Asset Location Tracker Kit v5
Asset Location Tracker Kit v5: Build a Sub-Microsecond GPS-Disciplined RTC with ESP32
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Imagine a time reference so precise that even if GPS satellites vanish for hours, your clock stays accurate to within microseconds. This kit lets you build exactly that—a GPS-disciplined real-time clock that harnesses the NEO-6M’s 1PPS output to continuously correct a DS3231 RTC, with an OLED displaying sync status and holdover performance. It’s the heart of any asset location tracker or time-synchronized IoT system, ready to log time-stamped position data with forensic-grade accuracy.
What You'll Build
You'll assemble a GPS-disciplined oscillator on a protoboard, mount it inside a rugged enclosure, and calibrate the DS3231 using the GPS PPS edge. The OLED shows satellite count, lock status, and how long the RTC has been running on holdover mode. What emerges is a battery-backed, sub-microsecond timepiece that can serve as a stratum-1 reference for your network or embed into an asset tracking datalogger.
What You'll Learn
- Interface NEO-6M GPS and DS3231 RTC with ESP32 over UART and I2C simultaneously.
- Capture the GPS 1PPS signal on a GPIO pin and use it to discipline the RTC’s sub-second counter in real time.
- Prototype and solder a stable timing circuit on a PCB board with proper decoupling capacitors.
- Implement a holdover algorithm that predicts drift and maintains microsecond accuracy during GPS outages, with live status on an OLED.
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| ESP32 Dev Board | 1 |
| NEO-6M GPS | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | 5 |
| 100nF Caps | 10 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| 5V 2A PSU | 1 |
| Enclosure Box | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
This advanced kit is designed for B.Tech ECE and EEE students building capstone projects, participants in the Smart India Hackathon, and research enthusiasts at institutions like IIT, NIT, VIT, and BITS. ATL Tinkering Labs running specialized electronics workshops will also find it a challenging, real‑world application of precision timing and GPS synchronization.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code to access the AI companion, which guides you step by step. You can also reach our team on WhatsApp for personalized troubleshooting.
Can this kit function as a stratum-1 NTP time server?
Yes, the ESP32 can serve NTP over Wi-Fi with accuracy derived from the GPS-disciplined RTC. It works well for local network synchronization in labs or small-scale deployments.
How long does the RTC stay accurate without a GPS signal?
The DS3231 holds ±2 ppm, but the holdover algorithm learns its drift and can maintain sub‑10‑microsecond accuracy for several hours after satellite loss.
Do I need prior soldering experience?
Some basic soldering skill helps, but the kit includes a soldering iron and wire. The AI companion provides clear guidance, making it suitable even if you're building your soldering skills.
Asset — GPS PPS signal disciplines DS3231 RTC to sub-microsecond accuracy. OLED shows sync status and holdover.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items