Adafruit FONA - Mini Cellular GSM Breakout - SMA Version

CED-1963

Note- this item only works on 2G networks, which have been obsoleted in the USA.

Ring, Ring! Who's that callin'? It's your breadboard! Introducing Adafruit FONA MiniGSM, an adorable all-in-one cellular phone module that lets you add voice, text, SMS and data to your project in an adorable little package.

This module measures only 1.75"x1.25" but packs a surprising amount of technology into it's little frame. At the heart is a GSM cellular module (we use the latest SIM800) the size of a postage stamp. This module can do just about everything. This version has an SMA connector. For the uFL version, click here!

  • Quad-band 850/900/1800/1900MHz - connect onto any global GSM network with any 2G SIM (in the USA, T-Mobile is suggested)
  • Make and receive voice calls using a headset OR an external 8Ω speaker + electret microphone
  • Send and receive SMS messages
  • Send and receive GPRS data (TCP/IP, HTTP, etc.)
  • Scan and receive FM radio broadcasts (yeah, we don't exactly know why this was included but it works really well)
  • PWM/Buzzer vibrational motor control
  • AT command interface with "auto baud" detection

Sounds delicious, right? So we plated this fine module onto a little breakout with all the extras you need to make your next project shine.

  • Onboard LiPoly battery charging circuitry so you can take your project on the go. Use any 500mAh+ LiPoly or LiIon battery and recharge over the MicroUSB when necessary. Two LEDs let you know when its charging and done
  • Standard 4-pole TRRS headphone jack. Use any 'Android' or 'iPhone'-compatible headset with mic
  • Breakouts for external 8Ω speaker and electret mic if you don't want to use a headphone
  • Level shifting circuitry so you can run it with 2.8V to 5V logic.
  • Vibrational motor (buzzer) driver so you can have noiseless notifications
  • SMA connection for external antenna
  • Indicator LEDs for power and network connectivity
  • Standard SIM slides into the back

On its own, this module can't do anything. It requires a microcontroller to drive it! We suggest and use an Arduino but any 3-5V microcontroller with a UART can send and receive commands over the RX/TX pins.

You will also need some required accessories to make FONA work. These are not included!

  • SIM Card! A 2G Mini SIM card is required to do anything on the cellular network. 
  • Lipoly Battery - 500mAh or larger! This 1200mAh will work great.
  • MicroUSB cable for charging the battery.
  • External Antenna - This right-angle one will work well.
There's also some recommended accessories. They are not required but chances are you'll want them!