How to Use ESP32 WROVER CAM FREENOVE: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32 WROVER CAM FREENOVE is a powerful and versatile Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled microcontroller module with an integrated camera. It is designed for IoT applications, image processing, and video streaming. This module combines the ESP32 microcontroller with a camera module, making it ideal for projects requiring image capture, facial recognition, or video surveillance.

• Home security systems with video streaming
• Smart doorbells with facial recognition
• IoT devices requiring image or video processing
• Remote monitoring and surveillance
• Machine vision and AI-based image recognition projects

• Microcontroller: ESP32 dual-core processor with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Camera: OV2640 2MP camera module
• Flash Memory: 4MB PSRAM and 4MB Flash
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V
• Power Consumption: ~160mA (active mode)
• Wireless Connectivity: 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
• GPIO Pins: 9 available for user applications
• Interfaces: UART, SPI, I2C, PWM
• Dimensions: 27mm x 40.5mm

The ESP32 WROVER CAM FREENOVE has a specific pinout for connecting peripherals. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Power Supply: Connect the 3V3 pin to a 3.3V power source and GND to ground.
2. Camera Connection: The OV2640 camera module is pre-attached to the ESP32 WROVER CAM. Ensure the ribbon cable is securely connected.
3. Flashing Firmware:
   • Connect GPIO0 to GND to enable boot mode.
   • Use a USB-to-serial adapter to connect the module to your computer.
   • Flash the firmware using the ESP32 development tools (e.g., Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF).
4. Programming: Use the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF to write and upload code. Ensure the correct board and port are selected in the IDE.

• Power Supply: Use a stable 3.3V power source to avoid damage to the module.
• Heat Management: The ESP32 can get warm during operation. Ensure proper ventilation.
• Camera Orientation: Ensure the camera is securely connected and oriented correctly.
• GPIO Usage: Avoid using GPIO pins reserved for the camera or other internal functions.

Below is an example code to capture and stream video using the ESP32 WROVER CAM:

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

// Replace with your Wi-Fi 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    21
#define SIOD_GPIO_NUM    22
#define SIOC_GPIO_NUM    23

#define Y9_GPIO_NUM      19
#define Y8_GPIO_NUM      18
#define Y7_GPIO_NUM      5
#define Y6_GPIO_NUM      4
#define Y5_GPIO_NUM      15
#define Y4_GPIO_NUM      14
#define Y3_GPIO_NUM      13
#define Y2_GPIO_NUM      12
#define VSYNC_GPIO_NUM   25
#define HREF_GPIO_NUM    27
#define PCLK_GPIO_NUM    26

void startCameraServer();

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

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

  // Configure 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;

  // Initialize the camera
  if (esp_camera_init(&config) != ESP_OK) {
    Serial.println("Camera init failed");
    return;
  }

  // Start the camera server
  startCameraServer();
  Serial.println("Camera ready! Use the IP address to view the stream.");
}

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

1. Camera Initialization Failed:

   • Ensure the ribbon cable is securely connected to the module.
   • Verify the camera configuration in the code matches the hardware.

2. Wi-Fi Connection Issues:

   • Double-check the SSID and password in the code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is within range.

3. Overheating:

   • Provide adequate ventilation or use a heatsink if necessary.

4. Flashing Errors:

   • Ensure GPIO0 is connected to GND during flashing.
   • Use a reliable USB-to-serial adapter and check the connections.

• Can I use a different camera module? No, the ESP32 WROVER CAM is designed specifically for the OV2640 camera.

• What is the maximum resolution supported? The OV2640 camera supports up to 1600x1200 resolution.

• Can I power the module with 5V? No, the module requires a 3.3V power supply. Use a voltage regulator if needed.