How to Use ESP32-CAM-MB: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32-CAM-MB is a compact development board that combines the powerful ESP32 chip with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, along with a camera module. This board is specifically designed for IoT applications, making it ideal for projects that require image capture, video streaming, or remote monitoring. Its small form factor and versatile features make it a popular choice for smart home devices, security systems, and AI-powered image recognition projects.

• Wireless video streaming and surveillance systems
• Smart home automation with image or video capture
• AI-based image recognition and processing
• Remote monitoring for IoT devices
• DIY robotics with vision capabilities

• Microcontroller: ESP32-D0WDQ6 chip
• Wireless Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.2
• Camera Module: OV2640 (2MP resolution)
• Flash Memory: 4MB (PSRAM)
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Power Supply: 5V via micro-USB or external power source
• GPIO Pins: 9 available for user applications
• Interfaces: UART, SPI, I2C, PWM
• Dimensions: 27mm x 40.5mm
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to 85°C

The ESP32-CAM-MB has a total of 16 pins. Below is the pinout and description:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the ESP32-CAM-MB to a 5V power source via the micro-USB port or the 5V pin.
   • Ensure the power supply can provide at least 500mA for stable operation.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Use the micro-USB port to connect the ESP32-CAM-MB to your computer.
   • Install the necessary drivers for the USB-to-serial chip (e.g., CH340).
   • Use the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF to upload code to the board. Select "AI-Thinker ESP32-CAM" as the board in the Arduino IDE.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the GPIO pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other peripherals.
   • For camera-based projects, ensure the OV2640 module is securely connected to the board.

4. Boot Mode Selection:

   • To upload code, connect GPIO0 to GND and press the RESET button.
   • After uploading, disconnect GPIO0 from GND and press RESET again to run the program.

• Power Supply: Use a stable 5V power source to avoid unexpected resets or malfunctions.
• Heat Management: The ESP32 chip can get warm during operation. Ensure proper ventilation.
• Antenna Placement: Avoid placing the board near metal objects to ensure optimal Wi-Fi performance.
• Camera Module: Handle the camera module carefully to avoid damaging the ribbon cable.

Below is an example of how to use the ESP32-CAM-MB to stream video over Wi-Fi:

#include <WiFi.h>
#include <esp_camera.h>

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

// Camera configuration
#define PWDN_GPIO_NUM    -1
#define RESET_GPIO_NUM   -1
#define XCLK_GPIO_NUM     0
#define SIOD_GPIO_NUM    26
#define SIOC_GPIO_NUM    27
#define Y9_GPIO_NUM      35
#define Y8_GPIO_NUM      34
#define Y7_GPIO_NUM      39
#define Y6_GPIO_NUM      36
#define Y5_GPIO_NUM      21
#define Y4_GPIO_NUM      19
#define Y3_GPIO_NUM      18
#define Y2_GPIO_NUM       5
#define VSYNC_GPIO_NUM   25
#define HREF_GPIO_NUM    23
#define PCLK_GPIO_NUM    22

void startCameraServer();

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200);
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password);

  // Wait for Wi-Fi connection
  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500);
    Serial.print(".");
  }
  Serial.println("\nWi-Fi connected");

  // Initialize the camera
  camera_config_t config;
  config.ledc_channel = LEDC_CHANNEL_0;
  config.ledc_timer = LEDC_TIMER_0;
  config.pin_d0 = Y2_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d1 = Y3_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d2 = Y4_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d3 = Y5_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d4 = Y6_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d5 = Y7_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d6 = Y8_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_d7 = Y9_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_xclk = XCLK_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_pclk = PCLK_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_vsync = VSYNC_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_href = HREF_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_sscb_sda = SIOD_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_sscb_scl = SIOC_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_pwdn = PWDN_GPIO_NUM;
  config.pin_reset = RESET_GPIO_NUM;
  config.xclk_freq_hz = 20000000;
  config.pixel_format = PIXFORMAT_JPEG;

  if (!esp_camera_init(&config)) {
    Serial.println("Camera initialized successfully");
  } else {
    Serial.println("Camera initialization failed");
    return;
  }

  startCameraServer();
  Serial.println("Camera server started");
}

void loop() {
  // Main loop does nothing; camera server handles requests
}

1. Issue: The ESP32-CAM-MB does not connect to Wi-Fi.
   Solution: Double-check the SSID and password in your code. Ensure the router is within range and supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi.

2. Issue: The board keeps resetting during operation.
   Solution: Use a stable 5V power supply with sufficient current (at least 500mA). Avoid powering the board through weak USB ports.

3. Issue: The camera module is not detected.
   Solution: Ensure the camera ribbon cable is securely connected. Check the camera initialization code for correct pin assignments.

4. Issue: The video stream is slow or laggy.
   Solution: Reduce the resolution or frame rate in the code. Ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal.

• Can I use the ESP32-CAM-MB without the camera module?
  Yes, the board can function as a standard ESP32 development board for other IoT applications.

• What is the maximum resolution of the camera?
  The OV2640 camera module supports a maximum resolution of 1600x1200 pixels.

• Can I power the board with a battery?
  Yes, you can use a 3.7V LiPo battery with a suitable voltage regulator to provide 5V input.