How to Use ESP32-S3 DevKit-C: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32-S3 DevKit-C is a development board manufactured by YK, featuring the powerful ESP32-S3 chip. This board is designed for IoT (Internet of Things) applications, offering integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. It is ideal for prototyping and developing smart devices, thanks to its versatile GPIO pins and support for various peripherals.

• Smart home devices
• Wearable electronics
• Industrial IoT systems
• Wireless sensor networks
• Robotics and automation
• Edge computing and AI applications

The ESP32-S3 DevKit-C is built around the ESP32-S3 chip, which is optimized for low-power and high-performance applications. Below are the key technical details:

• Processor: Dual-core Xtensa LX7 CPU, up to 240 MHz
• Wireless Connectivity:
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11 b/g/n (2.4 GHz)
  • Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.0 (LE)
• Memory:
  • 512 KB SRAM
  • 8 MB PSRAM (external)
• Flash Storage: 16 MB
• GPIO Pins: 21 (configurable for various peripherals)
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Power Supply: USB Type-C (5V input)
• Interfaces: SPI, I2C, UART, ADC, DAC, PWM
• USB-to-Serial Chip: CP2102N
• Dimensions: 54 mm x 25 mm

The ESP32-S3 DevKit-C features a 2x19 pin header layout. Below is the pin configuration:

Note: Some GPIO pins have specific functions (e.g., ADC, DAC, SPI, I2C). Refer to the ESP32-S3 datasheet for detailed pin multiplexing options.

1. Powering the Board: Connect the board to your computer or a USB power source using a USB Type-C cable. Ensure the power supply provides 5V.
2. Programming the Board: Use the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF (Espressif IoT Development Framework) to program the board. Install the necessary drivers for the CP2102N USB-to-Serial chip.
3. Connecting Peripherals: Use the GPIO pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other peripherals. Ensure the voltage levels are compatible (3.3V logic).
4. Flashing Firmware:
   • Hold the BOOT button while pressing the EN button to enter flashing mode.
   • Release the BOOT button and upload the firmware using your development environment.

Below is an example of how to blink an LED connected to GPIO2:

// Define the GPIO pin where the LED is connected
#define LED_PIN 2

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

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

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

• Voltage Levels: The GPIO pins operate at 3.3V. Avoid connecting 5V peripherals directly to the pins without a level shifter.
• Power Supply: Ensure the USB power source can provide sufficient current (at least 500 mA) for the board and connected peripherals.
• Boot Mode: Use GPIO0 to select the boot mode. Pull it low to enter flashing mode.

1. Board Not Detected by Computer

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
   • Install the CP2102N USB-to-Serial driver if not already installed.
   • Check the Device Manager (Windows) or ls /dev/tty.* (macOS/Linux) for the serial port.

2. Failed to Upload Code

   • Verify the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF.
   • Hold the BOOT button while pressing the EN button to enter flashing mode.

3. Wi-Fi Connection Issues

   • Ensure the correct SSID and password are used in your code.
   • Check for interference or weak signal strength.

4. GPIO Pin Not Working

   • Verify the pin is not being used for another function (e.g., ADC, SPI).
   • Check for wiring issues or incorrect pinMode configuration.

Q: Can I power the board using an external 3.3V source?
A: Yes, you can power the board via the 3V3 pin, but ensure the source is stable and capable of supplying sufficient current.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the EN button to reset the board.

Q: Can I use the ESP32-S3 DevKit-C with MicroPython?
A: Yes, the board supports MicroPython. Flash the MicroPython firmware using tools like esptool.py.

Q: What is the maximum current draw of the board?
A: The board typically draws around 240 mA during Wi-Fi transmission. Ensure your power source can handle peak currents.

This concludes the documentation for the ESP32-S3 DevKit-C. For further details, refer to the official datasheet and user guide provided by the manufacturer.