Installing the ESP32 Board in Arduino IDE

Introduction:

Compared to other platforms, the Arduino IDE stands out as the most beginner-friendly option. While it may not offer the most optimal experience for working with the ESP32, its widespread familiarity makes it a convenient choice for newcomers.

To program the ESP32 using the Arduino IDE, you’ll need to install the ESP32 board, also referred to as the ESP32 Arduino Core, through the Arduino Board Manager. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions for downloading, installing, and testing the ESP32 Arduino Core.

Core:

• Definition of Core: Cores are essential components needed to ensure compatibility between new microcontrollers and the Arduino IDE, enabling existing sketches and libraries to function properly with the new hardware.
• Development Responsibility: Arduino is responsible for developing cores for the microcontrollers (such as Atmel AVR MCUs) used on their boards. However, individuals or organizations can also develop cores for their own boards, provided they adhere to Arduino’s rules and requirements.
• Purpose of Boards Manager: Some development boards may require the installation of an additional core to enable compatibility with the Arduino IDE. Arduino introduced the Boards Manager as a tool to facilitate the addition of cores to the Arduino IDE, streamlining the process for users.

Step1: Install or Update the Arduino IDE:

Begin by ensuring that you have the latest version of the Arduino IDE installed on your computer. If not, it’s advisable to download and install it promptly.

Step2: Install the USB-to-Serial Bridge Driver:

Since there are various ESP32-based development boards with different designs, you might need to install specific drivers for your USB-to-serial converter. These drivers are necessary to enable code uploading to your ESP32.

For instance, the ESP32 DevKit V1 relies on the CP2102 for USB-to-UART signal conversion, while the WeMos ESP32 Lite utilizes the CH340G. Conversely, the ESP32-CAM lacks an integrated USB-to-serial converter and requires an external module.

Prior to proceeding, carefully examine your board to determine the USB-to-serial converter it employs. Typically, you’ll find either the CP2102 or CH340 labeled on the board.

If you haven’t previously installed drivers for these USB-to-serial converters on your computer, it’s essential to do so now.

You can download the CP210x USB to UART Bridge VCP Drivers from the official Silicon Labs website: CP210x USB to UART Bridge VCP Drivers – Silicon Labs (silabs.com)

Step 3: Installing the ESP32 Arduino Core

1. Launch the Arduino IDE.
2. Go to File > Preferences.

1. In the “Additional Board Manager URLs” field, paste the following URL:
2. https://raw.githubusercontent.com/espressif/arduino-esp32/gh-pages/package_esp32_index.json
3. Click the “OK” button.

If you’ve previously added URLs for other boards, you can click the icon beside the field to open a window for adding additional URLs, one per row.

Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager…

Refine your search by typing ‘esp32’. Locate ESP32 by Espressif Systems in the list. Click on it, then select Install.

Step 4: Select the Board and Port

Once you’ve installed the ESP32 Arduino Core, restart your Arduino IDE. Then, go to Tools > Board to verify that ESP32 boards are now available.

In the Tools > Board menu, choose your board (for example, DOIT ESP32 DEVKIT V1). If you’re uncertain about your board, select ESP32 Dev Module.

Lastly, connect your ESP32 board to the computer and choose the appropriate port.

Note:
Always keep the ESP32 Arduino core up to date. Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for ESP32, and check your installed version. If there’s a newer one, update it.

Step 5: Testing the Installation:

Now, you’re all set to test your ESP32 with a simple program. Open the Arduino IDE and reconnect your board if you disconnected it earlier.

Let’s upload a simple sketch – Blink!

Blink sketch for the ESP32 using digital pin5:

// Define the digital pin connected to the LED
#define LED_PIN 5 // Change this to the desired digital pin number

void setup() {
  // Initialize the digital pin as an output
  pinMode(LED_PIN, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Turn the LED on (HIGH) for 1 second
  digitalWrite(LED_PIN, HIGH);
  delay(1000);
  // Turn the LED off (LOW) for 1 second
  digitalWrite(LED_PIN, LOW);
  delay(1000);
}

In this sketch, the LED is connected to digital pin 5 (LED_PIN). You can change the value of LED_PIN to the desired digital pin number where your LED is connected.