how to install micropython on esp32

3 min read 21-01-2025

MicroPython is a lean and efficient implementation of the Python 3 programming language, ideal for microcontrollers like the ESP32. This guide walks you through installing MicroPython on your ESP32, opening up a world of possibilities for embedded programming. We'll cover everything from setting up the tools to verifying the installation.

What You'll Need

Before we begin, ensure you have the following:

An ESP32 Development Board: This is the microcontroller we'll be installing MicroPython on. Make sure you have the necessary hardware.
A Micro-USB Cable: To connect your ESP32 to your computer.
A Computer: Running Windows, macOS, or Linux.
esptool.py: This is a command-line tool used to flash firmware onto the ESP32. We'll download this later.

Step 1: Downloading the Tools

First, we need to download the necessary tools. We'll be using esptool.py to flash the MicroPython firmware onto your ESP32.

Download esptool.py: You can download this from the official ESP-IDF GitHub repository (search for "esptool.py esp-idf github"). The easiest way is usually to clone the entire repository, though you can download only the necessary files. Extract the downloaded files to a directory of your choice. Make sure you've added this directory to your system's PATH environment variable so you can run esptool.py from your terminal/command prompt.
Download the MicroPython Firmware: Navigate to the official MicroPython website and download the latest MicroPython firmware for the ESP32. Choose the .bin file. Save this file to a easily accessible location.

Step 2: Installing the Drivers (Windows Only)

If you're using Windows, you'll likely need to install the necessary drivers for your ESP32. This step is usually automatic, but if your computer doesn't recognize the ESP32, you'll need to manually install the CP210x USB to UART Bridge VCP Drivers (or whatever drivers are appropriate for your specific ESP32 board).

Step 3: Connecting the ESP32

Connect your ESP32 to your computer using the Micro-USB cable. Note the COM port assigned to your ESP32. You can usually find this in your computer's Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS).

Step 4: Flashing MicroPython

Now we're ready to flash the MicroPython firmware. Open your terminal or command prompt and navigate to the directory where you saved the esptool.py and the MicroPython .bin file.

Run the following command, replacing <COM_PORT> with the actual COM port of your ESP32 and <firmware.bin> with the actual filename of your downloaded MicroPython firmware:

esptool.py --port <COM_PORT> write_flash -z 0x1000 <firmware.bin>

The -z flag erases the flash memory before writing the new firmware. This ensures a clean installation. This process will take a few minutes. You should see progress updates in your terminal.

Step 5: Verifying the Installation

Once the flashing is complete, you should see a success message. To verify the installation, try connecting to the ESP32 using a serial terminal program (like PuTTY, screen, or minicom on Linux, or Tera Term). Use the same COM port you used before, and typically a baud rate of 115200. If everything is working correctly, you should see the MicroPython banner printed in your terminal.

Troubleshooting

No COM port detected: Ensure your ESP32 is properly connected and drivers are installed (if on Windows).
Flashing error: Double-check your COM port and firmware filename. Make sure the esptool.py is in your system's PATH.
No MicroPython banner: Try different baud rates or a different serial terminal program.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully installed MicroPython on your ESP32. Now you can start exploring the world of embedded Python programming. Remember to consult the MicroPython documentation for further assistance and examples. Enjoy experimenting with this powerful combination of hardware and software!