The Airbnb for Cloud Hardware

Decentralized, Transparent, Smart Hardware Hosting

Why CloudShare?

🚫

The Problem

GPU cloud costs are skyrocketing. Datacenters are rigid, over-engineered, and unaffordable for hobbyists, researchers, AI startups, and edge builders.

💡

The Solution

Match hardware owners with hosts who have electricity, bandwidth, and space to spare — all backed by real-time monitoring.

🛡️

Trust & Safety

Sentinel devices provide real-time monitoring, power tracking, and safety features for complete transparency.

🔧 How The System Works

Complete operational flow from setup to monitoring, safety shutoffs, and offline operation

1

📶 WiFi Setup & Registration

Sentinel device creates its own WiFi hotspot for easy configuration:

  • Power on Sentinel device
  • Device creates hotspot: "CloudShare-Sentinel-XXXXXX"
  • Connect to hotspot from phone/laptop
  • Browser opens: http://192.168.4.1
  • Enter your WiFi credentials + CloudShare account
  • Device connects to your WiFi network
  • Registers with CloudShare API automatically
Network Options: Main WiFi (simple), Guest WiFi (recommended), or VLAN/DMZ (most secure)
2

☁️ Cloud Communication (Push Model)

Device sends data to cloud - NO port forwarding needed:

Internet (CloudShare API) ↑ │ Outbound HTTPS (port 443) │ Every 30 seconds │ Host's Router/Switch ├─ WiFi → ESP32 Sentinel (Primary) │ ↓ │ Reads sensors locally │ Sends data to cloud │ ├─ Ethernet → W5500 (Failover) │ └─ WiFi/Ethernet → Server (being monitored)

Data sent to cloud: Power (W, kWh), Temperature, Humidity, Smoke level, Network quality, Device status

Not sent: WiFi passwords, personal files, browsing history

3

⚡ Real-time Power Monitoring

PZEM-004T measures actual AC wall power consumption:

  • Voltage: 110V or 220V AC
  • Current: 0-100A measurement
  • Power: Real-time Watts consumption
  • Energy: Billing-grade kWh tracking
  • Frequency: Grid health (50/60Hz)
  • Power Factor: Efficiency monitoring
Wall Socket (110/220V AC) ↓ Circuit Breaker ↓ PZEM-004T AC Meter ← Measures power ↓ ↓ ESP32 Server/GPU Rig ↓ CloudShare API (billing data)
4

🔥 Safety Monitoring & Automatic Shutoff

Continuous safety monitoring with emergency power disconnection:

  • Smoke detected: MQ-2 sensor triggers alert
  • Temperature too high: BME280 detects overheating (default: 85°F)
  • Overcurrent: PZEM-004T detects power surge
  • Immediate action: High-power relay disconnects AC mains
Emergency Shutoff: Relay switches OFF hot wire (NOT neutral/ground) - server loses AC power instantly

Notifications sent to: Host (email/SMS), Renter (email), CloudShare dashboard (alert)

5

🌐 Network Quality Monitoring

Dual connectivity ensures 24/7 uptime:

  • WiFi (Primary): Ping latency to 8.8.8.8, Signal strength (RSSI)
  • Ethernet (Failover): Ping latency to 1.1.1.1, Link status
  • Automatic switching: If WiFi drops, switches to Ethernet
  • Metrics tracked: Packet loss, Connection reliability
Check WiFi status every 60 seconds: ✓ WiFi connected → Use WiFi ✗ WiFi down → Check Ethernet ✓ Ethernet available → Use Ethernet ✗ Both down → Enter offline mode
6

💾 WiFi Down → Offline Data Storage

When internet connection lost, Sentinel continues monitoring locally:

  • WiFi/Ethernet both down: Device enters offline mode
  • Continues monitoring: All sensors keep working (power, temp, smoke)
  • Local storage: Saves data to SPIFFS file system
  • Capacity: Up to 1000 records (30s intervals = ~8.3 hours)
  • kWh counter: Persists in NVS (survives power cycles)
  • Safety features: Relay control still works locally
OLED Display Shows: "OFFLINE" status, Local kWh counter, Stored records count, Last connection time
7

📡 Connection Restored → Data Upload

When internet returns, automatic data synchronization:

  • WiFi or Ethernet reconnects
  • Sentinel sends "back_online" status with offline duration
  • Uploads all buffered data with timestamps
  • Flags records as "offline_stored: true"
  • CloudShare backfills time-series data
  • Billing calculations include offline period
Reconnect detected: 1. Send recovery message to cloud 2. Upload stored data (batch upload) 3. Clear local storage after confirmation 4. Resume normal 30-second updates 5. Notifications sent: → Host: "Device back online, X hours recovered" → Renter: "Monitoring restored, billing resumed"
8

🚨 Storage Full → Emergency Shutdown

When offline storage reaches capacity, automatic protection activates:

  • Storage limit: 1000 records = ~8.3 hours @ 30s intervals
  • Warning at 90%: 900 records stored, buzzer beeps every 5 minutes
  • Critical at 95%: 950 records, buzzer beeps every 1 minute
  • FULL at 100%: 1000 records stored
⚠️ AUTOMATIC POWER SHUTDOWN: High-power relay disconnects AC mains to server

Why shutdown? Cannot guarantee billing accuracy without data. Prevents disputes between host/renter.

How to restore: Fix internet connection, wait for data upload, device auto-restarts server power

Storage full + still offline: 1. OLED display: "STORAGE FULL - SHUTDOWN" 2. Buzzer: Continuous alarm (10 seconds) 3. Relay: Disconnect AC power to server 4. Save last kWh reading to NVS 5. Enter low-power mode (continue monitoring) 6. When internet returns: → Upload all data → Clear storage → Restore server power automatically
9

📊 Dashboard & Billing

Renters and hosts view data through CloudShare web dashboard:

  • Real-time metrics: Power consumption, Temperature, Uptime
  • Historical charts: Energy usage over time (hourly, daily, monthly)
  • Network quality: Latency graphs, Uptime percentage
  • Billing transparency: kWh consumed, Cost breakdown, Host earnings
  • Alerts history: Safety events, Offline periods, Recovery times
Monthly Billing Calculation: Total kWh from PZEM-004T: 864 kWh × Electricity rate: $0.409/kWh (avg) = Base cost: $353.60 + Host earnings (20%): $70.72 + Platform fee (12%): $50.92 = Renter pays: $475.24
10

🔐 Security & Privacy

Multi-layer security ensures safe operation:

  • API Authentication: Unique API key per device (generated from MAC)
  • TLS Encryption: All cloud communication uses HTTPS
  • Local API Password: Protected local management interface
  • Network Isolation: Recommend guest WiFi or VLAN deployment
  • No inbound ports: Push model = no firewall changes needed
  • Data privacy: Only sensor data sent, no personal information
Default Password: CS_[last 6 chars of MAC] - Check Serial Monitor or OLED display during startup

✨ Key System Benefits

🔄
Automatic failover (WiFi ↔ Ethernet)
💾
Zero data loss with offline storage
🛡️
Safety shutoff prevents fire hazards
📊
100% transparent billing
🔐
Secure push model (no port forwarding)
Storage full = auto power shutdown

Sentinel Device: Hardware Trust Layer

A small plug-and-play device that provides verified usage & billing for both parties

Real-time Monitoring

┌─────────────────────┐ │ 157.5W WiFi:●●●○ │ │ 1.2kWh 72.8°F │ │ 54%RH 1013hPa │ │ SMOKE: OK 11:40 │ └─────────────────────┘

OLED Display shows real-time power consumption, environmental conditions, and system status

Multi-sensor BME280

  • 🌡️ Temperature: ±1°C accuracy
  • 💧 Humidity: ±3% accuracy
  • 📊 Barometric pressure: ±1 hPa
  • 🏠 Perfect for indoor monitoring
  • 💾 Single I2C device saves pins

ESP32 Development Board

  • 🧠 Dual-core 240MHz processor
  • 📶 Built-in WiFi & Bluetooth
  • 🔌 GPIO pins for sensor connections
  • 💾 512KB RAM, 4MB Flash storage
  • ⚡ Low power consumption modes

PZEM-004T AC Power Meter

  • ⚡ True AC power monitoring (110/220V)
  • 🔢 0-100A current measurement
  • 📊 Power factor & frequency tracking
  • 🎯 Billing-grade kWh accuracy
  • 💰 Real wall power consumption

MQ-2 Smoke Sensor

  • 🔥 Detects smoke, LPG, propane
  • ⚠️ 200-10000ppm detection range
  • 🚨 Analog & digital output
  • 🔔 Instant alert triggering
  • 🛡️ Safety shutoff capability

OLED Display (128x64)

  • 📱 0.96" high contrast display
  • 🎨 Monochrome OLED technology
  • 🔄 Multiple screen rotation
  • ⚡ Low power consumption
  • 📊 Real-time data visualization

Safety Features

  • 🌡️ Temperature monitoring & thermal alerts
  • 🔥 Smoke sensor with safety shutoff
  • ⚡ Real-time power tracking
  • 🌐 Bandwidth & latency monitoring
  • 🔒 DMZ network isolation

Network Monitoring

  • 📡 Dual connectivity (WiFi + Ethernet)
  • ⚡ Latency & ping monitoring
  • 📊 Packet loss tracking
  • 🔄 Automatic failover
  • 🛡️ Connection reliability metrics

Sentinel Device

$75-110

One-time purchase

  • ✅ Real-time monitoring
  • ✅ Safety features
  • ✅ Transparent billing
  • ✅ Network isolation

Sentinel's Hardware Components ($75-110 Total)

Core Components

ESP32 development board $8-12
PZEM-004T AC power meter (110/220V) $10-18
BME280 sensor (temp/humidity/pressure) $4-6
MQ-2 smoke sensor $2-4
OLED 0.96" (128x64) $4-6
W5500 Ethernet module $8-12

Additional Components

Breadboard + jumper wires $3-5
Power supply (5V/3.3V) $3-5
Enclosure $5-8
Buzzer for alarms $1-2
2x Push buttons $1-2
High-power relay (AC mains rated) $3-5
Ethernet cable $2-5

⚡ Wiring & Schematics

Complete pin assignments and connection diagrams for building your Sentinel device

📋 Pin Assignment Table

Component ESP32 Pin Function Notes
I2C Bus
OLED Display GPIO 21 (SDA) I2C Data Address: 0x3C
OLED Display GPIO 22 (SCL) I2C Clock
BME280 Sensor GPIO 21 (SDA) I2C Data Address: 0x76
BME280 Sensor GPIO 22 (SCL) I2C Clock
UART/Serial
PZEM-004T RX GPIO 16 (RX2) Serial Receive AC Power Sensor
PZEM-004T TX GPIO 17 (TX2) Serial Transmit AC Power Sensor
SPI Bus (Ethernet)
W5500 MISO GPIO 19 SPI Data In Ethernet Module
W5500 MOSI GPIO 23 SPI Data Out Ethernet Module
W5500 SCK GPIO 18 SPI Clock Ethernet Module
W5500 CS GPIO 5 Chip Select Ethernet Module
W5500 RST GPIO 4 Reset Ethernet Module
Digital I/O
Buzzer GPIO 25 PWM Output Active HIGH
Button 1 GPIO 26 Digital Input Pull-up enabled
Button 2 GPIO 27 Digital Input Pull-up enabled
MQ-2 Digital GPIO 32 Digital Input Smoke detection
Relay Control GPIO 15 Digital Output AC Mains shutoff (HIGH-POWER)
Analog Input
MQ-2 Analog GPIO 33 ADC Input Smoke level (0-4095)

🔌 PZEM-004T AC Power Sensor Connection

⚠️ CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING

  • AC MAINS VOLTAGE (110V/220V) - LETHAL!
  • Only qualified electricians should connect AC mains wiring
  • Turn off circuit breaker before wiring
  • Use properly rated wire (12AWG for 20A circuits)
  • Install in approved electrical enclosure
  • Follow all local electrical codes
PZEM-004T       ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌──────────┐
│ 5V   ────┼────┤ VIN (5V) │
│ GND  ────┼────┤ GND      │
│ TX   ────┼────┤ GPIO 16  │ (RX2)
│ RX   ────┼────┤ GPIO 17  │ (TX2)
└──────────┘    └──────────┘

AC Load Connection (110V/220V):
AC Input (from breaker) ──► PZEM Input Terminals
AC Output (to server)   ◄── PZEM Output Terminals

The PZEM-004T has built-in current measurement.
Wire the server's AC power through the PZEM module.
The module provides isolation between AC and ESP32.
                

🌐 W5500 Ethernet Module Connection

W5500           ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌──────────┐
│ VCC  ────┼────┤ 3V3      │
│ GND  ────┼────┤ GND      │
│ MISO ────┼────┤ GPIO 19  │
│ MOSI ────┼────┤ GPIO 23  │
│ SCK  ────┼────┤ GPIO 18  │
│ CS   ────┼────┤ GPIO 5   │
│ RST  ────┼────┤ GPIO 4   │
│ INT  ────┼────┤ (NC)     │ (Optional)
└──────────┘    └──────────┘

Ethernet Connection:
RJ45 Port ◄──► CAT5/6 Cable ◄──► Router/Switch
                

🔥 High-Power Relay (AC Mains Safety Shutoff)

⚠️ HIGH VOLTAGE WARNING

  • Use relay rated for AC voltage/current (minimum 10A @ 110/220VAC)
  • Recommended: 20A+ for server loads
  • Only switch the HOT wire, never neutral or ground
  • Use optoisolated relay module
Relay Module    ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌──────────┐
│ VCC  ────┼────┤ VIN (5V) │
│ GND  ────┼────┤ GND      │
│ IN   ────┼────┤ GPIO 15  │
└──────────┘    └──────────┘

Relay High-Power Terminals:
AC Hot (from breaker) ──► COM (Common)
AC Hot (to server)    ◄── NO (Normally Open)
AC Neutral           ──► Direct to server (bypass relay)
Ground/Earth         ──► Direct to server (bypass relay)
                

🌡️ Sensor Connections (I2C)

OLED Display     ESP32          BME280          ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌─────────┐    ┌──────────┐    ┌─────────┐
│ VCC  ────┼────┤ 3V3     │    │ VCC  ────┼────┤ 3V3     │
│ GND  ────┼────┤ GND     │    │ GND  ────┼────┤ GND     │
│ SCL  ────┼────┤ GPIO 22 │    │ SCL  ────┼────┤ GPIO 22 │
│ SDA  ────┼────┤ GPIO 21 │    │ SDA  ────┼────┤ GPIO 21 │
└──────────┘    └─────────┘    └──────────┘    └─────────┘

MQ-2 Sensor     ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌─────────┐
│ VCC  ────┼────┤ 3V3     │
│ GND  ────┼────┤ GND     │
│ D0   ────┼────┤ GPIO 32 │ (Digital output)
│ A0   ────┼────┤ GPIO 33 │ (Analog output)
└──────────┘    └─────────┘
                

💡 Additional Components

Buzzer          ESP32          Button 1        ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌─────────┐    ┌──────────┐    ┌─────────┐
│ +    ────┼────┤ GPIO 25 │    │ Pin1 ────┼────┤ GPIO 26 │
│ -    ────┼────┤ GND     │    │ Pin2 ────┼────┤ GND     │
└──────────┘    └─────────┘    └──────────┘    └─────────┘

Button 2        ESP32
┌──────────┐    ┌─────────┐
│ Pin1 ────┼────┤ GPIO 27 │
│ Pin2 ────┼────┤ GND     │
└──────────┘    └─────────┘

Note: Internal pull-up resistors enabled in software
                

💰 Host Earnings Structure

See how much you can earn by hosting hardware in your space

Dell R610 Server (200W)

Monthly: 144 kWh
+$11.79

Monthly host profit

Electricity cost $58.93
+ Host earnings (20%) +$11.79
+ Platform profit (12%) +$8.49
= Renter pays total $79.21

RTX 5090 Rig (1200W)

Monthly: 864 kWh
+$70.72

Monthly host profit

Electricity cost $353.60
+ Host earnings (20%) +$70.72
+ Platform profit (12%) +$50.92
= Renter pays total $475.24

High-End GPU (RTX 4090)

Monthly: 324 kWh
+$26.52

Monthly host profit

Electricity cost $132.60
+ Host earnings (20%) +$26.52
+ Platform profit (12%) +$19.09
= Renter pays total $178.21

🎯 Host Benefits

💵
Earn 20% profit on electricity costs
🛡️
Basic insurance included (like Airbnb)
📊
Real-time monitoring & safety
🤝
Renters pay 12% platform fees

💳 Renter Cost Structure

Transparent pricing for hardware renters

Dell R610 Server (200W)

Monthly: 144 kWh
$79.21

Total monthly cost

Base electricity cost $58.93
Host earnings (20%) $11.79
Platform fee (12%) $8.49
Total you pay $79.21

RTX 5090 Rig (1200W)

Monthly: 864 kWh
$475.24

Total monthly cost

Base electricity cost $353.60
Host earnings (20%) $70.72
Platform fee (12%) $50.92
Total you pay $475.24

High-End GPU (RTX 4090)

Monthly: 324 kWh
$178.21

Total monthly cost

Base electricity cost $132.60
Host earnings (20%) $26.52
Platform fee (12%) $19.09
Total you pay $178.21

🚀 Renter Benefits

💰
60-90% cheaper than AWS/Azure
📊
Real-time monitoring & transparency
🛡️
Verified hosts with safety monitoring
Pay only for actual power consumption

Real-Time Power Cost Calculator

Based on actual time-of-use electricity rates vs datacenter pricing

Dell R610 Server (200W)

Power: 200W continuous
Monthly: 144 kWh
$58.93

Monthly CloudShare cost

Peak (3-7 PM): $0.32832/kWh → $18.41
Mid-Peak (1-3 PM): $0.22519/kWh → $12.61
Off-Peak (other): $0.06792/kWh → $27.91
Datacenter: $150-400/mo
Save: $91-341/mo

RTX 5090 Rig (1200W)

Power: 1200W continuous
Monthly: 864 kWh
$353.60

Monthly CloudShare cost

Peak (3-7 PM): $110.44
Mid-Peak (1-3 PM): $75.67
Off-Peak (Other): $167.49
Datacenter: $500-2,100/mo
Save: $146-1,746/mo

High-End GPU (RTX 4090)

Power: 450W continuous
Monthly: 324 kWh
$132.60

Monthly CloudShare cost

Peak (3-7 PM): $41.42
Mid-Peak (1-3 PM): $28.37
Off-Peak (Other): $62.81
AWS/Azure: $360-575/mo
Save: $227-442/mo

💡 Key Insights

❄️
Winter is 12-17% cheaper than summer
Peak hours = 12% of time, 18-31% of cost
💰
Off-peak savings: 65-70% vs peak rates
🎯
CloudShare: 63-93% cheaper than datacenters

The Vision

12%

Platform Fee

$200-400

Monthly Savings

24/7

Real-time Monitoring

100%

Transparent Billing

Phase Roadmap

Phase 1: Foundation

Hobbyists, tinkerers, remote AI workers

Phase 2: Scale

Edge AI clusters, render farms, distributed compute

Phase 3: Enterprise

Enterprise partnerships, green datacenter offload