SuperHouse #41: Datalogging with MQTT, Node-RED, InfluxDB, and Grafana

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Setting up Data Logging System with MQTT, Node-RED, InfluxDB, and Grafana

1. Setting up Raspberry Pi:

   • Install Raspberry Pi OS (formerly Raspbian) using Raspberry Pi Imager on an SD card.
   • Connect the Raspberry Pi to the network.

2. Installing MQTT Broker (Mosquitto):

   • Install the MQTT broker and client using apt package manager.
   • Set up a username and password for security.
   • Restart the MQTT broker to apply the new configuration.

3. Installing InfluxDB:

   • Add the InfluxDB repository key and install InfluxDB using apt.
   • Configure InfluxDB by setting a password and enabling authentication.
   • Create a database in InfluxDB to store sensor data.

4. Setting up Node-RED:

   • Install Node-RED using the official installation script.
   • Configure Node-RED to automatically start on boot.

5. Connecting MQTT and InfluxDB in Node-RED:

   • Subscribe to MQTT topics in Node-RED to receive sensor data.
   • Use InfluxDB nodes in Node-RED to store the received data in the database.

6. Creating Dashboards with Grafana:

   • Install Grafana by adding the official repository and installing the package.
   • Configure Grafana to connect to InfluxDB as a data source.
   • Create a dashboard in Grafana and add panels to visualize sensor data.
   • Customize the appearance of charts and widgets in Grafana.

7. Advanced Data Handling with Node-RED:

   • Parse JSON data in Node-RED to extract and store individual values.
   • Create multiple queries in Node-RED to store different sensor data in InfluxDB.
   • Use Debug nodes in Node-RED to trace and manipulate message payloads.

8. Customizing Grafana Dashboards:

   • Arrange widgets and panels on the Grafana dashboard.
   • Set thresholds and visualizations for different sensor values.
   • Save and manage different dashboards for various purposes.

9. Optimizing Software Stack with Telegraph:

   • Consider using Telegraph as a front end for Grafana to simplify the software stack.
   • Evaluate the need for Node-RED and MQTT based on specific project requirements.
   • Build custom dashboards and automation systems using the established setup.

10. Finalizing and Saving Configurations:

    • Save the Grafana dashboard to retain settings and configurations.
    • Share and explore creative uses of the data logging system for automation projects.

By following these steps, you can set up a comprehensive data logging system using MQTT, Node-RED, InfluxDB, and Grafana for monitoring and visualizing sensor data in your IoT projects.