Internet on pixl.js

[espruino-discuss]

Posted at 2024-10-01 by matjazz

I am presenting at the fair and I would like to include Pixl.js.
I need bidirectional communication/websocket between pixl and the web app.
I have Android phone with mobile data (wifi, BT, BLE).
I can also use RaspPi 4 using EspruinoHub (BT)? Or ESP32 dev board (serial or BT)?
What would be the easiest option?

[espruino-discuss]

Posted at 2024-10-02 by @gfwilliams

The easiest is probably to wire an ESP8266 to the Pixl.js and connect to the WiFi directly? https://www.espruino.com/arduino-esp8266

Websockets may be possible too (https://www.espruino.com/ws) - I'm not sure if I've tried that on a Pixl, but I'm pretty sure you won't be able to get HTTPS, just HTTP

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Posted at 2024-10-02 by matjazz

ESP8266 looks good.
So MQTT would be a better option? https://www.espruino.com/tinyMQTT
Thanks!

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Posted at 2024-10-02 by @gfwilliams

I think either should be ok - maybe give the websocket example on that page a try first and see how it works?

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Posted at 2024-10-21 by matjazz

So I got mention Arduino ESP8266 board.
Can I connect it directly/pins to pixl.js without soldering? How? All DIP switches to off (closer to numbers?) and use Debug Port TXD/RXD?
I would like to power both boards using CR2032 battery. How?
How do I verify if ESP8266 has an appropriate firmware?

Any additional info and pictures would be much appreciated.
Thank you.

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Posted at 2024-10-22 by @gfwilliams

All the information you need for connection, including pictures, is on https://www.espruino.com/arduino-esp8266

Can I connect it directly/pins to pixl.js without soldering? How

From https://www.espruino.com/arduino-esp8266#using-as-is

• Ensure SW1 and SW2 are OFF
• Connect a jumper lead from the TXD pin on Debug Port to D0 on the Arduino header
• Connect a jumper lead from the RXD pin on Debug Port to D1 on the Arduino header

I would like to power both boards using CR2032 battery. How?

It's not possible I'm afraid. A CR2032 doesn't provide enough voltage or power for the ESP8266.

You'd need to use at minimum a Lithium Ion battery, but maybe the easiest is just to use a USB power bank?