• 5 Posts
  • 18 Comments
Joined 1 year ago
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Cake day: June 23rd, 2023

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  • I know someone who is in engineering at one of the big Auto makers, we where discussing this issue and the person told me that even if you remove the SIM (disable cellular internet) The dealer we still upload all the data from the “black box” to the auto maker when they connect to OBD / CAN diagnostic port in your car during service. The manufacturer’s service software just does that now the tech does not even have to initiate it. Also some dealers can automatically connect using RF to your car as soon as you enter their lot, This can be by Bluetooth, WiFi, and/or the CAN bus via the keyless entry module or TPM (Tire Pressure Monitor). There was an issue a several years ago with hackers gaining access to Jeeps while on the road via RF.

    https://www.pcmag.com/news/hackers-remotely-hijack-a-jeep-crash-it-into-a-ditch







  • I just posted this in another thread.

    I’m just staring to build a T41 SDR QRP Transceiver

    SDR = Software Defined Radio, 
    QRP is the Q code for reduce power, QRP radios are meant for low power operations.
    

    Not sure if you want to go down the kit route but it will teach you a bit about RF (Radio Frequency) theory and practical electronics (If you don’t already know). It’s also very modular and there are other options for the RF amplifier section so it does not have to be QRP, there is a 20W and 100W board available as well.

    Be warned that this kit will take a lot of time, reading, careful soldering of tiny SMD (Surface mount devices) components, etc. There is a good book about the kit, the theory, programming the Tensy (the microcontroller heart of the t41), etc.

    http://4sqrp.com/T41main.php

    https://www.amazon.com/Software-Defined-Radio-Transceiver-Construction/dp/B09WYP1ST8

    Note: I know most in this community will know the acronyms, I spell them out for others that may happen by





  • I also have a VPN set up to my home network that I can connect to with my mobile devices. once connected I use the HA mobile app pathed to my local HA server IP. I don’t use HA cloud or any other cloud service. It works well for me, I obviously can’t get notification on the mobile when not connected but I have not had a need yet. If/When I’m do want notifications I would most likely explore, e-mail, e-mail to SMS, SMS API or something that won’t involve external servers. I would not want to send sensitive info via SMS but a shot alert that said there is something to look at like “HA Alert: Motion detected cam 1” or such would be fine.









  • Update: Got this working without any cloud services. Turns out Sylvania lighting (LEDVance) has an alternate firmware that is an HomKit device that does not require any external cloud, server, etc. Any HA install with bluetooth enabled can pair with it and you don’t need to set up Apple home or a Sylvania account.

    1. Download the Sylvania smart home app. (don’t set up an account)
    2. Open the app and click the “HomeKit” button. (All this is going to do is scan for unpaired bluetooth smart+ devices)
    3. You should see a list of the Smart+ devices with an ⚠️ to the right of it
    4. Click on the device to update the firmware to the HomeKit firmware
    5. That is all the Sylvania app is needed for so you can delete once all your devices are firmwares are updated
    6. In HA install the HomeKit bridge, you don’t need to pair it with Apple just install it.
    7. Make sure your device is near (within 20ft) of your HA bluetooth transceiver and/or an ESP32 bluetooth proxy connected to your HA
    8. Once the device is detected you will get a new device notice, open the new device integration and click configure.


  • 2014 or older without sync 3, OnStar, etc. Anything newer WILL have a cellular module. Also, check the service manuals and see if there is a cellular module even in older cars or any module with a cellular component ( like the wireless entry module , satellite radio module, etc.). If the car has a remote unlock, locator, or start that works as a phone app or any of those options then your gonna be tracked.