I have been watching this wonderful forum for many years. I could say, this forum has given me courage to consider the following project.
I am looking forward to build a standalone custom ESP8266 board based on ESP-WROOM. This exercise is purely for academic purpose. I want to learn how to use a wireless chip instead of module. If you are wondering why ESP8266, I have been given few dozen ESP8266EX, purchased as samples from Espressif, by a friend of mine.
The spec I am considering
- 8MB Flash
- DC/DC Converter 3-14V Input 5V/1A Running at 2250MHz
- 3.3V LDO powering the ESP8266EX
- External antenna
I want this board to work with any power source as long as voltage is less than 14V. I am aware of challenges of designing DC/DC converter. I intend to use the PCB design from TI WEBENCH. Further, I have read the ESP8266 hardware design guidelines document. The board will be 4 layers as suggested in hardware guidelines.
I have soldering station, hot-air, 50MHz oscilloscope. I am looking forward to build a toaster reflow oven soon.
I am wondering what problems are in store for me?