What is it?

To be able to program the ESP32 on the wESP32, we created the wESP32-Prog submodule. It is a tiny module with micro USB, based on the well-supported Silicon Labs CP2102N, and includes the ESP32 auto-programming circuitry so that this doesn't need to be duplicated on every target board, and no buttons need to be pushed for programming.

While the wESP32 can be programmed by other means, this module was specifically designed for the purpose, and being possibly the smallest ESP32 programmer on the market, it's a great solution for your own ESP32 projects as well!

• Based on Silicon Labs CP2102N for best cross-platform compatibility
• Specifically created for wESP32 programming and serial console
• Contains ESP32 auto-programming transistor circuitry on-board
• For permanent installation or temporary programming use
• ESD protection on USB and UART signals
• 5V through Schottky to power your circuit (diode-OR with other power sources and regulate to 3.3V on your board)

Why did you make it?

Often, the USB serial interface on ESP32 boards is only useful during development or for factory programming, and not on deployed products. Since I wanted to have the option for the wESP32 to have a USB serial console, but not have to burden every board with it, I decided to make it a submodule. Those who want it can add it in, those who don't need it can leave it off.

While some ESP32 programming modules were already on the market, none provided exactly what I was looking for: minimum footprint on the main board, the ability to power the main board through the USB or other power sources as needed, ESD protection, and board edge USB access for permanent installs.

What makes it special?

It's tiny, flexible, and very useful. Why would you replicate the ESP32 auto-programming circuitry on every board, when you can just put a 6-pin footprint instead? Since I've made this, I've already used it with several commercial boards for my customers. They can solder it on the boards they use for development, but production boards just have the 6-pin header footprint that costs nothing, and the programming and test fixture has a wESP32-Prog and a row of pogo pins to connect it.

Notes

NOTE 1: The auto-programming circuitry does NOT include the pull-up resistors on EN and IO0 on the wESP32-Prog because they always need to be present on the main board that has the ESP32 to ensure it boots correctly, whether the programming module is present or not. So please don't complain that the pull-ups are missing, this is by design. They need to be on your main ESP32 board.

NOTE 2: We now also sell the wESP32-Prog-C which has a USB Type-C connector and the capability of 12 V USB PD output!