How to Use FireBeetle ESP32: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The FireBeetle ESP32 is a compact development board manufactured by DFRobot (Part ID: ESP32). It is powered by the ESP32 microcontroller, which features dual-core processing, built-in Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities. Designed specifically for IoT applications, the FireBeetle ESP32 is an excellent choice for prototyping and embedded projects. Its low power consumption, multiple GPIO pins, and compatibility with a wide range of sensors and modules make it a versatile tool for developers.

• IoT (Internet of Things) devices and smart home systems
• Wireless sensor networks
• Wearable technology
• Robotics and automation
• Data logging and remote monitoring
• Prototyping and educational projects

The FireBeetle ESP32 is built to provide robust performance while maintaining a compact form factor. Below are its key technical details:

The FireBeetle ESP32 features a total of 22 GPIO pins, which can be configured for various functions. Below is the pinout description:

Note: Some GPIO pins are reserved for internal functions (e.g., SPI flash). Refer to the official datasheet for detailed pin usage guidelines.

The FireBeetle ESP32 is easy to integrate into a variety of projects. Below are the steps to get started and important considerations:

1. Powering the Board:

   • The board can be powered via the USB-C port or through the VIN pin (3.3V - 5V).
   • Ensure the power supply is stable to avoid damage to the microcontroller.

2. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the GPIO pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other modules.
   • Configure the pins in your code according to the required functionality (e.g., input, output, ADC, PWM).

3. Programming the Board:

   • Install the Arduino IDE and add the ESP32 board package via the Board Manager.
   • Select "FireBeetle-ESP32" as the target board.
   • Connect the board to your computer using a USB-C cable and upload your code.

The following example demonstrates how to blink an LED connected to GPIO2:

// Define the GPIO pin where the LED is connected
const int ledPin = 2;

void setup() {
  // Set the LED pin as an output
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Turn the LED on
  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH);
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second

  // Turn the LED off
  digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
}

• Voltage Levels: Ensure all connected peripherals operate at 3.3V logic levels to avoid damaging the board.
• Deep Sleep Mode: Use the deep sleep mode to minimize power consumption in battery-powered applications.
• Pin Conflicts: Avoid using GPIO pins reserved for internal functions (e.g., GPIO6 - GPIO11 for SPI flash).
• Firmware Updates: Keep the ESP32 firmware updated to ensure compatibility with the latest libraries.

1. The board is not detected by the computer:

   • Ensure the USB-C cable is a data cable (not just a charging cable).
   • Check if the correct drivers for the USB-to-serial chip are installed.

2. Code upload fails:

   • Verify that the correct board and COM port are selected in the Arduino IDE.
   • Press and hold the "BOOT" button on the board while uploading the code.

3. Wi-Fi connection issues:

   • Double-check the SSID and password in your code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is within range and supports 2.4 GHz (ESP32 does not support 5 GHz).

4. GPIO pin not working as expected:

   • Confirm that the pin is not reserved for internal functions.
   • Check for short circuits or incorrect wiring.

Q: Can the FireBeetle ESP32 be powered by a battery?
A: Yes, the board supports battery power through the JST connector or VIN pin. Ensure the battery voltage is within the supported range (3.3V - 5V).

Q: Is the FireBeetle ESP32 compatible with Arduino libraries?
A: Yes, the board is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE and supports most Arduino libraries.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the "RST" button on the board to perform a hardware reset.

Q: Can I use the FireBeetle ESP32 for Bluetooth applications?
A: Yes, the board supports both BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and Classic Bluetooth for a wide range of applications.

By following this documentation, you can effectively utilize the FireBeetle ESP32 in your projects. For more advanced features, refer to the official DFRobot datasheet and resources.