The principle is similar to a tracking device worn by a human; however the system is integrated with the vehicles electronic system. This way, the vehicle does not need a separate car navigation system. Further, the GPS technology makes it possible to relay this information through a radio or cell phone. Another application of the technology is for locating vehicles. The police can track a stolen vehicle fitted with a GPS device. GPS devices can also be used to pass alerts to the driver. For instance, a driver can be alerted of the approach of a service center while he is on the road in unfamiliar territory. Fleet Coordination GPS technology can also be extended to coordinate vehicle tracking. Thus several vehicles going to the same destination can share location information. Vehicle tracking and GPS fish-finder unit combinations have been used

successfully to help fishing boats locate, track and catch large schools of fish. However the overall technology is more sophisticated here, as elements like gauging depth, checking tide timings etc come into the picture. Fleet tracking has an important place in military operations. Units out of line of sight can share their location information. The often inaccurate map coordinate method of the past can thus be replaced with much higher accuracy now. Consumer Applications While originally a military project, GPS is considered a dual-

use technology, meaning it has significant military and civilian applications. GPS has become a widely deployed and useful tool for commerce, scientific uses, tracking, and surveillance. GPS's accurate time facilitates everyday activities such as banking, mobile phone operations, and even the control of power grids by allowing well synchronized hand-off switching. Apart from military, commercial fishing and aviation applications, GPS tracking can also work with existing systems like cell phones and vehicles. A point of service is often involved here, to keep track of the location. This brings down the cost of the consumer unit and users can avail the technology at attractive prices.

VOICE IC

Here we are using APR 9600 voice ic for recording the message to play. It is a re-recordable Voice IC in which we can store message up to 60 second play back.

Fig. APR 9600 voice IC APR9600 is sound record/replay IC incorporating flash analogue storage technique. Recorded sound is retained after power supply is removed from the module. The replayed sound exhibits high quality with a low noise level. Sampling rate for a 60 second recording period is 4.2 kHz that gives a sound record/replay bandwidth of 20Hz to 2.1 kHz. However, by changing an oscillation resistor, a sampling rate as high as 8.0 kHz can be achieved. This shortens the total length of sound recording to 32 seconds. Total sound recording time can be varied from 32 seconds to 60 seconds. The IC can operate in one of two modes: serial mode and parallel mode. In serial

access mode, sound can be recorded in 256 sections. In parallel access mode, sound can be recorded in 2, 4 or 8 sections. The IC can be controlled simply using push button keys. It is also possible to control the IC using external digital circuitry such as micro-controllers and computers. Features : Single-chip, high-quality voice recording & playback solution. - No external ICs required - Minimum external components Non-volatile Flash memory technology. - No battery backup required User-Selectable messaging options. - Random access of multiple fixed-duration messages - Sequential access of multiple variable-duration messages User-friendly, easy-to-use operation. - Programming & development systems not required - Level-activated recording & edge-activated play back switches Low power consumption. - Operating current: 25 mA typical - Standby current: 1 uA typical - Automatic power-down

 Chip Enable pin for simple message expansion.

Fig . Pin diagram of APR 9600 General Description : The APR9600 device offers true single-chip voice recording, non-volatile storage, and playback capability for 40 to 60 seconds. The device supports both random and sequential access of multiple messages. Sample rates are userselectable, allowing designers to customize their design for unique quality and storage time needs. Integrated output amplifier, microphone amplifier, and AGC circuits greatly simplify system design. the device is ideal for use in portable voice recorders, toys, and many other consumer and industrial applications. APLUS integrated achieves these high levels of storage capability by using its proprietary analog/multilevel storage technology implemented in an advanced Flash non-

volatile memory process, where each memory cell can store 256 voltage levels. This technology enables the APR9600 device to reproduce voice signals in their natural form. It eliminates the need for encoding and compression, which often introduce distortion.