ESP32-WROOM Live Mini Kit – Dual-Core Wi-Fi & Bluetooth Development Board with CP2104 USB Interface (Type-C Powered)

SKU: FA1053-6-1
Microcontroller

ESP32-WROOM-32 (Dual-core Xtensa LX6)

Clock Speed

Up to 240 MHz

Wireless

2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n), Bluetooth 4.2

Memory

4MB Flash, 520KB SRAM

Operating Voltage

3.3V (Logic Level)

Input Voltage

5V DC via USB Type-C or VIN pin

USB-Serial Chip

CP2104

USB Connector

Type-C

Interface Access

30+ GPIO pins (ADC, DAC, I2C, SPI, UART)

The ESP32-WROOM Live Mini Kit (Type-C) is an updated, compact development board centered around the powerful ESP32-WROOM-32 module. Addressing modern connectivity standards, this board incorporates a robust USB Type-C interface for reliable power and data transfer, managed by the trusted CP2104 USB-to-Serial converter. It is a breadboard-friendly solution providing full access to the ESP32’s dual-core processor, integrated Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities.
Long Description
This board meets the increasing demand for reliable, future-proof connectivity options. The shift to a USB Type-C port ensures robust physical connections and compatibility with modern laptop chargers and accessories, making it more convenient than older Micro-USB variants. The integration of the stable CP2104 USB bridge guarantees consistent programming and debugging across various operating systems. With 4MB of Flash memory, the board supports complex IoT applications, machine learning inference at the edge, or secure, cloud-based data logging.
For individual makers, this Mini Kit is the ideal platform for learning advanced IoT protocols with modern hardware, seamlessly integrating with the Arduino IDE and MicroPython. For business purchasers, its compact size, reliable components, and modern USB standard make it a highly desirable option for embedding within commercial prototypes, such as smart gateways, industrial sensors, or small, connected HMI (Human-Machine Interface) devices.
Key Features
  • Modern Connectivity: Features a durable and reversible USB Type-C port for power and data.
  • Compact & Breadboard-Friendly: Small form factor designed to fit easily onto a standard breadboard without obstructing adjacent pins.
  • Reliable USB Interface: Utilizes the high-quality CP2104 USB-to-Serial bridge for stable communication.
  • Dual-Core Performance: Integrated Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) and Bluetooth 4.2 (BLE and Classic) capabilities.
  • Generous Memory: 4MB QSPI Flash memory for substantial firmware and data storage, supporting OTA updates.
  • Flexible Power Input: Can be powered via USB Type-C 5V, the 5V (VIN) pin, or directly into the 3.3V pin.
Usage Instructions
  1. Hardware Connection: Connect the board to your development machine using a high-quality USB Type-C data cable.
  2. Driver Installation: Install the Silicon Labs CP2104 driver for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
  3. Software Configuration (Arduino IDE):
    • Add the ESP32 board package via the Boards Manager in the Arduino IDE.
    • Select “ESP32 Dev Module” as your target board under the Tools menu.
    • Ensure the correct COM/Serial Port is selected.
  4. Flashing Code: The board typically handles automatic boot mode selection. Simply click ‘Upload’ in the IDE. If needed, manually hold the BOOT (Flash) button while pressing and releasing the EN (Reset) button to force upload mode.
  5. Prototyping: The pin headers are breadboard-compatible, allowing easy integration of sensors, relays, and other modules.
Q: Is this board 5V tolerant?

No. The ESP32 chip strictly uses 3.3V logic levels. Applying 5V directly to any GPIO pin will permanently damage the chip. Use a logic level converter if interfacing with 5V sensors.

Q: Why choose the Type-C version over Micro-USB?

The Type-C connector is physically more robust, universally adopted on new devices, and reversible, preventing damage from incorrect insertion.

Q: Can I power this board with a battery?

Yes, but you will need an external power management circuit. This specific board does not include an onboard Li-Po charging circuit or battery holder. You must supply a regulated 3.3V to the 3.3V pin or 5V to the VIN pin.

Q: My upload consistently fails. What should I do?

Ensure you have installed the correct CP2104 driver and are using a functional USB data cable. Try manually engaging the BOOT mode (hold BOOT, tap EN/Reset, release BOOT upon upload start) if the automatic method fails.

Q: Does it support Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)?

Yes, the ESP32-WROOM module supports dual-mode Bluetooth, which includes both Classic Bluetooth (BR/EDR) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE 4.2).