
ESP32 Cam EZB
Hardware:
ESP32 Cam
Author: DJ Sures
This firmware converts a ESP32 Cam into an EZB for ARC to connect to it.
This firmware transforms the ESP32 Cam module into a fully functional EZ-B with an integrated Synthiam ARC camera, providing a powerful all-in-one solution for robotics and IoT applications. The firmware allows the ESP32 Cam to simultaneously operate as a video streaming device and a controller for peripherals like servos and sensors, making it an ideal choice for compact, feature-rich projects.
Key Features:
- EZ-B Compatibility: The firmware enables the ESP32 Cam to emulate an EZ-B, making it compatible with Synthiam ARC for controlling robotics systems and IoT devices.
- Integrated Camera: The ESP32 Cam’s built-in camera streams video directly to Synthiam ARC, offering real-time visual feedback alongside EZ-B functionality.
- Dual Functionality: Supports servo control and camera streaming simultaneously, making it versatile for applications requiring both visual monitoring and peripheral actuation.
Recommended GPIO Pins for Servos:
To ensure smooth operation of both the camera and peripheral controls, the following pins are recommended for use in servo control while the camera is active:
- D2
- D12
- D13
- D14
- D15
These pins are optimized to avoid conflicts with the camera's operation and other internal processes, ensuring reliable performance in EZ-B mode.
How It Works:
- EZ-B Functionality: The ESP32 Cam handles peripheral controls, such as servo motors, sensors, and other devices, through Synthiam ARC commands.
- Video Streaming: The built-in camera streams video directly to Synthiam ARC, enabling real-time monitoring and control.
- Resource Allocation: The firmware ensures efficient management of the ESP32 Cam's resources, prioritizing critical functions like video streaming and servo control.
Benefits:
- Compact All-in-One Solution: Combines the functionality of an EZ-B and a camera into a single, compact device, saving space and reducing complexity in your projects.
- Cost-Effective: Offers a budget-friendly alternative to traditional EZ-B and camera setups while retaining full compatibility with Synthiam ARC.
- Versatile Applications: Suitable for robotics, home automation, surveillance, and other IoT projects requiring simultaneous video streaming and peripheral control.
Use Case Example:
This setup is perfect for robotic systems that require both camera feedback and precise control of servos or other peripherals. For instance:
- A robotic arm with a camera for object recognition and manipulation.
- A mobile robot with live video streaming and servo-driven navigation or gripper control.
By converting the ESP32 Cam into an EZ-B with an integrated camera, this firmware unlocks a versatile and efficient solution for advanced robotics and IoT applications.
what is flashed ESP?
Nink is saying that you flash the ESP32 Cam with the firmware that is posted on this page.
Read the instructions on the ESP 32 Cam hardware page: https://synthiam.com/Support/Hardware/ESP32-Cam
Here is my esp32 cam and FTDI adapter on ARC with a pictures of DJ's modified code for my network, using 192.168.1.17 (came from the Arduino code and serial monitor)
I open ARC and took the 192.168.1.17 and put it in the connect and the camera controls,
here is my results:
this esp32 cam is the easiest one, no wires to connect - just plug in :-)
https://www.amazon.com/Aideepen-ESP32-CAM-Bluetooth-ESP32-CAM-MB-Arduino/dp/B08P2578LV/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=ESP32+Cam&qid=1612713883&sr=8-6 thanks
EzAng
Your version of the esp32 cam doesn’t have as many artifacts and lines in the camera view as @ninks and mine.
mine is pretty distorted often but not as bad as nink’s is. I believe they keep the cost low by using camera components that don’t pass QA
the esp32 cam I posted above from Amazon works better and clearer then the one I used with the FTDI adapter and all the wires
check it out
Here is some info on it:
The HK-ESP32-CAM-MB module is a small camera module with a size of 39.8MM*27MM HK-ESP32-CAM-MB adopts Micro USB interface, convenient and reliable connection method, convenient to apply to various IoT hardware terminal occasions HK-ESP32-CAM-MB module can work independently as the smallest system
A new WiFi+Bluetooth dual-mode development board based on ESP32 design, using PCB on-board antenna, with 2 high-performance 32-bit LX6CPU, using 7-level pipeline architecture, main frequency adjustment range 80MHz to 240Mhz Ultra-low power consumption, deep sleep current is as low as 6mA. It is an ultra-small 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi + BT/BLE SoC module
EzAng looks like he has somewhat more of a self contained solution with short neat wires and then there is mine (and I suspect yours looks about the same as mine DJ) so maybe I am getting a lot of electromagnetic interference. Reading the forums though it says Short wires. Only a single power supply, remove FTDI, make sure you are close to wifi and run at about 5.3v and lines should disappear. With that in mind, I tried it and No Lines (see new video).
https://youtube.com/shorts/IFF7pNFF4z0
EzAng
Mine :-)
Wow, that's alot of wires, lol
Even better Nick is "no wires"
like I said above:
this esp32 cam is the easiest one, no wires to connect - just plug in :-)
https://www.amazon.com/Aideepen-ESP32-CAM-Bluetooth-ESP32-CAM-MB-Arduino/dp/B08P2578LV/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=ESP32+Cam&qid=1612713883&sr=8-6
No Wires ? OK I guess you could build a Tesla coil but then we are back to the electromagnet interference problem.