Top 10 most commonly used Node-RED nodes in Industrial IoT and automation. How many have you used?

In the realm of industrial automation, Node-RED is like a "universal building block" that allows users to drag and drop to connect data, protocols, and logic. Despite offering thousands of nodes, industrial professionals typically rely on a core set of frequently used nodes. Shenzhen Barium-Rhenium Technology Co., Ltd. presents the top 10 most commonly used Node-RED nodes in industrial IoT and automation, helping you assess which ones you’ve used.

Top 10 Node-RED Nodes for Industrial IoT and Automation

• Inject (Manual/Timer Trigger)
  Essential for industrial debugging, this node acts like a PLC’s "start button." It supports manual data triggering or scheduled cyclic operations, making it ideal for testing Modbus or MQTT workflows.
• Debug (Debug Window)
  Without this node, you’re working blind. It displays data flow status in the right-hand panel, perfect for debugging. Use it extensively during testing but sparingly in production to avoid information overload.
• Function (JavaScript Processing)
  A "data processing factory" for calculations, logic, and formatting. This node offers maximum flexibility for complex data operations.
• Change (Field Modification)
  A code-free alternative to the Function node. It allows quick modifications to msg.payload, msg.topic, or other fields, including adding or deleting properties.
• MQTT In/Out (Publish and Subscribe)
  A top choice for industrial cloud connectivity. These nodes bridge data collection from PLCs to the cloud and enable cloud-to-device control commands.
• Modbus Read/Write (Modbus Communication)
  The "veteran" of industrial protocols. Handles reading temperature/humidity, collecting meter data, or controlling relays, supporting both Modbus RTU and Modbus TCP.
• OPC UA Client (OPC UA Communication)
  The "diplomat" of industrial IoT, enabling communication with PLCs, robots, and devices from different manufacturers, simplifying cross-vendor integration.
• HTTP Request (HTTP Requests)
  Essential for connecting to web APIs, enterprise databases, or cloud platforms. Supports GET and POST requests and pairs well with the Function node for data packaging.
• JSON (JSON Converter)
  Facilitates seamless conversion between strings and JSON objects, a must for cloud platforms using JSON. Works well with MQTT, HTTP, and OPC UA nodes.
• Template (Template Output)
  Generates formatted strings, HTML reports, or alert messages, functioning like a Word template for customized data output.

Summary

While Node-RED offers a vast array of nodes, these 10 cover approximately 80% of industrial IoT and automation needs. Shenzhen Barium-Rhenium Technology’s ARMxy series industrial controllers come pre-installed with Node-RED, enabling immediate use of these nodes for data collection, protocol conversion, and cloud integration. Node-RED ensures stability, speed, and simplicity for industrial professionals.

Product Recommendation: ARMxy Edge Computing Gateway

Shenzhen Beilai Technology’s ARMxy edge computing gateway is fully equipped with Node-RED, offering a robust solution for industrial automation.

• Industrial-Grade Hardware: Supports multiple CPU options, operates in -45°C to 80°C environments, resists interference and disconnections, and features a durable aluminum alloy casing.
• Modular Design: Configurable X-boards (serial and IO) and Y-boards (multifunctional IO) for flexible integration with sensors and devices.
• Remote Maintenance Tool: Includes BLRAT for remote debugging, configuration, and upgrades, allowing engineers to manage sites from the office.
• Protocol Support: Compatible with Modbus, OPC UA, MQTT, BACnet, HTTP, WebSocket, and seamlessly connects to cloud platforms like Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud, Huawei Cloud, and AWS.

Conclusion: The ARMxy gateway is not just a device—it’s a "Node-RED battle fortress" for industrial professionals. Node-RED amplifies your logical thinking, enabling automation with simple drag-and-drop operations.