BLE with ESP32 tutorial part 1: the Server

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Controlling ESP32 with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)

Introduction:

1. This tutorial will guide you through controlling an ESP32 using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) in combination with a mobile app.
2. The tutorial is based on the video "BLE with ESP32 tutorial part 1: the Server" by MoThunderz.
3. We will cover setting up the ESP32 server, creating a service and characteristic, sending data, and using descriptors.

Setting up the ESP32:

1. Install the necessary library for ESP32 BLE Arduino:

   • Go to Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries.
   • Search for esp32 ble Arduino and install the library.
   • Restart your IDE for the changes to take effect.

2. Access the example code:

   • Go to File > Examples > ESP32 BLE Arduino.
   • Choose the BLE Notify example for this tutorial.

3. Understand BLE properties:

   • BLE has three main properties: Read, Write, and Notify.
   • Notify sends data periodically from the server to the client.

Implementing the Server:

1. Define the server and characteristic values in the code.
2. Create a service and characteristic using unique UUIDs.
3. Initialize the serial interface for debugging purposes.
4. Start the service and advertise it for clients to connect.

Sending Data from ESP32:

1. In the loop, periodically send data to the connected device using the notify function.
2. Update the value to be sent and add a small delay between notifications.

Using Different Data Types:

1. You can send various data types like unsigned integers, strings, floats, and doubles using the set value function.
2. Ensure the data sent does not exceed the maximum byte size of 20.

Working with Descriptors:

1. Understand the importance of descriptors like client characteristic configuration (2902) and characteristic user description (2901).
2. Modify the descriptors to customize the behavior of notifications and add additional information to characteristics.

Verifying Data Transmission:

1. Use a BLE scanning app on your phone to connect to the ESP32.
2. Verify the data sent from the ESP32 matches the expected values in the app.
3. Experiment with different data types and descriptors to understand their impact on data transmission.

Conclusion:

1. By following this tutorial, you can control an ESP32 using BLE and create a custom server with unique services and characteristics.
2. Experiment with different data types and descriptors to enhance your understanding of BLE communication.
3. Stay tuned for more tutorials and leave your feedback for further improvements.

Additional Resources:

• Refer to the video "BLE with ESP32 tutorial part 1: the Server" by MoThunderz for a visual walkthrough of the steps.
• Explore the ESP32 BLE Arduino library documentation for more advanced features and functionalities.

Follow these steps carefully to set up and control your ESP32 using Bluetooth Low Energy effectively.