GutterGrow — DIY Guide Part 5: Software Control

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Guidelines — Project Five

Software to Control Your GutterGrow

Contact: Simon Smith at Virtual Workgroups

Why MicroPython?

The software suggestions for controlling your GutterGrow are based on the following principles:

  1. MicroPython installed on suitable microprocessors
  2. Open source availability
  3. Strong support networks and development tools
  4. Ease of use — good range of development environments
  5. Server software running on the microprocessor itself
  6. Client software for feedback and alerts to many types of client device over Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth
  7. Safe low-power and/or solar-powered systems (12V system)

Supported Hardware

The proposed software has been shown to work on:

  • ESP32 series from Espressif (ESP-WROOM-32)
  • Raspberry Pi Pico

Because MicroPython is the foundation, it should be relatively straightforward to port to other microcontrollers or single-board computers capable of running MicroPython.

ESP32 microcontroller Raspberry Pi Pico

Step 1 — Download MicroPython Firmware (ESP32)

  1. Go to the MicroPython ESP32 tutorial page — instructions for downloading the MicroPython firmware for ESP32.
  2. Download the most recent MicroPython firmware .bin file to load onto your ESP32 device.

Note: The latest download for ESP32/WROOM is at the bottom of the MicroPython downloads page.

Step 2 — Flash MicroPython Using Thonny IDE

  1. Go to thonny.org and download the version of Thonny suitable for your OS
  2. Follow flashing instructions available at ElectroCredible
  3. Or the Random Nerd Tutorials getting-started guide

Note: These instructions are for Windows OS using an ESP-WROOM-32 board. Steps may vary slightly for other operating systems or ESP32 variants.

Need Help?

For software support, contact Simon Smith at Virtual Workgroups. For hardware and system design questions contact Mike Anstey.