CatWandConnect
Install the cat toy robot's firmware on an ESP32, straight from your browser.
Beta versions get the newest changes first and may still have bugs.
Before you start
- Chrome or Edge on a computer (Windows, macOS, Linux or ChromeOS).
- An ESP32, ESP32-S3 or ESP32-C3 board and a USB cable that carries data, not only power. ESP8266 boards are not supported.
- If the board doesn't show up, try another cable, then install the driver for the USB chip next to its connector (help below).
The board doesn't show up?
- Try another USB cable: many only carry power. Plug straight into the computer, not through a hub.
- Read the marking on the small chip next to the USB connector, and install its driver:
| Chip | Windows | macOS |
|---|---|---|
| CH340, CH341 | CH341SER.EXE | CH34XSER_MAC.ZIP |
| CH9102, CH343 | CH343SER.EXE | CH34XSER_MAC.ZIP |
| CP2102, CP210x | Silicon Labs CP210x drivers | |
- Unplug and replug the board, then press the button again. On macOS, allow the driver in System Settings → Privacy & Security.
- No chip next to the connector (ESP32-S3 or ESP32-C3 with native USB)? No driver is needed: hold the BOOT button while plugging the board in.
Linux and ChromeOS need no driver.
More help: troubleshooting guide.
Still stuck? Ask on Discord (no GitHub account needed) or see Getting help.
Steps
- Plug the board into the computer, then press the button above and pick its port.
- Choose "Install CatWandConnect". The right firmware for your chip is picked automatically. Erase the board on a first install.
- When it's done, choose "Connect to Wi-Fi" and enter your Wi-Fi name and password.
- Choose "Visit device" to open the robot's interface. Next time, it's at http://catwandconnect.local/.
Skipped Wi-Fi? The robot opens its own CatWandConnect-XXXX hotspot with a setup page.
More
Parts, wiring, assembly and help are in the project's repository.