Penny-Size Sensory-ESP32

Name: CodeCell C3 Light
Brand: Microbots
SKU: MB-MM-CD-01
Price: 12.5 EUR
Availability: InStock

Everything You Need on One Arduino-Friendly Board

ARDUINO ESP32C3 BATTERY CHARGER LIGHT/PROXIMITY

CodeCell C3 Light

€12,50 €14,99

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Anschlüsse

swatch-ungelotet

Ungelötet

swatch-gelotete-stiftleisten

Gelötete Stiftleisten

Batterie

swatch-keine-kabel

Keine (+Kabel)

swatch-170-mah-20c-lipo

170 mAh 20C LiPo

Anzahl

Sensory Readings

Light
Proximity
Ambient

ESP32-C3 Core

4MB Flash
Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
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

CodeCell Description Section

The CodeCell C3 Light is a compact module measuring just 1.85 cm in width. It features an Arduino-compatible ESP32-C3 microcontroller that provides Wi-Fi and BLE connectivity, battery charging management, and light/proximity sensing. It offers 6 programmable GPIO pins, along with I2C pins, plus multiple power pins for connecting additional modules, sensors, and actuators.

The CodeCell C3 Light can be powered either through a safe-to-use LiPo battery connector or via USB-C, which also supports reprogramming, serial data transfer, and battery charging. Its power management is built around the BQ24232 battery management chip, enabling dynamic power-path control. This allows the battery to charge while the system continues operating.

The CodeCell C3 Light includes a VCNL4040 light sensor, which is an IR-based sensor capable of measuring ambient light and proximity up to 20 cm.

To make working with the sensors easier, the CodeCell.h Arduino library provides simple, ready-to-use functions along with tutorials and example projects. The CodeCell can also connect to our free app, allowing you to easily add wireless controls to your projects with sliders, buttons, a joystick, real-time sensor feedback, and a 20-character display – perfect for debugging!

Each box includes the CodeCell, a set of four M1.2 screws, and three sets of female headers (soldering optional). A 1.25 mm pitch battery cable is also provided, along with the optional 170 mAh 20C LiPo battery. The optional battery measures 23 × 17.5 × 8.7 mm, weighs 4.6 g, and comes pre-wired with a 1.25 mm female connector that plugs directly into the onboard connector. See the full battery datasheet here. Schematics for this module are available here.

This module uses the ESP32-C3-MINI-1-N4, which is certified for FCC, CE, TELEC, and Wi-Fi Alliance compliance. The CodeCell is also RoHS compliant and follows the IPC-A-600 II standard. Please note that the CodeCell is intended as a DIY maker kit. For commercial use, please contact us.

Specifications

CodeCell Specifications

Electrical:

Processor: ESP32-C3 32-bit RISC-V Single-Core
Memory: 4 MB (Flash), 400 KB (SRAM)
Clock Speed: 160MHz
Average Sleep Current: 476uA
LiPo Battery Charge Current: 90mA
Maximum Output Current: 1500mA (Battery) / 450mA (USB)

Mechanical:

Dimensions: 9.4mm H x 18.5mm L x 18.5mm W (+5.2mm antenna)
Castellated Pins Pitch: 2.54mm
Screws: M1.2 (included)
Weight: 3.4 grams

3D Model

Frequently Asked Questions

CodeCell FAQs

How do I get started?

CodeCell comes with well explained tutorials and multiple examples. All tutorials can be found here: CodeCell Tutorials.

To install the CodeCell library, go to 'Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries' - the 'Library Manager' should open up. Just type "CodeCell" and click 'Install' to download the latest version of the CodeCell library.

We are continuously updating and adding new features to this library, so make sure you're using the latest version. To quickly get familiar with this library, go to 'File > Examples > CodeCell,' where you'll find multiple examples you can use and modify for your projects. We recommend starting with the 'GettingStarted' example, which contains just a few lines of code but explains all the sensing functionalities available with CodeCell.

What are CodeCell Shipping Details?

CodeCell can be shipped using all our available shipping methods. However, if you choose the 170mAh LiPo battery option, it must ship via FedEx due to regulations. This may increase your cart total, but it’s express and reliable. You can also add other items to the same shipment to make the most of it. We appreciate your understanding 😊

What ages is CodeCell suitable for?

CodeCell is suitable for anyone curious about electronics! It come with well-explained Arduino examples that make it easier for kids and teenagers to get started. For children under 12, we recommend opting for pre-soldered connectors or ensuring soldering is done under proper adult supervision and guidance. Please also note that the package will include small parts, like screws, so care should be taken when handling them.

Does it support MicroPython?

Yes, you can flash CodeCell with MicroPython since it’s based on the ESP32-C3, which supports MicroPython just like other ESP32-based boards. However, please note that our official CodeCell library is written in C++, designed for use with the Arduino IDE. If you plan to use MicroPython, you may need to write custom drivers to interface with the onboard sensors and peripherals

What about the BOOT Pin?

Some ESP32 development boards include both a RST (Reset) button and a BOOT button to manually put the device into programming mode. However, the ESP32-C3, such as the one on the CodeCell module, can automatically enter boot mode through the serial interface when using the Arduino IDE. This means the CodeCell doesn't need dedicated RST or BOOT buttons, which allowed us to make it as small as it is.

In the rare case that your CodeCell freezes or encounters an exception (causing it to continuously reset), you can manually force it into boot mode to reflash the firmware. To do this, simply follow these steps:

Connect a wire between the SCL pin and the GND pin.
Unplug the USB and switch off the battery (if connected).
Reconnect the USB port.
Reprogram your CodeCell with new code - make sure your code doesn't contain the bug that created the issue.
Remove the shorted wire between the SCL pin and the GND pin. Power your battery back on if connected.

Following these steps will restore your CodeCell back to life.

Does the sensor support interrupts for sleep wake-up?

The CodeCell C3 does not support interrupt-based wake-ups due to pin limitations on the ESP32-C3-MINI-1-N4 module. As an alternative, you can use the RTC-sleep-timer to wake the device and then check the sensor data. Examples can be found here: Light Sleep Example.

If you require interrupt-based wake-ups, these are supported on the CodeCell C6.