How to Use FONA 808 Shield: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The FONA 808 Shield (Manufacturer Part ID: 2636) by Adafruit is a versatile GSM/GPRS module designed for Arduino projects. It enables mobile communication capabilities, including SMS, voice calls, and data connectivity. Additionally, the FONA 808 Shield integrates GPS functionality, making it ideal for location-based applications.

This shield is widely used in IoT projects, remote monitoring systems, GPS tracking devices, and any application requiring cellular communication. Its compact design and compatibility with Arduino make it a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Below are the key technical details of the FONA 808 Shield:

• Cellular Network Support: GSM/GPRS (2G)
• Frequency Bands: Quad-band (850/900/1800/1900 MHz)
• GPS Support: Integrated GPS module
• Power Supply Voltage: 3.7V to 4.2V (via LiPo battery) or 5V (via Arduino)
• Current Consumption:
  • Idle: ~20mA
  • Active (GPRS): ~200mA
  • Peak: ~2A (during transmission bursts)
• SIM Card Support: Micro SIM
• Data Connectivity: Up to 85.6 kbps (GPRS)
• Audio Support: Microphone and speaker connections for voice calls
• Dimensions: 2.1" x 2.1" x 0.25" (53mm x 53mm x 6mm)

The FONA 808 Shield connects to an Arduino via its headers. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Hardware Setup:

   • Attach the FONA 808 Shield to your Arduino board using the headers.
   • Insert a micro SIM card into the SIM slot on the shield.
   • Connect a 3.7V LiPo battery to the BAT pin for power. Alternatively, power the shield via the Arduino's 5V pin.
   • (Optional) Connect a speaker and microphone to the SPK+/- and MIC+/- pins for voice call functionality.

2. Software Setup:

   • Install the Adafruit FONA library in the Arduino IDE:
     • Go to Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries.
     • Search for "Adafruit FONA" and click Install.
   • Open the example sketch FONAtest from File > Examples > Adafruit FONA Library.

3. Basic Code Example: Below is a simple example to send an SMS using the FONA 808 Shield:

   #include "Adafruit_FONA.h"
   
   // Define the FONA RX and TX pins
   #define FONA_RX 2  // Connect to FONA TX
   #define FONA_TX 3  // Connect to FONA RX
   #define FONA_RST 4 // Connect to FONA RST
   
   // Create a FONA object
   Adafruit_FONA fona = Adafruit_FONA(FONA_RST);
   
   void setup() {
     Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial monitor
     Serial.println(F("FONA 808 Shield SMS Example"));
   
     // Initialize FONA module
     if (!fona.begin(Serial1)) {
       Serial.println(F("Couldn't find FONA module!"));
       while (1);
     }
     Serial.println(F("FONA is ready!"));
   }
   
   void loop() {
     // Send an SMS
     if (fona.sendSMS(F("+1234567890"), F("Hello from FONA 808!"))) {
       Serial.println(F("SMS sent successfully!"));
     } else {
       Serial.println(F("Failed to send SMS."));
     }
   
     delay(10000); // Wait 10 seconds before sending another SMS
   }
   

   • Replace +1234567890 with the recipient's phone number.
   • Open the Serial Monitor to view the status of the SMS.

• Power Supply: Ensure the shield is powered by a stable 3.7V LiPo battery or a 5V source. The module can draw up to 2A during transmission bursts.
• Antenna Connection: Attach the GSM and GPS antennas securely for proper operation.
• SIM Card: Use an active micro SIM card with a valid data plan for GPRS functionality.
• UART Communication: Ensure the RX and TX pins are correctly connected to the Arduino.

1. FONA Module Not Detected:

   • Ensure the shield is properly seated on the Arduino.
   • Verify the RX and TX connections.
   • Check the power supply and ensure the LiPo battery is charged.

2. Unable to Send SMS or Make Calls:

   • Confirm the SIM card is active and has sufficient balance.
   • Check the network signal strength using the fona.getRSSI() function.

3. GPS Not Working:

   • Ensure the GPS antenna is connected and placed in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
   • Allow a few minutes for the GPS to acquire a fix.

4. Module Restarts During Operation:

   • This may indicate insufficient power. Use a high-capacity LiPo battery or an external power source capable of supplying 2A.

• Can I use the FONA 808 Shield with a 3.3V Arduino?

  • Yes, but you must use a level shifter for the RX pin to avoid damaging the module.

• Does the FONA 808 Shield support 3G or 4G networks?

  • No, the FONA 808 Shield only supports 2G (GSM/GPRS) networks.

• How do I check the battery level?

  • Use the fona.getBattPercent() function to retrieve the battery percentage.

• Can I use the GPS and GSM functions simultaneously?

  • Yes, but note that GPS functionality may consume additional power.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the Adafruit FONA 808 Shield into your projects for reliable GSM, GPRS, and GPS functionality.