How to Use senseBox: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The senseBox is a modular IoT platform developed by Reedu with the part ID MCU S2. It is designed to simplify the process of creating and experimenting with sensor-based projects, making it an ideal tool for educational purposes. The senseBox allows users to connect various sensors and actuators to collect, process, and transmit data, enabling hands-on learning in fields such as environmental monitoring, smart cities, and IoT development.

• Environmental data collection (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality)
• Smart city projects (e.g., traffic monitoring, noise pollution analysis)
• IoT prototyping and experimentation
• STEM education and workshops
• Weather station development

The senseBox is built to be user-friendly and versatile, with the following key technical details:

The senseBox features a modular design with labeled connectors for easy sensor integration. Below is the pin configuration:

The senseBox is designed to be beginner-friendly while offering advanced features for experienced users. Follow these steps to use the senseBox in a circuit:

• Connect the senseBox to a computer or USB power source using a micro-USB cable.
• Ensure the power source provides a stable 5V output.

• Use the labeled connectors to attach sensors and modules. For example:
  • Connect I2C sensors to the SDA and SCL pins.
  • Attach analog sensors to the A0-A5 pins.
  • Use digital sensors or actuators with the D0-D15 pins.

• The senseBox is compatible with the Arduino IDE. Install the necessary board support package for ESP32-based devices.
• Write or upload your code to the senseBox using the Arduino IDE.

Below is an example of how to use the senseBox with a DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor:

#include <DHT.h>

// Define the pin where the DHT sensor is connected
#define DHTPIN D4  // Connect the DHT sensor to digital pin D4

// Define the type of DHT sensor (DHT11 or DHT22)
#define DHTTYPE DHT11

// Initialize the DHT sensor
DHT dht(DHTPIN, DHTTYPE);

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);  // Start serial communication at 9600 baud
  dht.begin();         // Initialize the DHT sensor
  Serial.println("senseBox: Reading temperature and humidity...");
}

void loop() {
  // Read temperature and humidity values
  float humidity = dht.readHumidity();
  float temperature = dht.readTemperature();

  // Check if the readings are valid
  if (isnan(humidity) || isnan(temperature)) {
    Serial.println("Failed to read from DHT sensor!");
    return;
  }

  // Print the readings to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("Humidity: ");
  Serial.print(humidity);
  Serial.print("%  Temperature: ");
  Serial.print(temperature);
  Serial.println("°C");

  delay(2000);  // Wait 2 seconds before the next reading
}

• Connect the senseBox to your computer via USB.
• Select the correct board and port in the Arduino IDE.
• Click the "Upload" button to transfer the code to the senseBox.

• Always double-check the pin connections to avoid damage to the senseBox or sensors.
• Use appropriate pull-up resistors for I2C communication if required.
• Avoid exceeding the maximum current rating of the power pins.
• Use a stable power source to ensure reliable operation.

1. The senseBox is not detected by the computer.

   • Ensure the USB cable is properly connected and functional.
   • Install the correct USB drivers for the ESP32-based microcontroller.

2. Sensors are not providing data.

   • Verify the sensor connections and ensure they are connected to the correct pins.
   • Check the sensor's operating voltage and ensure it matches the senseBox's output.

3. Code upload fails.

   • Ensure the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE.
   • Press and hold the "EN" button on the senseBox while uploading the code.

4. Wi-Fi or BLE is not working.

   • Verify the Wi-Fi credentials in your code.
   • Ensure the senseBox is within range of the Wi-Fi network or BLE device.

Q: Can I use the senseBox with other IDEs besides Arduino?
A: Yes, the senseBox is compatible with other IDEs such as PlatformIO, but additional setup may be required.

Q: What is the maximum range for Wi-Fi connectivity?
A: The Wi-Fi range depends on environmental factors but typically extends up to 30 meters indoors and 100 meters outdoors.

Q: Can I power the senseBox with a battery?
A: Yes, the senseBox can be powered using a 3.7V LiPo battery connected to the appropriate input.

Q: Is the senseBox compatible with third-party sensors?
A: Yes, the senseBox supports a wide range of third-party sensors as long as they are compatible with the supported communication protocols (I2C, SPI, UART, etc.).

By following this documentation, users can effectively utilize the senseBox for a variety of IoT and sensor-based projects.