The FireBeetle 2 ESP32-P4, previewed earlier this year, is now available from DFRobot starting at $11.90. This compact board handles real-time image processing and video streaming, combining the ESP32-P4 SoC with an ESP32-C6 co-processor for wireless projects.

The board uses a 360 MHz dual-core RISC-V processor with single-precision FPU and AI instruction extensions, enabling the direct deployment of lightweight machine learning models such as TensorFlow Lite for tasks like facial recognition, object detection, or voice control. An additional 40 MHz single-core RISC-V core supports low-power operations.

Specifications include 32 MB of PSRAM, 16 MB of Flash, 768 KB of L2 memory for high-performance tasks, and separate SRAM and ROM blocks for high- and low-power execution. Operating voltage is 3.3 V, with power input through USB Type-C or VIN at 5 V DC.

ESp32-P4 Block Diagram
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Native MIPI-CSI and MIPI-DSI interfaces allow direct connections to Raspberry Pi-compatible cameras and displays, removing the need for extra adapter boards. Onboard hardware accelerators handle H.264 video and JPEG encoding, supporting video streams up to 1080p. A built-in PDM digital microphone adds voice input for audio-based features.

Within its 25.4 × 60 mm footprint, the board integrates 24 digital I/O pins, multiple UART, I2C, SPI, and I2S interfaces, a MicroSD card slot for local storage, and a high-speed USB OTG (Type-C) port for data transfer and programming. The ESP32-C6 co-processor adds Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 LE connectivity, designed for low-latency performance in connected devices.

FireBeetle 2 ESP32-P4 Main Features
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The FireBeetle 2 ESP32-P4 is compatible with both the Arduino IDE and ESP-IDF. MIPI-CSI camera and AI features currently require ESP-IDF for full functionality. Developers can use either the Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF to program the board, though MIPI-CSI and AI features currently require ESP-IDF for full functionality. For faster prototyping, a dedicated Development Kit bundles the board with an I/O Expansion Board for easier peripheral connections.

FireBeetle 2 ESP32-P4
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Additional documentation, including datasheets, schematics, and setup instructions, is available on the DFRobot Wiki.

Further Information

As mentioned earlier, the FireBeetle 2 ESP32-P4 is now available for $11.90 while the Expansion Board is priced at $13.90 on the DFRobot website.