LILYGO T3S3 E-Paper ESP32-S3 LoRa Development Board User Manual

1. Introduction

The LILYGO T3S3 E-Paper ESP32-S3 LoRa Development Board is a versatile and low-power wireless module designed for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. It integrates an ESP32-S3 microcontroller, LoRa connectivity (supporting SX1280, SX1262, or SX1276 transceivers for various frequency bands), and a 2.13-inch E-Paper display. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your development board.

Figure 1: LILYGO T3S3 E-Paper ESP32-S3 LoRa Development Board

2. Key Features

• Microcontroller: ESP32S3FH4R2
• Memory: 4MB Flash, 2MB PSRAM
• Wireless Connectivity: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
• LoRa Transceiver Options:
  • SX1280 (2.4 GHz)
  • SX1276 (868/915MHz)
  • SX1262 (868/915MHz)
• Display: 2.13 inch E-Paper DEPG0213BN (Resolution: 250 x 122, Display size: 48.55 x 23.70mm)
• Onboard Functions: Reset Button, Boot Button, TF Card Support, USB/3.7V Lipo battery power supply, Battery switch
• Dimensions: 67mm x 29mm
• USB Charging: 5V 500mA

3. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1 x T3S3 E-paper module
• 1 x Cable (likely for battery connection)
• 2 x Pin headers
• 1 x Antenna (short, typically for LoRa)
• 1 x Antenna (flexible PCB, typically for Wi-Fi/Bluetooth or another LoRa band)

Figure 2: Package Contents

Figure 3: Product in Packaging

4. Technical Specifications

Figure 4: T3-S3 E-Paper Specifications

Figure 5: Product Dimensions

5. Product Pin Diagram

The following diagram illustrates the pinout of the LILYGO T3S3 E-Paper board, detailing GPIO assignments, power connections, and interfaces for the E-Paper display, USB, and TF Card. Refer to this diagram for proper wiring and development.

Figure 6: LILYGO T3-S3 E-Paper Pinmap

6. Initial Setup

1. Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
2. Attach Antenna: Connect the appropriate LoRa antenna to the U.FL connector on the board. Ensure the antenna matches the frequency band of your LoRa module (e.g., 868MHz/915MHz or 2.4GHz). An incorrect antenna can damage the LoRa transceiver.
3. Power Connection: Connect the board to your computer using a USB-C cable. Alternatively, connect a 3.7V Lipo battery to the dedicated battery connector, ensuring correct polarity.
4. Software Environment: Install the necessary drivers for the ESP32-S3 if prompted by your operating system. Set up your preferred development environment, such as Arduino IDE with ESP32 board support or ESP-IDF.
5. First Firmware Upload: Follow the instructions for your chosen development environment to upload a basic test sketch (e.g., a 'blink' example or an E-Paper display test) to ensure the board is functioning correctly.

Figure 7: Board with Antenna Attached

7. Operating Instructions

• Power On/Off: Use the onboard battery switch to control power when operating on battery. When powered via USB, the board will typically power on automatically.
• E-Paper Display: The 2.13-inch E-Paper display is designed for low-power, high-contrast visual output. It retains its image without power, making it ideal for static information. Refer to the specific display library documentation for programming instructions (e.g., GxEPD2 library for Arduino).
• LoRa Communication: The integrated LoRa transceiver enables long-range, low-power wireless communication. Ensure your software is configured for the correct frequency band (2.4GHz, 868MHz, or 915MHz) and LoRa parameters (spreading factor, bandwidth, coding rate).
• TF Card Usage: Insert a microSD card into the TF card slot for data logging or storing display images. Ensure your firmware includes the necessary SD card libraries and file system support.
• Reset and Boot Buttons: The Reset button restarts the ESP32-S3. The Boot button is typically used in conjunction with the Reset button to enter bootloader mode for firmware uploading.

8. Maintenance

• Storage: Store the board in a dry, anti-static environment when not in use.
• Handling: Handle the board by its edges to avoid touching sensitive components and to prevent electrostatic discharge.
• Cleaning: If necessary, gently clean the board with a soft, dry brush or a lint-free cloth. Avoid using liquids or harsh chemicals.
• Antenna Care: Ensure the antenna is securely connected but do not overtighten. Avoid bending or stressing the antenna cable.

9. Troubleshooting

• Board Not Powering On:
  • Check USB-C cable connection and ensure it's a data-capable cable.
  • If using a battery, ensure it's charged and the battery switch is in the 'ON' position.
• Firmware Upload Failure:
  • Verify correct board selection and COM port in your IDE.
  • Ensure necessary drivers are installed.
  • Try holding the 'Boot' button while pressing and releasing 'Reset', then release 'Boot' to enter bootloader mode before uploading.
• E-Paper Display Not Updating/Blank:
  • Check the E-Paper display's flexible flat cable (FFC) connection to the board.
  • Verify your code correctly initializes and sends data to the E-Paper display.
  • E-Paper displays require specific refresh cycles; ensure your code handles this correctly.
• LoRa Communication Issues:
  • Confirm the correct antenna is attached for your LoRa module's frequency.
  • Ensure both sender and receiver are configured for the same frequency, spreading factor, and other LoRa parameters.
  • Check for obstructions or excessive distance between LoRa devices.

10. User Tips

• Meshtastic Compatibility: The LILYGO T3S3 E-Paper board is compatible with Meshtastic firmware, allowing it to be used for off-grid mesh networking applications. Ensure you select the correct board target when compiling Meshtastic firmware.
• Power Management: Utilize the onboard battery switch and the low-power capabilities of the ESP32-S3 and E-Paper display to optimize battery life for portable applications.
• Community Resources: LILYGO often provides open-source examples and documentation on their GitHub page. Explore these resources for project ideas and technical support.

11. Warranty and Support

For technical support, warranty claims, or any questions regarding your LILYGO T3S3 E-Paper development board, please contact the official LILYGO support channels or the seller from whom you purchased the product. Refer to the product packaging or the seller's website for specific contact information.