INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PROGRESSIVE e-ISSN :

RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT 2583-1062

AND SCIENCE (IJPREMS) Impact
[Link] (Int Peer Reviewed Journal) Factor :
Vol. 04, Issue 10, May 2025, pp: 1-5 5.725
editor@[Link]

SUMMARAIZE PRO: WEATHER STATION AT NIT CAMPUS (Design and

Implementation of a Smart Environmental Monitoring and Alert Display System)
Prof. Neha Khan1, Mayank Patle2, Ayush Meshram3, Pooja Dahake4
1
Assistant prof., CE, Nagpur Institute of Technology, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
2
UG Student, CE, Nagpur Institute of Technology, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
3
UG Student CE, Nagpur Institute of Technology, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
4
UG Student, CE, Nagpur Institute of Technology, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT
Environmental monitoring has become an essential component in the development of smart campuses, cities, and sustainable
infrastructure. This paper presents the design and implementation of a low-cost, IoT-based smart environmental monitoring
and alert display system deployed at the NIT campus. The primary goal is to collect and visualize real-time atmospheric
parameters such as temperature, humidity, and air quality (gas concentration), while ensuring remote access and alert
capabilities. The system utilizes the NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller, chosen for its built-in Wi Fi support, low power
consumption, and ease of integration with multiple sensors and cloud platforms. Sensors like the DHT11 and MQ-135 are
interfaced to measure environmental conditions, and data is updated at regular intervals. The information is not only displayed
locally using a P10 LED matrix but also uploaded to the ThingSpeak cloud platform for long-term storage, analysis, and remote
monitoring. The system supports Over-the-Air (OTA) updates and is capable of handling network issues through intelligent
error handling. This solution demonstrates how open-source hardware and software tools can be employed to create scalable,
accessible, and accurate weather monitoring solutions. The project serves as a proof-of-concept for future expansion, such as
integrating additional sensors, solar power, and AI-based predictive analytics. The design is ideal for academic, institutional,
and community-level deployments.
1. INTRODUCTION
With the rapid advancement of smart technologies and growing environmental concerns, the need for real-time environmental
monitoring has become more critical than ever. From tracking temperature and humidity levels to detecting air pollution and
gas concentrations, environmental data plays a vital role in public safety, climate studies, agriculture, and urban planning.
Traditional weather stations, while accurate, are often costly, stationary, and limited in their accessibility and scalability.
The emergence of the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized data acquisition and communication methods by enabling
small, low-power devices to collect, process, and transmit data over the internet. This advancement allows for the development
of compact, cost-effective, and wireless environmental monitoring systems suitable for educational institutions, public places,
and remote areas.
This research focuses on the design and implementation of a Smart Environmental Monitoring and Alert Display System
specifically tailored for the NIT campus. Using the NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller, sensors like DHT11 and MQ-135,
and a P10 LED display, the system continuously monitors atmospheric conditions and transmits data to the ThingSpeak cloud
platform. It offers not only local visual feedback via an LED display but also remote access to historical and live data through
web dashboards.
The project aims to create an open-source, scalable, and user-friendly environmental monitoring solution that can serve
educational, research, and operational needs. This paper outlines the system architecture, communication protocols, sensor
integration, data visualization methods, and potential for future expansion.
2. LITERATURE SURVEY
1 IoT in Environmental Monitoring The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology has transformed traditional
environmental data collection methods into real-time, wireless, and cloud-based systems. According to [Sharma et al., 2020],
IoT platforms offer flexibility and scalability, making them ideal for remote weather monitoring. These systems can gather
various parameters, including temperature, humidity, air quality, and noise levels, with high frequency and accuracy.
2 Use of NodeMCU ESP8266 Research by [Kumar et al., 2019] demonstrated the effectiveness of NodeMCU ESP8266 in
wireless data transmission due to its built-in Wi-Fi, compact size, and compatibility with Arduino IDE. Its popularity has
increased for smart applications due to its low power consumption and affordability.

@International Journal Of Progressive Research In Engineering Management And Science Page | 1

 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PROGRESSIVE e-ISSN :
RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT 2583-1062
AND SCIENCE (IJPREMS) Impact
[Link] (Int Peer Reviewed Journal) Factor :
Vol. 04, Issue 10, May 2025, pp: 1-5 5.725
editor@[Link]
3 Cloud Platforms for IoT Data ThingSpeak is a widely used cloud service for IoT-based monitoring. As stated by [Patel &
Singh, 2021], it provides an easy-to-use API for sending and visualizing data, and supports integration with MATLAB for
advanced analytics. Its open-source nature makes it suitable for academic and prototype development.
4 Environmental Sensing with DHT11 and MQ-135 The DHT11 sensor is widely used for temperature and humidity sensing
in academic projects due to its simple interface and adequate precision [Gupta & Roy, 2018]. The MQ 135 sensor, on the other
hand, is known for detecting gases such as ammonia, carbon monoxide, and benzene, making it ideal for monitoring air quality.
5 Display Technologies Using LED matrix displays in IoT projects enhances the accessibility of live data. Studies have shown
that real-time data visibility increases user engagement and public awareness [Sinha et al., 2020]. P10 LED matrix displays, in
particular, are cost-effective and have good visibility for outdoor installations.
6 Gaps in Existing Systems While many commercial weather stations exist, they are often expensive and lack the customization
needed for small-scale or educational deployments. This project addresses these gaps by combining affordability, modular
design, and real-time cloud connectivity.

3. COMPONENTS REQUIRED
1. Microcontroller:
NodeMCU ESP8266 – A Wi-Fi-enabled microcontroller that reads sensor data and sends it to the cloud
2. Sensors:
DHT11 Sensor – Measures temperature and humidity.
MQ-135 Gas Sensor – Detects air quality and various gas concentrations (e.g., ammonia, nitrogen oxides,
benzene, CO₂).
3. Display Module:
P10 LED Matrix Display – For showing real-time sensor readings like temperature, humidity, and gas levels.
4. Power Supply and Regulation:
5V Voltage Regulator (e.g., 7805) – To supply a stable 5V to NodeMCU and sensors.
Battery/Adapter – External power source (could also be solar-powered in future upgrades).
5. Cables and Connectors:
Jumper wires (male-to-male, male-to-female)
Breadboard or PCB (for prototyping and final soldered circuit)
6. Resistors and Pull-Up Resistors:
Typically used for sensor stabilization, especially with DHT11.

7. Capacitors (optional):
For voltage smoothing in power supply lines.
8. Enclosure Box:
For protecting electronic components from weather conditions.
9. Wi-Fi Network:
Required for the ESP8266 to send data to the cloud (ThingSpeak).
10. Computer and USB Cable:
For programming NodeMCU using Arduino IDE.

PROPOSED SYSTEM
The proposed system aims to implement a smart, real-time environmental monitoring station using IoT technologies,
specifically designed for the NIT campus. It combines low-cost, open-source hardware and software components to collect,
transmit, visualize, and display weather-related data with minimal human intervention.
This system includes:
1. Sensor Integration
The system uses sensors such as the DHT11 for temperature and humidity measurement, and the MQ-135 for air quality
detection. These sensors are connected to the NodeMCU ESP8266, which serves as the central controller.

@International Journal Of Progressive Research In Engineering Management And Science Page | 2

 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PROGRESSIVE e-ISSN :
RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT 2583-1062
AND SCIENCE (IJPREMS) Impact
[Link] (Int Peer Reviewed Journal) Factor :
Vol. 04, Issue 10, May 2025, pp: 1-5 5.725
editor@[Link]
2. Data Processing and Transmission
The NodeMCU reads the environmental parameters and processes them. It then sends the data to the ThingSpeak cloud
platform at regular intervals via Wi-Fi. The data is transmitted in JSON format using the HTTP protocol.
3. Display Module
A P10 LED matrix display is used to show the latest temperature, humidity, and gas concentration readings in real-time to
local observers on campus.
4. Cloud Integration for Remote Access
The ThingSpeak platform stores and visualizes the data in graph form. It also supports real-time monitoring, historical
analysis, and alert triggering based on predefined thresholds.
5. Power Management
The circuit is powered using a regulated 5V supply, ensuring stable operation. Future upgrades may include battery with
solar backup for outdoor deployment.
6. Over-the-Air Update and Configuration
The NodeMCU supports OTA firmware updates and remote configuration, allowing easy tuning of parameters like data
update frequency and threshold values for alerts.
7. Scalability and Expansion
Additional sensors (like rainfall, UV, and wind speed sensors) can be integrated into the same setup. The system is modular
and scalable for broader environmental monitoring across larger areas

METHODOLOGY
Stage-wise Methodology
Stage 1: Requirement Analysis and Planning
Identify the need for real-time weather monitoring.
Decide parameters to be measured (temperature, humidity, gas levels).
Choose microcontroller and sensors based on cost, accuracy, and ease of use.

Stage 2: Component Selection

Microcontroller: NodeMCU ESP8266 (Wi-Fi enabled)
Sensors: DHT11 (temperature & humidity), MQ-135 (air quality)
Display Unit: P10 LED Matrix for local real-time data display
Power Source: Regulated 5V power supply

Stage 3: Circuit Design

Design a schematic layout for sensor and display connections.
Integrate sensors with NodeMCU (DHT11 on D4, MQ-135 on A0).
Connect LED matrix to digital output pins with proper voltage considerations.
Test the circuit on a breadboard before final soldering.

Stage 4: Programming and Software Development

Write Arduino code for:
Reading sensor values
Connecting to Wi-Fi
Sending data to ThingSpeak cloud
Displaying data on LED matrix
Implement error handling and reconnection logic.
Enable OTA updates for remote code changes.
Stage 5: Cloud Platform Setup
Create a ThingSpeak account and channel.
Set fields for temperature, humidity, and gas concentration.
@International Journal Of Progressive Research In Engineering Management And Science Page | 3
 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PROGRESSIVE e-ISSN :
RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT 2583-1062
AND SCIENCE (IJPREMS) Impact
[Link] (Int Peer Reviewed Journal) Factor :
Vol. 04, Issue 10, May 2025, pp: 1-5 5.725
editor@[Link]
Configure charts, alert conditions, and data visualization.

Stage 6: Display Configuration

Use compatible library for P10 LED Matrix.
Display sensor readings in scrolling text format.
Program periodic updates every 10–15 seconds.

Stage 7: Testing and Calibration

Test sensor accuracy using reference tools.
Ensure stable data transmission over Wi-Fi.
Monitor ThingSpeak dashboard for irregularities or missing data.

Stage 8: Troubleshooting
Address Wi-Fi disconnection, power drops, and sensor misreadings.
Adjust resistor values or sensor positions as required.
Use serial debugging and watchdog timers.

Stage 9: Deployment
Assemble final system on PCB.
Place the setup in a waterproof box for outdoor use.
Fix at a strategic location on campus for maximum exposure.

Stage 10: Monitoring and Maintenance

Regularly check cloud data and LED display.
Update firmware if needed.
Plan for expansion (additional sensors, solar power, mobile app alerts).

4. CONCLUSION
The implemented system not only reduces manual efforts in environmental data collection but also ensures remote access,
historical data analysis, and potential alert mechanisms for abnormal environmental conditions. It reflects the effectiveness
of combining IoT technology with open-source platforms to address practical monitoring challenges within institutional
campuses.
This project serves as a prototype that can be extended to include additional environmental parameters such as rainfall,
wind speed, or particulate matter. Moreover, with enhancements like solar-powered operation and mobile app alerts, it
holds significant potential for broader smart city applications and disaster management systems.

5. FUTURE SCOPES
The developed smart environmental monitoring and alert display system presents several promising opportunities for future
enhancement and large-scale application. Some potential future scopes include:

1. Addition of More Sensors

Integrating sensors to monitor wind speed, rainfall, UV index, barometric pressure, and particulate matter
(PM2.5/PM10) for comprehensive environmental data.

2. Solar Power Integration

Using solar panels with battery backup to make the system self-sustaining and suitable for deployment in remote or
off-grid areas.

@International Journal Of Progressive Research In Engineering Management And Science Page | 4

 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PROGRESSIVE e-ISSN :
RESEARCH IN ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT 2583-1062
AND SCIENCE (IJPREMS) Impact
[Link] (Int Peer Reviewed Journal) Factor :
Vol. 04, Issue 10, May 2025, pp: 1-5 5.725
editor@[Link]
3. Mobile App Notification System
Developing an Android/iOS app to send real-time environmental alerts and historical trend reports to users.

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Forecasting

Applying AI and machine learning algorithms to predict future weather patterns and alert anomalies based on past
data.

5. Integration with Government or Smart City Systems

Connecting the station with municipal or institutional environmental databases for larger scale monitoring and
policymaking.

6. Multi-node Deployment
Deploying multiple interconnected stations across a large area (e.g., full campus or city) using mesh networking or
LoRaWAN for centralized data analytics.

7. Voice-Enabled and Smart Assistant Integration

Adding compatibility with Google Assistant or Alexa to provide voice-based updates and alerts.

8. Data-Driven Research
Using long-term collected data for academic and environmental research, climate change studies, and pollution source
tracking.

6. REFERENCES
1) A. Pandharipande, D. Caicedo, "Adaptive illumination rendering in LED lighting systems", IEEE Trans. Syst. Man
Cybern. Syst., vol. 43, no. 5, pp. 1052-1062, Sep. 2013.
2) H. Yang, T. C. W. Schenk, J. W. M. Bergmans, A. Pandharipande, "Enhanced illumination sensing using multiple
harmonics for LED lighting systems", IEEE Trans. Signal Process., vol. 58, no. 11, pp. 5508-5522, Nov. 2010.
3) C.-C. Chang, C.-C. Chen, U. Kurokawa, B. I. Choi, "Accurate sensing of LED spectra via lowcost spectrum sensors",
IEEE Sensors J., vol. 11, no. 11, pp. 2869-2877, Nov. 2011.
4) T.-J. Liang, C.-M. Huang, "Interleaving controlled three-leg electronic ballast for DualHIDLamps", IEEE Trans.
Power Electron., vol. 23, no. 3, pp. 1401-1404, May 2008.
5) J. Choi, H.-S. Han, K. Lee, "A current-sourced LED driver compatible with fluorescent lamp ballasts", IEEE Trans.
Power Electron., vol. 30, no. 8, pp. 4455-4466, Aug. 2015.
6) Gubbi, J., Buyya, R., Marusic, S., & Palaniswami, M. (2013). Internet of Things (IoT): A vision, architectural
elements, and future directions. Future Generation Computer Systems, 29(7), 1645–1660.
7) Sharma, R., & Patel, N. (2020). IoT based real-time weather monitoring system using NodeMCU. International Journal
of Scientific Research in Computer Science, Engineering and Information Technology, 6(3), 90–96.
8) Kumar, A., & Singh, S. (2022). Design and implementation of IoT-enabled smart weather monitoring system. Journal
of Engineering Research and Applications, 12(1), 45–52.

@International Journal Of Progressive Research In Engineering Management And Science Page | 5