IDE 2.3.0 debugging esp32s3 using built-in usb jtag

OK, I am SO glad I found this thread as all else that I have tried was an absolute failure! As of now (today) this is what I did to enable ESP-32 "LilyGO T-Display-S3" debugging in Arduino IDE 2.3.3 under Win11 Home:

I did load the idf-env drivers from expressif using their powershell script from expressif. When the ESP-32 is plugged in I now see a "UST JTAG/serial debug unit" in device manager (don't believe that was there prior).

Then:

  • Install/upgrade to "Arduino 2.3.3"
  • Install the "esp32" boards by Espressif Systems, v3.0.5
  • Install the "Arduino ESP32 Boards" by Arduino, 1.8.6 (not actually used but do anyway...)
    -- When prompted ALLOW the driver to be installed (critical step - apparently)
  • Select the "LilyGo T-Display-S3" board from the esp32 board set
  • Load your sketch (I tested with the "GetChipID" ino
  • Plug in your board and make sure it is seen
  • Select your brake-point(s)
  • Compile and load sketch
  • Start debugger

I did not load the zadig drivers.

It is/seems a little wonky at times AND can not currently use serial console while debugging BUT since I can trace/watch/break small price to pay. It is working now.

I have spend a couple of weeks on and off trying to get this to work. Very happy I can now use a "real" debugger/debugging on my STM32F(s) and ESP-32 C3(s)!

Update: I can now also use the serial monitor, not sure why as I changed nothing. Used the example "WiFiScan", can debug and also see console Serial.print output. Nice...

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