Ingest data from multiple sources into a CSV formatted file using Node-RED File and CSV nodes.

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to ingest data from multiple sources into a CSV formatted file using Node-RED. This process is essential for aggregating data from devices, sensors, or other inputs into a structured format that can be easily analyzed and processed. By using the File and CSV nodes in Node-RED, you can efficiently manage data input and output operations, enabling smooth data handling in various applications.

Step 1: Setting Up Node-RED

1. Install Node-RED if you haven't already:

   • Use npm to install Node-RED globally by running:

     npm install -g node-red
     

2. Launch Node-RED:

   • Start Node-RED by typing node-red in your terminal.
   • Open your web browser and navigate to http://localhost:1880.

3. Create a new flow:

   • Click on the "+" icon to create a new flow for your project.

Step 2: Adding Input Nodes

1. Drag input nodes into your flow:

   • You can use nodes like inject, http, or mqtt to simulate or gather data from various sources.

2. Configure input nodes:

   • Double-click on each node to set it up according to your data source.
   • For example, if using the inject node, set the payload type to the desired format (string, number, etc.).

Step 3: Adding CSV Node

1. Drag and drop the CSV node into your flow:

   • Find the CSV node in the palette and add it to your flow.

2. Configure the CSV node:

   • Double-click the CSV node to open its configuration.
   • Set the output format to "a CSV string" if you want to convert JavaScript objects into CSV format, or set it to "a JavaScript object" if you are reading from a CSV string.

Step 4: Adding File Node

1. Add the File node to your flow:

   • Drag the File node from the palette.

2. Configure the File node:

   • Double-click on the File node.
   • Choose the action you want to perform: write file, read file, append, or delete.
   • Specify the file path where the CSV file will be stored.

3. Set file options:

   • If writing or appending, make sure to set the appropriate options (e.g., overwrite or append).

Step 5: Connecting the Nodes

1. Wire the nodes together:

   • Connect the output of your input nodes to the CSV node.
   • Then, connect the output of the CSV node to the File node.

2. Deploy your flow:

   • Click the "Deploy" button to activate your flow.

Step 6: Testing the Flow

1. Trigger the input node:

   • Click the button on the inject node to send data through the flow.

2. Check the CSV file:

   • Navigate to the specified file path and open the CSV file to verify that the data has been correctly formatted and written.

Conclusion

You have successfully ingested data from multiple sources into a CSV formatted file using Node-RED. This process allows for efficient data management and can be adapted for various applications, such as logging sensor data or consolidating inputs from different devices.

As a next step, consider exploring additional nodes in Node-RED to enhance your data processing capabilities, or look into creating dashboards for real-time data visualization. Happy coding!