How to Use SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E is a compact development board built around the ESP32 WROOM module. It is designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, offering built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. This board is ideal for projects requiring wireless communication, sensor integration, and peripheral control. Its small form factor and compatibility with the Feather ecosystem make it a versatile choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

• IoT devices and smart home automation
• Wireless sensor networks
• Wearable technology
• Robotics and remote control systems
• Data logging and monitoring
• Prototyping and development of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi-enabled devices

The SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E is powered by the ESP32 WROOM module, which features a dual-core processor and integrated wireless communication capabilities. Below are the key technical details:

The SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E features a Feather-compatible pin layout. Below is the pin configuration:

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to a computer or USB power source using a USB-C cable.
   • Alternatively, supply 5V to the VIN pin for external power.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Install the ESP32 board package in the Arduino IDE or use the ESP-IDF framework.
   • Select "SparkFun ESP32 Thing Plus" as the board in the Arduino IDE.
   • Connect the board to your computer and upload your code.

3. Connecting Peripherals:

   • Use the GPIO pins to connect sensors, actuators, or other peripherals.
   • Ensure that the voltage levels of connected devices are compatible with the 3.3V logic of the board.

4. Wireless Communication:

   • Use the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities for wireless data transmission.
   • Configure the network settings in your code to connect to a Wi-Fi network or pair with a Bluetooth device.

• Voltage Levels: The GPIO pins operate at 3.3V. Avoid applying 5V directly to the pins to prevent damage.
• Power Supply: Ensure a stable power supply to avoid unexpected resets or performance issues.
• Antenna Placement: Avoid placing metal objects near the onboard antenna to maintain optimal wireless performance.
• Firmware Updates: Keep the ESP32 firmware updated for improved performance and security.

Below is an example of using the SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E to connect to a Wi-Fi network and send data to a server:

#include <WiFi.h> // Include the Wi-Fi library for ESP32

// Replace with your network credentials
const char* ssid = "Your_SSID";
const char* password = "Your_PASSWORD";

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial communication
  delay(1000);

  // Connect to Wi-Fi
  Serial.print("Connecting to Wi-Fi");
  WiFi.begin(ssid, password);
  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500);
    Serial.print(".");
  }
  Serial.println("\nWi-Fi connected!");
  Serial.print("IP Address: ");
  Serial.println(WiFi.localIP()); // Print the assigned IP address
}

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

1. Board Not Detected by Computer:

   • Ensure the USB-C cable supports data transfer (not just charging).
   • Check if the correct COM port is selected in the Arduino IDE.

2. Wi-Fi Connection Fails:

   • Verify the SSID and password in your code.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is within range and operational.

3. GPIO Pins Not Responding:

   • Confirm that the pins are correctly configured in your code.
   • Check for short circuits or incorrect wiring.

4. Board Resets Unexpectedly:

   • Ensure a stable power supply.
   • Avoid drawing excessive current from the GPIO pins.

Q: Can I power the board with a LiPo battery?
A: Yes, the board has a JST connector for a single-cell LiPo battery. It also includes a charging circuit.

Q: Is the board compatible with the Arduino IDE?
A: Yes, the SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E is fully compatible with the Arduino IDE after installing the ESP32 board package.

Q: Can I use this board for Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) applications?
A: Absolutely! The ESP32 WROOM module supports BLE, making it suitable for low-power Bluetooth applications.

Q: How do I reset the board?
A: Press the RST button or pull the EN pin low to reset the board.

By following this documentation, you can effectively utilize the SparkFun Thing Plus Wroom E for your IoT and wireless communication projects.