Search results for "home OR assistant OR green"

A Hands-on Guide to Crafting Your Own Power Plant The book you are about to read provides a step-by-step guide for building a renewable energy power plant at home. Our goal was to make the book as practical as possible. The material is intended for immediate application with a small amount of theory. Yet, the theory is important as a foundation that saves time and effort by disabusing the readers of potential misconceptions. Specifically, upon having a firm understanding of photovoltaic physics, you will not be inclined to fruitlessly search for 90% efficient solar panels! We want our readers to be the “doers”. If the book gets covered in grime and some pages become torn while you are building your power plant – this is the best compliment to us. The book covers solar and wind energy. Also, a curious power source based on manure is discussed as well, giving the doers an opportunity to further develop the manure fuel cell. It is important to note that there are many companies offering installation of complete solar solutions. Upon installing the panels, the system is not owned by the customer. Therefore, there is no freedom for experimentation and optimization. Also, none can beat the cost of a DIY solution as well as the ultimate satisfaction. All that is written here is a result of us building a renewable energy solution in Southern California. As the book was completed, the energy began flowing!

Read more less

A Hands-on Guide to Crafting Your Own Power Plant The book you are about to read provides a step-by-step guide for building a renewable energy power plant at home. Our goal was to make the book as practical as possible. The material is intended for immediate application with a small amount of theory. Yet, the theory is important as a foundation that saves time and effort by disabusing the readers of potential misconceptions. Specifically, upon having a firm understanding of photovoltaic physics, you will not be inclined to fruitlessly search for 90% efficient solar panels! We want our readers to be the “doers”. If the book gets covered in grime and some pages become torn while you are building your power plant – this is the best compliment to us. The book covers solar and wind energy. Also, a curious power source based on manure is discussed as well, giving the doers an opportunity to further develop the manure fuel cell. It is important to note that there are many companies offering installation of complete solar solutions. Upon installing the panels, the system is not owned by the customer. Therefore, there is no freedom for experimentation and optimization. Also, none can beat the cost of a DIY solution as well as the ultimate satisfaction. All that is written here is a result of us building a renewable energy solution in Southern California. As the book was completed, the energy began flowing!

Read more less

There are many so-called 'Arduino compatible' platforms on the market. The ESP8266 – in the form of the WeMos D1 Mini Pro – is one that really stands out. This device includes WiFi Internet access and the option of a flash file system using up to 16 MB of external flash memory. Furthermore, there are ample in/output pins (though only one analogue input), PWM, I²C, and one-wire. Needless to say, you are easily able to construct many small IoT devices! This book contains the following builds: A colourful smart home accessory refrigerator controller 230 V power monitor door lock monitor and some further spin-off devices. All builds are documented together with relevant background information for further study. For your convenience, there is a small PCB for most of the designs; you can also use a perf board. You don’t need to be an expert but the minimum recommended essentials include basic experience with a PC, software, and hardware, including the ability to surf the Internet and assemble PCBs. And of course: A handle was kept on development costs. All custom software for the IoT devices and PCB layouts are available for free download from at Elektor.com.

Read more less

Projects with Arduino, ESPHome, Home Assistant, and Raspberry Pi & Co. This e-book contains various example projects, beginning with an introduction to electronics. It also explains how to install Home Assistant on a Raspberry Pi, how to use indoor climate sensors for temperature and humidity, how to implement the MQTT protocol and other interfaces, and how to use ESPHome to integrate sensors and actuators into Home Assistant. Numerous video tutorials complement the book. Fundamentals of electrical engineering The book begins with an introduction to electrical engineering. You will learn the basics of voltage, current, resistors, diodes and transistors. Arduino and microcontrollers A complete section is dedicated to the Arduino Uno. You will get to know the structure, write your first programs and work on practical examples. Home Assistant and automation You will learn how to set up Home Assistant on a Raspberry Pi and how to use automations, scenes and devices. In addition, Zigbee, MQTT and ESP-NOW – important technologies for home automation – will be discussed. ESP8266, ESP32 and ESP32-CAM The popular ESP microcontrollers are covered in detail. A theoretical introduction is followed by practical projects that show you how to get the most out of these devices. Sensors and actuators The book explains the functionality and application of numerous sensors such as temperature and humidity sensors, motion detectors and RFID readers. For actuators, stepper motors, e-ink displays, servo motors and much more are covered. There are practical application examples for all devices. ESPHome This chapter shows you how to integrate sensors and actuators into Home Assistant without any programming effort. You will be guided step by step through the setup with ESPHome. LEDs and lighting technology In this chapter, you will learn about different types of LEDs and how they can be used. The basics of lighting technology are also explained. Node-RED A whole chapter is dedicated to Node-RED. You will learn the basics of this powerful tool and be guided step by step through its setup and use. Integrated Circuits (ICs) In electronics, there are numerous ICs that make our lives easier. You will get to know the most important ones and apply your knowledge in practical projects. Professional programming Advanced topics such as the correct use of buttons, the use of interrupts and the use of an NTP server for time synchronisation are covered in detail in this chapter. Downloads GitHub

Read more less

Affordable solutions with the ESP8266 and 3D printing If you are looking for a small yet powerful IoT device, you are likely to come across the ESP8266 and compatible products on the market today. One of these, the Wemos/Lolin D1 Mini Pro board strikes a remarkable balance between cost and performance. A small and very affordable prototype board, the D1 Mini Pro stands out with its WiFi functionality and a 16-Mbytes flash memory for easy creation of a flash file system. In addition, there are sufficient input and output pins (only one analog input though) to support PWM, I²C, and One-Wire systems to mention but a few. The book describes the operation, modding, construction, and programming of home appliances including a colorful smart home accessory, a refrigerator/greenhouse controller, an AC powerline monitor, a door lock monitor, and an IKEA Trådfri controller. As a benefit, all firmware developed for these DIY, "IoT-ized" devices can be updated over-the-air (OTA). For most of the designs in the book, a small printed circuit board (PCB) and an enclosure are presented so readers can have a finished and attractive-looking product. Readers having – or with access to! – a 3D printer can "print" the suggested enclosures at home or in a shop. Some of the constructions benefit from a Raspberry Pi configured as a gateway or cms server. This is also described in detail with all the necessary configuring. You don’t need to be an expert but the prerequisites to successful replication of the projects include basic skills with PC software including the ability to surf the Internet. In terms of hardware, you should be comfortable with soldering and generally assembling the PCBs presented in the book. All custom software written for the IoT devices, the PCB layouts, and 3D print files described in the book are available for free downloading.

Read more less

Secure, Modular, Open-Source and Self-Sufficient Ever since the Raspberry Pi was introduced, it has been used by enthusiasts to automate their homes. The Raspberry Pi is a powerful computer in a small package, with lots of interfacing options to control various devices. This book shows you how you can automate your home with a Raspberry Pi. You’ll learn how to use various wireless protocols for home automation, such as Bluetooth, 433.92 MHz radio waves, Z-Wave, and Zigbee. Soon you’ll automate your home with Python, Node-RED, and Home Assistant, and you’ll even be able to speak to your home automation system. All this is done securely, with a modular system, completely open-source, without relying on third-party services. You’re in control of your home, and no one else. At the end of this book, you can install and configure your Raspberry Pi as a highly flexible home automation gateway for protocols of your choice, and link various services with MQTT to make it your own system. This DIY (do it yourself) approach is a bit more laborious than just installing an off-the-shelf home automation system, but in the process, you can learn a lot, and in the end, you know exactly what’s running your house and how to tweak it. This is why you were interested in the Raspberry Pi in the first place, right? Turn your Raspberry Pi into a reliable gateway for various home automation protocols. Make your home automation setup reproducible with Docker Compose. Secure all your network communication with TLS. Create a video surveillance system for your home. Automate your home with Python, Node-RED, Home Assistant and AppDaemon. Securely access your home automation dashboard from remote locations. Use fully offline voice commands in your own language. Downloads Errata on GitHub

Read more less

Using the RFID Starter Kit An Arduino board has now become ‘the’ basic component in the maker community. No longer is an introduction to the world of microcontrollers the preserve of the expert. When it comes to expanding the capabilities of the basic Arduino board however, the developer is still largely on his own. If you really want to build some innovative projects it’s often necessary to get down to component level. This can present many beginners with major problems. That is exactly where this book begins. This book explains how a wide variety of practical projects can be built using items supplied in a single kit together with the Arduino board. This kit, called the 'RFID Starter Kit for Arduino' (SKU 17240) is not just limited to RFID applications but contains more than 30 components, devices and modules covering all areas of modern electronics. In addition to more simple components such as LEDs and resistors there are also complex and sophisticated modules that employ the latest technology such as: A humidity sensor A multicolor LED A large LED matrix with 64 points of light A 4-character 7-segment LED display An infra red remote-controller unit A complete LC-display module A servo A stepper motor and controller module A complete RFID reader module and security tag On top of that you will get to build precise digital thermometers, hygrometers, exposure meters and various alarm systems. There are also practical devices and applications such as a fully automatic rain sensor, a sound-controlled remote control system, a multifunctional weather station and so much more. All of the projects described can be built using the components supplied in the Elektor kit.

Read more less

Secure, Modular, Open-Source and Self-Sufficient Ever since the Raspberry Pi was introduced, it has been used by enthusiasts to automate their homes. The Raspberry Pi is a powerful computer in a small package, with lots of interfacing options to control various devices. This book shows you how you can automate your home with a Raspberry Pi. You’ll learn how to use various wireless protocols for home automation, such as Bluetooth, 433.92 MHz radio waves, Z-Wave, and Zigbee. Soon you’ll automate your home with Python, Node-RED, and Home Assistant, and you’ll even be able to speak to your home automation system. All this is done securely, with a modular system, completely open-source, without relying on third-party services. You’re in control of your home, and no one else. At the end of this book, you can install and configure your Raspberry Pi as a highly flexible home automation gateway for protocols of your choice, and link various services with MQTT to make it your own system. This DIY (do it yourself) approach is a bit more laborious than just installing an off-the-shelf home automation system, but in the process, you can learn a lot, and in the end, you know exactly what’s running your house and how to tweak it. This is why you were interested in the Raspberry Pi in the first place, right? Turn your Raspberry Pi into a reliable gateway for various home automation protocols. Make your home automation setup reproducible with Docker Compose. Secure all your network communication with TLS. Create a video surveillance system for your home. Automate your home with Python, Node-RED, Home Assistant and AppDaemon. Securely access your home automation dashboard from remote locations. Use fully offline voice commands in your own language. Download the software and view the errata for the book on GitHub.

Read more less

The FNIRSI DWS-200 is a powerful 200 W smart soldering station, ideal for electronic soldering applications. Powered by a switch-mode power supply, it operates smoothly with a wide voltage input range of 100-240 V. The station provides an adjustable temperature range from 100°C to 450°C (212°F to 842°F) and allows for easy switching between °C and °F. To enhance efficiency, it supports up to three preset temperature values and can connect to a soldering iron stand for standby mode activation. The station also features a dynamic temperature curve mode for real-time data monitoring, ensuring precise and consistent performance in demanding soldering tasks. Features Maximum power output of 200 W, allowing for fast heating Wide adaptive voltage input of 100-240 V 2.8" HD color TFT display with intelligent control Multiple preset groups to switch between different settings quickly Supports F245 and F210 soldering handle types, offering flexibility for different soldering applications Real-time sleep mode to extend the life of the soldering tip Multi-mode real-time monitoring for power and temperature status, enhancing safety and precision Specifications Peak Power 200 W (max) Temperature Range 100°C~450°C (212°F~842°F) Display 2.8" TFT HD Color Screen Heating Time 1 sec Melting Time 3 sec Input Voltage 100-240 V (AC) Input Fuse 3 A Soldering Handle Type F245 Dimensions (Station) 156 x 96 x 103 mm Weight (Station) 475 g Included 1x FNIRSI DWS-200 Soldering Station 1x Soldering Handle F245 6x Soldering Tips (B, KU, K, C2, I, JS) 1x Connecting Cable 2x Helping Hands 1x Power Cable (EU) Downloads Manual Firmware V1.3

Read more less

Develop your own custom home automation devices Espressif's ESP8266 and ESP32 microcontrollers have brought DIY home automation to the masses. However, not everyone is fluent in programming these microcontrollers with Espressif's C/C++ SDK, the Arduino core, or MicroPython. This is where ESPHome comes into its own: with this project, you don’t program your microcontroller but configure it. This book demonstrates how to create your own home automation devices with ESPHome on an ESP32 microcontroller board. You’ll learn how to combine all kinds of electronic components and automate complex behaviours. Your devices can work completely autonomously, and connect over Wi-Fi to your home automation gateways such as Home Assistant or MQTT broker. By the end of this book, you will be able to create your own custom home automation devices the way you want. Thanks to ESPHome and the ESP32, this is within everyone’s grasp. Set up an ESPHome development environment and create maintainable configurations Use buttons and LEDs Sound a buzzer and play melodies Read measurements from various types of sensors Communicate over a short distance with NFC, infrared light, and Bluetooth Low Energy Show information on various types of displays Downloads Software

Read more less

The Elektor ESP32 Energy Meter is a device designed for real-time energy monitoring and smart home integration. Powered by the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, it offers robust performance with modular and scalable features. The device uses a 220 V-to-12 V step-down transformer for voltage sampling, ensuring galvanic isolation and safety. Its compact PCB layout includes screw-type terminal blocks for secure connections, a Qwiic connector for additional sensors, and a programming header for direct ESP32-S3 configuration. The energy meter is compatible with single-phase and three-phase systems, making it adaptable for various applications. The energy meter is simple to set up and integrates with Home Assistant, offering real-time monitoring, historical analytics, and automation capabilities. It provides accurate measurements of voltage, current, and power, making it a valuable tool for energy management in homes and businesses. Features Comprehensive Energy Monitoring: Get detailed insights into your energy usage for smarter management and cost savings. Customizable Software: Tailor functionality to your needs by programming and integrating custom sensors. Smart Home Ready: Compatible with ESPHome, Home Assistant, and MQTT for full Smart Home integration. Safe & Flexible Design: Operates with a 220 V-to-12 V step-down transformer and features a pre-assembled SMD board. Quick Start: Includes one Current Transformer (CT) sensor and access to free setup resources. Specifications Microcontroller ESP32-S3-WROOM-1-N8R2 Energy Metering IC ATM90E32AS Status Indicators 4x LEDs for power consumption indication2x Programmable LEDs for custom status notifications User Input 2x Push buttons for user control Display Output I²C OLED display for real-time power consumption visualization Input Voltage 110/220 V AC (via step-down transformer) Input Power 12 V (via step-down transformer or DC input) Clamp Current Sensor YHDC SCT013-000 (100 A/50 mA) included Smart Home Integration ESPHome, Home Assistant, and MQTT for seamless connectivity Connectivity Header for programming, Qwiic for sensor expansion Applications Supports single-phase and three-phase energy monitoring systems Dimensions 79.5 x 79.5 mm Included 1x Partly assembled board (SMDs are pre-mounted) 2x Screw terminal block connerctors (not mounted) 1x YHDC SCT013-000 current transformer Required Power transformer not included Downloads Datasheet (ESP32-S3-WROOM-1) Datasheet (ATM90E32AS) Datasheet (SCT013-000) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) From Prototype to Finished Product What started as an innovative project to create a reliable and user-friendly energy meter using the ESP32-S3 microcontroller has evolved into a robust product. Initially developed as an open-source project, the ESP32 Energy Meter aimed to provide precise energy monitoring, smart home integration and more. Through meticulous hardware and firmware development, the energy meter now stands as a compact, versatile solution for energy management.

Read more less

Elektor GREEN and GOLD members can download their digital edition here. Not a member yet? Click here. Small Thermal Imaging CameraAn Arduino UNO-Based DIY Solution Project Update #3: ESP32-Based Energy MeterIntegration and Testing with Home Assistant 2024: An AI OdysseyEnhancing Object Detection: Integrating Refined Techniques Raspberry Pi Goes AINew Kit Incorporates M.2 HAT+ With AI Accelerator Weather Station SensorsWhich One Should You Choose? AI-Based Water Meter Reading (1)Get Your Old Meter Onto the IoT! A GSM AlarmHarnessing GSM Technology for Remote Garage Safety Low-Power Thread Devices Optimized and ScrutinizedLow Power … Low Effort? From Life’s ExperienceThe Gender Gap DIY Cloud ChamberMaking Invisible Radiation Visible SparkFun Thing Plus MatterA Versatile Matter-Based IoT Development Board IoT RetrofittingMaking RS-232 Devices Fit for Industry 4.0 Enabling IoT with 8-Bit MCUs Technology Drives SustainabilityAdvances Lead to More Efficient Use of Energy in Many Applications AWS for Arduino and Co. (1)Using AWS IoT ExpressLink in Real Life Airflow Detector Using Arduino OnlyNo External Sensors Needed! Water Leak DetectorConnected to Arduino Cloud CrystalsPeculiar Parts, the Series Universal Garden LoggerA Step Towards AI Gardening Analog 1 kHz GeneratorSine Waves with Low Distortion Miletus: Using Web Apps OfflineSystem and Device Access Included! From 4G to 5GIs It Such an Easy Step? Starting Out in Electronics……Balances Out

Read more less