Arduino: GSM options?

[PKruger]

Hello everyone,

I want to use my Arduino to send and receive SMSe, and I am looking at some GSM options.

1. The Smallest SIM800L GPRS GSM Module Micro SIM Card Core Board Quad-band TTL Port which is based on the SIM800L, and according to the listing: "Support networks: China Mobile, China Unicom and global quad-band network". According to the Adafruit FONA product listing: "connect onto any global GSM network with any 2G SIM". How does this affect the SA operators?
2. The New SIM900A V4.0 Kit Wireless Extension Module GSM GPRS Board Antenna Tested R2 which is based on the SIM900A. Apparently, it is region locked to only work in certain countries (SIM900A regional blocking)
3. The SIM900 GPRS GSM Shield Development Board Quad-Band Kit For Arduino Compatible UK which is based on the SIM900. This one seems to work anywhere in the world, but is also the most expensive.

Since I will be using an Arduino Pro Mini clone, I do not need the full blown "shield" version of the SIM900. Has anyone here any experience in using a SIM800L or SIM900A based solution in South Africa?

Thank you

 

[HibiscusTunes]

I used this: http://www.gprsbee.com/, got it from Netram.co.za. It works like any other Sim900 over serial. Also check robotics.org.za. Both suppliers should have multiple modules.

 

[PKruger]

Thanks for the reply. I'm surprised to see how expensive they are to get locally. It seems like my safest option would be a SIM900 quad band based solution.

 

[PKruger]

I took a chance and ordered this one: 1set Hot Worldwide SIM900A V4.0 Kit Antenna Tested GSM GPRS Board Wireless Extension Module, and although it is the SIM900A variant, I got it to work with a MTN PAYG sim

 

[Sonic2k]

Thanks for the reply. I'm surprised to see how expensive they are to get locally. It seems like my safest option would be a SIM900 quad band based solution.

That is a crap modem... My advice to you is to use anything from Sierra Wireless... that is the gold standard in embedded.

 

[HibiscusTunes]

How long did shipping take? That price is a steal!

 

[PKruger]

How long did shipping take? That price is a steal!

Shipping was about 40 calendar days. It was held up at customs for SEVERAL days . The nice thing of buying from AliEpress is that most of the shipping includes tracking

 

[Soni]

Hi, I have a SIM900 module but it doesn't seem to be working or I'm not competent enough as yet. Could you kindly either provide me with the code or a link with how how I can correctly proceed to programme my module. I want it to send an SMS. This would be very helpful in one of my projects.