How to Use the ESP8266 or ESP32 Microcontroller

In this video, I'll be taking a comprehensive look at the ESP microcontroller, a powerful and versatile tool for electronics enthusiasts and professionals alike. I'll cover everything from the basics of what an ESP microcontroller is and its capabilities, dealing with multiple voltages and examples of how to flash firmware for your project.

Whether you're a beginner just starting to explore the world of microcontrollers, or maybe have used an ESP a time or two by cloning an existing project, this video will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to get started with ESP microcontrollers for creating your own projects and devices.

Key topics covered:

• What is an ESP microcontroller and what are its features?
• ESP8266 vs. ESP32
• Development boards and primary components
• How to choose the right ESP microcontroller for your project
• GPIO and Power Pins
• Dealing with current and different voltages
• Flashing or installing Firmware
• Exploring different applications of ESP microcontrollers
• A simple basic example of input and output
• Resources for additional information and learning

Chapter Links
=============
00:00 Intro
01:14 ESP Chips vs. Development Boards
03:08 ESP8266 vs. ESP32 series
04:51 Selecting the proper board
07:27 Primary components of a Dev Board
13:49 GPIO and Power Pins
19:29 GPIO Voltages and Logic Level Shifters
23:03 Connecting Multiple Peripherals
25:24 Dealing with Multiple Voltages
28:56 Current (amp) Considerations
32:49 Dealing with High and Low Current Devices
35:01 Flashing Firmware
40:05 Alternatives and Additional Info

Parts Shown or Used
===================
These are parts that I've personally used in my own projects.

ESP8266 NodeMCU Dev Board: amzn.to/43uoqsI
ESP8266 Wemos D1 Mini: amzn.to/4hn0omS
ESP32 "NodeMCU" 30-pin Dev Board: amzn.to/3DgaNTA
ESP32 "Narrow" 38-pin Dev Board (narrow): amzn.to/41Bf4ZA
ESP32 Mini: amzn.to/3FpXyjB
AHT20 Temperature/Humidity Sensor: amzn.to/4hgrvzW
I2C-Compatible Logic Level Shifter: amzn.to/3DtXQ8D
SN74AHCT125N Quad Buffer Gate (shifter): amzn.to/4ixSA2z
DHT22 Temperature/Humitidy Sensor: amzn.to/41QTSjC
AM312 PIR Sensor: amzn.to/41qFjlq
INMP441 Digital Microphone: amzn.to/3Xv67Qj
WS2812b RGB LED Strip: amzn.to/3DlVWHb
Wago Lever Connectors: amzn.to/43yLaIb
ElectroCookie Solderable Breadboard: amzn.to/3XyHfHq
Buck Converter (variable): amzn.to/3XARDOS
Boost Converter (variable): amzn.to/4iyJa6Z
VL53L0X Distance Sensor: amzn.to/4iyJhPX
3V Relay: amzn.to/4izPew0
SG90 Servo: amzn.to/3FfcEbI

Some of these links may be Amazon affiliate links. Use of these links will not affect your pricing, but as an affiliate this channel may earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Additional resources:
====================
Companion Written Guide: resinchemtech.blogspot.com/2025/02/esp-overview.ht…
Random Nerd Tutorials ESP8266 pinout: randomnerdtutorials.com/esp8266-pinout-reference-g…
Random Nerd Tutorials ESP32 pinout: randomnerdtutorials.com/esp32-pinout-reference-gpi…

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#esp32 #esp8266 #microcontroller #electronics