📷 Motion Detection and Email Alert System Using ESP32-CAM

In recent years, smart security systems have become essential for homes and workplaces. Traditional systems require continuous monitoring, but with IoT and embedded systems, we can automate surveillance.

This project demonstrates a motion-activated security camera using ESP32-CAM and PIR sensor. When motion is detected, the ESP32-CAM captures an image and sends it to a registered email address using the CircuitDigest Cloud platform.

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🚀 Project Overview

• Detects motion using PIR sensor
• Captures image instantly
• Sends captured image via Email
• Uses secure HTTPS communication
• Wi-Fi enabled IoT-based security system

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🧰 Components Required

S.No	Component	Purpose
1	ESP32-CAM	Main controller & image capture
2	PIR Sensor	Motion detection
3	Breadboard	Hardware connections
4	Jumper Wires	Interfacing
5	Red LED	Status indication
6	220Ω Resistor	LED protection

Note: If using standard ESP32-CAM (without USB), you need a USB-to-Serial converter for programming.

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🔌 Circuit Connections

• PIR OUT → GPIO13
• PIR VCC → 5V
• PIR GND → GND
• Red LED → GPIO14 (with 220Ω resistor)
• Flash LED → GPIO4 (Onboard)

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⚙️ Working Principle

1. ESP32-CAM connects to Wi-Fi
2. PIR sensor continuously monitors motion
3. When motion detected:
   • Flash LED turns ON
   • Image is captured
   • Image stored in frame buffer
   • HTTPS POST request sent to cloud
4. Cloud server processes request
5. Email with image attachment is delivered

System LED indications:

• Fast blink → Initialization
• Slow blink → Monitoring mode
• Flash ON → Capturing image

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🌍 Applications

🏠 Home Security Monitoring

🏢 Office Surveillance

📦 Warehouse Protection

🌾 Remote Area Monitoring

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📌 Conclusion

This project provides a cost-effective smart surveillance solution using ESP32-CAM. It combines: Motion sensing,Real-time image capture,Secure Wi-Fi communication and Cloud-based email alerts.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does ESP32-CAM fail to capture images? Usually due to insufficient power supply or incorrect configuration.

2. Why is email not being sent? Check Wi-Fi, API key, and server endpoint configuration.

3. PIR detection range? Typically 5–7 meters depending on model and environment.

4. Can images be stored locally? Yes, using microSD card integration.

5. Is this suitable for real security systems? For basic monitoring yes. Professional systems require additional security features.

Author:

Vedhathiri. K