An open source smart doorbell system that allows you to see visitors at the front door from anywhere in the world. The system is built using a Raspberry Pi and designed to be a simple and affordable alternative to expensive designer doorbells. There should not be a compromise between security, privacy, and good design. Virtual Chime aims to be as beautiful as designer doorbells, as secure as the most expensive security systems, and as private as your own home.
The doorbell system is deployed and used in my own home with a gate and main entrance doorbell. The current enclosure is more than one year in use and has been through several weather events and still works perfectly and the design is not degraded in any way.
Features
- Live Video Streaming — Watch your front door in real-time from anywhere
- Video Recording — Record and store footage locally for later review
- Button Press Detection — Get notified instantly when someone rings the doorbell
- Relay Control — Control external devices like door locks or lights
- Multi-Doorbell Support — Connect and manage multiple doorbells from one system
- Web Interface — Configure and monitor the system through a clean web UI
- 3D Printable Enclosure — Custom-designed housing that can be printed in weatherproof materials
Hardware
The system is built using off-the-shelf components that are easy to source and assemble:
- Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W — The brain of the system with WiFi and GPIO pins
- Raspberry Pi Camera Module — NoIR version recommended for night vision
- Cherry MX Switches — Mechanical buttons for reliable press detection
- 2 Channel Relay Module — For controlling external devices
- 3W Speaker & MEMS Microphone — For audio capabilities
- 3D Printed Enclosure — Designed for ABS or PETG, both suitable for outdoor use
Implementation
The software is built in Python to make it easy to customize and extend. A simple web server handles the live video stream and configuration interface. The system runs as a systemd service in the background.
The 3D-printed enclosure is designed to be weatherproof and UV-resistant for outdoor use. Components mount to a faceplate that attaches to a wall mount with set screws. The enclosure is sealed with silicone to prevent water ingress.