Hey everyone, I wanted to share my recent DIY project converting some budget-friendly smart plugs into fully functional, MQTT-enabled devices using Tasmota. It’s been a fantastic way to integrate more devices into my openHAB setup without compromising on security or privacy. Here’s how I approached it:
Why Tasmota?
I’ve always been cautious about using devices with proprietary firmware, especially when they’re designed to phone home. Tasmota not only eliminates that concern but also offers a robust, open-source alternative with MQTT support right out of the box. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to flash!
What You’ll Need
- A spare Raspberry Pi (3B+ or newer)
- A few smart plugs (I recommend ones listed on the Tasmota Templates page)
- Basic soldering skills (optional but helpful)
The Process
- Setup Tuya-Convert: I followed the excellent guide from ct-Open-Source to set up the flashing environment on my Raspberry Pi. It was surprisingly straightforward with their scripts.
- Flashing: The most nerve-wracking part was the actual flashing. I learned to be patient, ensuring the device was in recovery mode before proceeding. A quick tip: connect your phone to the device’s hotspot during flashing—it seems to help with the process.
- Configuration: Once flashed, Tasmota automatically connects to my network. I configured MQTT settings and tested the integration with openHAB. The device showed up perfectly in Paper UI!
- Testing: I assigned each plug to different rooms and created scenes in openHAB to control them. The integration was seamless, and the power monitoring feature is a huge bonus!
Tips for Success
- Backup First: Always back up your openHAB configuration before making changes. It’s a small precaution that can save a lot of headaches.
- Use Quality Templates: Stick to well-documented Tasmota templates to avoid bricking your devices.
- Community Support: If you run into issues, the Tasmota and openHAB communities are incredibly helpful. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice!
Final Thoughts
This project has been a game-changer for my smart home setup. Not only have I added more devices without security concerns, but I’ve also learned a ton about firmware flashing and MQTT integration. If you’re looking to expand your setup without relying on proprietary systems, I highly recommend giving Tasmota a try!
Happy tinkering! 