The Theengs Bridge is a new WiFi & Ethernet BLE to MQTT gateway running the open-source OpenMQTTGateway firmware, compatible with a range of sensors, and supporting Home Assistant, OpenHAB, Jeedom, NodeRed, and other MQTT-compatible systems.
It follows the Theengs Plug smart socket introduced at the beginning of the board with many of the same features (minus the socket part…) but adds Ethernet and an external antenna for improved range, and improves modularity with a Grove I2C connector and mounting holes for a LoRa-E5-based Grove module and a prototyping area where you can solder your own circuitry with DIP components.
Theengs Bridge specifications:
- Wireless module
- MCU – ESP32 microcontroller with WiFi and Bluetooth
- Storage – 8MB flash
- PCB antenna and u.FL antenna connector
- Connectivity
- 10/100M Ethernet RJ45 port
- 2.4 GHz WiFi 4 and Bluetooth LE with 6dBi 50Ohm external antenna
- Optional LoRa module via Grove I2C connector
- MQTT protocol
- Expansion – Prototyping area with 3.3V and GND “rails”; 15 x 15 through hole matrix
- Misc – 4x RGB LEDs, On/Off power switch, reset button
- Power Supply – 5V via USB-C port
- Dimensions – 160 x 120 x 30 mm without antenna
The Theengs Bridge supports both local or cloud operation, is compatible with about 90 devices, and works with MQTT-compatible platforms such as Home Assistant and OpenHAB. If you don’t want to use the default OpenMQTTGateway firmware, you can always modify it (see source code) or use another firmware by flashing it through the USB-C port. A user guide provides instructions to get started as well as documentation for more advanced use cases. Note you’ll need an MQTT broker as well, and you can also check out our review of GL.iNet GL-S10 BLE to MQTT gateway to better understand what this type of device is for and how to use it.
The Theengs Bridge can be purchased for $54.90 without a power supply and USB cable, or $64.90 with.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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Essentially a ESP32 with Ethernet in a plastic case for $55.
Olimex does offer the same in a metal box for less than half the price.
This👆
OpenMQTTgateway/Theengs developer here. While there are cheaper alternatives, Theengs Bridge offers distinct advantages: