Penny-Size Sensory-ESP32

Everything You Need on One Arduino-Friendly Board

ARDUINO ESP32C6 BATTERY CHARGER 9-AXIS MOTION IMU LIGHT/PROXIMITY
CodeCell

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CodeCell replaces your IMU board with 9-axis sensor-fusion, and adds battery charging, 10+ sensor readings & a wireless ESP32C6 - All packed in one penny-size module with an easy-to-use Arduino library! The result? Less wiring, smaller builds, cleaner projects

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CodeCell

+10 Sensory Readings

  • Light
  • Proximity
  • Rotation
  • Compass
  • Step Counter
  • Activity
  • Tap Detector
  • Accelerometer
  • Gyroscope
  • Move Detect

ESP32-C6 Core

  • 8MB Flash + 512KB SRAM
  • Wi-Fi 6 + BLE 5 + Zigbee
  • Easy-to-use Arduino Library
  • Connects to our MicroLink App

Power Port

  • USB-C for Serial UART
  • Arduino programming
  • LiPo charging
  • Safe battery connector
Description & Specifications

The CodeCell C6 is a compact electronic development module measuring just 18.5 mm wide. It features an Arduino-compatible ESP32-C6 microcontroller with Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth Low Energy 5 and Zigbee connectivity, enabling wireless control through compatible platforms such as Home Assistant and the MicroLink app.

CodeCell integrates battery charging and power management, ambient-light and proximity sensing, and a BNO085 9-axis motion sensor. It provides six programmable GPIO pins, I²C connections and multiple power connections for compatible modules, sensors and actuators.

The module can be powered through USB-C or a compatible single-cell LiPo battery. USB-C supports programming, serial communication and battery charging. The BQ24232 power-management IC allows the battery to charge while the project continues operating.

CodeCell C6 electronic development module

The VCNL4040 measures ambient light and proximity at distances of up to approximately 20 cm. The BNO085 combines a 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer with onboard sensor fusion. It can provide orientation, motion state, activity classification, acceleration, tap detection and step-count data.

CodeCell C6 supports timer-based wake-up and interrupt-based wake-up from changes in light, proximity or detected taps. This makes it suitable for low-power projects that only need to wake in response to specific events.

The CodeCell.h Arduino library provides ready-to-use functions, tutorials and example projects. CodeCell can also connect to the MicroLink app for wireless controls and real-time sensor feedback.

Each box includes one CodeCell C6, four M1.2 screws, three sets of female headers and a 1.25 mm battery cable. The optional battery configuration also includes a 170 mAh, 3.7 V LiPo battery with a pre-fitted connector.

CodeCell C6 Specifications:

CodeCell C6 dimensions and pin layout
  • Electrical:
    • Processor: ESP32-C6-MINI-1-H8, 32-bit RISC-V single-core
    • Memory: 8 MB flash and 512 KB SRAM
    • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth Low Energy 5 and Zigbee
    • Maximum clock speed: 160 MHz
    • Sensors: Ambient light, proximity and 9-axis IMU
    • GPIO: 6 GPIO pins, including 3 ADC, 6 PWM and I²C
    • Typical antenna range: Approximately 40 metres under suitable conditions
    • LiPo battery charging current: Approximately 90 mA
    • Maximum output current: 1,500 mA from a suitable battery or 450 mA from USB
    • RTC timer sleep current: Approximately 40 µA
    • Brightness or darkness wake-up: Approximately 290 µA
    • Proximity wake-up: Approximately 425 µA
    • Tap wake-up: Approximately 820 µA
  • Mechanical:
    • Dimensions: 9.4 mm H × 18.5 mm L × 18.5 mm W, plus 5.2 mm antenna section
    • Castellated pin pitch: 2.54 mm
    • Screws: M1.2, included
    • Weight: Approximately 3.4 g

CodeCell is an electronic development module intended for integration into prototypes and DIY electronic projects. It is not a finished standalone appliance or a toy. Supporting compliance records are maintained for the PCB assembly, specified components and supplied accessories. The designer or manufacturer of any completed product incorporating CodeCell is responsible for assessing that finished product, against all applicable safety, radio, EMC, environmental and other regulatory requirements. For commercial product integration, please get in touch.

Schematics and 3D Model
Safety & Use

CodeCell C6 is a low-voltage electronic development module intended for DIY projects, prototyping and educational electronics. It is not a toy or a finished standalone appliance.

  • Power CodeCell through USB-C or a compatible single-cell 3.7 V rechargeable LiPo battery.
  • Check the battery connector polarity before use. Do not connect a damaged, swollen or leaking battery.
  • Avoid short circuits, liquids, excessive heat and contact between exposed connections and conductive objects.
  • Do not exceed the electrical ratings shown in the specifications. External motors or other high-current devices may require a suitable driver and power supply.
  • Disconnect power before soldering or modifying connections. Young makers should work under responsible adult supervision.
  • The supplied screws, headers and battery cable are small parts and should be kept away from young children.

When integrating CodeCell into a completed project, the maker is responsible for ensuring that its battery, power supply, wiring, connected devices, mounting and enclosure are safe and suitable for the intended use.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started?

Tutorials and example projects are available on the CodeCell Tutorials page.

In the Arduino IDE, open Sketch → Include Library → Manage Libraries, search for “CodeCell” and install the latest version.

After installation, open File → Examples → CodeCell. We recommend starting with the GettingStarted example, which introduces the module’s main sensing functions.

How can it wake up from sleep?

CodeCell C6 supports RTC-timer and interrupt-triggered wake-up options. Typical sleep currents are:

  • RTC timer: Approximately 40 µA
  • Proximity interrupt: Approximately 425 µA
  • Darkness interrupt: Approximately 290 µA
  • Brightness interrupt: Approximately 290 µA
  • Tap interrupt: Approximately 820 µA

Battery life depends on the battery condition, selected sleep mode, wake-up frequency, active operating time, wireless activity and all connected components.

A basic estimate can be calculated using:
Battery life (hours) = battery capacity (mAh) ÷ average current (mA)

For example, a 170 mAh battery using RTC-timer wake-up could theoretically provide approximately six months of standby time. Actual battery life will normally be lower because active operation, wireless communication and connected components must also be considered.

What ages is it suitable for?

CodeCell is an electronic development module designed for makers, students and engineers. It may require wiring or soldering. Young makers should only use it under responsible adult supervision. The package also contains small parts that must be kept away from young children.

Does it support MicroPython?

The ESP32-C6 supports MicroPython. However, the official CodeCell library is written in C++ for the Arduino environment. MicroPython users may need to create or adapt drivers for the onboard sensors and peripherals.

What about the BOOT pin?

CodeCell normally enters programming mode automatically through its USB serial interface, so dedicated BOOT and reset buttons are not required.

If a program causes the module to reset continuously, it can be placed manually into programming mode:

  • Disconnect USB power and switch off or disconnect the battery.
  • Connect the SCL pin to GND.
  • Reconnect USB power.
  • Upload corrected firmware.
  • Disconnect power and remove the connection between SCL and GND.
  • Reconnect power normally.
What information can the motion sensor provide?

The BNO085 combines a 3-axis accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer with onboard sensor-fusion processing. Depending on the selected operating mode, it can provide:

  • Orientation, including roll, pitch and yaw
  • Motion and stability classification
  • Activity classification
  • Acceleration and linear acceleration
  • Gyroscope and magnetometer readings
  • Gravity vector
  • Tap detection
  • Step counting
Manufacturer & Shipping Information

Orders are dispatched from Malta and are available for international shipping to supported destinations. Available shipping methods, estimated delivery times, and shipping costs are displayed at checkout. Deliveries outside the European Union may be subject to local import duties, taxes, or customs fees.

Product: CodeCell C6
SKU: MB-MM-CD-09
Country of Origin: China
Manufacturer: Microbots Ltd.
Postal Address: Birzebbugia, Malta
Email: info@microbots.io

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Libraries

Open-Source Software

CodeCell comes with Arduino library and easy-to-follow tutorial examples for fast prototyping.

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