ESP32-P4: A Compact Powerhouse for IoT and Embedded Applications

The ESP32-P4 is redefining the possibilities of compact embedded systems with its credit card-sized form factor and a host of advanced features. Designed for high-performance applications, this board is perfect for developers, hobbyists, and tech enthusiasts looking to create innovative IoT solutions.

Key Features:

• Ethernet Connectivity: Equipped with a 100Mbps Ethernet RJ45 port, ensuring reliable and high-speed wired connections.
• WiFi 6 Support: Offers cutting-edge wireless connectivity with WiFi 6, providing faster speeds, lower latency, and improved network efficiency.
• USB Ports: Includes four USB 2.0 OTG Type-A ports, enabling seamless integration with peripherals.
• 40-Pin GPIO Header: A versatile GPIO header for interfacing with various sensors, actuators, and other hardware components.
• MIPI DSI and CSI Connectors: Supports high-resolution displays and cameras, making it ideal for multimedia applications.
• Compact Design: Despite its small size, the ESP32-P4 packs a powerful punch with its dual-core RISC-V processor running at up to 400 MHz.

Waveshare ESP32-P4-Module-DEV-KIT specifications:

• ESP32-P4-Module
  • Microcontroller – ESP32-P4NRW32
    • MCU
      • Dual-core RISC-V microcontroller @ 400 MHz with AI instructions extension and single-precision FPU
      • Single-RISC-V LP (Low-power) MCU core @ up to 40 MHz
    • GPU – 2D Pixel Processing Accelerator (PPA)
    • VPU – H.264 and JPEG codecs support
    • Memory – 768 KB HP L2MEM, 32 KB LP SRAM, 8 KB TCM, 32MB PSRAM
    • Storage – 128 KB HP ROM, 16 KB LP ROM
  • Wireless – WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 via ESP32-C6 SoC (SDIO)
  • Storage – 16MB NOR Flash
• Storage – MicroSD card slot (SDIO 3.0)
• Display I/F – 2-lane MIPI DSI connector
• Camera I/F – 2-lane MIPI CSI camera connector supports up to 1920×1080 resolution, 1080p30 video encoding
• Audio
  • Speaker connector supporting 8Ω 2W speaker
  • MEMS microphone
• Networking
  • 100Mbps Ethernet RJ45 port with optional PoE support
  • WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 (via ESP32-C6) – There’s an 802.15.4 radio, but it’s not listed in the specs on the Waveshare website.
• USB
  • 4x USB 2.0 OTG Type-A ports
  • USB-C UART port
• Expansion
  • 40-pin header with 28x GPIOs, I2C, UART, 5V, 3.3V, and GND with a pinout similar to the GPIO header on Raspberry Pi SBCs
  • I2C and I3C connectors (7 and 8 below)
• Misc
  • Boot and Reset buttons
  • Power LED
  • RTC battery connector (5)
  • USB Host/Device jumper (13)
  • Ceramic antenna for WiFi and Bluetooth (16)
  • ESP32-C6 UART terminal (17)
• Power Supply
  • 5V via USB-C port or 2-pin connector (18)
  • Optional PoE via additional module connected to 4-pin header (9)
• Dimensions – 85 x 56 mm

Applications:

The ESP32-P4 is a versatile platform suitable for a wide range of applications, including:

• Smart home devices
• Industrial automation
• Edge computing
• Multimedia systems
• Prototyping and educational projects

Why Choose the ESP32-P4?

This board combines high performance, extensive connectivity options, and a compact design, making it a top choice for developers aiming to push the boundaries of IoT and embedded systems.