Intro to Node-RED: Part 1 Fundamentals

Summary

This video introduces Node-RED, an open-source visual editor designed for building IoT and IIoT solutions. It walks viewers through the core features of Node-RED, explaining its modular flow-based programming approach and how users can connect and manipulate data from various devices, APIs, and databases. The tutorial covers creating basic flows, using inject and debug nodes, and modifying data with function nodes. It also shows how to install external nodes, like Microsoft SQL integration, to extend functionality. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this guide will help you get started with Node-RED to build powerful automation workflows.

Takeaways

• 😀 Node-RED is an open-source, visual editor for IoT and IIoT, enabling users to connect physical I/O, cloud systems, databases, and APIs.
• 😀 Node-RED runs on a variety of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and industrial appliances like the groov AR1.
• 😀 Node-RED provides a user-friendly interface with three main sections: Node palette (left), workspace (center), and output pane (right).
• 😀 The Node palette contains core nodes by default, and additional nodes can be installed to extend functionality.
• 😀 Flow-based programming in Node-RED involves using modular nodes, such as the 'Inject' node, which pushes data (like a timestamp) into the flow.
• 😀 The 'Debug' node outputs the contents of the flow's message (msg.payload) for inspection in the output pane.
• 😀 Users can wire nodes together by dragging a connection from one node's output to another node's input.
• 😀 Deploying changes activates the flow, and users can trigger the flow using buttons like the blue tab on the 'Inject' node.
• 😀 The Inject node can be customized to repeat actions (e.g., sending a timestamp every second) or send a constant message like 'hello world'.
• 😀 Processing nodes, like the 'Change' node or 'Function' node, can modify data in the flow, with the Function node allowing for custom JavaScript logic.
• 😀 Additional Node-RED packages (like MS SQL nodes) can be installed through the 'Manage Palette' menu to connect to external services or databases.

Q & A

What is Node-RED and what role does it play in IoT?

Node-RED is an open-source visual editor designed to facilitate rapid interconnection of physical I/O, cloud-based systems, databases, and APIs. It is an essential tool in the world of IoT (Internet of Things) and IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) due to its flexibility and ease of use for programmers at any skill level.

On which platforms can Node-RED be run?

Node-RED can be run on most modern computer systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux PCs. It can also run on lightweight computers like the Raspberry Pi and on industrially hardened appliances such as the groov AR1.

What are the three main sections of the Node-RED interface?

The three main sections of the Node-RED interface are the Node palette (on the left), the main workspace (in the center), and the output pane (on the right).

What are core nodes in Node-RED?

Core nodes are the default nodes included in a Node-RED installation. These nodes perform essential functions and are pre-installed, allowing users to begin building their flows immediately. Additional external nodes can be installed for extra functionality.

What does the Inject node do in Node-RED?

The Inject node is a core node in Node-RED that is used to start a flow by injecting a message into the flow. By default, it sends a timestamp, but it can be configured to inject different types of data or trigger actions at specified intervals.

How does the Debug node work in Node-RED?

The Debug node in Node-RED outputs the content of the `msg.payload` from a flow. It can be configured to display various types of data, such as timestamps or strings, in the output pane. It helps in visualizing and debugging the flow of data through the nodes.

How do you connect nodes in Node-RED?

To connect nodes in Node-RED, you click on the connection port of one node and drag a wire to the connection port of another node. This establishes a flow from one node to the next, facilitating the transfer of data between them.

What is the purpose of the Deploy button in Node-RED?

The Deploy button in Node-RED is used to save and activate changes made to the flow. After making changes, clicking the Deploy button ensures that the flow is live and executing as per the new configuration.

What is the Function node in Node-RED and how is it different from the Change node?

The Function node in Node-RED is a highly versatile node that allows users to write custom JavaScript code to process data. It offers more flexibility compared to the Change node, which is limited to basic value replacements and logic. The Function node can handle more complex logic and transformations.

How can external packages or nodes be added to Node-RED?

External packages or nodes can be added to Node-RED through the Manage Palette feature. By navigating to the 'Install' tab, users can search for and install additional node packages, expanding Node-RED's functionality with tools like database connectors, communication protocols, and more.