If you’re an IoT enthusiast, hobbyist, or developer looking for a versatile and powerful microcontroller, the ESP32 WROOM-32 Development Board 5V Type-C CH340C WiFi+Bluetooth Ultra-Low Power from Pacific Custom Engineering might just catch your eye. This compact yet feature-packed development board is built around the popular ESP32 WROOM-32 module, offering a blend of WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, ultra-low power consumption, and a modern USB Type-C interface. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what makes this board stand out, its key features, and why it could be a great addition to your next project.
What is the ESP32 WROOM-32 Development Board?
At its core, the ESP32 WROOM-32 Development Board is powered by the ESP32 WROOM-32 module, a widely acclaimed microcontroller unit (MCU) from Espressif Systems. Known for its dual-core processor and integrated WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, the ESP32 is a go-to choice for projects ranging from smart home devices to wearable tech. Pacific Custom Engineering has taken this robust module and packaged it into a user-friendly development board, complete with a Type-C USB interface and the CH340C USB-to-serial chip for seamless programming and debugging.
Key Features That Shine
Let’s break down some of the standout features of this board:
- WiFi and Bluetooth Connectivity
The ESP32 WROOM-32 module supports both WiFi (802.11 b/g/n) and Bluetooth (v4.2 BR/EDR and BLE standards), making it a dual-threat for wireless communication. Whether you’re building a device that connects to the internet via a router or one that pairs with your smartphone over Bluetooth, this board has you covered. The onboard PCB antenna, with a 2dB gain, ensures reliable signal strength for a variety of applications.
- Ultra-Low Power Consumption
One of the ESP32’s biggest strengths is its energy efficiency, and this board leverages that to the fullest. It’s designed for low-power operation, which is a game-changer for battery-powered projects like sensor networks or portable gadgets. The module’s ability to handle both WiFi and Bluetooth without guzzling power makes it ideal for long-term deployments.
- Type-C USB with CH340C
Gone are the days of fumbling with micro-USB cables. The inclusion of a 5V Type-C USB port brings this board into the modern era, offering a reversible, sturdy connection for power and data. Paired with the CH340C USB-to-serial chip, it ensures fast and stable communication with your computer, making firmware uploads and debugging a breeze.
- Integrated SPI Flash
With a default 32Mbit (4MB) SPI flash, this board provides ample storage for your code and data. The fast and reliable flash memory enhances performance, allowing you to tackle more complex applications without worrying about running out of space.
- Wide Range of Interfaces
The ESP32 WROOM-32 supports a slew of interfaces—UART, SPI, SDIO, I2C, PWM, I2S, IR, ADC, and DAC—giving you the flexibility to connect sensors, displays, and other peripherals. Whether you’re prototyping a smart thermostat or a wireless audio device, the board’s versatility has you covered.
- Compact Design
Measuring approximately 54 x 28 x 10mm (2.12 x 1.10 x 0.39 inches), this board is small enough to fit into tight spaces but still offers easy access to its pins for breadboarding or custom enclosures.
Why Choose This Board?
Pacific Custom Engineering’s take on the ESP32 WROOM-32 stands out for its thoughtful design choices. The Type-C USB port is a welcome upgrade over older micro-USB variants, aligning with the direction of modern electronics. The CH340C chip, while not as premium as some alternatives like the CP2102, is a reliable and cost-effective choice that gets the job done for most users. Plus, the ultra-low power features make it a strong contender for projects where efficiency is paramount.
For developers, the board’s compatibility with popular programming environments like the Arduino IDE, PlatformIO, and MicroPython means you can jump right in with your preferred tools. The built-in WiFi and Bluetooth open up a world of possibilities—think home automation hubs, wireless sensor nodes, or even DIY smartwatches.
Potential Use Cases
- Smart Home Devices: Use the WiFi to connect to your home network and control lights, thermostats, or locks remotely.
- Wearable Tech: Leverage the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support for fitness trackers or smart jewelry that syncs with your phone.
- IoT Sensor Networks: Deploy battery-powered nodes that transmit environmental data over WiFi, thanks to the low-power design.
- Prototyping: With its wide range of interfaces and compact size, it’s perfect for experimenting with new ideas on a breadboard.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
While this board is packed with features, it’s worth noting a couple of considerations. The CH340C chip requires drivers on some operating systems (like Windows or macOS), though these are widely available and easy to install. Additionally, the 5V input via Type-C is convenient, but if you’re powering it externally, ensure your supply aligns with the board’s voltage tolerances to avoid any issues.
Final Thoughts
The ESP32 WROOM-32 Development Board 5V Type-C CH340C WiFi+Bluetooth Ultra-Low Power from Pacific Custom Engineering is a fantastic option for anyone looking to harness the power of the ESP32 in a sleek, modern package. Its blend of wireless connectivity, low power consumption, and developer-friendly design makes it a versatile tool for both beginners and seasoned makers. Whether you’re building your first IoT project or scaling up to something more ambitious, this board offers the performance and flexibility to bring your ideas to life.
Ready to get started? Head over to Pacific Custom Engineering’s product page to grab one and start tinkering. Happy building!
Discover more from Pacific Custom Engineering
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Thank you