FAQ
Why using both an Arduino Nano and a NodeMCU? Couldn't you just use one NodeMCU or even better, design an embedded system around ESP8266?
The most efficient way to build a device like this would be designing a system that uses ESP8266 programmed directly in C. LiVduino is not a regular device though: it is just a breakup board that allows someone to put together a cost-effective home automation system using components that Arduino users might have on their workbench. Programming the system (both Nano and NodeMCU) is done using the friendly Arduino IDE. The system could be build using only NodeMCU, however I decided to use Nano (same chipset as Uno) because of its larger number of sensor libraries available. In addition, it is possible to connect to it analog sensors operating at 5V (which I might add to it in the future). Both Nano and NodeMCU sits on connectors, so they can be easily re-used for other breadboard projects.
Are you going to add some control buttons so that automation parameters (threshold levels, automation rules, duration of display cycles, etc...) can be configured in real-time?
I might add those in the next version. For now, LiVduino version 01 works nicely for automation applications where thresholds are set up at programming time (e.g. turn on lights when luminosity goes under a certain level, turn on the heather for the terrarium at the same temperature every time, etc...)
The most efficient way to build a device like this would be designing a system that uses ESP8266 programmed directly in C. LiVduino is not a regular device though: it is just a breakup board that allows someone to put together a cost-effective home automation system using components that Arduino users might have on their workbench. Programming the system (both Nano and NodeMCU) is done using the friendly Arduino IDE. The system could be build using only NodeMCU, however I decided to use Nano (same chipset as Uno) because of its larger number of sensor libraries available. In addition, it is possible to connect to it analog sensors operating at 5V (which I might add to it in the future). Both Nano and NodeMCU sits on connectors, so they can be easily re-used for other breadboard projects.
Are you going to add some control buttons so that automation parameters (threshold levels, automation rules, duration of display cycles, etc...) can be configured in real-time?
I might add those in the next version. For now, LiVduino version 01 works nicely for automation applications where thresholds are set up at programming time (e.g. turn on lights when luminosity goes under a certain level, turn on the heather for the terrarium at the same temperature every time, etc...)