Introduction to ESP32/ESP8266 and MicroPython

ESP32 and ESP8266 are popular low-cost, low-power microcontrollers with built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, making them ideal for Internet of Things (IoT) projects. MicroPython, a lean implementation of Python 3, allows you to program these devices using Python, making embedded development more accessible to beginners and seasoned developers alike.

In this quick start guide, we’ll walk through the process of setting up your ESP32 or ESP8266 with MicroPython and running your first script.

What You’ll Need

  • ESP32 or ESP8266 board
  • Micro-USB cable
  • Computer with Python installed

Step 1: Install Required Software

First, install the necessary tools:

  1. Python: Download and install from python.org

  2. esptool: Install using pip:

    pip install esptool

  3. ampy: Install using pip:

    pip install adafruit-ampy

Step 2: Download MicroPython Firmware

Download the appropriate MicroPython firmware for your board:

Step 3: Flash MicroPython Firmware

  1. Connect your ESP board to your computer via USB.

  2. Erase the flash:

    esptool.py --port /dev/ttyUSB0 erase_flash

    Replace /dev/ttyUSB0 with the appropriate port for your system.

  3. Flash the firmware:

    esptool.py --port /dev/ttyUSB0 --baud 460800 write_flash --flash_size=detect 0 esp8266-20220618-v1.19.1.bin

    Adjust the command based on your board and firmware file name.

Step 4: Connect to the REPL

Use a serial terminal program like screen or PuTTY to connect to the REPL:

screen /dev/ttyUSB0 115200

You should see the MicroPython prompt (>>>).

Step 5: Write Your First MicroPython Script

Create a file named main.py with the following content:

import machine
import time

led = machine.Pin(2, machine.Pin.OUT)

while True:
    led.on()
    time.sleep(0.5)
    led.off()
    time.sleep(0.5)

This script will blink the onboard LED.

Step 6: Upload and Run the Script

Upload the script to your ESP board:

ampy --port /dev/ttyUSB0 put main.py

Reset your board, and the LED should start blinking!

Conclusion

You’ve now set up your ESP32 or ESP8266 with MicroPython and run your first script. This is just the beginning – MicroPython opens up a world of possibilities for IoT projects, from sensors and actuators to web servers and MQTT clients.

In future posts, we’ll explore more advanced topics like connecting to Wi-Fi, reading sensors, and integrating with cloud services. Happy coding!