Hello everyone!

It's time to publish a new project. A couple of weeks ago, @bilbolodz asked me to upgrade the MDMSNode "Lighting X2". The main change he needs is the replacement of the NRF24 radio module with esp8266 (ESP-07). This is done with the consideration of using a ready-made firmware called Tasmota and ready infrastructure(Wi-Fi routers). It has a number of benefits that can be found at this link.

Below is a complete list of changes:

1. Radio module NRF24 is replaced by ESP8266. The amount of memory is 1 MB, which allows to use OTA. Special for using with Tasmota firmware. Also, the module has a ceramic antenna, as well as a connector for connecting an external one.

2. The number of lighting control relay channels has been increased from 2 to 3 (output is ~230V).

3. Added two relays for low-voltage operation up to 1A (you can configure relay as normally closed or open by soldering special pads on pcb). It's made, as an example, for remotly managing the computer (you can this relays connect to the computer's power button).

4. Added ESP programming connector and button for entering the bootloader.

5. One of the problems of managing relays with esp8266 modules is that during updating the firmware, condition of the gpio pins can be either high or low. To avoid unpredictable behavior of the relays, I added the ability to disconnect the ESP pins from managing relays for the time of reboot or firmware updating (chip 74HCT245).

6. Temperature sensor DS18B20.

7. Depending on need, it is possible to use either 2 buttons (with an the external terminal block), or two user leds (configurable programmatically).

The project is currently awaiting the order of printed circuit boards. After soldering the first prototypes and testing them, I will report on the results ....

11/07/20 Added I2C pins to the external connector.

Now device soldered and fully tested. Works fine))