How to Use SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus C: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus C (Manufacturer Part ID: ESP32-S2, WRL-20168) is a versatile microcontroller board designed for IoT and wireless applications. It is built around the powerful ESP32-S2 chip, which integrates Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, making it an excellent choice for projects requiring wireless communication. The board is compatible with the Feather form factor, allowing seamless integration with a wide range of add-on boards and accessories.

• IoT (Internet of Things) devices and smart home automation
• Wireless sensor networks
• Remote data logging and monitoring
• Bluetooth-enabled devices
• Prototyping and development of Wi-Fi-based applications

The SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus C features a Feather-compatible pinout. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to a computer or USB power source using a USB-C cable.
   • Alternatively, supply 5V to the VIN pin for external power.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Install the ESP32 board support package in the Arduino IDE or use the ESP-IDF framework.
   • Select "SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus" as the board in the IDE.
   • Connect the board to your computer via USB-C and upload your code.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the GPIO pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other peripherals.
   • For I2C devices, connect to the SDA and SCL pins.
   • For SPI devices, use the appropriate SPI pins (MOSI, MISO, SCK, CS).

• Voltage Levels: Ensure all connected peripherals operate at 3.3V logic levels to avoid damaging the board.
• Boot Mode: To enter bootloader mode, hold the BOOT button while pressing the RESET button.
• Power Supply: If using an external power source, ensure it provides a stable 5V to the VIN pin.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Avoid placing the board in metal enclosures, as this may interfere with wireless communication.

Below is an example of how to connect the SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus C to a Wi-Fi network and blink an LED:

#include <WiFi.h> // Include the Wi-Fi library

// Replace with your network credentials
const char* ssid = "Your_SSID";
const char* password = "Your_PASSWORD";

const int ledPin = 13; // GPIO pin for the onboard LED

void setup() {
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT); // Set the LED pin as an output
  Serial.begin(115200);    // Start the serial communication

  // Connect to Wi-Fi
  Serial.print("Connecting to Wi-Fi");
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password);
  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500);
    Serial.print(".");
  }
  Serial.println("\nWi-Fi connected!");
  Serial.print("IP Address: ");
  Serial.println(WiFi.localIP());
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Turn the LED on
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second
  digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);  // Turn the LED off
  delay(1000);                // Wait for 1 second
}

1. Board Not Detected by Computer:

   • Ensure the USB-C cable is a data cable (not just a charging cable).
   • Check that the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE.
   • Try pressing the RESET button or entering bootloader mode.

2. Wi-Fi Connection Fails:

   • Double-check the SSID and password in your code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is 2.4 GHz, as the ESP32 does not support 5 GHz networks.
   • Move the board closer to the Wi-Fi router to improve signal strength.

3. Peripherals Not Working:

   • Verify the wiring and connections to the GPIO pins.
   • Check that the peripherals are compatible with 3.3V logic levels.
   • Use a multimeter to confirm power is being supplied to the peripherals.

• Q: Can I power the board with a LiPo battery?
  A: Yes, the board has a JST connector for a single-cell LiPo battery. It also includes a charging circuit.

• Q: How do I update the firmware?
  A: Use the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF to upload new firmware via the USB-C connection.

• Q: Can I use the board with MicroPython?
  A: Yes, the ESP32-S2 is compatible with MicroPython. Flash the MicroPython firmware to get started.

• Q: What is the maximum current output of the 3.3V pin?
  A: The 3.3V pin can supply up to 500mA, depending on the input power source.

By following this documentation, you can effectively use the SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus C in your projects and troubleshoot common issues.