The ESP32-CAM-MB 5V WiFi Bluetooth Development Board with CH340G and OV2640 Camera, available from Pacific Custom Engineering, is a compact and versatile microcontroller module tailored for projects requiring wireless connectivity and image capture. This device combines the power of the ESP32 platform with an integrated camera, making it a practical choice for hobbyists, developers, and engineers working on IoT (Internet of Things) applications. Let’s dive into its features, specifications, and potential uses.
Key Features and Specifications
The ESP32-CAM-MB is built around the ESP32-S module, which houses a dual-core 32-bit LX6 processor capable of clock speeds ranging from 80 MHz to 240 MHz. This processing power supports a wide range of tasks, from basic control operations to more complex computations. The board includes WiFi (802.11 b/g/n/e/i) and Bluetooth (v4.2 BR/EDR and BLE) capabilities, enabling seamless wireless communication. The onboard PCB antenna, with a 2dB gain, facilitates connectivity over reasonable distances when paired with a router, while an optional external antenna connection (via an IPEX connector) is available for extended range.
A standout feature is the OV2640 camera module, which offers a 2-megapixel resolution (1600×1200) and supports image output in JPEG, BMP, and grayscale formats. The camera integrates a flash LED, controllable via GPIO, which aids in low-light conditions. The board also includes a microSD card slot (supporting up to 4GB) for local storage of captured images or data logs.
Powering the device is straightforward with a 5V input via a Micro USB port, managed by the CH340G USB-to-serial chip for reliable computer interfacing. Its compact dimensions—39.8 x 27 x 4.5 mm—make it easy to integrate into space-constrained projects. The module’s ultra-low power consumption, with a deep sleep current as low as 6mA, is particularly noteworthy for battery-powered applications.
The ESP32-CAM-MB supports a variety of interfaces, including UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, ADC, and DAC, providing flexibility for connecting sensors, displays, or other peripherals. It also features 520 KB of SRAM and 4MB of PSRAM, alongside compatibility with multiple sleep modes and secondary development through platforms like the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF.
Practical Applications
This development board is well-suited for a range of IoT projects due to its combination of wireless connectivity, image capture, and processing capabilities. Here are a few examples:
- Wireless Surveillance: The OV2640 camera and WiFi functionality allow the board to serve as a simple IP camera for remote monitoring. Images or video streams can be uploaded to a server or accessed via a mobile device.
- Smart Home Devices: Integrate it into home automation systems to detect motion, recognize QR codes, or monitor environmental conditions when paired with additional sensors.
- DIY Photography: Use it for time-lapse photography or as a triggerable camera in remote locations, leveraging the microSD card for storage.
- Educational Projects: Its affordability and ease of programming make it an excellent tool for learning about microcontrollers, wireless communication, and image processing.
The board’s support for Smart Config and AirKiss one-click network configuration simplifies WiFi setup, while its STA, AP, and STA+AP modes offer flexibility in network roles—acting as a client, access point, or both.
Getting Started
To use the ESP32-CAM-MB, connect it to a computer via the Micro USB port, ensuring a stable 5V power supply (at least 2A is recommended to avoid instability during camera operation). The CH340G chip handles serial communication, so drivers may need to be installed depending on your operating system. Programming is typically done through the Arduino IDE by selecting the “ESP32-CAM” board and configuring the appropriate camera settings (e.g., OV2640). Example sketches, such as a web server for streaming camera footage, are widely available online.
For hardware setup, note that GPIO32 controls the camera’s power (pull low to activate), and GPIO0 should be left floating during use due to its connection to the camera’s clock signal (XCLK). The board ships with default firmware, but re-flashing is possible for custom applications—just handle it carefully to avoid bricking.
Here is a step by step guide to get started: https://pacificcustomengineering.com/2024/03/09/esp32-cam-getting-started-guide/
Final Thoughts
The ESP32-CAM-MB 5V WiFi Bluetooth Development Board with OV2640 Camera, available at Pacific Custom Engineering, is a compact yet capable platform for wireless and vision-based projects. Its blend of dual-core processing, dual-mode connectivity, and a 2MP camera—all in a small, low-power package—makes it a valuable tool for experimentation and practical deployment. Whether you’re building a security camera, a smart doorbell, or a custom IoT sensor node, this board offers the features and flexibility to bring your ideas to life.
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