Boardoza ESP01M Wi-Fi Module

Overview

The Boardoza ESP01M is a highly integrated, compact Wi-Fi SoC (System on Chip) solution driven by the high-performance ESP8266 core architecture. Engineered for robust IoT (Internet of Things) deployments, this module incorporates a full TCP/IP protocol stack and a high-efficiency 2.4 GHz transceiver, enabling seamless network bridging for embedded microcontrollers.

Designed with an ultra-small 18mm x 18mm footprint, the ESP01M minimizes PCB real estate requirements while offering flexible "Station" and "SoftAP" modes. It serves as a critical communication node for smart home automation, industrial telemetry, and low-power sensor networks.

Core Technical Specifications

The module is characterized by the following operational parameters:

  • Core Architecture: Built upon the Tensilica L106 32-bit RISC processor, optimized for ultra-low power consumption and high-speed data processing.

  • Operating Voltage: Supports a wide input range of 3.3V to 5V DC, facilitating direct integration with diverse logic levels.

  • Wireless Standard: Compliant with IEEE 802.11 b/g/n protocols, operating strictly in the 2.4 GHz frequency band.

  • Data Throughput: Capable of achieving physical layer (PHY) rates up to 72.2 Mbps in 802.11n mode.

  • Communication Interface: primarily utilizes a high-speed UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter) bus with a default baud rate of 74880 bps for boot logs and command interfacing.

  • Thermal Endurance: Engineered to withstand harsh industrial environments ranging from -40°C to +85°C.

  • Physical Dimensions: A compact square form factor measuring 20 mm x 20 mm.

Key Engineering Features

Advanced Networking Modes

The ESP01M supports a versatile range of network topologies:

  1. Station Mode (STA): Allows the module to connect to an existing Wi-Fi router as a client.

  2. SoftAP Mode: Enables the module to act as a wireless access point for other devices.

  3. Promiscuous Mode: Facilitates low-level packet sniffing for network analysis and security applications.

  4. Virtual Wi-Fi Interfaces: Supports up to two simultaneous virtual Wi-Fi interfaces for complex routing scenarios.

Robust UART Integration

The module is designed as a serial-to-Wi-Fi bridge. By utilizing standard TX/RX lines, it allows any microcontroller with a UART port to offload the heavy lifting of TCP/IP processing, significantly reducing the computational load on the host MCU.

Hardware Interface and Signal Mapping

The Boardoza ESP01M exposes a simplified 6-pin header interface designed for rapid prototyping and reliable connectivity:

Power Terminals

  • 5V Pin: The positive power supply input, accepting a regulated voltage between 3.3V and 5V.

  • GND Pin: The common ground reference for both power and logic signals.

Communication Bus

  • TX Pin: UART Transmit line. Used to send data from the ESP01M to the host controller.

  • RX Pin: UART Receive line. Used to receive commands and data from the host controller.

Control Logic

  • RST Pin: External hardware reset input. Driving this pin low triggers a hard reset of the SoC.

  • IO0 (GPIO0): A multi-functional pin used for boot mode selection. Pulling this pin LOW during power-up places the module into UART Download Mode (Flash Mode) for firmware updates.

Mechanical Specifications

The module features a square 20 mm x 20 mm PCB outline. Mounting is typically achieved via standard 2.54mm pitch headers, making it compatible with breadboards and industry-standard sockets.

Ready to integrate? You can purchase the ESP01M Wi-Fi Module directly from our Online Store. Worldwide shipping is available for engineering samples and production batches.


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