ESP-12E ESP8266 Wifi Wireless IoT Module

ESP-12E ESP8266 Wi-Fi Wireless IoT Module is a high-performance, cost-effective solution that has become the cornerstone of modern Internet of Things (IoT) development. This small module integrates the powerful ESP8266 chip, giving it not only Wi-Fi connectivity but also sufficient processing power and storage to handle complex tasks independently. You can use the ESP-12E as a simple Wi-Fi adapter for your existing microcontroller or, more commonly, as a standalone system running custom firmware. Its extensive GPIO access and compatibility with the Arduino IDE and MicroPython make it highly accessible for both professional engineers building industrial solutions and hobbyists creating smart home devices. This module empowers developers to bring their wireless projects to life quickly and efficiently.

Key Features:

• Integrated Wi-Fi Connectivity: Features an 802.11 b/g/n transceiver, enabling it to connect to any standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
• Microcontroller Capabilities: The built-in 32-bit Tensilica L106 microcontroller can run a real-time operating system (RTOS) and handle network stacks and application code simultaneously.
• Extended GPIO Access: The “E” revision significantly increased the number of usable General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins, offering greater flexibility for connecting sensors and actuators.
• Onboard PCB Antenna: Includes a high-efficiency PCB antenna, simplifying design and eliminating the need for an external antenna in most applications.
• Wide Development Ecosystem: Benefit from vast community support, extensive libraries, and compatibility with popular platforms like Arduino, NodeMCU, and ESP-IDF.
• Low-Power Modes: Supports deep sleep and other low-power states, optimizing the module for battery-operated devices and minimizing power consumption.

Technical Specifications:

• Chipset: ESP8266EX
• Operating Voltage: 3.0 V to 3.6 V DC (typically requires a 3.3V supply)
• Logic Voltage: 3.3 V TTL
• Flash Memory: 4 MB (32 Mbits)
• CPU: Tensilica L106 32-bit Microprocessor
• Clock Speed: 80 MHz (can be overclocked to 160 MHz)
• Wi-Fi Standard: 802.11 b/g/n
• Current Consumption: ~80 mA (active), <20 µA (Deep Sleep)

Mechanical Specifications:

• Form Factor: SMD (Surface Mount Device) Module
• Shielding: Metal shield over the main chip for EMI protection.
• Antenna: Onboard PCB trace antenna.
• Connectivity: Standard 2mm pitch header pads for soldering or use with a breakout board.

Dimensions:

• Length: 24 mm
• Width: 16 mm
• Height: ~3 mm (including metal shield)

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Power Supply (3.3V recommended)
• GND: Ground
• RX/TX: UART Serial Communication Pins
• CH_PD (Chip Power Down): Must be pulled HIGH (3.3V) for the chip to operate.
• GPIO Pins (GPIO0-GPIO16): General purpose digital I/O pins, used for connecting peripherals. GPIO0 must be LOW during boot to enter flashing mode.
• Wiring Note: This module uses 3.3V logic. Connecting any pin directly to a 5V source (like VCC or GPIO) will permanently damage the chip. Use a level shifter if connecting 5V components.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download ESP8266 Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Hobbyist IoT Projects: The default chip for building personal smart devices, weather stations, and automation controls.
• Wi-Fi Prototyping: Used by professionals to rapidly prototype network-enabled products before developing custom hardware.
• Remote Sensor Nodes: Deploying wireless data collection points in inaccessible areas due to its low power consumption.

Applications:

• Smart Home Automation: Build smart switches, thermostats, and monitoring systems connected to the cloud.
• Wireless Data Logging: Collect sensor data (temperature, humidity, pressure) and push it to a cloud server or local database.
• Web Server Hosting: Host simple web pages directly on the module for control and monitoring via a local network.
• Remote Control Systems: Implement over-the-internet control for robotics and home appliances.

Equivalent Models:

• ESP-01: An older, more compact module with fewer accessible GPIO pins.
• NodeMCU/Wemos D1 Mini: Development boards that integrate the ESP-12E/F module with a USB-to-serial converter and power regulation, simplifying prototyping.
• ESP32: A newer, more powerful chipset that adds Bluetooth and dual-core processing.

Package Includes:

• 1 x ESP-12E ESP8266 Wi-Fi Wireless IoT Board Module