I need to understand - 3 - What is NodeRed

Third party integrations Node-RED
1

I have seen many mentions of NodeRed. What does it do and why would I need it ?

Thanks

2

Simply put, It’s an alternative to HA automatons that uses a visual method (a bit like a flow chart) to depict the automation flow.

3

You can find out more about Node Red here: https://nodered.org/

You absolutely don’t need it. But for some of us, it’s more intuitive to use than the native HA automation tools.

4

Thanks !!! I am used to HA Automations so if I don’t need it, then I’ll leave it aside.

5

I am a strong supporter of Nodered as it adds much that you cannot do easily in HA Automations.

  • Manipulating data
  • Creating arrays from multiple sources
  • Creating new entities and attribute lists
  • Originating data where there is no applicable integration.
  • Sending data to an outside endpoint
  • Simplifying functionality
  • Experimental work
  • Automation made simple, but for me probably the least requirement

I could go on, but you would drop off to sleep, but I really could not do without it and at the very least I could not have achieved what I have done so far in creating some fairly impressive data in HA.

I say have a go, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

6

Is there an idiot’s guide or good introduction to Node Red especially with HA integration in mind?

7

Well I just played around with it to begin with, its fairly easy to pick up and I am an oldie, but there are loads of tutorials about to help you.
I actually have only ever needed to look at the PDF guide and joining the forum will help too.
I have just spotted this link, which I haven’t read.

Just have a play with it, but be careful it’s very addictive and you suddenly find that your imagination leads on you on to experiment to your hearts content.

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8

You should be able to find quite a few video’s on youtube. I took a quick look at this one that seems to go through setup and use.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXcwUdDqXXo

Then there is this flow generator. If you used the ha editor this is kinda similar.

https://community.home-assistant.io/t/node-red-three-way-flow-generator/746547

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9

Thanks, both!

10

Thanks. Where should I start ?

11

There are also quite a few examples in the docs as well as detailed instructions for each home assistant node.

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12

Well I suppose this all depends on what hardware you are using.
I first installed HA and Node red in a Docker system on my NAS drive, then quickly decided my NAS was more important as a Media and file server and so I bought a RPI 4 4GB model and I run everything on that.

I used HACS to install NodeRed and the additional add on for the HA nodes, which integrates really easily.
You will have a link in the menu on your HA to open Node Red’s web based UI and you can start quickly testing by using an inject node and a debug node.
I started at the age of 71, if I can get to grips with it anybody can and now I occasionally revisit my flows and I can see much better ways of getting the same data, so it is a constant learning curve, which suits me and keeps my brain working.
Have a read of this excellent guide and you will soon get the hang of it.

https://nodered.org/docs/user-guide/

13

I have a HA Yellow Box and just added NodeRed with HACS. Now I will read the info from the link and will try it out. Thanks !!!

14

Enjoy Node …ing!!

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