ESP32 CAM Module

The ESP32-CAM Module is the next step in ESP32 evolution. This breakout board takes the already powerful ESP32 chip and pairs it with a camera module, whilst also providing all the necessary components and hardware to allow the 2 to work seamlessly side by side. Apart from the ESP32 module, the board features a microSD Card slot, an LED that can be used as a camera flash, external memory for the ESP32 module, an IPEX antenna connector for use with an external 2.4GHz antenna, and finally a 24-Way FFC connector for attaching a camera module.

There are multiple ways to power one of these boards. First would be to supply the board with 5VDC on the “5V” pin which is then fed into the on-board 3.3V AMS1117 regulator and gives you an operating voltage of 3.3VDC. Another option would be to supply the “3V3” pin directly with 3.3VDC which would help to slightly reduce overall current consumption. Be very careful with this second method as exceeding the ESP32 module’s supply voltage rating will cause irreparable damage.

Resources

• ESP32 Series Datasheet
• OV2640 Camera Module Datasheet
• AP Memory PSRAM Product Page