What is Node-RED?
Node-RED is a free, open-source visual tool for building IoT applications and dashboards. Originally by IBM, it runs in your browser using drag-and-drop flows. Connects to PLCs, MQTT brokers, databases, and APIs. Creates web-based SCADA dashboards accessible from any device including phones.
Why Node-RED Over WinCC?
WinCC needs expensive licence and runs only on Windows. Node-RED is free, runs on any OS, creates web dashboards viewable from phones. Anyone on the network sees the dashboard — no special software needed.
Installation
Install Node.js first. Open CMD: npm install -g --unsafe-perm node-red. Start: type node-red. Open Chrome: localhost:1880. Install dashboard widgets: Manage Palette, search node-red-dashboard, install.
First Dashboard
Drag mqtt-in node, set topic to factory/sensors/temperature. Drag gauge widget, set range 0-100. Connect with wire. Deploy. Open localhost:1880/ui. Send test data via Mosquitto command line — watch gauge move in real-time.
Connect to PLC via Modbus
Install node-red-contrib-modbus package. Add Modbus Read node pointing to localhost:502 (OpenPLC). Connect to dashboard widgets. Now showing live PLC data on web dashboard — complete free SCADA system.
Mobile Access
Open dashboard URL using laptop IP address from phone on same WiFi. Free mobile SCADA — would cost lakhs with commercial software.
Can Node-RED replace commercial SCADA?
For prototyping and small applications yes. Large plants still prefer commercial SCADA for compliance.
Is it difficult?
No. Most students build first dashboard within an hour.
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