• Lets you flash and debug an ESP controller that is already soldered into the PCB.
• Due to the use of magnets, it snaps together with the ESP and allows hands-free development.
• Integrated UART to USB converter with USB-C.
• No need for tedious soldering to flash or debug the processor.
• You can use it without the top part for probing or connecting to the oscilloscope or logic analyzer.
• Eliminates the need to use additional components for ESP programming at the PCB design stage.
• Precise ESP-12F form cutout ensures a snug fit onto the ESP.
• It can be used for automated testing.

The ESP-12F Flasher is designed to be used with one of the most popular ESP-12F WiFi modules with an integrated ESP8266 core processor. The purpose of this tool is to make programming and debugging a lot easier, even in conditions where the ESP-12F is already embedded into the PCB.

The thing is designed to be used without any additional wires. It uses spring-loaded (pogo) pins to make electrical connections to the ESP-12F pads. This feature allows you to connect directly to the ESP-12F that is already soldered to the PCB. From now on, uploading the code, debugging, and testing pin states without soldering or designing any additional connections is possible. Last but not least, the clever use of magnets also puts you in a position to use the flasher while nicely snapped together with the ESP-12F.

Important! Not all ESP-12F units are made with a magnetic housing. In these cases, the flasher will function properly, but slight pressure will be needed to ensure that pogo pins make electrical contact with the ESP-12F pads. This pressure can be easily maintained by hand or a type of plastic clamping device.

The ESP flasher is made of two parts, the body and the header.

The body holds magnets that keep the tool conveniently connected to the ESP-12F. Spring-loaded pogo pins (type R50) ensure electrical continuity even if the tool is not situated perfectly. Finally, a 2mm pitch pin header exposes all the ESP-12F pins for easy debugging.

The header connects directly to the body via 2mm pitch male connector. The header has a UART to USB converter, USB protection circuit, protection diode, 3.3V step-down voltage regulator, and a transistor to switch the ESP between normal and programming modes automatically. The primary purpose of the header is to create easy connectivity to the ESP-12F.

This listing is for version 1.

The PCB with a battery slot and ESP-12F module used in the images are for demonstration purposes only. They will not be included in the package. The listing is for this ESP programmer only. USB-C cable is not included.