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Transform NMEA data from Elfin EW10 to Wi-Fi effortlessly

Transform NMEA 0183 Data to WiFi on a Budget! 🚀📡 This video demonstrates an easy way to convert data from your AIS equipment and other NMEA 0183 devices into a WiFi signal for less than €10 using the inexpensive Elfin EW10 converter. 🔧✨ This compact, powerful industrial device, like the HF2211,...

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Transform NMEA from Elfin EW10 to Wi-Fi effortlessly
Transform NMEA from Elfin EW10 to Wi-Fi effortlessly

Affordable Solution for Converting NMEA 0183 to WiFi: The Elfin EW10 Module

Transform NMEA data from Elfin EW10 to Wi-Fi effortlessly

In the realm of marine electronics, converting NMEA 0183 data to WiFi can be a cost-effective and straightforward process, as demonstrated by the Elfin EW10 module. This low-cost ESP8266 or ESP32-based WiFi module is a popular choice for IoT projects and is well-suited to bridge NMEA 0183 signals to WiFi.

Understanding the Components

  1. NMEA 0183: A standard for marine electronic communication, using serial communication (usually RS-422 or TTL serial) at 4800 baud.
  2. Elfin EW10: This WiFi module, often used in IoT projects, supports serial communication and WiFi, making it an ideal candidate for converting NMEA 0183 data to WiFi.

Basic Approach to Convert NMEA 0183 to WiFi

  • The goal is to read the NMEA 0183 serial data, parse or simply forward it, and then send it over WiFi (TCP/UDP) or make it accessible via a simple web server.
  • Requirements include a microcontroller with a serial port and WiFi, power supply, and firmware or sketch to read serial from NMEA input and send it over WiFi.

How to Do It With Elfin EW10

  1. Connect the NMEA 0183 Signal to EW10 Serial Input: Connect the NMEA 0183 input line (usually a single output wire) to the EW10 RX pin, ensuring voltage compatibility (NMEA 0183 uses RS-422 levels, often ±12V differential — important: level-shift or use a converter module because ESP modules are 3.3V TTL, directly connecting RS-422 signals will damage the module).
  2. Power the EW10: Use a 5V USB source or 3.3V power supply and ensure voltage regulator on EW10 module or supply a regulated voltage.
  3. Upload Firmware to EW10: Use Arduino IDE or PlatformIO and write or use an existing sketch that reads serial data from NMEA input at 4800 baud and sends data over WiFi via TCP/UDP or sets up a simple web server showing data.
  4. View NMEA Data on WiFi Devices: Connect from PC/phone to the EW10’s IP and access raw NMEA sentences or parsed data.

Cost Breakdown Under €10

  • Elfin EW10 Module: Approximately €4-6 (depending on source and shipping).
  • RS-422 to TTL Level Converter: Basic MAX485-based breakout boards or similar cost €1.50-3.
  • Cables/Connectors: Simple jumper wires or small connectors ~€1.

Total: Around €7-10 depending on exact prices and shipping.

Other Devices to Connect or Power with EW10 Module

  • The EW10 module:
  • Has multiple GPIO pins for sensors (temperature, humidity, pressure, etc.).
  • Supports UART, SPI, I2C interfaces.
  • Can power small sensors or modules that run on 3.3V.
  • Can connect to devices like GPS modules, environmental sensors, relays (via transistor), and small actuators.
  • Power output is limited: Do NOT power large loads directly. Use external power sources or drivers for motors, high-current devices.
  • Connect:
  • Other serial devices — e.g., AIS receivers (NMEA 0183 compatible).
  • Bluetooth/WiFi sensors.
  • Simple user input devices (buttons, switches).
  • Displays like OLED or LCD for local info.

Summary

To convert NMEA 0183 to WiFi for less than €10, the Elfin EW10 + a cheap RS-422 (or NMEA) to TTL converter + firmware on the ESP module is the way to go. This lets you stream or serve NMEA data via WiFi. The module also supports connecting and powering low-current sensors and devices compatible with 3.3V logic.

The Elfin EW10 can be purchased on Amazon at this link: https://amzn.to/4bywCuk

Navigation information can be viewed in real-time on a tablet or smartphone with applications like Navionics and OpenCPN.

For more information or assistance with this project, feel free to ask!

Additional Options:

  • The HF2211 can potentially be used to provide data for an autopilot, with data from a Raspberry.
  • The Elfin EW10 can be purchased on AliExpress at this link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oDoZdOJ
  • The HF2211, like the Elfin EW10, can be used as an NMEA output to power other devices.
  • The HF2211 can be purchased on Amazon at this link: https://amzn.to/3FtTgrE
  • A RS232 to RS485 Converter can also be purchased on AliExpress at this link: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oB32uh1
  1. Utilizing technology such as the Elfin EW10 WiFi module, data-and-cloud-computing devices can receive navigation data from marine electronics via NMEA 0183, making it possible for sailors to track their journey using gadgets like tablets and smartphones.
  2. In addition to bridging NMEA 0183 signals to WiFi, the versatile Elfin EW10 gadget also supports various interfaces like UART, SPI, and I2C, enabling it to connect and power other relevant gadgets in navigation systems, such as GPS modules and environmental sensors.

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