How to Use ESP32-C6 : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ESP32-C6 is a low-power, dual-core microcontroller developed by Sparkfun under the part ID Qwiic. It is designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, offering integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 (LE) capabilities. Built on a 32-bit RISC-V architecture, the ESP32-C6 is highly versatile, supporting a wide range of peripherals and communication protocols. Its low power consumption and robust connectivity make it ideal for smart devices, home automation, wearables, and industrial IoT systems.

• Smart home devices (e.g., smart lights, thermostats)
• Wearable technology
• Industrial IoT systems
• Wireless sensor networks
• Low-power Bluetooth applications
• Edge computing and AI/ML at the edge

The ESP32-C6 has a total of 48 pins, with 22 GPIOs that can be configured for various functions. Below is a summary of the key pins:

1. Power Supply: Provide a stable 3.3V power supply to the 3V3 pin. Ensure the ground (GND) is connected to the circuit's common ground.
2. Boot Mode: To upload code, connect GPIO0 to GND during reset to enter bootloader mode.
3. Programming: Use the Sparkfun Qwiic interface or a USB-to-serial adapter to program the ESP32-C6. The chip is compatible with the Arduino IDE and ESP-IDF.
4. Peripherals: Connect peripherals (e.g., sensors, actuators) to the GPIO pins. Configure the pins in your code for the desired function (e.g., input, output, ADC, PWM).

• Voltage Levels: Ensure all connected peripherals operate at 3.3V logic levels. Use level shifters if interfacing with 5V devices.
• Power Consumption: Use deep sleep modes to minimize power consumption in battery-powered applications.
• Antenna Placement: For optimal Wi-Fi and Bluetooth performance, ensure the onboard antenna is not obstructed by metal or other conductive materials.

Below is an example of using the ESP32-C6 to read an analog sensor and send data over Wi-Fi:

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

// Wi-Fi credentials
const char* ssid = "Your_SSID";
const char* password = "Your_PASSWORD";

// Analog pin for sensor input
const int sensorPin = 34; // GPIO34 (ADC1_CH0)

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial communication
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password); // Connect to Wi-Fi

  // Wait for Wi-Fi connection
  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500);
    Serial.print(".");
  }
  Serial.println("\nWi-Fi connected!");
}

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); // Read analog value from sensor
  float voltage = sensorValue * (3.3 / 4095.0); // Convert to voltage

  // Print sensor value and voltage
  Serial.print("Sensor Value: ");
  Serial.print(sensorValue);
  Serial.print(" | Voltage: ");
  Serial.println(voltage);

  delay(1000); // Wait 1 second before next reading
}

1. ESP32-C6 Not Connecting to Wi-Fi

   • Solution: Double-check the SSID and password in your code. Ensure the router is within range and supports 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (ESP32-C6 does not support 5 GHz Wi-Fi).

2. Code Upload Fails

   • Solution: Ensure GPIO0 is connected to GND during reset to enter bootloader mode. Verify the correct COM port and board settings in the Arduino IDE.

3. Unstable Power Supply

   • Solution: Use a decoupling capacitor (e.g., 10 µF) near the 3V3 pin to stabilize the power supply.

4. Low Wi-Fi Signal Strength

   • Solution: Check the placement of the ESP32-C6 module. Avoid placing it near metal objects or inside enclosures that block RF signals.

• Q: Can the ESP32-C6 operate on 5V?
  A: No, the ESP32-C6 operates at 3.3V. Use a voltage regulator or level shifter for 5V systems.

• Q: Does the ESP32-C6 support OTA updates?
  A: Yes, the ESP32-C6 supports Over-The-Air (OTA) firmware updates.

• Q: Can I use the ESP32-C6 with the Arduino IDE?
  A: Yes, the ESP32-C6 is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE. Install the ESP32 board package to get started.

• Q: What is the maximum range of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
  A: Wi-Fi range is approximately 30 meters indoors and 100 meters outdoors. Bluetooth range depends on the environment but typically reaches up to 50 meters.

This documentation provides a comprehensive guide to the Sparkfun ESP32-C6 (Qwiic), ensuring users can effectively integrate it into their projects.