#Best way to add Bluetooth capability, not directly connected to the server?

8 messages · Page 1 of 1 (latest)

mint oriole
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I currently have 3 bluetooth thermometers in my home. They are Thermpro and there is a pre-existing integration for their model.

I have a Home Assistant Green which is on the top floor.

The 2 most important thermometers are 2 floors below. Obviously that won't reach with bluetooth connected to the server. Also I've read interference is bad with the bluetooth dongle directly connected to the server.

So I'm looking at ways to add a bluetooth proxy. The 3 main ways from this website https://esphome.io/projects/?type=bluetooth are Generic ESP32, M5Stack or an Olimex.

I am unfamiliar with these and I'm hoping for some guidance on which to pursue.

ESPHome
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Reading through the options, it looks like the M5Stack is enclosed and would be ready to go?

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Due to quick availability, I'm going to try this generic ESP32 https://www.amazon.com/ESP-WROOM-32-Development-Microcontroller-Integrated-Compatible/dp/B08D5ZD528/?_encoding=UTF8&tag=homeassista0e-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=f9087b654cd5735f0761ae5db99e1e1a&camp=1789&creative=9325&th=1

ESP-WROOM-32 ESP32 ESP-32S Development Board 2.4GHz Dual-Mode WiFi ...

ESP-WROOM-32 ESP32 ESP-32S Development Board 2.4GHz Dual-Mode WiFi + Bluetooth Dual Cores Microcontroller Processor Integrated with Antenna RF AMP Filter AP STA Compatible with Arduino IDE (3PCS)

steep fjord
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Those should work well.

fresh stirrup
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Highly recommend wired ESP32, or if WiFi at least something with an external antenna

mint oriole
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I received the cheap Amazon board today and got it to work. I'll see how it lasts. Lots of reviews report very poor wifi range and difficulty with power when not connected to a PC.

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Right now it's basically a naked board just hanging out plugged into a USB cable so definitely not the best aesthetically.