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CONNECT Programmer - How it works

The CONNECT programmer uses the onboard CH340 chip by WCH to convert the USB protocol into serial communication.

ch340onboard
USB-UART CH340 Converter on the board

Datasheet

For an in-depth look at the technical specifications, refer to the official CH340 Datasheet:

USB to serial chip CH340 Datasheet

Detailed technical documentation for the CH340 converter


How it Works

The CH340 works by converting USB signals into serial communication signals and vice versa. It essentially translates data from the computer’s USB interface and passes it on to the ESP board.

  1. USB Data Transfer: The USB interface sends data to the CH340 chip, where it is converted into UART signals. These UART signals are then sent to the TXD (Transmit) and RXD (Receive) pins, enabling data transmission to and from the connected device.

  2. Signal Conversion: The CH340 handles the conversion between the USB protocol and the UART protocol. The chip automatically detects the baud rate and flow control settings, making it easy to set up and use.

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The CH340 chip ensures automatic baud rate detection and adjusts communication parameters dynamically, simplifying the setup process for users.

The breakout board also supplies the ESP with 3V3 and can place it into Bootloader mode using the IO0 pin.

Programming the ESP with the CONNECT programmer works the same as when you connect the USB cable directly to the ESP.


USB Plug-and-Play Functionality

The CH340 Converter Board is designed for plug-and-play operation with minimal setup. It supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is recognized by the system immediately after connection.

When connected to a computer via USB, the board is powered by the USB port, and data can be transmitted seamlessly to the connected serial device.

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The USB-to-UART conversion provided by the CH340 chip allows seamless communication between a computer and embedded devices without needing additional drivers in most cases.

How to Connect It?

CONNECT ProgrammerESP Board
IO0IO0
RESETRESET
TXDRXD
RXDTXD
3V33V3
GNDGND
How to connect it
Connections