Espressif ESP32 is one of the most awaited chip for IoT applications as it combines a dual core processor, WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, and various I/Os. The good news is that you can now purchase ESP32 for 19 RMB ($2.85) on Taobao, or if you are not based in China, contact Espressif by email at sales [at] espressif.com.
Availability is however limited, and the maximum order is now 5 pieces. ESP32 modules and boards, as opposed to just the SoC, are not quite ready right now, but should become available in a few weeks. ESP-WROOM-32 is the ESP32 module developed by Espressif, and NodeMCU is also working on an ESP32 board, so we’ll get more good news very soon.
You can also find documentation, hardware and software resources on a Espressif ESP32 page , including a getting started guide, ESP32 SDK, ESP32 reference manual, ESP-WROOM-32 datasheet, and more.
If you are unsure whether your project would benefit from ESP32 over the cheaper ESP8266, I found an interesting table in Espressif Introduction document, showing how the processors are used in different applications.
Via ESP32 Forums and RelentlesS
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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(un)related question: are there devices that have two wifi modules? One for configuration, one for access the WLAN?
I know the trick with one wifi module: default SSID for configuration access, then it’s used for WLAN access, and a reset button to go back. But I find that difficult in use cases with normal users.
@Sander
MIMO WiFi should handle the case for multiple connection, and a single module can be used simultaneously as access point and client. I don’t clearly understand why two WiFi modules are needed, or how they would make things easier to the end user.
@Jean-Luc Aufranc (CNXSoft)
“a single module can be used simultaneously as access point and client. ” … really? Wow, I didn’t know that. Any links how to do that with the ESP8266?
This is the sample price. I expect it to be cheaper once it really hits the streets.
@Sander
I first noticed the option during my tests for RTL8710 -> http://www.cnx-software.com/2016/08/18/getting-started-with-bt-rtl-00-rtl8710-module-serial-console-at-commands-and-esp8266-pin-to-pin-compatibility/ . I had not tried it though, and I can’t find the command anymore…
For ESP8266, check the instructions for “AP+STA Mode” @ https://smartarduino.gitbooks.io/development-of-nodemcu/content/subsection_42_wifi_mode.html
@Jean-Luc Aufranc (CNXSoft)
Wow: “Ready to start soft ap AND station” … I didn’t kwow that that was possible at all in Wifi technology. Fascinating: so one Wifi chip can switch between modes, or can have two modes?
And a solution for my need. Cool.
sed -e ‘s/over the cheaper ESP8622/over the cheaper ESP8266/g’
I have also developed the 1st OpenSource ESP32 breakout board for HydraBus (can be used also with an Arduino …)
or more details see http://hydrabus.com/2016/08/10/hydrabus-v1-0-shield-breakout-board-for-esp-wroom-32-esp32/
Are there any wireless MCUs on the market with open source TCP/IP stacks?
Failing that, are there any where it’s possible to implement your own IP stick with minimal, preferably no, vendor firmware needed?
@noone
Yes the esp8266 and esp32 use lwip which is open source. You still need the vendor low level radio drivers. This is pretty common.
the sample price is 2.5usd. in china, they have to add 17% VAT. but they do not need to pay VAT when they export.
@Sander
When you install ESP8266 in Arduino env you even have ready examples. And it was possible 1.5y ego with LUA too. Nothing new.