What is it?

The wESP32™ is an ESP32 core board with wired Ethernet connectivity and Power over Ethernet that was designed to help Makers quickly create zero-setup, single-wire-install connected devices. By combining a powerful microcontroller with excellent community support, 13 W of power, and reliable connectivity in a compact footprint, the wESP32 gives you a head start in your next IoT design and allows you to focus on your application.

We're now selling revision 7! Make sure your code calls out the new RTL8201 PHY, see the docs.

The wESP32 provides the following functionality and features:

• Espressif Systems ESP32-WROOM-32E module, dual-core 240 MHz with 16 MB of flash (revision 7).
• Optional wESP32-Prog or wESP32-Prog-C module for programming and/or USB serial console can be plugged in as needed or soldered in permanently.
• IEEE 802.3at Type 1 Class 0 compliant PoE with 12.95+ W of power available at the default 12 V output setting for V+.
• Optional 5 V output setting for V+ configurable by solder jumper with 5 W of power available.
• 3.3 V output with up to 6 W output power available (power taken from V+).
• Applying external power to V+ is supported, in case PoE is not available.
• Applying power through the wESP32-Prog or wESP32-Prog-C USB port is supported (only provides USB 5 V on V+ for wESP32-Prog, 12 V supported with wESP32-Prog-C by closing solder jumper and using a USB PD supply that supports 12V).
• High performance RJ-45 jack with optimized data path and RTL8201 PHY (revision 7).
• Compatible with PoE Mode A (power over data pairs) and PoE Mode B (power over spare pairs) and Auto-MDIX allowing the use of straight and cross-over Ethernet cables.
• Designed with full data and power path isolation to comply with the IEEE 802.3at 1500 Vrms isolation requirement.
• High quality 4-layer PCB (revision 7) with mounting hole designed to sink heat away from the PoE PD controller for optimal thermal performance.
• 20-pin header footprint with 3.3 V, V+ power and 15 of the ESP32 GPIOs available for your application.
• Compact 75 mm by 40 mm footprint with 4 mounting holes compatible with common M2.5 or 4-40 screws.

The main board comes fully assembled as shown in the pictures. The optional wESP32-Prog or wESP32-Prog-C programming board are included separately if selected. This allows you to assemble the header facing up or facing down as needed and for the programming board to be connected or removed as needed.

Why did you make it?

I found out the ESP32 supported Ethernet, but there were very few boards available to enable this for end users. There were even less that also provided Power over Ethernet, and at the time I designed the wESP32 there were none that provided proper isolation to allow actual deployment in buildings. At the time of writing, I think there's only one other isolated ESP32 PoE board on the market, but it only provides 1 W of power, while the wESP32 provides 13 W.

The power of PoE connected devices really stands out when you consider what you can do with 13 W of power. A single CAT5 or CAT6 cable can provide power and connectivity for secure building automation functionality, drive solenoids and motors, smart LED lighting, smart door locks, IP camera functionality, network speakers, and so on. The possibilities are vast. And due to the low voltage nature, all of it can be installed without needing a licensed electrician.

What makes it special?

The wESP32 was created not just as a development board to sit on a desk, but as a device that can be deployed in actual building installations. Providing a powerful and well supported CPU with 13W of power and secure wired (or wireless--Bluetooth and WiFi are still available) connectivity, this core board provides a good base for your IoT or smart home / smart building projects. Just create a simple extension board for your sensor or actuator that plugs in to the GPIO header, and your project is done!