SMART NOTICE BOARD

AN INTERNET OF THINGS PROJECT REPORT

submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements
for the award of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING
by

VALLABHUNI TULASI NAGA KALYAN

(21761A04I7)

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

LAKIREDDY BALI REDDY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING (AUTONOMOUS)
L.B. REDDY Nagar, Mylavaram-521230,
Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to JNTU, Kakinada
Accredited by NAAC & NBA
Certified by ISO 21001:2018

(2024-25)
LAKIREDDY BALI REDDY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING (AUTONOMOUS)
L.B.Reddy Nagar, Mylavaram – 521 230.
Affiliated to JNTUK, Kakinada & Approved by AICTE, New Delhi
Accredited by NBA and NAAC, Certified by ISO 9001-2015

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS & COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that Internet of Things project report entitled “Smart Notice
Board” is duly presented and submitted by VALLABHUNI TULASI NAGA KALYAN
(21761A04I7) in partial fulfilment of requirement for the award of Bachelor of
Technology in Electronics and Communication Engineering in Lakireddy Bali
Reddy College of Engineering (A), Mylavaram, during the academic year 2024-
2025.

Internal Examiner External Examiner

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Satisfaction that accompanies that the successful completion of any task would be
incomplete without the mention of people whose ceaseless co- operation made it possible, whose
constant guidance and encouragement crown all efforts with success.

I humbly express my thanks to our Principal Dr. K. Appa Rao for extending his support
and for providing us with an environment to complete our internship successfully.
I would also like to thank our Vice Principal, Dr. B. Ramesh Reddy for
encouraging us which certainly helped to complete the internship in time.

I deeply indebted to our Head of Department Dr. G. Srinivasulu, who modeled us both
technically and morally for achieving greater success in life.

I extremely thankful to my guides Dr. P. Venkata Rao, Mr. K. Sasi Bhushan, Mr. N.
Dharmachari, Ms. G. Asha, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, for his
excellence guidance, timely and valuable suggestions and encouragement that enabled the success
of the project.

I would like to thank all the teaching and non-teaching staff members of Electronics and
communication Engineering, who have extended their full co- operation during the course of my
internship.

I would like to express my heart full thanks to our parents for their unflinching support
and constant encouragement throughout the period of my internship work for making it a
successful one.

I thank all my friends who helped me sharing knowledge and by providing material to
complete the internship in time.

VALLABHUNI TULASI NAGA KALYAN

(21761A04I7)
 CONTENTS
Page No
List of Figures i
Abstract ii
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION TO IOT 1-6
1.1 Internet of Things (IOT) 1
1.2 Technologies that made IOT possible 2
1.3 Applications of Internet of Things 3-5
1.4 Advantages of IOT 5-6

Chapter 2 TEECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 7-8

2.1 Hardware Components Required 7
2.11 NodeMCU ESP8266 Board 7-8
2.12 Dot Matrix Display (4-in-1) 8

Chapter 3 METHODOLOGY AND DESIGN FRAMEWORK 9-14

3.1 Methodology 9
3.2 Hardware Assembly 10-11
3.3 Codes 12-14

3.3.1 NodeMCU code. 12-14

3.4 My contribution to the project 14

Chapter 4 CONCLUSION AND FUTURE SCOPE 15-17
4.1 Conclusion 15
4.2 Future Scope 16

REFERENCES 17

i
 LIST OF FIGURES
Fig No Figure name Page No

1.1 Representing the flow chart of IOT. 1

1.2 Representing the IOT. 2

1.3 Representing the applications of IOT. 5

2.1 Representing the NodeMCU ESP8266 Board. 7

2.2 Representing Pin-out of NodeMCU ESP8266 Board 8

2.3 Representing 4 in 1 Dot Matrix Display. 8

3.1 Block Diagram of Smart Notice Board System. 9

3.2 Circuit Diagram of Smart Notice Board System. 9

3.3 Verifying the code 10

3.4 Uploading the code 10

3.5 Displaying text on DOT Matrix Display 11

ii
 ABSTRACT

This project focuses on the development of a Smart Notice Board that leverages web-based technology for real-
time message communication. The system is designed to enable users to log in using their email and password,
allowing them to compose and send messages that will be displayed on a connected Dot Matrix LED Display.
The NodeMCU ESP8266 serves as the central microcontroller, facilitating seamless communication between
the user interface and the display. Upon logging in, users can type their messages, which are transmitted
wirelessly via Wi-Fi and displayed immediately on the notice board, ensuring timely updates for viewers.
The design emphasizes user-friendly interaction and efficient data management, allowing multiple
users to send messages without complications. The low power consumption of the NodeMCU ensures
energy-efficient operation, making the system suitable for continuous use. Additionally, the Smart
Notice Board can be easily customized to display various types of information, such as
announcements, alerts, and schedules, catering to diverse needs across different settings. Overall, this
innovative solution enhances information dissemination in various environments, such as educational
institutions, workplaces, and public spaces, making it an efficient tool for communication and
engagement.

iii
 CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION TO IOT
1.1 Internet of Things (IOT)

IoT stands for Internet of Things. It refers to the interconnectedness of physical devices, such
as appliances and vehicles, that are embedded with software, sensors, and connectivity which
enables these objects to connect and exchange data. This technology allows for the collection
and sharing of data from a vast network of devices, creating opportunities for more efficient
and automated systems.

Internet of Things (IoT) is the networking of physical objects that contain electronicsembedded
within their architecture in order to communicate and sense interactions amongst each other or
with respect to the external environment. In the upcoming years,IoT-based technology will offer
advanced levels of services and practically change the way people lead their daily lives.
Advancements in medicine, power, gene therapies, agriculture, smart cities, and smart homes
are just a very few of the categorical examples where IoT is strongly established.
IoT is network of interconnected computing devices which are embedded in everydayobjects,
enabling them to send and receive data.

Fig-1.1 Representing the flow chart of IOT.

Page 1 of 26
1.2 Technologies that made IOT possible
While the idea of IoT has been in existence for a long time, a collection of recent advances in
a number of different technologies has made it practical.

Access to low-cost, low-power sensor technology. Affordable and reliable sensors aremaking
IoT technology possible for more manufacturers.

Connectivity. A host of network protocols for the internet has made it easy to connectsensors to
the cloud and to other “things” for efficient data transfer.

Cloud computing platforms. The increase in the availability of cloud platforms enablesboth
businesses and consumers to access the infrastructure they need to scale up without actually
having to manage it all.

Machine learning and analytics. With advances in machine learning and analytics, along with
access to varied and vast amounts of data stored in the cloud, businesses can gather insights
faster and more easily. The emergence of these allied technologies continues to push the
boundaries of IoT and the data produced by IoT also feeds thesetechnologies.

Conversational artificial intelligence (AI). Advances in neural networks have broughtnatural-

language processing (NLP) to IoT devices (such as digital personal assistantsAlexa, Cortana, and
Siri) and made them appealing, affordable, and viable for home use.

Fig-1.2 Representing the IOT.

Page 2 of 26
1.3 Applications of Internet of Things
The Internet of Things (IoT) has a wide range of applications across various industriesand
sectors. IoT technology enables physical objects to connect to the internet and communicate
with each other, leading to improved efficiency, convenience, and automation. Here are some
common applications of IoT:

Smart Homes:

Smart Lighting: IoT-enabled light bulbs can be controlled remotely, adjustingbrightness and
color.

Home Security: Cameras, door locks, and alarm systems can be connected tosmartphones for
remote monitoring and control.

Healthcare:

Remote Patient Monitoring: IoT devices collect and transmit patient data to healthcareproviders,
enabling remote monitoring of patients with chronic illnesses.

Medical Equipment Tracking: Hospitals use IoT to track the location and condition ofmedical
equipment, ensuring efficient use and maintenance.

Smart Cities:

Traffic Management: IoT sensors monitor traffic flow, optimize traffic signals, andprovide real-
time updates to commuters.

Waste Management: Smart bins alert waste management services when they are full,optimizing
collection routes.

Environmental Monitoring: Sensors measure air and water quality, helping citiesrespond to
environmental issues promptly.

Industrial IoT (IIoT):

Predictive Maintenance: IoT devices monitor industrial equipment to predictmaintenance

needs, reducing downtime and costs.

Supply Chain Optimization: Sensors track the movement and condition of goods intransit,
enhancing supply chain visibility.

Smart Manufacturing: IoT enables automation, predictive analytics, and real-timemonitoring

Page 3 of 26
in manufacturing processes.

Agriculture:

Precision Farming: IoT sensors collect data on soil moisture, temperature, and crophealth,
allowing farmers to optimize irrigation and fertilizer use.

Livestock Monitoring: Wearable IoT devices monitor the health and behavior oflivestock,
ensuring their well-being.

Retail:

Inventory Management: IoT devices track inventory levels, automate restockingprocesses, and
reduce out-of-stock situations.

Customer Experience: Beacons and smart shelves enhance customer experiences byproviding
personalized offers and product information.

Energy Management:

Smart Grids: IoT enables efficient energy distribution, balances supply and demand, and
integrates renewable energy sources into the grid.

Home Energy Management: Smart meters and devices help homeowners monitor andoptimize
their energy consumption.

Transportation:

Fleet Management: IoT devices track vehicle location, monitor driver behavior, andoptimize
routes for commercial fleets.

Connected Cars: IoT technology in vehicles enables features like GPS navigation,entertainment
systems, and remote diagnostics.

Education:

Smart Classrooms: IoT devices facilitate interactive learning, allowing teachers andstudents to
engage with educational content in innovative ways.

Campus Safety: IoT sensors enhance security measures on campus, such as smartaccess control
systems and emergency response systems.

Page 4 of 26
Wearable Devices:

Fitness Trackers: IoT-enabled wearables monitor physical activity, heart rate, and sleeppatterns,
promoting healthier lifestyles.

Healthcare Wearables: Devices like smart insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors
assist individuals with chronic health conditions. IoT continues to evolve, leading to
innovative applications across diverse fields, enhancing efficiency, convenience, and quality
of life.

Fig-1.3 Representing the applications of IOT.

1.4 Advantages of IOT

Data Collection and Analysis:

Real-time Data: IoT devices provide real-time data, enabling instant monitoring andanalysis
of various parameters.

Big Data Analytics: Large volumes of data collected from IoT devices can be analyzedto gain
insights, make predictions, and improve decision-making processes.

Improved Efficiency and Productivity:

Automation: IoT enables automation of tasks, reducing the need for humanintervention and
minimizing errors. Process Optimization: Businesses can optimize their processes by analyzing
IoT data,leading toincreased efficiency and reduced costs.
5|Page
Enhanced User Experience:

Personalization: IoT devices can be tailored to individual preferences, providing

personalized experiences for users.

Convenience: Smart devices offer convenience by automating routine tasks and allowing
remote control via smartphones or other devices.

Cost Savings:

Resource Optimization: IoT helps optimize resource usage, leading to reduced wasteand lower
operational costs.

Predictive Maintenance: IoT-enabled predictive maintenance reduces downtime and

maintenance costs by addressing issues before they cause failures.

Safety and Security:

Surveillance and Monitoring: IoT-enabled security cameras and sensors enhancesurveillance

capabilities, improving overall safety.

Emergency Response: IoT devices can automatically trigger alerts and responsesduring
emergencies, enhancing safety measures.

6|Page
 CHAPTER-2

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

2.1 Hardware Components Required

2.1.1 NodeMCU ESP8266 board

Fig 2.1 Representing NodeMCU ESP8266 Board.

NodeMCU is an open-source IoT platform based on the ESP8266 WiFi module, combining a
microcontroller with WiFi capabilities, making it ideal for projects that need remote control or
internet data transmission. It is popular for its affordability, ease of integration, and compatibility
with Lua or Arduino IDE for programming. Key features include the ESP8266 SoC for 2.4 GHz
WiFi connectivity, multiple GPIO pins for interfacing with sensors and peripherals, and a built-
in voltage regulator that supports flexible power options, such as USB or 5V input.
Pinout Description:
• Digital Pins (D0-D8): Used for general-purpose I/O functions like turning LEDs on or
off, reading sensors, etc.
• Analog Pin (A0): Measures analog values from 0 to 1V.
• TX/RX Pins: These pins are used for serial communication (UART) with other devices.
• GND (Ground): The common ground pin.
• 3.3V/5V Pins: These provide regulated voltage to external components like sensors
• RST (Reset Pin): Used to reset the microcontroller.

7|Page
 Fig 2.2 Representing Pin-out of NodeMCU ESP8266 Board.
2.1.2 Dot Matrix Display (4-in-1)

Fig 2.3 Representing 4-in-1 Dot Matrix Display.

The 4-in-1 Dot Matrix Display consists of four 8x8 LED modules in a 32×8 configuration,
allowing text, numbers, and simple graphics. Controlled by the MAX7219 IC, it connects to
microcontrollers like NodeMCU and Arduino via SPI with minimal wiring. Common uses
include digital notice boards, clocks, and weather displays. The display multiplexes LEDs for
scrolling text and dynamic information presentation.
Pin Configuration:
• VCC: Power supply pin (usually 5V).
• GND: Ground pin.
• DIN (Data In): Serial data input for communication with the microcontroller.
• CS (Chip Select/Load): Controls the data latching for the MAX7219 IC.
• CLK (Clock): Provides the clock signal for synchronizing data transmission between the
microcontroller and the display.
• DOUT (Data Out): Used to chain additional modules together by passing the data to the
next display.

8|Page
 CHAPTER-3

METHODOLOGY AND DESIGN FRAMEWORK

3.4 Methodology

The Smart Notice Board project utilizes a structured methodology involving three key steps:
1. Requirement Analysis: Identify the display size and message delivery needs to select the
NodeMCU ESP8266 and MAX7219 Dot Matrix Display.
2. Component Integration: Ensure reliable data transfer through careful wiring and SPI
configuration, understanding the GPIO pin layout.
3. Wireless Communication: Use Wi-Fi for real-time message updates, with the ESP8266
managing network connectivity and data transmission to the display.

Fig 3.1 Block Diagram of the Smart Notice Board System.

Fig 3.2 Circuit Diagram of the Smart Notice Board System

9|Page
 4.4 Hardware Assembly
The hardware setup involves connecting the NodeMCU ESP8266 to the MAX7219 Dot Matrix
Display using jumper wires, ensuring all pin connections are correct as per the SPI interface.
The NodeMCU is connected to a stable power source, either from a 5V USB adapter or a
battery pack.
Pin Connections:
• CS (D4): Connect to CS or LOAD on MAX7219.
• CLK (D5): Connect to CLK or SCK on MAX7219.
• DIN (D7): Connect to DIN or MOSI on MAX7219.
• VCC: Connect to 5V or 3.3V.
• GND: Connect to GND on MAX7219.
Once the physical connections are verified, the NodeMCU is programmed to send messages
over Wi-Fi, which are displayed on the MAX7219. The ESP8266 retrieves data or commands
through Wi-Fi, and the data is then processed and displayed.

Fig 3.3 Verifying the code.

Fig 3.4 Uploading code picture

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The hardware setup for the Smart Notice Board project involves connecting power supplies to
each NodeMCU ESP8266 to ensure stable operation. The NodeMCU’s built-in Wi-Fi
simplifies the configuration by removing the need for additional communication modules. The
MAX7219 Dot Matrix LED Display is connected to the NodeMCU via the SPI interface,
enabling real-time message updates.

Connections are established according to pinout diagrams, specifically linking the CS, CLK,
and DIN pins on the MAX7219 to their corresponding pins on the NodeMCU. The NodeMCU
acts as the central unit, receiving data wirelessly over Wi-Fi and transmitting it to the display
for visualization.

Fig 3.4 Displaying text on Dot matrix Display Pictures .

The NodeMCU establishes wireless communication via Wi-Fi, allowing it to receive messages
from a remote source and transmit them to the Dot Matrix Display for real-time updates. Its low
power consumption supports energy-efficient, continuous operation without frequent
recharging.

The MAX7219 Dot Matrix Display is positioned for clear visibility, making it suitable for
displaying important notifications and alerts. Acting as the central unit, the NodeMCU
aggregates and processes data, ensuring reliable communication between itself and the display
for timely updates of the information displayed.

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3.3 Codes

3.3.1 NodeMCU Code:

#include <ESP8266HTTPClient.h>
#include <ESP8266WiFi.h>
#include <SPI.h>
#include <Adafruit_GFX.h>
#include <Max72xxPanel.h>

int CSP = D4;

int horizontaDisplays = 4;
int verticalDisplays = 1;
int wifi = D0; // WiFi Onboard LED
const char* ssid = "Kalyan";
const char* password = "kalyan@2003";
String api = "9d6400dc6650ecc91d40a2809d64e948094800be";
String value;

Max72xxPanel disp = Max72xxPanel(CSP, horizontaDisplays,

verticalDisplays);
int duration = 70;
int spacer = 1;
int width = 5 + spacer;

void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600);
pinMode(wifi, OUTPUT);
digitalWrite(wifi, HIGH); // OFF
disp.setIntensity(0);
disp.setRotation(0, 1);
disp.setRotation(1, 1);
disp.setRotation(2, 1);
disp.setRotation(3, 1);
disp.fillScreen(LOW);

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 disp.write();

WiFi.begin(ssid, password);
while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
Serial.println("Connecting to WiFi");
digitalWrite(wifi, LOW); // ON
delay(500);
digitalWrite(wifi, HIGH); // OFF
delay(500);
}
digitalWrite(wifi, LOW); // Permanent WiFi LED ON
delay(1000);
}

void loop() {
disp.setIntensity(10);
disp.fillScreen(LOW);

WiFiClient client; // Create a WiFiClient object

HTTPClient http; // Create an HTTPClient object

http.begin(client, "http://www.techvegan.in/iot-notice-board-
api/script.php?api=" + api); // Pass the client
int httpCode = http.GET();

if (httpCode > 0) {
value = http.getString();
Serial.println(value);
scroll(value);
delay(1000);
} else {
scroll("SORRY! NO INTERNET");
delay(1000);
}

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 http.end(); // End the HTTP connection
}

void scroll(String message) {

for (int i = 0; i < width * message.length() + disp.width() - spacer; i++) {
int charac = i / width;
int x = (disp.width() - 1) - i % width;
int y = (disp.height() - 8) / 2;

while (x + width - spacer >= 0 && charac >= 0) {

if (charac < message.length()) {
disp.drawChar(x, y, message[charac], HIGH, LOW, 1);
}
charac--;
x -= width;
}
disp.write();
delay(duration / 2);
}
}

3.4 My contribution to the project

1. Initial Setup and Configuration: I handled the setup of the NodeMCU ESP8266 and ensured
that the correct communication protocols were implemented for SPI between the ESP8266 and
the MAX7219 Display.
2. API Integration: My primary responsibility was to ensure that the API data was fetched
correctly and displayed on the board. I worked on the development of the code to handle API
requests and response parsing.
3. Network Configuration: I played a significant role in ensuring the Wi-Fi network was
properly set up and the microcontroller could communicate efficiently over the internet. This
required configuring the IP and security settings.
4. Documentation and Testing: I was responsible for documenting the development process and
ensuring that the project was thoroughly tested for bugs, performance issues, and functionality.

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 CHAPTER-4
CONCLUSION AND FUTURE SCOPE
4.1 Conclusion:

In conclusion, the NodeMCU ESP8266-based Smart Notice Board with Dot Matrix
Display provides an efficient, scalable, and cost-effective solution for displaying real-time
messages in various environments. By leveraging the power of the ESP8266 Wi-Fi module,
the system is able to fetch and display information from an external API in real-time, providing
a dynamic and flexible interface for public and private communication. The integration of the
MAX7219 Dot Matrix Display offers a clear and easily readable output, suitable for different
kinds of messages, from educational notices to announcements in corporate and academic
settings.

The system's modular design allows easy adaptation to various display sizes and
configurations. The Wi-Fi connectivity enables seamless remote updates to the display,
eliminating the need for physical maintenance and reducing downtime. Furthermore, the
project provides a practical application of Internet of Things (IoT) concepts, making it a
valuable learning tool for those interested in IoT and network-based projects.

Looking ahead, there are several avenues for enhancing the functionality and capabilities of
the Smart Notice Board. These include improving the system's robustness, optimizing for
energy efficiency, and integrating more advanced features for a more intelligent and
responsive notice display system.

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 4.2 Future Scope:

1. Enhanced User Interface (UI): Developing a more user-friendly interface for managing
and customizing the messages could improve the overall usability of the system. This
could include the development of a dedicated mobile or web app for easy message
management and display control.
2. Offline Functionality: Implementing an offline mode where the last fetched message is
displayed when the board loses internet connectivity. This can ensure continued operation
during temporary network failures.
3. Data Security: Incorporating stronger security measures such as HTTPS requests, user
authentication, and encryption techniques will ensure the safe transmission of data,
preventing unauthorized access and tampering.
4. Integration with Cloud Platforms: Expanding the capabilities of the system by
integrating it with cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure. This
can enable features such as remote monitoring, real-time updates, and analytics of the
messages displayed.
5. Automatic Data Fetching: Enhancing the system to automatically fetch and display
specific types of content, such as weather updates, news, or notifications from online
sources, through pre-set schedules or triggers.
6. Energy Efficiency: Incorporating power-saving modes and exploring alternative energy
sources like solar power could make the notice board more sustainable and extend its
operational lifespan in areas with limited power availability.
7. Customizable Display Effects: Implementing additional text effects such as text
highlighting, color options, or image display could add more customization to the type of
information shown, making the system more versatile for different applications.
8. Expandability to Multiple Boards: The system could be scaled up to control multiple
notice boards from a single API or platform, allowing centralized management of
information across various locations, such as campuses or business premises.

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 REFERENCES

4.2.1 R. Kumar, S. Gupta, "Design and Implementation of a Wi-Fi-enabled Smart Notice

Board with NodeMCU and Dot Matrix Display," International Journal of Advanced
Research in Engineering and Technology, Volume 12, Issue 5, May 2023.

4.2.2 P. Sharma, M. S. Yadav, "IoT-based Smart Display Systems using ESP8266 for
Educational Institutions," 2022 International Conference on Embedded Systems and
Smart Technologies (ICEST), Bengaluru, 2022.

4.2.3 K. B. Reddy, S. J. Pandya, "Development of an Automated Public Notice Board using

NodeMCU and Wi-Fi," 2021 10th International Conference on Internet of Things:
Systems, Management and Security (IOTSMS), Pune, 2021.

4.2.4 A. D. Das, "IoT-enabled Notice Board with Real-time Data Fetching and Display,"
Journal of Electrical Engineering and Technology, Volume 18, Issue 3, March 2024.

4.2.5 R. M. Thomas, N. C. Raza, "A Smart Notice Board for Schools Using NodeMCU and
Dot Matrix Display," International Journal of Computer Applications, Volume 9,
Issue 4, April 2023.

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