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ESP8266

The ESP8266 is a popular, low-cost microcontroller with integrated Wi-Fi, making it ideal for IoT, automation, and sensor projects. It is widely used for smart sensors, wireless controllers, and connected devices. The ESP8266 can be programmed using Arduino, MicroPython, ESPHome, and other platforms.

Features and Possibilities​

  • Single-core processor: Efficient for lightweight tasks and low power consumption.
  • Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi for easy integration into networks.
  • Multiple GPIOs: Control LEDs, relays, motors, and read sensors.
  • Low Power Modes: Suitable for battery-powered applications.
  • OTA Updates: Update firmware wirelessly.
  • Integration: Works with Home Assistant, MQTT, ESPHome, Node-RED, and cloud platforms.
  • Peripheral Support: I2C, SPI, UART, ADC, PWM, and more.

Example: ESPHome YAML for ESP8266 Temperature Sensor​

esphome:
  name: esp8266_livingroom
  platform: ESP8266
  board: nodemcuv2

wifi:
  ssid: "your_wifi_ssid"
  password: "your_wifi_password"

sensor:
  - platform: dht
    pin: D2
    temperature:
      name: "Living Room Temperature"
    humidity:
      name: "Living Room Humidity"
    model: DHT22

Example: MicroPython Blinking LED​

from machine import Pin
import time

led = Pin(2, Pin.OUT)

while True:
    led.value(not led.value())
    time.sleep(1)

Example: MQTT Publish with ESP8266 (MicroPython)​

import network
from umqtt.simple import MQTTClient
import time

ssid = 'your_wifi_ssid'
password = 'your_wifi_password'
mqtt_server = 'mqtt.local'

station = network.WLAN(network.STA_IF)
station.active(True)
station.connect(ssid, password)
while not station.isconnected():
    time.sleep(1)

client = MQTTClient("esp8266", mqtt_server)
client.connect()
client.publish(b"home/livingroom/temperature", b"23.5")
client.disconnect()

The ESP8266 is a versatile platform for building smart sensors, controllers, and connected devices. Its Wi-Fi capabilities and affordability make it a favorite for DIY and professional IoT projects.