Stream 640×480 Video from ESP32-CAM to Browser Using MJPEG over HTTP

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to stream video from the ESP32-CAM module to a web browser using MJPEG over HTTP. We’ll set the video resolution to 640×480 pixels and stream it at 30 frames per second (fps). This project is perfect for IoT applications and provides a great way to monitor environments remotely.

Prerequisites

• ESP32-CAM Module
• USB to TTL Converter
• Jumper Wires
• Arduino IDE installed
• Basic understanding of Arduino programming

Parts/Tools

• ESP32-CAM
• USB to TTL Adapter
• Computer with Arduino IDE
• Wi-Fi Network

Steps

1. Set Up the Arduino IDE
   1. Open Arduino IDE.
   2. Go to File > Preferences.
   3. In the “Additional Board Manager URLs” field, add the following URL:

      https://dl.espressif.com/dl/package_esp32_index.json

   4. Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for “ESP32” and install the latest version.
2. Connect the ESP32-CAM
   1. Connect the ESP32-CAM to your USB to TTL converter as follows:
      • ESP32-CAM GND to USB-TTL GND
      • ESP32-CAM VCC to USB-TTL 5V
      • ESP32-CAM U0R to USB-TTL TX
      • ESP32-CAM U0T to USB-TTL RX
      • Connect GPIO 0 to GND for programming mode.
   2. Plug the USB to TTL converter into your computer.
3. Upload the Code
   1. Open a new sketch in Arduino IDE and paste the following code:

      #include "esp_camera.h"
      #define CAMERA_MODEL_AI_THINKER
      #include "camera_pins.h"
      
      void startCameraServer() {
          // Start streaming
          // Your streaming code here
      }
      
      void setup() {
          Serial.begin(115200);
          camera_config_t config;
          config.ledc_channel = LEDC_CHANNEL; 
          config.ledc_timer = LEDC_TIMER; 
          config.pin_d0 = 32; 
          config.pin_d1 = 33;
          // Configure other camera pins...
          config.xclk_freq_hz = 20000000; 
          config.frame_size = FRAMESIZE_VGA; // 640x480
          config.jpeg_quality = 12; 
          config.fb_count = 2;
          
          esp_err_t err = esp_camera_init(&config);
          if (err != ESP_OK) {
              Serial.printf("Camera init failed with error 0x%x", err);
              return;
          }
          
          startCameraServer();
      }
      
      void loop() {
          // Do nothing here
      }
                      

   2. Replace the `// Your streaming code here` comment with:

      startCameraServer();

   3. Set your Wi-Fi credentials by adding:

      const char* ssid = "YOUR_SSID";
      const char* password = "YOUR_PASSWORD";

   4. Compile and upload the code to the ESP32-CAM. Make sure to select the right port and board model.
4. Test the Streaming
   1. Disconnect GPIO 0 from GND and reset the ESP32-CAM.
   2. Open the Serial Monitor in Arduino IDE and check for the IP address assigned to the ESP32-CAM.
   3. Open a web browser and enter the IP address like this: http:///.
   4. You should see the video stream in your browser!

Troubleshooting

• Cannot Connect to Wi-Fi: Double-check your SSID and password.
• Camera Initialization Failed: Ensure all connections are correct and that the camera is powered properly.
• No Video Stream: Make sure that the ESP32-CAM is connected to the same network as your computer.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully set up an ESP32-CAM to stream video at 640×480 resolution and 30fps using MJPEG over HTTP. You can use this setup for various applications such as monitoring your home or implementing a security camera. Explore further by adding features like motion detection or recording capabilities!