Sensor for a running / not running automation

Configuration
1

Hi there,
I have an automation running all night (turns on/off lights randomly) using the “repeat: while:” function. There is a way to have a sensor talling me that the automation is running? Automation state is “on” event if it is non runnng.
Thanks
Gekomax

2

Use the current attribute. If it’s greater than zero then it’s running.

3

Hi,
I am more interested in getting to know how you implemented the random on/off
of the lights, Would you mind sharing your code for this?

Thanks - Dave

4

Hi, thanks.
I’m trying this according your suggestion:

- platform: template
  sensors:
    simulatore_presenza_looper_parziale_stato:
      value_template: >
        {% if state_attr('automation.simulatore_presenza_looper_luci_tutta_la_casa', 'current') | float == 0 %}
          off
        {% else %}
          on
        {% endif %}
      icon_template: >
        {% if state_attr('automation.simulatore_presenza_looper_luci_tutta_la_casa', 'current') | float == 0 %}
          mdi:speedometer-slow
        {% else %}
          mdi:speedometer
        {% endif %}

Will see if it’s going to work.
Thanks
Gekomax

5

I need that sensor in order to do some tests then I’m going to post the entire work on “Share your Projects!” section.
I’ll let you know here too
Bye
Gekomax

6

That would be ok if you’re creating a sensor. But if you’re creating a binary_sensor, then:

- platform: template
  sensors:
    simulatore_presenza_looper_parziale_stato:
      value_template: >
        {{ state_attr('automation.simulatore_presenza_looper_luci_tutta_la_casa', 'current') > 0 }}
      icon_template: >
        {% if state_attr('automation.simulatore_presenza_looper_luci_tutta_la_casa', 'current') > 0 %}
          mdi:speedometer
        {% else %}
          mdi:speedometer-slow
        {% endif %}

BTW, no need for the float filter. The current attribute is already a number (i.e., not a string.)

7

thanks for your suggestions.
just one thing. Is there any difference between binary_sensor and sensor in terms of performace?
Goof day
Gekomax

8

Why would you care? Use what makes more sense. In this case, if it were me, I’d use a binary sensor.

9

I’ll do the same.
Thanks!
Gekomax

10

Hi there.
In case you are interested I shared my configuration here: Presence simulator (random turn on/off lights during the night)

Gekomax