IAMMETER PocketLog: Lightweight Local Monitoring and Data Logging with ESP32-S3

We are developing a new tool for IAMMETER: IAMMETER PocketLog.

Built around the ESP32-S3 with an SD card and an LCD, PocketLog collects data from IAMMETER energy meters on a local network and provides an on-site display, local data logging and browser-based monitoring.

Compared with our previously introduced Docker-based router datalogger solution, PocketLog uses a lighter hardware architecture, requires no Docker deployment and is easier to carry.

How Does It Work?

Connect PocketLog and your IAMMETER meters to the same WLAN, and make sure the devices can communicate with each other.

PocketLog periodically scans the local network to discover supported IAMMETER meters and collect their data. Its main functions include:

• LCD display: View combined meter power readings and the number of online devices.
• SD card logging: Collect meter data once per minute and save it as CSV files. Export the files through the web interface or USB mass storage mode.
• Web monitoring: Open a lightweight monitoring page in your browser to view meter data and use monitoring and alarm functions.

Use Cases

View Multiple Meters on One Screen

If you have several IAMMETER meters on the same WLAN, place PocketLog somewhere convenient to quickly check power readings and device availability.

This provides a straightforward way to view readings on-site in a home, office or small workshop.

Record Data On-Site and Analyze It Later

If you want to collect data from multiple meters over time and analyze it in Excel or your own tools, leave PocketLog on-site to record the data, then export the CSV files.

For example, you could examine equipment operating patterns, identify ongoing electricity use outside working hours, or collect data before and after an energy-saving upgrade.

Installation, Commissioning and Demonstrations

When installing or demonstrating IAMMETER meters, use PocketLog's display and web interface to observe changes in readings and check which devices are online, helping with on-site commissioning.

Where else would you use PocketLog? Share your ideas and help us explore more applications.

The Hardware

Web Monitoring Interface

PocketLog includes a built-in web server that you can access from a phone or computer browser on the same local network.

Try a DIY Build

Choose a hardware combination to suit your needs. With the appropriate firmware and wiring, different configurations provide the following functions:

You can start with an ESP32-S3 development board and add storage and a display as needed. We will share more details about supported hardware, firmware and DIY setup steps in future updates.

A New Option for Local IAMMETER Monitoring

Some projects need a monitoring system running on a private server. Others simply need a small device for on-site display and data collection.

PocketLog offers a new approach for the latter: collect meter data over the local network, view readings on-site and save records to a local SD card.

If you are planning a local or offline IAMMETER setup, you may also find these resources useful:

• Docker-Based Local Data Logging with a Router
• Using an IAMMETER Energy Meter Without Internet
• IAMMETER Local and Self-Hosted Monitoring Options

PocketLog is still under development. We welcome your use cases and suggestions for the features you would like to see next.