How to Use ESP32-DevKitC V4: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32-DevKitC V4 is a compact and versatile development board manufactured by ESP32. It is built around the powerful ESP32 chip, which integrates Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, making it an excellent choice for IoT (Internet of Things) applications, smart devices, and rapid prototyping. The board is designed to provide a simple and efficient platform for developers to create connected devices with minimal effort.

• IoT devices and smart home automation
• Wireless sensor networks
• Wearable technology
• Prototyping for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled projects
• Industrial automation and control systems
• Educational projects and learning platforms

The following are the key technical details of the ESP32-DevKitC V4:

The ESP32-DevKitC V4 features a 2x19 pin header layout. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to your computer using a micro-USB cable. This will power the board and allow programming.
   • Alternatively, supply 5V to the VIN pin for external power.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Install the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF (Espressif IoT Development Framework) on your computer.
   • Add the ESP32 board support package to the Arduino IDE via the Board Manager.
   • Select "ESP32 Dev Module" as the board in the IDE.
   • Connect the board to your computer and select the appropriate COM port.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the GPIO pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other peripherals.
   • Ensure that the voltage levels of connected devices are compatible with the 3.3V logic of the ESP32.

4. Uploading Code:

   • Write your code in the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF.
   • Press the "Upload" button in the IDE to flash the code to the ESP32.
   • If required, hold the BOOT button on the board during the upload process.

• Voltage Levels: The GPIO pins operate at 3.3V. Avoid connecting 5V devices directly to the pins without a level shifter.
• Power Supply: Ensure a stable power supply to avoid unexpected resets or malfunctions.
• Boot Mode: If the board does not enter programming mode, press and hold the BOOT button while uploading code.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Avoid placing the board in metal enclosures, as this can interfere with wireless signals.

The following example demonstrates how to connect the ESP32-DevKitC V4 to a Wi-Fi network and print the IP address:

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

const char* ssid = "Your_SSID";       // Replace with your Wi-Fi network name
const char* password = "Your_Password"; // Replace with your Wi-Fi password

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial communication at 115200 baud
  delay(1000);          // Wait for a moment to stabilize

  Serial.println("Connecting to Wi-Fi...");
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password); // Start connecting to Wi-Fi

  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500); // Wait for connection
    Serial.print(".");
  }

  Serial.println("\nWi-Fi connected!");
  Serial.print("IP Address: ");
  Serial.println(WiFi.localIP()); // Print the assigned IP address
}

void loop() {
  // Add your main code here
}

1. Board Not Detected by Computer:

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
   • Install the required USB-to-serial driver (e.g., CP210x or CH340, depending on the board).

2. Code Upload Fails:

   • Check that the correct COM port and board type are selected in the IDE.
   • Hold the BOOT button during the upload process if necessary.

3. Wi-Fi Connection Issues:

   • Verify the SSID and password in your code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is operational and within range.

4. Random Resets or Instability:

   • Use a stable power source with sufficient current (at least 500 mA).
   • Check for loose connections or short circuits in your circuit.

Q: Can I use the ESP32-DevKitC V4 with 5V sensors?
A: The GPIO pins operate at 3.3V. Use a level shifter to interface with 5V sensors.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the EN button to reset the board.

Q: Can I use the ESP32-DevKitC V4 for battery-powered projects?
A: Yes, you can power the board using a 3.7V LiPo battery with a suitable voltage regulator.

Q: How do I enable Bluetooth functionality?
A: Use the built-in Bluetooth library in the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF to configure and use Bluetooth.

This concludes the documentation for the ESP32-DevKitC V4.