The Working Principles of ESP32 and Analytical Comparison of using Low-Cost Microcontroller Modules in Embedded Systems Design

With the emergence of many low-cost development platforms, designing an embedded system has become more flexible using different microcontroller platforms. However, it is necessary to consider various factors before selecting the brain of embedded systems, the microcontroller. This paper compares two commonly used development boards in designing embedded systems with one of the latest boards manufactured for high-performance, low-cost embedded systems design called ESP32. The comparison is based on hardware specifications, as well as programming tools. A Wi-Fi analyzer system was designed and implemented as an example of using the ESP32 module in low-cost, low-energy embedded systems design. In addition to the ESP32, a Graphical LCD is used in the design as an output device. However, there is a lack of literature on establishing serial communication between the ESP32 module and the Graphical LCD. Therefore, this work presents a clear explanation of connecting the Graphical LCD to the ESP32 module using only three GPIO pins.