6.1 What You Need

Most of what you need to build this project has been used by other projects in the book, with the exception of a force sensitive resistor (sometimes erroneously referred to as a pressure sensor). Take a look at the complete list of the project’s components (refer to the photo in Figure 17, ​Package Delivery Detector parts​):

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Figure 17. Package Delivery Detector parts

1. An Arduino Diecimila, Nano, or Uno

2. Paired XBee radios and accompanying FTDI cable

3. One 10k ohm resistor

4. A force sensitive resistor,[58] as shown in the photo in Figure 18, ​Package Delivery Detector resistors​, along with a 10k ohm resistor[59]

5. A 9-volt power supply to power the Arduino once untethered from the USB development cable

6. Two wood or plastic square tiles, preferably connected together via a wedge on one side

7. A computer (not pictured), preferably Linux or Mac-based, with Python 2.6 or higher installed to process incoming messages and interrogate popular logistics firms’ web services

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Figure 18. Package Delivery Detector resistors

Depending on the type of Arduino that you opt to use for this project, you will also need a standard A to B or A to Mini-B USB cable to connect the Arduino to the computer.

If you have built the other projects in this book up to this point, the Package Delivery Detector is going to be a relatively easy project to construct. This is because it’s essentially a variation of the Chapter 5, ​Tweeting Bird Feeder​. Instead of a light sensor, this project will use a strategically placed force sensitive resistor. And we will enhance the bird feeder Python script to poll a popular courier delivery service. Doing so will help certify the authenticity of the delivery. Let’s get started!