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

The ESP32-CAM is a low-cost development board manufactured by TSMC (Part ID: ESP32-CAM). It features an ESP32 microcontroller with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, along with a camera module. This compact and versatile board is ideal for IoT applications that require video streaming, image capture, or wireless communication.

• Wireless video surveillance systems
• Smart home devices (e.g., doorbell cameras, baby monitors)
• IoT projects requiring image recognition or video streaming
• Remote monitoring and control systems
• DIY robotics with vision capabilities

The ESP32-CAM combines powerful processing capabilities with wireless connectivity and a camera interface, making it a popular choice for IoT and vision-based projects.

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

The ESP32-CAM is easy to integrate into IoT projects. Below are the steps to use it effectively:

1. Power Supply:

   • Connect the 5V pin to a 5V power source or use a USB-to-serial adapter for programming.
   • Ensure the GND pin is connected to the ground of your circuit.

2. Programming Mode:

   • To upload code, connect GPIO0 to GND and reset the board. This puts the ESP32-CAM into programming mode.
   • Use a USB-to-serial adapter to connect the ESP32-CAM to your computer. Connect the adapter's TX to RX (IO3) and RX to TX (IO1) on the ESP32-CAM.

3. Camera Module:

   • The OV2640 camera module is pre-installed. Ensure it is securely connected to the board.

4. Code Upload:

   • Use the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF to upload code. Select "AI-Thinker ESP32-CAM" as the board in the IDE.

5. Run the Program:

   • After uploading the code, disconnect GPIO0 from GND and reset the board. The ESP32-CAM will now run the uploaded program.

• Power Requirements: The ESP32-CAM requires a stable 5V power supply. Insufficient power can cause the board to reset or malfunction.
• Heat Management: The ESP32-CAM can get warm during operation. Ensure proper ventilation or use a heatsink if necessary.
• Antenna: For better Wi-Fi performance, ensure the onboard antenna is not obstructed.
• Boot Mode: Always disconnect GPIO0 from GND after uploading code to avoid boot issues.

Below is an example of how to use the ESP32-CAM to stream video using the Arduino IDE:

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

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

void startCameraServer();

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

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

  // Initialize the camera
  camera_config_t config;
  config.ledc_channel = LEDC_CHANNEL_0;
  config.ledc_timer = LEDC_TIMER_0;
  config.pin_d0 = 5;
  config.pin_d1 = 18;
  config.pin_d2 = 19;
  config.pin_d3 = 21;
  config.pin_d4 = 36;
  config.pin_d5 = 39;
  config.pin_d6 = 34;
  config.pin_d7 = 35;
  config.pin_xclk = 0;
  config.pin_pclk = 22;
  config.pin_vsync = 25;
  config.pin_href = 23;
  config.pin_sscb_sda = 26;
  config.pin_sscb_scl = 27;
  config.pin_pwdn = -1;
  config.pin_reset = -1;
  config.xclk_freq_hz = 20000000;
  config.pixel_format = PIXFORMAT_JPEG;

  if (!esp_camera_init(&config)) {
    Serial.println("Camera init failed");
    return;
  }

  // Start the camera server
  startCameraServer();
}

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

1. ESP32-CAM Not Detected by Computer:

   • Ensure the USB-to-serial adapter is properly connected.
   • Check that GPIO0 is connected to GND during programming.

2. Wi-Fi Connection Fails:

   • Verify the SSID and password in your code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi signal is strong and the antenna is unobstructed.

3. Camera Initialization Fails:

   • Check that the camera module is securely connected.
   • Ensure the correct pin configuration is used in the code.

4. Board Keeps Resetting:

   • Use a stable 5V power supply with sufficient current (at least 1A).
   • Avoid powering the ESP32-CAM directly from a computer USB port.

Q: Can the ESP32-CAM be powered with 3.3V?
A: No, the ESP32-CAM requires a 5V input for stable operation. The onboard regulator converts 5V to 3.3V.

Q: How do I reset the ESP32-CAM?
A: Press the reset button on the board or momentarily connect the RESET pin to GND.

Q: Can I use the ESP32-CAM without the camera module?
A: Yes, the ESP32-CAM can function as a standard ESP32 development board without the camera module.