RX-8 remote-controlled by iPod touch and RFID
Most car computers concentrate on adding internet access, big sound systems and complex GPS, but Jon Oxer went a few stages further. His 2004 Mazda RX-8 is connected to the internet 24/7, can be remotely controlled via an iPod touch or iPhone, and unlocked via an RFID tag implanted in his arm.
The car computer – an Alix-1, which is fast enough to run Linux and share a 3G internet connection over multiple WiFi clients, but low-power enough to run for prolonged periods from a battery – is connected to the RX-8’s OBD-II interface, so has access to the speed, RPM, intake manifold air temperature, engine load, fuel level and more. It can then send that to a remote computer.
More impressively, though, the car can be remotely started or stopped by the iPod touch, together with operating the locks; Jon can unlock the car completely key-free, using an RFID tag that he’s had surgically implanted in his left arm via an RFID reader mounted on one of the windows.
More details at [ Jon’s project log ]
