Complete ESP32 microcontroller learning course featuring a custom-designed MCU expansion board, hands-on projects, and a comprehensive online guide – perfect for learning hardware, programming, and connectivity step by step.
A Practical Introduction to Embedded Systems with the ESP32
This course is designed for readers who are new to embedded systems and looking for a structured, example-driven way to get started. If you’ve explored general-purpose electronics or Arduino-based materials but found them too broad or lacking in practical guidance, this course offers a more focused alternative.
Using the "ESP32 by Example Kit" (EEK) – a compact and affordable set of components featuring LEDs, sensors, an OLED display, and a motion processor – you’ll work with a consistent hardware setup throughout the course. Once assembled, the EEK stays mostly unchanged, allowing you to concentrate on learning and experimentation without constant reconfiguration.
Topics include:
Understanding and programming the ESP32 microcontroller
Writing and deploying code with the Arduino IDE
Exploring cyber-physical systems, culminating in basic drone control
No prior experience with Arduino or embedded development is required. Each section features hands-on examples and mini-projects designed to reinforce key concepts and inspire deeper exploration. By the end of the course, you’ll be able not only to reproduce the book’s examples but also to build on them with your own ideas and applications.
Whether you're interested in embedded programming, interactive systems, or introductory drone control, this course provides a clear and practical path to getting started.
What you'll learn?
Embedded programming with the ESP32 using the Arduino IDE
Real-time sensor input and control via buttons, LEDs, and displays
Gesture-based interaction using the MPU6050 motion sensor
Bluetooth gamepad integration and drone control simulation
Wi-Fi and UDP networking, local web servers, and NTP
MQTT communication with cloud platforms like AWS and Arduino IoT
How to build and deploy full-featured IoT systems
Perfect for
Students and self-learners exploring embedded systems
Makers and IoT enthusiasts looking to improve their hardware skills
Educators and trainers seeking ready-to-teach material
Developers moving beyond Raspberry Pi or Arduino basics
Support when you need it
Access to instructors via Elektor Academy
Helpful community forums and essential documentation
What's inside the Box (Course)?
New 384-page book: "ESP32 by Example" (valued at €45)
Elektor ESP32 by Example Kit (EEK): Microcontroller Extension Board with 6 LEDs and 6 Buttons installed + OLED Display, MPU6050 3-axis Accelerometer and Gyroscope Module (valued at €40)
Adafruit HUZZAH32 – ESP32 Feather MCU Board (valued at €30)
ESP32 Cheap Yellow Display Board (valued at €25)
DHT11 Humidity & Temperature Sensor
Breadboard
Jumper wires
USB-C cable
Access to the full course on the Elektor Academy Pro Learning Platform
Instructional videos
Downloadable Arduino project files for every module
Learning Material (of this Box/Course)
▶ Click here to open
Module 1 – Getting Started with the ESP32 & EEK
Module 2 – Digital Output – LEDs and GPIO
Module 3 – Switches and Input Handling
Module 4 – EEK and PWM
Module 5 – OLED and Display Output
Module 6 – Motion Sensing with the MPU6050
Module 7 – Capstone Project (EEK in Action)
Module 8 – WiFi and Web Control with ESP32
Module 9 – Cloud Concepts using EEK
Module 10 – Hands-on: Arduino IoT Cloud and EEK
Module 11 – BlueTooth and EEK GamePad Integration
Module 12 – Why Drones?
Module 13 – Drone Simulator Concepts
Module 14 – Simple Drone Flight Control
Module 15 – Real-Time Drone Flight Control
Module 16 – Drone Control Mini-Projects
Module 17 – Middleware and Python Scripting
Module 18 – Python Applications for Drone Control
Module 19 – Capstone EEK Control Project and Presentation
About the Author
Dr. Jim Solderitsch is an educator, software architect, systems developer, and cybersecurity researcher with a focus on cyber-physical systems. He currently serves as an Adjunct Professor in Computing Sciences at Villanova University in Pennsylvania.
What is Elektor Academy Pro?
Elektor Academy Pro delivers specialized learning solutions designed for professionals, engineering teams, and technical experts in the electronics and embedded systems industry. It enables individuals and organizations to expand their practical knowledge, enhance their skills, and stay ahead of the curve through high-quality resources and hands-on training tools.
From real-world projects and expert-led courses to in-depth technical insights, Elektor empowers engineers to tackle today’s electronics and embedded systems challenges. Our educational offerings include Academy Books, Pro Boxes, Webinars, Conferences, and industry-focused B2B magazines – all created with professional development in mind.
Whether you're an engineer, R&D specialist, or technical decision-maker, Elektor Academy Pro bridges the gap between theory and practice, helping you master emerging technologies and drive innovation within your organization.
This complete ESP32 microcontroller programming course features a textbook, a component kit, hands-on projects, and a comprehensive online course with simulations. It is ideal for step-by-step learning of embedded systems programming with Arduino using a practical, hands-on approach.
A Practical Introduction to Embedded Systems with the ESP32
This course is designed for people who are new to embedded systems and looking for a structured, example-driven way to get started.
A kit of parts comprising LEDs and resistors, switches, sensors and actuators, displays, a breadboard and wires, and more is included. These are used in the course to illustrate example applications.
No prior experience with Arduino or embedded development is required. Each section features hands-on examples and mini projects designed to reinforce key concepts and inspire deeper exploration. By the end of the course, you’ll be able not only to reproduce the examples but also to build on them with your own ideas and applications.
What Will You Learn?
Microcontroller programming with the ESP32 using the Arduino IDE
Working with Digital I/O, read buttons and encoders, control LEDs and relays
Read analog inputs, voltages, and analog sensors
Generating analog output signals and PWM
Use serial communication like UART, I²C and SPI to control displays and read digital sensors and SD cards
Managing time
Working with interrupts
Real-time sensor input and control via buttons, LEDs, and displays
Control actuators like relays and servo motors
Who Is It For?
Students and self-learners exploring embedded systems
Makers and IoT enthusiasts looking to improve their hardware skills
Educators and trainers seeking ready-to-teach material
What's Inside the Box?
Access to the full course on the Elektor Academy Pro Learning Platform
ESP32 microcontroller board + USB cable
Book: Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Downloadable project files for every module
Component Box:
2× LED, red, 5 mm
LED, green, 5 mm
3× Resistor, 470 Ω, 0.25 W
LDR
Potentiometer, 10 kΩ, linear
Pushbutton
Rotary encoder module
Relay module
DHT22 Humidity & Temperature Sensor
TM1637-compatible 4-digit 7-segment display
MPU-6050 IMU with headers
SSD1306-compatible I²C OLED display
Micro SD card adapter with header
Buzzer
SG90 Micro Servo
ILI9341-compatible SPI 240×320 TFT display
20× Jumper wires
Breadboard
All Programming Courses (and differences in content)
Course
Arduino
Raspberry Pi Pico with Arduino C/C++
ESP32 with Arduino C/C++
Raspberry Pi Pico with MicroPython
ESP32 with MicroPython
Online Course
Access to Arduino Course
Access to Pico with Arduino C/C++ Course
Access to ESP32 with Arduino C/C++ Course
Access to Pico with MicroPython Course
Access to ESP32 with MicroPython Course
Board
Uno R3
Raspberry Pi Pico
ESP32
Raspberry Pi Pico
ESP32
Book
Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython
Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython
Kit
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
The Elektor Audio DSP FX Processor combines an ESP32 microcontroller and an ADAU1701 Audio DSP from Analog Devices. Besides a user-programmable DSP core, the ADAU1701 has high-quality analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters built-in and features an I²S port. This makes it suitable as a high-quality audio interface for the ESP32.
Programs for the ESP32 can be created with Arduino, Platform IO, CMake or by using the Espressif IDF in another way. Programs for the ADAU7101 audio DSPs are created with the free visual programming tool SigmaStudio by dragging and dropping pre-defined algorithm blocks on a canvas.
Applications
Bluetooth/Wi-Fi audio sink (e.g. loudspeaker) & source
Guitar effect pedal (stomp box)
Music synthesizer
Sound/function generator
Programmable cross-over filter for loudspeakers
Advanced audio effects processor (reverb, chorus, pitch shifting, etc.)
Internet-connected audio device
DSP experimentation platform
Wireless MIDI
MIDI to CV converter
and many more...
Specifications
ADAU1701 28-/56-bit, 50-MIPS digital audio processor supporting sampling rates of up to 192 kHz
ESP32 32-bit dual-core microcontroller with Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.2 BR/EDR and BLE
2x 24-bit audio inputs (2 V RMS, 20 kΩ)
4x 24-bit audio outputs (0.9 V RMS, 600 Ω)
4x Control potentiometer
MIDI in- and output
I²C expansion port
Multi-mode operation
Power supply: 5 V DC USB or 7.5-12 V DC (barrel jack, center pin is GND)
Current consumption (average): 200 mA
Included
1x ESP32 Audio DSP FX Processor board (assembled)
1x ESP32-PICO-KIT
2x Jumpers
2x 18-pin headers (female)
4x 10 KB potentiometers
Downloads
Documentation
GitHub
Practical Projects in Analog, Audio and Beyond
Discover a remarkable collection of more than 450 electronics projects published in Elektor Magazine and carefully selected by renowned Elektor Lab engineer Ton Giesberts.
The USB drive brings together a wide variety of circuits, designs, and practical project ideas created by numerous Elektor authors and engineers over the years. Covering a broad range of electronics topics, this extensive archive is a valuable source of knowledge and inspiration for engineers, makers, students, and electronics enthusiasts.
More than 450 selected Elektor projects
Carefully compiled by Elektor engineer Ton Giesberts
Ideal for building, experimenting, and discovering new ideas
Explore decades of Elektor expertise in one comprehensive project collection.
Highlights
Q-Watt Audio Power
Fortissimo-100 High-End Amplifier
Buffer Board for the Raspberry Pi 400
USB-to-Multi-Protocol Serial Converter
DDS Function Generator
AC/DC Power Meter
Charge-a-Phone
Specifications
Storage
8 GB
Connectors
1x USB-A1x USB-C
System requirements
PC with Adobe Reader 7.0 or higher
Web browser
Analogue Electronics and Microcontrollers Projects
Hobbyist electronics can be a fun way to learn new skills that can be helpful to your career. Those who understand the basics of electronics can design their own circuits and projects. However, before you run, you need to learn to walk.
It all starts with analogue electronics. You should be familiar with the simple components and circuits and understand their basic behaviors and the issues you may encounter. The best way to do this is through real experiments. Theory alone is not enough. This book offers a large number of practical entry-level circuits, with which everyone can gain the basic experience.
Through the widespread introduction of microcontrollers, a new chapter in electronics has begun. Microcontrollers are now performing more and more tasks that were originally solved using discrete components and conventional ICs. Starting out has become easier and easier thanks to platforms including Bascom, Arduino, micro:bit. The book introduces numerous manageable microcontroller applications. It’s now a case of less soldering and more programming.
Practical Low-Cost Methods for Reliable PCB Production
This book explains how to carry out reliable SMD assembly using affordable tools and small-scale equipment. It follows the complete workflow step by step, including tool selection, solder paste handling, stencil use, component placement, reflow methods, inspection, and rework.
The focus is on bench-level and small-lab production rather than industrial assembly lines. It shows practical methods for building single and double-sided SMD boards with repeatable results.
Topics include solder paste and flux, temperature profiles, hot air and hotplate techniques, small reflow ovens, inspection methods, and defect correction. Checklists and example workflows are included to help reduce errors and improve consistency.
Key features:
Tools and supplies for SMD assembly and rework
Solder paste types, storage, and handling
Stencils and paste application methods
Pick and place workflow and component orientation
Temperature profiles and reflow methods
Hot air, hotplate, and reflow oven processes
Inspection and quality control
Common defects such as tombstoning and solder bridges
Practical rework and component replacement
Bench-level professional workflows and checklists
This book is designed as a practical bench reference for anyone who wants to assemble and troubleshoot their own SMD boards with reliable results.
This complete Arduino Uno-based microcontroller programming course features a textbook, a component kit, hands-on projects, and a comprehensive online course with simulations. It is ideal for step-by-step learning of embedded systems programming with Arduino using a practical, hands-on approach.
A Practical Introduction to Embedded Systems with the Arduino Uno
This course is designed for people who are new to embedded systems and looking for a structured, example-driven way to get started.
A kit of parts comprising LEDs and resistors, switches, sensors and actuators, displays, a breadboard and wires, and more is included. These are used in the course to illustrate example applications.
No prior experience with Arduino or embedded development is required. Each section features hands-on examples and mini projects designed to reinforce key concepts and inspire deeper exploration. By the end of the course, you’ll be able not only to reproduce the examples but also to build on them with your own ideas and applications.
What Will You Learn?
Microcontroller programming with Arduino using the Uno R3 board
Working with Digital I/O, read buttons and encoders, control LEDs and relays
Read analog inputs, voltages, and analog sensors
Generating analog output signals and PWM
Use serial communication like UART, I²C and SPI to control displays and read digital sensors and SD cards
Managing time
Working with interrupts
Real-time sensor input and control via buttons, LEDs, and displays
Control actuators like relays and servo motors
Who Is It For?
Students and self-learners exploring embedded systems
Makers and IoT enthusiasts looking to improve their hardware skills
Educators and trainers seeking ready-to-teach material
What's Inside the Box?
Access to the full course on the Elektor Academy Pro Learning Platform
Uno R3 microcontroller board + USB cable
Book: Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Downloadable project files for every module
Component Box:
2× LED, red, 5 mm
LED, green, 5 mm
3× Resistor, 470 Ω, 0.25 W
LDR
Potentiometer, 10 kΩ, linear
Pushbutton
Rotary encoder module
Relay module
DHT22 Humidity & Temperature Sensor
TM1637-compatible 4-digit 7-segment display
MPU-6050 IMU with headers
SSD1306-compatible I²C OLED display
Micro SD card adapter with header
Buzzer
SG90 Micro Servo
ILI9341-compatible SPI 240×320 TFT display
20× Jumper wires
Breadboard
All Programming Courses (and differences in content)
Course
Arduino
Raspberry Pi Pico with Arduino C/C++
ESP32 with Arduino C/C++
Raspberry Pi Pico with MicroPython
ESP32 with MicroPython
Online Course
Access to Arduino Course
Access to Pico with Arduino C/C++ Course
Access to ESP32 with Arduino C/C++ Course
Access to Pico with MicroPython Course
Access to ESP32 with MicroPython Course
Board
Uno R3
Raspberry Pi Pico
ESP32
Raspberry Pi Pico
ESP32
Book
Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Programming Microcontrollers in C/C++ Using Arduino
Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython
Programming Microcontrollers in MicroPython
Kit
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
40-piece Component Box
Über 45 Projekte für den legendären 555-Chip (und den 556, 568)
Der 555-Timer-IC, ursprünglich um 1971 von Signetics eingeführt, gehört zweifellos zu den beliebtesten analogen integrierten Schaltkreisen, die je produziert wurden. Ursprünglich als „IC-Zeitmaschine“ bezeichnet, wurde dieser Chip über Jahrzehnte hinweg in zahlreichen zeitgesteuerten Projekten verwendet. Dieses Buch befasst sich mit der Entwicklung von Projekten, die auf dem 555-Timer-IC basieren. Es werden über 45 vollständig getestete und dokumentierte Projekte vorgestellt. Alle Projekte wurden vom Autor selbst getestet, indem sie einzeln auf einem Breadboard aufgebaut wurden. Es sind keine Programmierkenntnisse erforderlich, um die im Buch vorgestellten Projekte nachzubauen oder zu verwenden. Allerdings ist es definitiv hilfreich, über grundlegende Elektronikkenntnisse und den Umgang mit einem Breadboard zum Aufbau und Testen elektronischer Schaltungen zu verfügen. Einige der Projekte im Buch sind:
Abwechselnd blinkende LEDs
Veränderung der Blinkrate von LEDs
Touchsensor-Ein/Aus-Schalter
Ein-/Ausschaltverzögerung
Lichtabhängiger Ton
Dunkel-Hell-Lichtschalter
Tonburst-Generator
Langzeit-Timer
Lauflichter
LED-Roulette-Spiel
Ampelsteuerung
Durchgangsprüfer
Elektronisches Schloss
Kontaktentprellung für Schalter
Spielzeug-Elektronikorgel
Mehrfachsensor-Alarmsystem
Metronom
Spannungsmultiplizierer
Elektronischer Würfel
7-Segment-Display-Zähler
Motorsteuerung
7-Segment-Display-Würfel
Elektronische Sirene
Verschiedene andere Projekte
Die im Buch vorgestellten Projekte können von den Lesern für ihre eigenen Anwendungen modifiziert oder erweitert werden. Elektronikingenieur-Studenten, Leute, die gerne kleine elektronische Schaltungen entwerfen, sowie Elektronik-Hobbyisten werden die Projekte im Buch sicher lehrreich, unterhaltsam, interessant und nützlich finden.
All-in-One AI Learning and Development Platform for Edge Intelligence
This NVIDIA Jetson-based AI Starter Kit is a versatile platform for learning, development, and hands-on experimentation in Edge AI.
Designed for use with the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano, the kit combines an 11.6-inch IPS display, an 8-megapixel pan-tilt camera, and an AI voice interaction system.
It includes 30 functional modules and 38 carefully designed Python courses that progress from beginner to advanced level. The course content covers Python fundamentals, sensor technology, AI vision, and image recognition.
With step-by-step practical exercises ranging from basic programming to real-world computer vision applications, this kit provides an ideal platform for students, makers, developers, and anyone looking to explore artificial intelligence and edge computing.
Please note: The NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano is not included.
Features
Designed for the NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano
AI voice interaction module
8 MP camera with pan-tilt control
Supports object and face tracking
No soldering or complex wiring required
Built-in 11.6-inch IPS display
30 functional modules
38 step-by-step Python lessons
I²C, UART, and GPIO expansion interfaces
Portable carrying case included
Specifications
Main Processor
Jetson Orin Nano
Number of Sensors
30
Sensor Board Design
Integrated sensor board, no soldering or complex wiring required
Screen
11.6-inch IPS Screen
Screen Resolution
1366 x 768
Camera
IMX219 8MP
Expansion Interfaces
2x I²C, 1x UART, 1x IO D13, 1xIO D12
Programming Environment
Based on Python
Number of Tutorials
38 creative tutorials
Target Audience
Students, teachers, hardware enthusiasts
Application Scenarios
Ideal for learning AI programming, Jetson Orin Nano basics
Dimensions
300 x 200 x 100 mm
Module List
Module
Quantity
Temperature & Humidity Sensor
1 pcs
Button
4 pcs
Ultrasonic Ranging Sensor
1 pcs
Light Sensor
1 pcs
Linear Potentiometer
1 pcs
Buzzer
1 pcs
LCD
1 pcs
Infrared Remote
1 pcs
Relay
1 pcs
NFC
1 pcs
PIR Motion Sensor
1 pcs
Joystick
1 pcs
4-Digital Display
1 pcs
LED
1 pcs
Microphone
1 pcs
Speaker
1 pair
Vibration Motor
1 pcs
Touch Sensor
1 pcs
8x8 RGB Matrix
1 pcs
Atmospheric pressure sensor
1 pcs
Tilt Switch
1 pcs
Stepper Motor
1 pcs
Accelerometer & Gyro
1 pcs
Gas Sensor (MQ2)
1 pcs
Hall Sensor
1 pcs
Rotary Encoder
1 pcs
U-shaped photoelectric switch
1 pcs
NTC
1 pcs
Servo
2 pcs
Monocular camera
1 pcs
Included
1x Elecrow AI Starter Kit for Jetson Orin Nano
1x IR Remote Control
1x NFC Card
1x 128 GB SD Card
1x 40-pin GPIO Cable
2x 22-pin FPC Cable
2x 24-pin FPC Cable
1x Jetson DP & USB Adapter Board
Not included
NVIDIA Jetson Orin Nano
Downloads
Manual
Wiki
OpenClaw Install and Config Guide
Vision and Mission Elektor believes that innovations in electronics will lead to a better world. Elektor is a multi-faceted platform in the applied electronics industry that unites hundreds of thousands engineers, programmers and developers in a worldwide community of knowledge and expertise. Since its founding in 1960, Elektor has been dedicated...
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by Udo Bormann
Top 4 Elektor Electronics Project Kits for Learning and Skill Development
Discover four of Elektor’s most exciting electronics kits — from IoT and Arduino to retro logic and motion control. Whether you're just starting out or...