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Proton AI Core is built around the ESP32-S3-WROOM-1 module — a capable, low-power system-on-module that combines a dual-core processor, integrated Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth with dedicated support for AI acceleration and high-speed camera interfaces. This page gives you a tour of the board’s main hardware components, physical layout, and power characteristics so you know exactly what you’re working with before you start building.

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Main Components

The table below covers the primary hardware features of Proton AI Core:
ComponentDetails
MicrocontrollerESP32-S3-WROOM-1
USB InterfaceUSB-C (power + programming)
Camera ConnectorFPC connector for OV2640 / OV3660
Wi-Fi802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz
Bluetooth5.0 / BLE
Flash8 MB (To be confirmed)
PSRAM8 MB (To be confirmed)
GPIOMultiple GPIOs exposed on headers — see Pinout for full assignments

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Board Layout

The Proton AI Core board is arranged to keep common interfaces accessible and to minimise signal interference around the antenna area. The USB-C port sits at one end of the board and serves as the primary connection point for both power and programming. Directly adjacent to it is the USB-to-serial chip that bridges communication between your computer and the ESP32-S3 module. The camera FPC connector is positioned to allow a short, direct cable run to the OV2640 or OV3660 module, reducing noise on the high-speed parallel camera bus. GPIO headers run along both long edges of the board, exposing the ESP32-S3’s I/O pins for connection to sensors, displays, actuators, and other peripherals. The ESP32-S3-WROOM-1 module occupies the centre of the board, with its PCB antenna extending toward the end opposite the USB-C port. Keep this area clear of metal enclosures or other conductors to maintain good wireless performance.
For detailed pin assignments, see the Pinout page.

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Power

Proton AI Core accepts power through its USB-C port at 5 V. An onboard linear voltage regulator steps this down to 3.3 V to supply the ESP32-S3 module and peripherals. You should ensure your USB-C power source can supply adequate current for your application, particularly when Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and the camera are all active simultaneously.
  • Input voltage: 5 V via USB-C
  • Logic voltage: 3.3 V (all GPIO pins are 3.3 V logic)
  • Maximum current draw at full operation: To be confirmed
All GPIO pins on Proton AI Core operate at 3.3 V. Applying 5 V signals directly to GPIO pins may damage the ESP32-S3. Use a level shifter when interfacing with 5 V peripherals.

Full Specifications

View the complete technical specifications for Proton AI Core.

Pinout Diagram

See the full GPIO pinout with labels, alternate functions, and recommended uses.

Camera Modules

Learn about the supported OV2640 and OV3660 camera modules and how to connect them.

Downloads

Download schematics, CAD files, datasheets, and other hardware resources.