Node-Red Broadlink Automation Success Story

General
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I’m thrilled to share my recent success with integrating Node-RED and the Broadlink RM Mini 3 into my smart home setup! :tada:

After experimenting with various automation tools, I decided to dive into Node-RED for its flexibility and powerful flow-based programming. My goal was to create a seamless way to control my air conditioning without relying solely on the remote control. Here’s how I made it happen:

The Challenge
I wanted to create a user-friendly interface where I could select different AC modes (like Cool, Heat, or Fan) and set specific temperatures directly from my home assistant dashboard. The Broadlink RM Mini 3 was the perfect choice since it supports learning and sending IR codes, but I needed a way to map these codes to specific actions in Node-RED.

The Solution

  1. Learning the Codes: I started by using the Broadlink app to learn the IR codes for each AC mode and temperature adjustment. This was straightforward and only took a few minutes.
  2. Setting Up Node-RED Flows: I created a simple flow in Node-RED where selecting a mode or temperature triggers the corresponding Broadlink command. The flow checks the input, maps it to the correct IR code, and sends it to the Broadlink device.
  3. Integration with Home Assistant: To make it user-friendly, I added a custom card to my dashboard with dropdown menus for modes and temperatures. This way, controlling the AC feels just like using a smartphone app.

The Outcome
Not only did this project work flawlessly, but it also gave me a deeper understanding of how Node-RED can be used for home automation. The best part? I can now teach my family to use the system without handing them the physical remote!

Tips for Others

  • Start Small: Begin with a single device or function to get comfortable with Node-RED.
  • Use Debugging Tools: Node-RED’s debug mode is invaluable for troubleshooting flows.
  • Leverage Online Resources: The Node-RED community is incredibly supportive, and there are countless tutorials and forums available.

I’m excited to explore more automation projects and can’t wait to see how I can enhance my smart home even further! If anyone has questions or needs help with similar projects, feel free to reach out. Happy automating! :rocket: