# IoT Home Automation Node
Source: https://www.parthdoshi.me/projects/home-automation
Date: 2024-04-10
Author: Parth Doshi (https://www.parthdoshi.me/#person)

# Home Automation System Using IoT

A smart home control system built around the ESP8266 NodeMCU microcontroller, enabling remote control of home appliances through a cloud-connected smartphone interface.

## Hardware & Software Stack

- **Microcontroller**: ESP8266 NodeMCU
- **Cloud Platform**: Blynk IoT Cloud
- **Language**: C/C++ (Arduino Framework)
- **Communication**: WiFi (IEEE 802.11)

## Architecture

The ESP8266 connects to a local WiFi network and establishes a persistent connection with the Blynk Cloud server. The Blynk mobile app provides a drag-and-drop GUI for creating virtual buttons, sliders, and indicators that map directly to GPIO pins on the microcontroller.

- **Virtual Pins**: Abstract hardware pins into software-controlled endpoints.
- **OTA Updates**: Firmware can be updated remotely without physical access.
- **State Persistence**: Device states are stored on the cloud and restored after power cycles.

## Verified Outcome

Successfully controlled multiple relay-connected appliances (lights, fans) from a smartphone with sub-second response times over the local network.