I have Christmas lights that run on three AA batteries, and I was wondering how to turn them on and off with my smartphone Any ideas I was thinking about an ESP32, but I’m not sure how long the batteries would last
The only wireless remote control with very low power consumption is infrared You can create a simple infrared latching relay to control lights With a single ESP32 connected to the mains and wellpositioned, you can build a WiFi infrared transmitter
You can only use your ESP32 if you know how to wire it You can use it with ESPHome or another app I don’t know the output voltage of these batteries 2 AA batteries 3V, but if it’s different, you might need a buck converter
Get a power adapter for AA batteries, either USB or AC For the USB version, connect it to the Sonoff Micro For the AC adapter, connect it to the Sonoff S26R2 or another smart plug Make sure the power settings are the same everywhere Control is via the free eWeLink app AndroidiOS or the cloud version that supports webhooks and CAST panels for 10 per year If you don’t have access to a power outlet near these lights, consider purchasing a power bank or inverter English Spanish
Your ESP32 controls a relay that opens or closes the lighting circuit as needed Below, you’ll find sample code for Bluetooth or WiFi that your phone can connect to and control The total cost of the hardware, not including subscription fees, is approximately 20