ESP32-C3 Super Mini Expansion Board

ESP32-C3 Super Mini Expansion Board provides a robust and versatile foundation for your compact IoT projects by extending the accessibility of the ultra-small ESP32-C3 Super Mini development board. This expansion board breaks out all essential pins to standard headers, which significantly simplifies the prototyping process and allows for easy integration with various sensors and actuators. Furthermore, the board features an integrated voltage regulator and dedicated power rails, ensuring that your connected peripherals receive a stable and clean power supply. Consequently, you can focus on developing your firmware rather than struggling with complex wiring or power management issues. Use this expansion shield to maximize the potential of the RISC-V based ESP32-C3 in space-constrained applications.

Key Features:

• Tailored Compatibility: This board specifically fits the “Super Mini” form factor of the ESP32-C3, providing a perfect mechanical and electrical match for the development module.
• Enhanced Connectivity: It breaks out all I/O pins into clear, labeled headers, making it easy to connect jumper wires or specialized sensor cables.
• On-board Voltage Regulation: The expansion board includes circuitry to handle a wider input voltage range, converting it to the stable 3.3 V required by the ESP32-C3.
• Compact Form Factor: Even with the added connectivity, the board maintains a small footprint, therefore it remains suitable for wearable or portable technology prototypes.
• Prototyping Friendly: The layout includes mounting holes and clearly silk-screened pin definitions to accelerate your hardware development cycle.

Technical Specifications:

• Input Voltage (VIN): 3.7 V to 5 V (via USB or power pins)
• Output Voltage: 3.3 V DC (Stabilized)
• Header Pitch: 2.54 mm (Standard breadboard compatible)
• Compatible Module: ESP32-C3 Super Mini (RISC-V Architecture)
• Interface Support: GPIO, ADC, PWM, I2C, SPI, and UART breakout
• Operating Temperature: −40°C to +85°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• Board Material: High-quality FR-4 Fiberglass PCB
• Mounting Holes: 4 x M2.5 fixed holes for secure installation
• Soldering: Pre-soldered female headers for the ESP32-C3 and male headers for peripheral connection
• Finish: Lead-free HASL with a protective solder mask

Dimensions:

• Length: ≈ 35.0 mm
• Width: ≈ 25.0 mm
• Thickness: 1.6 mm (PCB only)
• Weight: ≈ 8.0 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC/GND: Provide power through these pins if not using the USB port on the main ESP32-C3 module.
• Digital Pins (D0-D10): Access these GPIOs directly for digital input, output, or PWM signaling to control motors and LEDs.
• Analog Pins: Utilize the ADC-capable pins for reading sensors such as potentiometers or thermistors.
• Communication Rails: The board groups I2C (SDA/SCL) and UART (TX/RX) pins together for organized wiring to displays and GPS modules.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download ESP32-C3 Chipset Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Educational Kits: Students use this board to learn IoT development without needing complex breadboard layouts.
• Smart Home Prototypes: It serves as a base for small-scale light switches, temperature monitors, and humidity sensors.
• Wireless Nodes: Developers implement this expansion board in mesh network nodes where size and reliability are critical.

Applications:

• Remote Monitoring: Deploy this setup in remote areas to collect data and transmit it via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth LE.
• Wearable Devices: The slim profile allows integration into clothing or accessory prototypes for health tracking.
• Custom Automation: Create specialized automation controllers for small appliances or hobbyist robotics.

Equivalent Models:

• ESP32-C3 DevKitM-1 Base: A larger, official expansion alternative for the standard-sized C3 modules.
• Wemos D1 Mini Shield: While designed for a different form factor, it offers similar expansion capabilities for micro-controllers.
• Custom ESP32-C3 Breakout: However, this specific “Super Mini” version provides the most compact fit for the smallest ESP32 variant.

Package Includes:

• 1 x ESP32-C3 Super Mini Expansion Board (Headers pre-soldered)