How can I allow user to enter some free text as value that ESPHome device could use.
For example, I want user to set timer trigger in cron syntax, so that his custom set trigger would be used.
You might need to import it from a HA input text? Would that be acceptable? I mean the input ui would be HA anyway I take it?
I need it in ESPHome alone. No Home Assistant.
How will the user enter it? Webserver?
That is idea
Been awhile, and you’ve probably moved beyond this already, but… Yes, you can use a “text” component to provide a user input text box in the esphome web interface. No home-assistant required.
However, esphome’s built-in cron functionality does not allow changes after the firmware is compiled and uploaded. The cron expressions are converted to code and baked into the firmware.
I had the same need as you, so I created the external component Dynamic Cron that allows run-time input/updates to the cron expression(s). I use it to trigger my esphome-sprinkler system.
If you still have a need for something like this, check it out, and feel free to ask any questions.