I have solid Python experience, lots of Linux system experience, and lots of high-level system integration experience. But little electronics knowledge, only enough to be dangerous. Now, I want to go low and teach myself uPy and get my feet wet in the general field.
Due to the virus, I have the privilege of spending the next few months working remotely (from my day job) and want to take the opportunity to work on the following projects to monitor and control my little travel trailer (these are all completely separate and will require separate boards):
- Communicate with my fridge via its serial interface to read data and send it commands;
- Control my roof fan, probably by simulating its optional remote keypad using relays or other methods;
- Record multiple voltage and temperature readings in my electrical system;
My power source is a solar-powered 12v system, meaning it might see voltages from 10 through 16v. If my boards can not handle that, then I will need to find a good external power supply for them. I'm hoping some boards have that built-in, though.
Note: I need to place a large order(s) now for everything I could conceivably need, as I will not be able to easily procure components later. So I am looking for your collective advice as to where to start.
Cost is not a huge issue, since I won't be shipping hundreds of these things. I don't mind spending more to get reliability and simplicity.
Main Question:
Which development board will give me the most flexibility to do whatever I want along with good support so I'm not tripping over too many issues outside of my current knowledge? My general desires are smaller with WiFi.
Secondary Question:
Should I be looking beyond WiFi for this application? My Linux host (A balena Fin supporting a Pi CM) also has BLE, but I know nothing about it. I could also get a LoRaWAN card for the host and start working with that. (This may enable some future tinkering to collect data from other sources in a cottage…)
Please send me any and all thoughts or recommendations, I would really appreciate help starting this journey on the right foot.
Thanks to all that have made this incredible project a reality!
A.