How to Use Firebeetle 2 Board ESP32-C6: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Firebeetle 2 Board ESP32-C6 (Manufacturer Part ID: DFR1075) is a compact and versatile development board designed by DFRobot. It features the powerful ESP32-C6 microcontroller, which integrates Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and IEEE 802.15.4 (Thread/Zigbee) capabilities. This board is ideal for Internet of Things (IoT) applications, enabling seamless connectivity and control for a wide range of sensor and actuator projects.

• IoT Devices: Smart home automation, environmental monitoring, and industrial IoT systems.
• Wireless Communication: Projects requiring Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, or Zigbee/Thread protocols.
• Prototyping: Rapid development of connected devices and proof-of-concept projects.
• Wearable Technology: Compact size makes it suitable for wearable IoT applications.
• Educational Projects: Ideal for learning and experimenting with wireless communication and IoT.

1. Powering the Board:

   • Connect the board to a computer or USB power source using a USB-C cable.
   • Alternatively, supply 3.3V directly to the 3V3 pin and connect GND to ground.

2. Programming the Board:

   • Install the Arduino IDE or PlatformIO for development.
   • Add the ESP32 board package to the IDE by including the appropriate URL in the board manager.
   • Select "Firebeetle 2 ESP32-C6" as the target board in the IDE.

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. Uploading Code:

   • Write your code in the Arduino IDE or PlatformIO.
   • Connect the board to your computer via USB-C and select the correct COM port.
   • Click the upload button to flash the code onto the board.

• Voltage Levels: Ensure all connected peripherals operate at 3.3V logic levels to avoid damaging the board.
• Deep Sleep Mode: Use the deep sleep mode for ultra-low power consumption in battery-powered applications.
• Antenna Placement: Avoid placing the board near metal objects or enclosures that may interfere with wireless signals.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for firmware updates to ensure compatibility with the latest features and bug fixes.

The following example demonstrates how to connect the Firebeetle 2 Board ESP32-C6 to a Wi-Fi network and print the IP address:

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

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

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200); // Initialize serial communication at 115200 baud
  delay(1000); // Wait for the serial monitor to initialize

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

  // Wait until the board is connected to Wi-Fi
  while (WiFi.status() != WL_CONNECTED) {
    delay(500);
    Serial.print(".");
  }

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

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

1. Board Not Detected by Computer:

   • Ensure the USB-C cable is a data cable (not a charge-only cable).
   • Check that the correct COM port is selected in the Arduino IDE or PlatformIO.

2. Wi-Fi Connection Fails:

   • Verify the SSID and password are correct.
   • Ensure the Wi-Fi network is within range and supports 2.4GHz (required by ESP32-C6).

3. Code Upload Fails:

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

4. Peripherals Not Working:

   • Double-check the wiring and ensure the peripherals are compatible with 3.3V logic.
   • Verify that the correct GPIO pins are used in the code.

• Q: Can the Firebeetle 2 Board ESP32-C6 be powered by a battery?
  A: Yes, the board can be powered by a 3.3V battery connected to the 3V3 pin and GND.

• Q: Does the board support OTA (Over-the-Air) updates?
  A: Yes, the ESP32-C6 supports OTA updates, which can be implemented in your code.

• Q: What is the maximum range of the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
  A: The range depends on environmental factors, but typically Wi-Fi can reach up to 50m indoors and 200m outdoors, while Bluetooth has a range of up to 10m indoors.

• Q: Can I use the board with Zigbee or Thread devices?
  A: Yes, the ESP32-C6 supports IEEE 802.15.4, enabling compatibility with Zigbee and Thread protocols.

This concludes the documentation for the Firebeetle 2 Board ESP32-C6. For further assistance, refer to the official DFRobot resources or community forums.