ESP32 co-processor
Inkplate 6MOTION features an ESP32-C3-WROOM-02 module, which serves as a WiFi co-processor. It communicates with the STM32 via SPI, using AT commands to handle network operations.
In our documentation and code, you may sometimes see the ESP32 co-processor referred to as the ESP32 modem, as it functions similarly to traditional modems by processing network-related tasks.
ESP-AT firmware
The ESP32-C3 runs ESP-AT, an official firmware by Espressif that enables the ESP32 to act as a co-processor controlled via AT commands. This setup allows the STM32 to request the ESP32 to connect to WiFi, download files, and transmit data over SPI.
ESP-AT
Official repository by Espressif, control your ESP32 device with AT commands.
The ESP-AT binary used on Inkplate 6MOTION was built using Espressif's official tools. If you're interested in compiling your own version, refer to the ESP-AT documentation.
Using the ESP32 with the Inkplate Motion library
The Inkplate Motion library includes a software driver that manages the ESP32 co-processor, making WiFi features easy to use. Check out the WiFi example for practical implementation.
If you're curious about how the driver works internally, you can explore its low-level communication with the ESP32 in the source files inside the Inkplate Motion library (src/system/wifi).
Additionally, Espressif provides an AT Command Set detailing all the available AT commands. The Inkplate driver only uses a subset of these commands, focusing on essential WiFi functionality.
Inkplate_6_Motion_WiFI_Command_Sender.ino
An Inkplate 6MOTION Arduino library example where you can send AT commands via Serial and receive responses from the ESP32.