Node-RED: Features, Installation, and Usage

Introduction to Node-RED

Node-RED is a powerful, flow-based development tool for visual programming, initially developed by IBM to facilitate the wiring together of hardware devices, APIs, and online services. As a key component of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, it simplifies complex application development with a user-friendly, browser-based flow editor.

Node-RED operates on Node.js, allowing it to leverage its event-driven, non-blocking architecture. This makes it highly efficient, capable of running on low-power devices such as the Raspberry Pi, as well as in cloud-based environments. The platform also enables developers to share and reuse flows, stored in JSON format, across multiple projects.

Key Features of Node-RED

1. Browser-Based Flow Editing

Node-RED provides an intuitive drag-and-drop flow editor accessible via a web browser. This enables users to create and configure JavaScript functions, link nodes, and deploy flows effortlessly. Key highlights include:

• Extensive Node Palette: A vast collection of built-in nodes simplifies application development.
• Built-in JavaScript Function Editor: Enables function customization directly within the browser.
• Single-Click Deployment: Deploy and execute flows with minimal effort.
• Flow Library: Save and reuse templates, functions, and flows.

2. Built on Node.js

• Node-RED runs on Node.js, making it lightweight and efficient.
• Fully supports asynchronous event-driven programming.
• Compatible with over 225,000+ npm packages, allowing easy expansion of its functionality.

3. Extensive IoT and Cloud Integration

Node-RED seamlessly integrates with a range of IoT platforms, cloud services, and APIs, including:

• IBM Cloud, AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud
• MQTT, WebSockets, REST APIs
• Raspberry Pi, Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32, BeagleBone Black

4. Easy Data Handling with JSON Storage

Flows in Node-RED are stored as JSON, making them easy to import, export, and share. The platform’s built-in flow library helps developers save and distribute their best solutions.

5. Strong Community and Ecosystem

• Active developer forums, GitHub repositories, Slack teams, and Stack Overflow discussions.
• Open-source contributions continuously enhance the platform.
• Regular updates improve performance, security, and capabilities.

Installing Node-RED on Ubuntu

Prerequisites

Before installing Node-RED, you need to install Node.js (preferably LTS versions 14.x or higher).

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Update the System

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

2. Install Node.js and npm

curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_14.x | sudo -E bash -
sudo apt install -y nodejs

3. Verify Node.js Installation

node -v
npm -v

4. Install Node-RED Globally

sudo npm install -g --unsafe-perm node-red

5. Run Node-RED

node-red

6. Access the Node-RED Web Interface

Open a web browser and go to:

http://localhost:1880

Running Node-RED on Docker

For those who prefer containerization, Node-RED can run inside a Docker container:

docker run -it -p 1880:1880 --name mynodered nodered/node-red

This method ensures isolation and simplifies deployment across multiple environments.

Using Node-RED: Creating a Basic Flow

1. Adding Nodes

• Open the Node-RED editor in a browser.
• Drag an Inject node (for manual trigger).
• Drag a Debug node (to display output messages).

2. Connecting Nodes

• Link the Inject node to the Debug node.
• Click Deploy.

3. Running the Flow

• Click the Inject button.
• Check the Debug pane for output messages.

This basic flow demonstrates how easy it is to handle data using Node-RED.

Supported Platforms

Node-RED can run on various environments:

1. Run Locally

• Ubuntu, Windows, macOS
• Docker container

2. On IoT Devices

• Raspberry Pi (pre-installed in Raspberry Pi OS)
• Arduino, ESP8266, ESP32 (via MQTT or HTTP requests)
• BeagleBone Black, Android

3. In the Cloud

• IBM Cloud, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud
• SenseTecnic FRED (cloud-hosted Node-RED)

Advanced Features

1. MQTT Integration

Node-RED has built-in support for MQTT messaging, essential for IoT applications. Since version 0.14, it supports TLS-encrypted MQTT connections.

2. Database Connectivity

Node-RED can interact with various databases:

• MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL
• SQLite for lightweight applications

3. REST API Integration

• Use HTTP nodes to make REST API calls.
• Retrieve and process data from external sources.

4. Custom JavaScript Functions

• Use Function nodes to write custom JavaScript logic within flows.
• Extend capabilities by integrating third-party JavaScript libraries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Port Conflicts

If port 1880 is already in use, change it by running:

node-red -p 1881

2. Permission Errors

If Node-RED fails to install due to permission issues, run:

sudo npm install -g --unsafe-perm node-red

3. Flows Not Deploying

• Check the debug panel for error messages.
• Ensure all nodes are properly configured.

Community and Support

The Node-RED community provides extensive support through:

• Official Forum: https://discourse.nodered.org
• GitHub: https://github.com/node-red
• Slack: Join the Node-RED workspace for discussions.
• Stack Overflow: Browse existing questions or post your queries.

Conclusion

Node-RED is a versatile, open-source visual programming tool ideal for IoT, automation, and API integrations. With its browser-based editor, Node.js foundation, and extensive community support, it remains a go-to platform for developers. Whether running on a Raspberry Pi, ESP8266, or in the cloud, Node-RED simplifies IoT application development and deployment.

Start building your first Node-RED flow today and explore its limitless possibilities! 🚀

Read this : Best IoT Visual Programming Tools