Programming a ESP32-C3-MINI-1

Hello! I am using a esp32-c3-mini-1 module for a device that I am currently working on. I ordered a corresponding dev kit for interfacing the module with code, but I am finding out that I cannot do this (as simply as I thought). My overall question is, what steps do I need to take in order to program the stand alone module (not the dev kit) so that I can integrate it into the device?

I will use the dev kit to test the code in the meantime since they use the same modules, but I only need the module itself to be in the device, not the entire dev board since it is too bog.

you need to replicate USB-UART bridge to be able to program the ESP32-C3-MINI-1
see the ESP32-C3-DEVKITM-1 schematic

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Yeah I started to realize that from the documentation I was reading. Is there a way to use the uart-usb connection on the dev kit for the esp32-c3-mini-1 module itself? (That way I do not need to design a pcb that has a usb-uart connection because space is constrained for the device I am trying to integrate with)

not attempted it ! think you would have problems

we have a seperate PCB which has the USB-UART bridge - it plugs onto the ESP32 PCB to program/debug the device - removed when everything is working
have a look at production-programming and programming-hardware

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I see, so what you are saying is we have a seperate pcb with a usb-uart bridge that connects to my already made pcb that has the esp32-c3-mini-1 module on it so that I can interface it then discard when I am done?

I saw that link you sent me, with the programming hardware. Looks like the pcb I need to code the module is already out there so all I have to do is ensure the right connections between the module and the adapter linked above. Please correct me if I am off track :slight_smile:

correct! also make sure you have a good quality power supply

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I just want to double check too that I could use a breadboard for this instead of designing a pcb with a 6 pin connector. Of course the esp is a smd component so that must be soldered onto a breakout pcb with header pins, but the connector itself and the connections it makes to the esp can be done with a breadboard and jumperwires?

I assume you have a PCB for ESP32 module?
you need to be able to connect the USB-UART bridge programmer module to the ESP32 U0RXD, U0TXD, GPIO0 and EN
we have a socket on the ESP32 PCB for this but you can use pins and jumper leads
looking on EBAY ESP32 programmers are only a few £

Yes, I have a PCB with other components on it where the module will be soldered onto. I was thinking just to test code and the processes that it would be easier to do so on a breadboard.

For example, solder the module on a blank breakout pcb and have the pins on the module route to different header pins that I can put on the breadboard to test and then solder it onto the actual pcb (as a tht component). This way I do not have to add a 6 pin connector to my pcb and can just put it on the breadboard and use jumper wires to lead it to the right pin.

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