What is NodeMCU ? | എന്താണ് NodeMCU (നോട് എം സി യു ) | മലയാളം | Malayalam | esp8266 | IoT part 1

Introduction

This tutorial provides an overview of NodeMCU, an open-source firmware and development kit based on the ESP8266 WiFi module. It is designed for easy and affordable Internet of Things (IoT) development, enabling developers to create connected devices efficiently. Understanding NodeMCU is essential for anyone interested in building IoT projects.

Step 1: Understand the Specifications of NodeMCU

Before diving into development, familiarize yourself with the key specifications of NodeMCU:

• Microcontroller: ESP8266EX
• Processor: Tensilica L106 32-bit RISC CPU
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Clock Speed: 80MHz or 160MHz (overclocked)
• Flash Memory: 4MB or 16MB
• RAM: 80KB or 160KB
• WiFi: 802.11 b/g/n
• GPIO Pins: 17
• ADC: 1 (0-3.3V)
• SPI: 1
• I2C: 1
• UART: 1
• PWM: 1
• Power Consumption: 0.9mA in deep sleep mode
• Dimensions: 49 x 24.5 x 13mm

These specifications will help you understand the capabilities and limitations of the NodeMCU board when planning your projects.

Step 2: Install NodeMCU Firmware

To start programming with NodeMCU, you need to install its firmware:

1. Download the Firmware: Visit the NodeMCU GitHub page to download the latest firmware version.
2. Use a Flashing Tool: Use a tool like esptool.py or NodeMCU Flasher to upload the firmware to your NodeMCU board.
3. Connect Your Board: Use a USB cable to connect the NodeMCU to your computer.
4. Flash the Firmware:
   • Open your flashing tool.
   • Select the correct COM port for your NodeMCU.
   • Choose the firmware file you downloaded and follow the tool’s instructions to flash the firmware.

Step 3: Set Up Your Development Environment

Creating a suitable environment for developing applications on NodeMCU involves a few key steps:

1. Install the Arduino IDE: Download and install the Arduino IDE from the official website.
2. Add NodeMCU Board:
   • Open the Arduino IDE and navigate to File > Preferences.
   • In the "Additional Board Manager URLs" field, add the ESP8266 board URL: http://arduino.esp8266.com/stable/package_esp8266com_index.json.
   • Go to Tools > Board > Board Manager, search for "ESP8266", and install the package.
3. Select Your Board: Go to Tools > Board and select "NodeMCU 1.0 (ESP-12E Module)".

Step 4: Write Your First Program

To test your setup, write a simple program to blink an LED:

1. Connect an LED: Connect the anode (long leg) of an LED to GPIO pin D1 and the cathode (short leg) to GND.
2. Open a New Sketch: In Arduino IDE, create a new sketch and enter the following code:

void setup() {
  pinMode(D1, OUTPUT); // Set D1 as an OUTPUT
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(D1, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);            // Wait for a second
  digitalWrite(D1, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);            // Wait for a second
}

3. Upload the Code: Click the upload button in the Arduino IDE to send your code to the NodeMCU.

Step 5: Explore NodeMCU Libraries and APIs

NodeMCU includes several libraries and APIs that simplify working with its features:

• WiFi Library: Manage WiFi connections and networking.
• GPIO Library: Control GPIO pins for input/output operations.
• ADC Library: Read analog values from sensors.

Familiarize yourself with these libraries to enhance your projects.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned about NodeMCU, its specifications, and how to set it up for development. You also wrote your first program to blink an LED and explored useful libraries for IoT projects. As a next step, consider experimenting with different sensors and modules to expand your IoT applications. Happy coding!