The Cloud-Based Attendance System uses RFID tags scanned by readers at entry points. An ESP8266 microcontroller reads the data and sends it via Wi-Fi to Google Sheets for real-time storage and processing. This automates attendance tracking, eliminates manual entry, and provides immediate, accurate records accessible from anywhere using Google Sheet
How It Works: *RFID Scanning: When an individual passes through the RFID reader, the reader scans the RFID tag and sends the tag ID to the ESP8266 microcontroller.
*Data Transmission: The ESP8266 connects to the internet via Wi-Fi and sends the tag ID along with the timestamp to a Google Sheets API.
*Data Processing and Storage: Google Sheets receives the data and logs it in a pre-configured sheet. The sheet can be set up to record details such as the tag ID, timestamp, entry/exit status, and other relevant information.
*Real-Time Access and Reporting: Authorized personnel can access the Google Sheet from anywhere to view real-time attendance data, generate reports, and perform data analysis.
Benefits: Automation: Eliminates manual attendance tracking, reducing errors and saving time. Real-Time Data: Provides instant access to attendance records from anywhere with an internet connection. Cost-Effective: Utilizes affordable components (ESP8266 and Google Sheets) for a scalable solution. Scalable: Can be easily expanded to accommodate more users or additional entry/exit points. Integration: Google Sheets can be integrated with other Google services for enhanced functionality, such as sending automated notifications or generating custom reports.
Implementation Steps:
- Set Up Hardware Connect RFID Reader to ESP8266: Use GPIO pins on the ESP8266 to connect the RFID reader. Power Supply: Ensure the ESP8266 and RFID reader are properly powered.
- Configure Google Sheets Create a Google Sheet: Design a sheet with columns for RFID tag ID, timestamp, entry/exit status, and any other necessary fields. Google Apps Script: Write a script to handle incoming data. This script will receive HTTP POST requests and log the data in the sheet.
- Program ESP8266 Arduino IDE: Use the Arduino IDE to program the ESP8266. Install the necessary libraries (e.g., ESP8266WiFi, ESP8266HTTPClient). Code: Write code to read data from the RFID reader, connect to Wi-Fi, and send data to the Google Sheets API endpoint.
- Testing and Deployment Test the System: Ensure that when an RFID tag is scanned, the data appears correctly in Google Sheets. Deploy: Install the RFID reader and ESP8266 at the desired locations (e.g., entry/exit points).
Additional Considerations: Security: Ensure secure data transmission using HTTPS and consider adding authentication to your Google Apps Script. Scalability: You can add multiple RFID readers connected to different ESP8266 modules, all sending data to the same Google Sheet. Notifications and Alerts: Integrate with Google Apps Script to send email notifications or alerts based on specific conditions (e.g., unauthorized access). Data Analysis: Use Google Sheets' built-in tools for data analysis, creating attendance reports, and visualizing trends. Maintenance: Regularly check the system for hardware issues, update the software as needed, and ensure the Google Sheets API quota is not exceeded.
ESP8266 SETUP:
DEMO:
