🛠 Control Home Assistant with Modulinos
Objectives
This tutorial aims to configure the Arduino UNO Q SBC Controller Bundle as a dedicated physical interface for Home Assistant. You will learn to map the included Modulinos (buttons, joystick, rotary) to replace traditional mouse/keyboard controls, enabling quick access to smart home scenes. The goal is to create a robust tactile control station, ideal for wall mounting or desk use, while leveraging the card's Linux power.
Required Materials
- Arduino UNO Q 4GB Board (included in bundle)
- Modulino Nodes: Buttons, Joystick, Rotary Knob, Pixels
- 8-in-1 USB-C Hub (recommended for HDMI and Ethernet)
- Official 45W USB-C Power Supply
- 24-pin USB-C Cable
- Computer for configuration via Arduino App Lab
- HDMI Screen (optional but recommended for initial setup)
Steps
- Physical Assembly: Connect the Modulino nodes to the UNO Q board according to the kit's schematic. Mount the assembly in the 3D-printable case if available, or place it on a stable surface.
- Network Connection: Insert the Ethernet cable into the 8-in-1 USB-C hub, then connect the hub to the UNO Q card. Plug in the 45W power supply. Power on the board.
- Software Configuration: Open Arduino App Lab on your computer. Connect to the board via the local network. In the 'Interface' tab, select the connected Modulinos.
- Input Mapping: Assign each Modulino button to a specific Home Assistant action (e.g., 'Turn On Living Room', 'Night Mode'). Use the joystick to navigate the card's graphical interface menus.
- Pixel Testing: Configure the Modulino pixels to light up green when a command is successfully sent, providing immediate visual feedback.
- Save Configuration: Save the configuration in App Lab so it loads automatically on board startup.
Verification
Ensure the board boots correctly and displays the Linux interface. Press a Modulino button: the associated scene in Home Assistant should activate immediately. Verify that the pixels react to commands. If connection fails, check the board's IP address and Ethernet connectivity.
Going Further
Explore the Modulino ecosystem's modularity by replacing the joystick with a touch screen for finer controls. Integrate additional sensors to display temperature or humidity directly on the pixels. You can also script complex macros via the card's Linux terminal to automate complete home automation sequences beyond simple on/off actions.