Developing IoT Projects with ESP32: Unlock the full Potential of ESP32 in IoT development to create production-grade smart devices 2nd Edition

Full disclosure: I was given a copy of the book to write a review.The ESP32 is a fan favorite among engineers, makers, and tinkerers looking to create various IoT projects. For the most part, I stick with the Arduino IDE and libraries when working with the ESP32. However, the non-Arduino option for development, ESP-IDF, is a wonderful suite of tools built to work with nearly any editor. If you are looking to develop professional, robust IoT projects with the ESP32, you will likely gravitate toward ESP-IDF.“Developing IoT Projects with ESP32” starts with a brief overview of the ESP32 hardware and ESP-IDF. In reality, the author assumes you have some working knowledge and experience with the ESP32, which is not a bad thing. This is not a book for beginners. Even though a “getting started” tutorial is provided for ESP-IDF, I would highly recommend using other online resources for setting up and using ESP-IDF. The official Espressif documentation covers more details and is plenty easy to follow.However, the book really shines after you have a basic grasp of ESP-IDF. It covers many topics required for developing professional projects that are sorely lacking in most online content. For example, it goes over the basics of FreeRTOS (the ESP-IDF flavor), step-through debugging, advanced libraries, REST, MQTT, security, IoT cloud services, and machine learning. If I were considering using the ESP32 for developing a professional project, this is the book I would want as my companion and reference guide.The biggest drawback is the lack of Bluetooth content. This chapter was apparently present in the first edition but sadly removed for this version. Even if WiFi is more popular, I think dismissing Bluetooth is a mistake, as plenty of developers still want to use low-energy, wireless connections to various devices (such as smartphones). The addition of machine learning chapters is welcome, but having both Bluetooth and ML would have been better.Additionally, the book switches between PlatformIO and native ESP-IDF tooling for installing third-party libraries. I recognize that PlatformIO is very popular, but I have generally struggled with it. My preference would be a focus on using the ESP-IDF and CMake for installing/linking such libraries, as that is a more portable approach.While the book is best used as a reference guide, it contains several projects that you can build to further grasp the concepts and tools: an audio player, a smart home plug, and a baby monitor. I highly recommend the book to anyone who wants to move beyond Arduino and level up their IoT skills using the ESP32.

Too many broken links. Haven’t responded to my pdf request. Be prepared to know or learn visual studio. Make sure you have the esp32-s3 because the book concentrates on this version

As someone who has been toying with an IoT idea for some time, finding a resource that moves beyond the basics has been a challenge. "Developing IoT Projects with ESP32" by Vedat Ozan Oner, however, stands out as a beacon of hope. Aimed primarily at C++ programmers, the book presents concepts that are solidly constructed and applicable across languages, including C. This adaptability is a testament to the author's thorough approach.The book is expansive, covering a breadth of topics essential for IoT development. What sets it apart is the manner in which example code is not only explained but also supplemented with GitHub resources for practical testing. This hands-on approach is further enhanced by detailed testing and troubleshooting guides for each example—a rarity in computer programming literature, and a feature for which Oner deserves high praise.Despite its strengths, the book isn't without areas for improvement. Crucial information on preparing for the examples is tucked away until page 92, a placement that might slow down eager learners. However, once discovered, this insight accelerates the learning process, especially when utilizing Espressif tools.Another highlight is the dual focus on PlatformIO and ESP-IDF development paths, catering to varied preferences and potential challenges faced by developers. This inclusivity underscores the book's utility as a comprehensive guide.My only critique lies in the omission of the ESP-NOW protocol—an essential element for my project, given my desire to avoid MQTT or REST. Nevertheless, the book equips readers with the foundational knowledge to incorporate third-party libraries and navigate Espressif documentation, making the leap to using ESP-NOW more of a stride than a leap.In conclusion, "Developing IoT Projects with ESP32" is a valuable resource I foresee revisiting frequently. It's not just a book but a toolkit for anyone serious about mastering IoT development with the ESP32. Whether you're a seasoned C++ programmer or branching out from another language, this book offers a solid foundation, comprehensive examples, and the nuances of troubleshooting—a combination that promises to propel your IoT ambitions into reality.