Stream MJPEG from ESP32-CAM to Browser via Wi-Fi Using Arduino IDE

Introduction

The ESP32-CAM is a powerful and versatile microcontroller with the capability to stream video over Wi-Fi. This tutorial will guide you through setting up the ESP32-CAM to stream MJPEG video to a web browser using the Arduino IDE. By the end, you’ll be able to view your camera feed from any device connected to the same network.

Prerequisites

• ESP32-CAM module
• FTDI USB to TTL Serial Adapter
• Jumper wires
• Arduino IDE installed on your computer
• Wi-Fi network credentials (SSID and password)

Parts/Tools

• ESP32-CAM
• FTDI USB to TTL Serial Adapter
• Jumper wires
• Computer with Arduino IDE

Steps

1. Connect the ESP32-CAM to your FTDI Adapter
   • Connect the FTDI adapter to your computer via USB.
   • Make the following connections:
     • FTDI GND to ESP32 GND
     • FTDI VCC to ESP32 5V
     • FTDI TX to ESP32 RX (U0R)
     • FTDI RX to ESP32 TX (U0T)
     • FTDI IO0 to GND (for programming mode)
2. Install the ESP32 Board in Arduino IDE
   1. Open Arduino IDE.
   2. Go to File > Preferences.
   3. In the Additional Board Manager URLs field, add:

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

   4. Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for “ESP32” and install it.
3. Upload the Camera Web Server Example
   1. Go to File > Examples > ESP32 > Camera > CameraWebServer.
   2. Replace the following lines in the code:

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

      with your Wi-Fi credentials.

   3. Choose the correct board and port:
      • Go to Tools > Board and select “AI Thinker ESP32-CAM”.
      • Go to Tools > Port and select the port of your FTDI adapter.
   4. Click on the upload button to compile and upload the code.
4. Disconnect and Reconnect ESP32-CAM
   1. Once the upload is complete, disconnect the IO0 from GND.
   2. Press the reset button on the ESP32-CAM or power cycle the device.
5. Find the IP Address
   1. Open the Serial Monitor in Arduino IDE.
   2. Set the baud rate to 115200.
   3. After a few moments, the Serial Monitor will display the IP address assigned to your ESP32-CAM.
6. Access the MJPEG Stream
   1. Open a web browser.
   2. Enter the IP address from the Serial Monitor into the address bar and press Enter.
   3. You should see the video stream from your ESP32-CAM.

Troubleshooting

• Can’t see the stream: Ensure the ESP32-CAM is connected to a compatible power source and Wi-Fi network.
• Serial Monitor shows “Camera Init Failed”: Check your wiring connections and ensure you selected the correct board in the Arduino IDE.
• Wi-Fi credentials incorrect: Double-check your SSID and password entered in the code.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully set up your ESP32-CAM to stream MJPEG video to a web browser over Wi-Fi! This can be used for various projects, such as home surveillance or remote monitoring. Experiment with additional features and settings to enhance your application. Happy coding!