How to Use ESP-32 DEVKIT-V1 Expansion Board(with all pins): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP-32 DEVKIT-V1 Expansion Board, manufactured by Espressif, is a versatile development board designed for prototyping and building IoT (Internet of Things) applications. It features the powerful ESP32 chip, which integrates both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, making it ideal for wireless communication projects. This board provides access to all GPIO pins, allowing seamless integration with various sensors, actuators, and modules.

• IoT devices and smart home automation
• Wireless sensor networks
• Wearable technology
• Robotics and automation systems
• Prototyping and educational projects
• Real-time data monitoring and logging

The ESP-32 DEVKIT-V1 Expansion Board is built around the ESP32 microcontroller, which is known for its high performance and low power consumption. Below are the key technical details:

The ESP-32 DEVKIT-V1 Expansion Board provides access to all GPIO pins, which can be configured for various functions. Below is the pinout description:

Note: Some GPIO pins have specific restrictions or are used during boot. Refer to the ESP32 datasheet for detailed pin behavior.

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to your computer via a micro-USB cable for power and programming.
   • Alternatively, supply 5V to the VIN pin and connect GND to the ground of your power source.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Install the Arduino IDE and add the ESP32 board support package.
   • Select "ESP32 Dev Module" from the Tools > Board menu.
   • Connect the board to your computer and select the appropriate COM port.
   • Write your code and upload it to the board.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use jumper wires to connect sensors, actuators, or modules to the GPIO pins.
   • Ensure that the voltage levels of connected components are compatible with the 3.3V logic of the ESP32.

4. Using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:

   • Use the built-in libraries (WiFi.h and BluetoothSerial.h) to enable wireless communication.
   • Configure the ESP32 as a Wi-Fi client, access point, or Bluetooth device as needed.

• Voltage Levels: The GPIO pins operate at 3.3V. Avoid connecting 5V signals directly to the pins to prevent damage.
• Boot Mode: GPIO0 must be pulled low during programming. Ensure no external components interfere with this pin.
• Power Supply: Use a stable power source to avoid unexpected resets or instability.
• Heat Management: The ESP32 can get warm during operation. Ensure proper ventilation if used in an enclosed space.

The following example demonstrates how to connect the ESP-32 DEVKIT-V1 to a Wi-Fi network and print the IP address:

#include <WiFi.h> // Include the Wi-Fi library

const char* ssid = "Your_SSID";       // Replace with your Wi-Fi network name
const char* password = "Your_Password"; // Replace with your Wi-Fi password

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial communication at 115200 baud
  delay(1000);          // Wait for a moment to stabilize

  Serial.println("Connecting to Wi-Fi...");
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password); // Start connecting to Wi-Fi

  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500); // Wait until the connection is established
    Serial.print(".");
  }

  Serial.println("\nConnected to Wi-Fi!");
  Serial.print("IP Address: ");
  Serial.println(WiFi.localIP()); // Print the assigned IP address
}

void loop() {
  // Add your main code here
}

Tip: Replace Your_SSID and Your_Password with your Wi-Fi credentials before uploading the code.

1. The board is not detected by the computer:

   • Ensure the USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
   • Install the required USB-to-serial driver (e.g., CP2102 or CH340, depending on your board).

2. Upload fails with a timeout error:

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

3. Wi-Fi connection fails:

   • Verify the SSID and password in your code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is within range and not using unsupported security protocols.

4. GPIO pins not working as expected:

   • Check if the pin is reserved for boot or other special functions.
   • Avoid using GPIO6-GPIO11, as they are connected to the onboard flash memory.

• Can I power the board with a battery?
  Yes, you can use a 3.7V LiPo battery connected to the 3V3 pin or a 5V source connected to the VIN pin.

• What is the maximum current output of the 3.3V pin?
  The 3.3V pin can supply up to 500 mA, depending on the input power source.

• Can I use the ESP32 with MicroPython?
  Yes, the ESP32 supports MicroPython. You can flash the MicroPython firmware to the board and use it for programming.

• Is the board compatible with Arduino libraries?
  Most Arduino libraries are compatible with the ESP32. However, some may require modifications for full functionality.