Esp32 cam not running the script when powered without usb

[jeronimo_ps00]

I am aware this post is similar if not the same as this one, it was left unanswered and now I am facing the same problem. I will try using another power supply, while i get a reply on this post.

Anyways it's weird that the script is not even starting (assigned a LED to blink for one second at the very start of the setup), I am certain It is getting power, because while pressing the reset button the integrated LED does shine, read the voltage with a multimeter (5.1V). When connected to the USB-TTL converter with the same configuration it works just fine. The only thing that I can imagine causing this problem is lack of current which doesn't make much sense because usb ports of laptops shouldn't allow more than 500mA and the power source is "rated" for 600 mA.

I tried regulating it through a buck converter to avoid overheating the esp, current should be lower though, however it wasn't the case, even without regulating it (8V) the script won't even start. Any ideas on what could be going on?

[alanesq]

They are very fussy about power and if it doesn't like your power supply they can do all sorts of weird things...
I find that adding a large capacitor (i.e. 3000uF) across the power input helps a lot

Have you measured the voltage coming from your power supply as from the photo I wonder if it is unregulated A.C. (i.e. around 4.5v AC rather than D.C.), also it is only 4.5v where as the esp32cam expects either 5v or 3.3v DC.

[srnet]

Not generally a good idea to assume the 'GND' pin next to 'UOT' is actually GND. On some recent ESP32CAMs that pin is actually connected to EN\RESET.

Try one of the other GNDs instead.

Of course, as the 3.3V regulator is exposed on the bottom of the PCB, you could measure what the input and output voltage of the regulator is.

[jremington]

Check for this line
while(!Serial);

and replace it with
delay(2000);