The EQSP32 controller is a complete, end-to-end solution for IoT applications that recently launched on Kickstarter. It is a compact, wireless Industrial IoT controller based on the ESP32-S3 wireless SoC with a 250MHz dual-core processor, 512KB of RAM, and 8MB of flash memory. The product leverages artificial intelligence and code for automation projects can be generated automatically by the bundled generative AI programming assistant.
The EQSP32 controller features 16 terminals that can be configured as analog or digital inputs, or as digital outputs. Switches, pushbuttons, keypads, LED strips, sensors, servos, potentiometers, etc., can be connected to these terminals. It is similar to the EdgeBox-Edge-100 we covered a while back but lacks an Ethernet port and uses less power overall.
EQSP32 specifications:
- SoC: Espressif Systems ESP32-S3 dual-core Tensilica LX7 microcontroller @ 240 MHz, 512KB RAM
- Memory – 8MB flash
- Network Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- USB – USB-C programming port
- I/O:
- 16 multipurpose analog and digital inputs/16 digital outputs
- 1x RS232/485 communication
- Optional CANbus interface
- Expansion connector for additional modules
- Misc: Communication and status LEDs
- Power Supply Input: 10 – 28 VDC
- Power Output: 5V @1A
- Case:
- 71 x 90 x 57 mm cabinet-mount case
- Snaps onto standard DIN rail
The EQSP32 controller doesn’t connect directly to the mains voltage and therefore doesn’t require special certification for integration into an electrical cabinet. It doesn’t have high voltage relays but instead uses certified DIN mount relays, allowing the device to control a larger number of relays (up to 16), ranging from a few watts to kilowatts.
The expansion connector on the EQSP32 Industrial IoT controller allows you to stack extra modules to extend its functionality, as many as can fit on the DIN rail.
On the software end, EQSP32 provides helpful, pre-built libraries that make it easier to write code that does what you want it to do. The AI assistant ‘EQAI’ goes a step further and writes the code for you based on a description. This will reduce the repetitive coding tasks and help you focus more on bringing your project to life. It includes an app builder for creating a mobile, frequently updated interface for controlling and monitoring your setup remotely.
While the EQSP32 controller is certainly not as feature-rich as the reTerminal DM, it is less expensive. You can pledge £145 (about $159) to get one of the wireless controllers and £485 ($531) will get you a pre-wired, pre-assembled kit that includes a waterproofer electrical box, the controller, a DIN-Mount power supply, and several other components. The EQSP32 project is currently live on Kickstarter, with $954 pledged out of the $27,386 goal. The units are expected to ship by March 2024.
Tomisin is a writer specializing in hardware product reviews, comparisons, and explainers. He is very passionate about small form factor and single-board computers.
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Verry expensive for a pcb a piece of plastic and some terminals.
But hey dude, it has AI !!11!
But it has the AI!!!!1!1!!
For that price we buy similarly equipped real PLCs with proper certification for our market, or we pay double the price for a unit with the exact amount of I/Os we need…
I’m one of the guys behind the project. Your opinion is extremely important to us as we are early enough in the game to adapt its direction. What do you recommend we do to make it appeal to professional users like you? (price, features set, tools, packaging, …)
There is actually a little more to it: conditioning and protection on all the I/O, A PWM controller, a DCDC converter with 5V/1A output for user devices, An RS232/RS485 (DMX) serial port, and a CANbus interface.
What should be the right price?
There is a little more to it: A DCDC converter with 5V/1A output for user devices, conditioning and protection on all IO, a PWM controller capable of driving any or all 16 outputs. 1A protected MOSFET output and flyback diodes for inductive loads, an RS232/RS485/DMX serial port and a CAN Interface. There are two PCBs inside that are pretty full.
What do you think, should be the price that would make it very compelling?
How is it different from AI Thinker