How to Use ESP32-Cam Terminal Breakout Board: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32-Cam Terminal Breakout Board by MicroRobot (Part ID: ESP32-Cam Breakout Board) is a versatile accessory designed to simplify the use of the ESP32-Cam module. This breakout board provides easy access to the ESP32-Cam's GPIO pins, power connections, and programming interfaces, making it an essential tool for prototyping and developing IoT applications with camera capabilities.

• IoT projects requiring video streaming or image capture
• Smart home devices with camera functionality
• Remote monitoring and surveillance systems
• AI and machine learning applications (e.g., facial recognition)
• Prototyping and testing ESP32-Cam-based designs

The ESP32-Cam Terminal Breakout Board is designed to complement the ESP32-Cam module by providing a user-friendly interface for connections and programming. Below are the key technical details:

• Input Voltage: 5V (via micro-USB or external power supply)
• GPIO Access: Terminal blocks for all ESP32-Cam GPIO pins
• Programming Interface: Integrated FTDI header for UART communication
• Dimensions: 50mm x 40mm x 10mm
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
• Compatibility: Designed specifically for the ESP32-Cam module

The breakout board provides terminal blocks and headers for easy access to the ESP32-Cam's pins. Below is the pinout description:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect a 5V power supply to the 5V and GND terminals or use the micro-USB port.
   • Ensure the power supply can provide at least 500mA to avoid instability.

2. Connecting the ESP32-Cam:

   • Insert the ESP32-Cam module into the breakout board's socket, ensuring proper alignment.
   • Use the terminal blocks to connect external components (e.g., sensors, LEDs) to the GPIO pins.

3. Programming the ESP32-Cam:

   • Connect an FTDI programmer to the UART header (TXD, RXD, GND, and 5V).
   • Set GPIO0 to LOW (connect to GND) to enable programming mode.
   • Use the Arduino IDE or other compatible software to upload code.

4. Using the GPIO Pins:

   • Use the terminal blocks to connect peripherals like relays, motors, or sensors.
   • Refer to the ESP32-Cam datasheet for GPIO pin capabilities (e.g., PWM, ADC, I2C).

• Power Supply: Ensure a stable 5V power source to avoid brownouts during operation.
• GPIO Voltage Levels: The ESP32-Cam operates at 3.3V logic levels. Use level shifters if interfacing with 5V devices.
• Programming Mode: Always set GPIO0 to LOW before uploading code, and reset the board after programming.
• Heat Management: The ESP32-Cam can get warm during operation. Ensure adequate ventilation.

Below is an example of how to use the ESP32-Cam with the Arduino IDE to capture an image and display it on a web server:

#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);
  
  // Connect to Wi-Fi
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password);
  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500);
    Serial.print(".");
  }
  Serial.println("\nWiFi 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 (psramFound()) {
    config.frame_size = FRAMESIZE_UXGA;
    config.jpeg_quality = 10;
    config.fb_count = 2;
  } else {
    config.frame_size = FRAMESIZE_SVGA;
    config.jpeg_quality = 12;
    config.fb_count = 1;
  }

  // Initialize the camera
  esp_err_t err = esp_camera_init(&config);
  if (err != ESP_OK) {
    Serial.printf("Camera init failed with error 0x%x", err);
    return;
  }

  // Start the camera server
  startCameraServer();
  Serial.println("Camera ready! Use 'http://<ESP32-Cam-IP>' to view the stream.");
}

void loop() {
  // Nothing to do here
}

1. ESP32-Cam Not Detected During Programming:

   • Ensure GPIO0 is connected to GND before uploading code.
   • Verify the FTDI programmer is connected correctly (TXD to RXD, RXD to TXD).
   • Check that the FTDI programmer is set to 3.3V mode.

2. Brownout Resets:

   • Use a stable 5V power supply capable of providing at least 500mA.
   • Avoid powering the ESP32-Cam through the FTDI programmer.

3. No Video Stream:

   • Verify the Wi-Fi credentials in the code.
   • Check the serial monitor for error messages during initialization.

4. Overheating:

   • Ensure proper ventilation around the ESP32-Cam module.
   • Reduce the frame size or disable the camera when not in use.

• Can I use this breakout board with other ESP32 modules? No, this breakout board is specifically designed for the ESP32-Cam module.

• What is the maximum current draw of the ESP32-Cam? The ESP32-Cam can draw up to 300mA during operation, so ensure your power supply can handle this.

• Do I need additional components to use this breakout board? No, the breakout board provides all necessary connections for the ESP32-Cam. However, you may need an FTDI programmer for uploading code.