Build projects that can transmit and receive data from just about anywhere using cellular data! Unlike transports that require a router, wires, or a gateway, cellular towers are located just about anywhere people are.

We designed a CircuitPython library compatible with the Adafruit FONA cellular modem. This module handles all the complicated modem interfacing for you, so you can bring your IoT projects online quickly.

In this guide, you will set up and configure a FONA module with a CircuitPython board to connect to the internet over a cellular network. We've included examples for using this module to send HTTP requests and connect to MQTT brokers. 

Parts

Adafruit currently offers two types of cellular data transports: 2G/GSM and 3G.

First up are the FONA808 and FONA800 modules which use 2G/GSM networks. These networks use smaller modules, use less power and will work in any country ("quad-band"). A downside of these networks is they may be shut down in the United States by the end of 2020.

Adafruit FONA - Cellular GSM Breakout
Cellular + GPS tracking, all in one? Oh yes! Introducing Adafruit FONA 808 MiniGSM + GPS, an all-in-one cellular phone module with that lets you add location-tracking, voice, text, SMS...
$49.95
In Stock
Angled shot of a Adafruit FONA - Mini Cellular GSM Breakout uFL Version.
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...
Out of Stock
Angled shot of Adafruit FONA 808 Shield - Mini Cellular GSM + GPS for Arduino.
Cellular + GPS tracking, all in one, for your Arduino? Oh yes! Introducing Adafruit FONA 808 GSM + GPS Shield, an all-in-one cellular phone module with that lets you add...
$49.95
In Stock
Adafruit FONA Starter Pack with battery, antenna, speaker and headset
Build your own cellular project and get off the grid with FONA. This pack comes with an SMA-antenna type FONA and paired with hand-picked accessories. It's the Adafruit...
Out of Stock

The Fona3G module uses a SIM5320 3G module which is physically larger than the SIM808 modules, use more power and have an increased data-rate. Unlike 2G/GSM, major carries have not announced any plan to shut down 3G services and you may need to purchase a module specific to the region where you will be operating your FONA projects.

Adafruit FONA 3G Cellular Breakout
For those who want to take it to the next level we now have a 3G Cellular Modem breakout! The FONA 3G has better coverage, GSM backwards-compatibility and even...
Out of Stock

You will also need some required accessories to make the FONA work. These are not included with the FONA shield or breakout!

You will need a Mini SIM card to do anything on the cellular network. If you're in the USA, we suggest picking up the SIM Card from Ting.

Angled shot of a GSM SIM Card from Ting & Adafruit - Data/Voice/Text
Adafruit is now a phone company :)  Or, well, we've sold DIY cell phones for awhile now but you've never been...
Out of Stock

You will need a LiPoly battery (500mAh or larger) to run the FONA module.

Angled shot of a Lithium Ion Polymer Battery 3.7V 500mAh with JST-PH connector.
Lithium-ion polymer (also known as 'lipo' or 'lipoly') batteries are thin, light, and powerful. The output ranges from 4.2V when completely charged to 3.7V. This...
$7.95
In Stock
Lithium Ion Polymer Battery 3.7v 1200mAh with JST 2-PH connector
Lithium-ion polymer (also known as 'lipo' or 'lipoly') batteries are thin, light, and powerful. The output ranges from 4.2V when completely charged to 3.7V. This...
$9.95
In Stock

You will need a external uFL GSM Antenna, we like this slim sticker-type antenna:

Slim Sticker-type Cellular Quad-Band Antenna
That's one slim cellular antenna! At just 75mm long from tip to tip and and with a thickness of just 2mm, this 3dBi GSM antenna is slim, compact and sensitive, with a 3dBi...
$2.95
In Stock

If you want to use a SMA antenna instead, you'll want to pick up a uFL to SMA adapter cable.

1 x uFL to SMA Adapter Cable
SMA to uFL/u.FL/IPX/IPEX RF Adapter Cable

You will need a MicroUSB cable for charging the FONA's battery.

USB cable - USB A to Micro-B - 3 foot long
This here is your standard A to micro-B USB cable, for USB 1.1 or 2.0. Perfect for connecting a PC to your Metro, Feather, Raspberry Pi or other dev-board or...
$2.95
In Stock

You will also need an external passive GPS antenna.

Passive Ceramic GPS Antenna with uFL - 9mm x 9mm
Wow that's a tiny GPS antenna! This passive antenna is only 9mm x 9mm x 6.5mm in size, with a 50mm long uFL cable. Great for when you want to keep things small.Comes with a...
$4.95
In Stock

This guide was first published on May 13, 2020. It was last updated on May 13, 2020.

This page (Overview) was last updated on May 05, 2020.

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