Robberage!

[snowywhite21]

Hi everyone

I'm looking at trying to install a permanent, well stashed tracker on my eBike.
Trying to avoid the SIM/Sub and USB charging problems and been looking at OCTO type (sub/SIM free) alternatives that cars have and accordinly they are all 12v, but I only have 5v power outlets on my eBike controller, so if I use a 12v one it may end up as toast? Looked for 5v with battery backup alternatives, but no joy Any suggestions greatly appreciated...

Best to y'all

 

[oyster]

Not entirely sure of your circumstances and needs, but Apple AirTags just use a CR2035 lithium cell which requires replacement once a year and they are pretty small.

If it is finding where the bike is, they might suffice.

 

[snowywhite21]

Not entirely sure of your circumstances and needs, but Apple AirTags just use a CR2035 lithium cell which requires replacement once a year and they are pretty small.

If it is finding where the bike is, they might suffice.

Thanks! I'll check them out..

 

[oyster]

Thanks! I'll check them out..

This is one of mine in a home-made leather fob:

 

[snowywhite21]

Do you know what distance they go to?

 

[oyster]

Do you know what distance they go to?

They operate by communicating with any Apple device near them. Say someone with an Apple phone is within range, that phone can then pass on the location of the AirTag via the mobile network or Wi-Fi or whatever.

People have done things like post an AirTag and traced its journey. As in this story:

https://www.macrumors.com/2021/05/12/airtag-tracked-across-the-uk/

 

[snowywhite21]

Thanks, I'll get one from Curry's and see how it goes. I've still been looking for a 5v (6-60v)?? permanent telematics type tracker. That way it would be permanently active if attached to the bike battery. In the 12v variety, they also come with battery backup, so it would still work if disconnected. Surprising nobody makes them??

 

[richtea99]

This is one of mine in a home-made leather fob:

View attachment 42823

That is professional quality cutting & stitching!

 

[oyster]

That is professional quality cutting & stitching!

It wasn't me wot dun it! Partner is into such things and sells patterns on Etsy. That was a near-"production" test/sample. If you have a Brother ScanNCut (or a Cricut, possibly some other such machines), the pattern can be used to cut out the leather, including sewing holes. Obviously, even with a machine, there are many ways of making them better or worse.

Sad thing, I usually have a "man bag" to carry my crap around and it is in a zippered pocket so never gets seen! It seems silly to leave it unprotected on the outside.

You can look here:
https://www.etsy.com/uk/SewStitchMeDesigns/listing/1000164054/

If you (or anyone else) are in the UK, she would be willing to consider making one for you - contact through Etsy. This is strictly hobby level!

 

[vidtek]

An alternative is to add a buck converter to your battery pack to deliver 12 or 5volts. There are lots on the market, I use this one for my USB connection: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Converter-Step-Down-Waterproof-Transformer-Voltage/dp/B07YCQ72ZN
But there are 12volt ones such as this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Converter-Power-Supply-Voltage-Step/dp/B07Y6DH4W9

This is how I fitted mine:




I have since fitted a simple toggle switch as I found it was drawing current even when off the bike.