Smart Attendance System Using RFID and Google Sheet

Intro

• This project records student attendance using RFID technology.
• When a student scans their RFID card, the attendance is automatically stored in a Google Sheet.
• The system uses NodeMCU to read RFID data and send it to Google Sheets.

Objective

• To simplify the attendance process for teachers.
• To reduce manual work and avoid human errors.
• To create a fast, contactless, and automated attendance system.

Process

• The project works in 3 stages:

1. Reading RFID Data

• NodeMCU is connected with an RFID reader.
• When a student taps their RFID card, the device reads the unique ID.
• The student details are matched with the RFID ID.

2. Sending Data to Google Sheet

• NodeMCU sends the scanned RFID data to a Google Apps Script URL.
• The URL acts as an API endpoint.
• The data is pushed to the Google Sheet in real-time.

3. Google Sheet Script

• Google Apps Script receives the data from NodeMCU.
• The script identifies the student and marks attendance with the current date and time.
• The sheet automatically updates whenever a new scan is received.

Features

• Contactless attendance using RFID.
• Real-time data entry into Google Sheets.
• Easy for teachers to monitor attendance.
• Reduces manual errors.
• Low-cost and simple hardware setup.

Hardware Used

• NodeMCU ESP8266
• RFID Reader (RC522)
• RFID Cards/Tags
• Jumper Wires
• Power Source

Software/Tools Used

• Arduino IDE
• Google Sheets
• Google Apps Script
• NodeMCU Libraries

How to Run

• Flash the NodeMCU code using Arduino IDE.
• Configure Wi-Fi credentials in the code.
• Deploy the Google Apps Script and also generate the sheet token to get the Web App URL.
• Update the URL in the NodeMCU code.
• Scan RFID cards to record attendance.