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The CLS-Argos-Linkit-CORE repository serves as the firmware repository for the Linkit Core device, which is compatible with the GenTracker phone app and working with the Pylinkit python tool. It houses the necessary firmware files and updates for the Linkit Core device, enabling users to customize and optimize their tracking solutions. Additionally, it provides essential resources and documentation for developers and users looking to leverage the capabilities of the Linkit Core device within their projects and applications.
Take a look at the Linkit presentation.
Linkit represents the evolution and consolidation of the Horizon board and the satellite daughter board, which is based on the Artic R2 chipset. It functions as a tracker or beacon utilizing Argos satellite communication. This firmware is also compatible for the Horizon board.
Horizon serves as an open-source, plug-and-play solution aimed at engineers, developers, or students seeking to develop custom telemetry solutions. Co-developed with the Zoological Society of London, Horizon was instrumental in tracking plastic waste during the National Geographic Society's Sea to Source Expedition.
The Horizon Developer Kit includes GPS, Bluetooth 5.0, a 9-axis accelerometer, 3G cellular capabilities, and an Argos ARTIC R2 transmitter, ensuring quick setup and compatibility with next-generation ARGOS-4 satellites and the future Kineis constellation.
The Linkit project encompasses a range of innovative satellite-connected products designed to meet diverse needs across various applications. This suite includes Linkit Core, Linkit Underwater, and Linkit SurfaceBox, each tailored to specific use cases and environments.
Linkit offers a plug-and-play solution ideal for the new generation of engineers seeking to integrate satellite technology into their products efficiently. As a ready-to-use OEM board, Linkit Core simplifies the creation of GNSS trackers and Argos transmitters, minimizing the time and effort required for integration.
Key features of Linkit Core include:
- Plug & Play System: Streamlined integration process, saving time and resources.
- Open-Source Firmware: Enables customization and tuning of solutions, including integration of external sensors via I2C or UART interfaces.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows easy configuration of main parameters for Argos and GNSS via smartphone, enhancing user convenience.
- Expandable Capabilities: Accommodates additional features such as IMU/accelerometer integration for enhanced functionality.
- OEM Board Design: Removes the need for PCB design and manufacturing, simplifying the development process.
With Linkit Core, engineers can embark on a seamless journey towards creating innovative satellite-connected products without the complexities of PCB design and electronics procurement.
The Linkit SurfaceBox is a versatile satellite tracker designed for surface-based applications, offering robust performance and reliable tracking capabilities. Here's a quick overview of its key features:
The Linkit UnderWater serves as a backup tracking solution for autonomous oceanographic platforms. Rechargeable by induction and designed with environmental sustainability in mind, Linkit UnderWater ensures easy recovery and reduced risk of loss for instruments deployed at sea.
The Linkit Core serves as the raw PCB utilized in both the SurfaceBox and UnderWater variants. While its primary function lies in these specific applications, the Linkit Core also holds potential for integration into various other solutions or serves as a valuable reference for developers and engineers seeking to leverage satellite technology in their projects. Its versatile design and open-source firmware make it adaptable to a wide range of applications, offering flexibility and scalability for innovative endeavors beyond its initial scope.
Download the GenTracker App to Configure your Linkit + Visualize your data:
PlayStore (Android) : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.trackgen
App Store (iOS) : https://apps.apple.com/gm/app/gentracker/id1566127975
Argos is a satellite-based tracking system developed by CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales), managed and operated by CLS (Collecte Localisation Satellites) until 2019 and then Kinéis (startup created by CLS to launch the next constellation of satellites) . This global tracking system is designed to monitor the movement and behavior of objects, animals, and environmental phenomena across the planet.
Key Features:
- Global Coverage: Argos provides comprehensive tracking capabilities worldwide, facilitating monitoring in remote and inaccessible areas, including polar regions and open oceans.
- Versatility: The system supports a wide range of applications, including wildlife tracking, environmental monitoring, fisheries management, and disaster response.
- Low Power and Size: Argos enables the development and deployment of compact, low-power tracking devices. This feature makes it suitable for small and lightweight applications, ensuring minimal impact on the tracked subjects.
- Data Collection: Argos collects both real-time and historical data on tracked objects, essential for scientific research, conservation efforts, and resource management.
- Multi-Platform Integration: Transmitters compatible with the Argos system come in various forms, such as collars, tags, buoys, and even drones. This versatility allows for tracking across diverse ecosystems and platforms.
In summary, Argos is a versatile and reliable satellite tracking system crucial for understanding and protecting our planet's ecosystems and wildlife. Its advanced capabilities, including global coverage, low power consumption, and compact device size, make it a valuable tool for researchers, conservationists, and resource managers worldwide.
Argos operates within specific frequency bands, including 399.9-400.02 MHz and 401-403 MHz for uplink communication, while the downlink frequency is around 466 MHz. It utilizes VLDA4 at only 100Mw for "doppler" 3byte messages or LDA2 for 24Bytes around 500mW, the new intermediate 250mW LDK (19bytes) modulation will be available on Kinéis constellation. The system offers a power range of 100mW to 1W and will ensures low latency of less than 15 minutes with Kinéis. Supported by 20 ground stations, Argos ensures the protection of transmitted data. Users can access data transmitted via Argos through API or the ArgosWeb platform, which provides a user-friendly interface for accessing tracking data and additional information. This platform not only displays the tracked objects on a map but also integrates other valuable satellite data, enhancing the user experience and enabling comprehensive monitoring and analysis of tracked phenomena.
This project is led by CLS in collaboration with Arribada Initiative.
CLS, a subsidiary of the French Space Agency CNES and CNP, has been a global leader in monitoring and surveillance solutions for the Earth since 1986. With a workforce of 900 employees across its headquarters in Toulouse, France, and 30 other sites worldwide, CLS is committed to deploying innovative space-based solutions for understanding and protecting our planet, as well as managing its resources sustainably. Specializing in sustainable fisheries management, environmental monitoring, maritime surveillance, mobility, and energy and infrastructure monitoring, CLS processes environmental data and positions from 80,000 beacons monthly, along with ocean and inland waters observations. The company has diversified its portfolio and is actively involved in environment and climate monitoring, sustainable fisheries management, maritime security, mobility, and energy and infrastructure monitoring.
Arribada is a UK-based not-for-profit conservation technology research and development organization specializing in open-source solutions. Our mission is to develop open and accessible technology for wildlife, people, and the planet, driving down costs and scaling up access to impact-driven tools and solutions to address conservation and environmental challenges globally. We co-develop open, customizable, and impact-driven conservation technologies, ensuring they are affordable and accessible to conservation organizations worldwide. As a Community Interest Company, we reinvest proceeds from technology development to fund local conservation technology education clubs, providing free after-school digital literacy workshops and STEM activities for children under 13. Arribada's Horizon platform breaks down barriers by providing low-cost, open-access biologging solutions, enabling the development of wireless sensors and biologging tags for various conservation applications. Our commitment to open solutions aims to better conserve, monitor, and protect our planet collaboratively with the global conservation community.