6-channel ESP32-S3-based WiFi relay module offers RS485 interface, supports Raspberry Pi Pico HATs

Waveshare ESP32-S3-Relay-6CH is a 6-channel WiFi and Bluetooth relay module based on Espressif Systems ESP32-S3 wireless microcontroller that also supports RS485 control and comes with headers taking Raspberry Pi Pico HATs adding RTC, CAN Bus, RS232,  LoRa, sensors, or other features.

The relays are rated 250VAC/30VDC up to 10A, the system take 7V to 36V DC input through a terminal block, and can be programmed with Arduino or MicroPython though a USB-C port. It also features a a built-in buzzer, an RGB LED, and is housed in a DIN Rail-mountable ABS case.

Waveshare ESP32-S3-Relay-6CH specifications:

• Wireless module – ESP32-S3-WROOM-1U-N8 by default
  • MCU – ESP32-S3 dual-core Tensilica LX7 up to 240 MHz with 512KB SRAM
  • Storage – 8MB Quad SPI flash
  • Wireless – 2.4 GHz WiFi 4 and Bluetooth LE 5
  • u.FL connector for external antenna
• 6x relays via terminal blocks
  • Rating –  Up to 10A 250V AC / 30V DC
  • Contact – 1NO 1NC
  • Optocoupler isolation
• USB – USB Type-C for power, data, and programming/flashing
• Serial – Isolated RS485 communication interface via screw terminal
  • TVS diode, surge protection & ESD protection
  • Onboard reserved 120R matching resistor, NC by default, enabled via jumper
  • ModBus support
• Expansion – 40-pin header compatible with some Raspberry Pi Pico HATs
• Misc
  • RGB LED
  • Power, RS485 Tx, RS485 Rx LEDs
  • Buzzer
• Power supply
  • 7 to 36V DC via screw terminal
  • 5V via USB-C port
• Dimensions – 145 x 90 x 30mm (Rail-mount ABS protective case)

Waveshare provides instructions to get started and code samples using Arduino and MicroPyhon in the Wiki, but going with the latter might be easier as four samples are provided (instead of just one):

• MAIN_WIFI_AP – RS485 Interface Control, Web interface connects to WiFi, Bluetooth Control (Bluetooth sends IP). No need to change the code since it’s in access point mode
• MAIN_WIFI_STA – Same as above but in station mode, so the code must be modified with WiFi credentials for your network (easy)
• MAIN_WIFI_MQTT – Same as above, but supports Waveshare Cloud control for remote management instead of local (LAN) web interface
• MAIN_ALL – Same as above, but supports both local (LAN) web control and Waveshare Cloud control for remote management.

The instructions also rely on the nRFConnect app to get the IP address and sends command to control the relays over Bluetooth,

We first found the ESP32-S3-Relay-6CH device on Aliexpress where it is sold for $38.69 including shipping, but you’ll also find it on Amazon ($37.99) and Waveshare’s online store ($28.99 + shipping).

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