How to Use ESP32-P4-Eth: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32-P4-Eth by WaveShare is a high-performance microcontroller designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It combines integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities with an Ethernet interface, offering both wireless and wired connectivity options. This makes it ideal for projects requiring stable and reliable internet access. The ESP32-P4-Eth is widely recognized for its low power consumption, high processing speed, and ability to interface with a variety of sensors and peripherals.

• Smart home automation systems
• Industrial IoT applications
• Data logging and monitoring systems
• Networked sensor hubs
• Robotics and automation
• Projects requiring hybrid (wired and wireless) connectivity

The ESP32-P4-Eth features a variety of pins for interfacing with external devices. Below is the pinout description:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Use the VIN pin to supply 7-12V, or connect a 5V USB power source.
   • Ensure the power supply is stable to avoid damage to the board.

2. Connecting to Ethernet:

   • Connect the Ethernet cable to the RJ45 port on the board.
   • Use the Ethernet pins (e.g., ETH_TXD0, ETH_RXD0) for custom Ethernet interfacing if needed.

3. Programming the Board:

   • Use the USB interface to connect the ESP32-P4-Eth to your computer.
   • Install the necessary drivers and use the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF for programming.

4. Interfacing with Sensors and Devices:

   • Use the GPIO pins for connecting sensors, actuators, or other peripherals.
   • Configure the pins in your code as input or output based on your application.

• Voltage Levels: Ensure all connected devices operate at 3.3V logic levels to avoid damaging the board.
• Ethernet Usage: For stable Ethernet connectivity, use high-quality cables and ensure proper grounding.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Avoid placing the board in areas with significant RF interference to maintain wireless performance.
• Heat Management: If the board is used in high-performance applications, consider adding a heat sink to manage heat dissipation.

Below is an example of how to use the ESP32-P4-Eth to connect to a Wi-Fi network and send data over Ethernet:

#include <WiFi.h>
#include <ETH.h>

// Wi-Fi credentials
const char* ssid = "Your_SSID";
const char* password = "Your_PASSWORD";

// Ethernet configuration
#define ETH_CLK_MODE ETH_CLOCK_GPIO17_OUT // Set Ethernet clock mode
#define ETH_PHY_POWER 12                  // GPIO pin for Ethernet PHY power

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200);

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

  // Initialize Ethernet
  ETH.begin(ETH_PHY_ADDR, ETH_PHY_POWER, ETH_CLK_MODE, ETH_PHY_MDC, ETH_PHY_MDIO);
  Serial.println("Ethernet initialized!");
}

void loop() {
  // Print IP addresses
  Serial.print("Wi-Fi IP: ");
  Serial.println(WiFi.localIP());
  Serial.print("Ethernet IP: ");
  Serial.println(ETH.localIP());

  delay(5000); // Wait 5 seconds before printing again
}

1. The board does not power on:

   • Ensure the power supply voltage is within the specified range (7-12V for VIN or 5V via USB).
   • Check the connections and ensure the power source is functional.

2. Wi-Fi connection fails:

   • Verify the SSID and password in your code.
   • Check for RF interference or weak signal strength.
   • Restart the board and try reconnecting.

3. Ethernet does not work:

   • Ensure the Ethernet cable is securely connected.
   • Verify the Ethernet pins are correctly configured in your code.
   • Check the network settings and ensure the router is functional.

4. GPIO pins not responding:

   • Confirm the pins are correctly configured as input or output in your code.
   • Check for short circuits or incorrect wiring.

Q: Can I use the ESP32-P4-Eth with the Arduino IDE?
A: Yes, the ESP32-P4-Eth is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE. Install the ESP32 board package to get started.

Q: Does the board support PoE (Power over Ethernet)?
A: No, the ESP32-P4-Eth does not support PoE. You must provide power via VIN or USB.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the EN (Enable) button on the board to reset the microcontroller.

Q: Can I use both Wi-Fi and Ethernet simultaneously?
A: Yes, the ESP32-P4-Eth supports simultaneous use of Wi-Fi and Ethernet for hybrid connectivity.