A network of boards in simple terms
Imagine a team in which every member keeps the others informed. In an ESP-NOW network of boards, each board, also called a node, communicates by radio with the others, so the group can coordinate itself, for example by sharing out work or reacting to an event.
In short: many small devices cooperate as if they were one. New to the technology? Read what ESP-NOW is first.
Why an ESP-NOW network is useful
Expandable systems
More boards can be planned for, according to the needs of the installation.
Fewer cables
Boards talk by radio, with no network cabling between them.
Coordinated work
Each board knows the status of the others and acts accordingly.
No central unit needed
The network can keep working if one board switches off.
How the boards communicate
Depending on the project, boards can all talk to each other or report to one main board.
They make themselves heard
Each board regularly sends a short message with its status.
They get to know each other
Each one keeps a list of the other boards present and what they are doing.
They decide
Using this information, each board behaves according to the project's rules.
Is an ESP-NOW network reliable?
Yes, if it is designed around the real installation. These are the main points:
- Distances: each board must be able to reach the ones it talks to by radio, so coverage should be checked on site
- Long distances: the firmware can have boards pass messages on to one another when the project requires it
- Faults: the system can notice when a board stops responding and react accordingly
- Number of boards: this is defined at the design stage, according to how many messages need to travel
A network of boards for your project
At StepLab we design ESP-NOW networks of ESP32 boards. On the smart battery charger, for example, each charger is a node in a network with no central unit: chargers share their status and charge one at a time. ESP-NOW is also used in the Solaria system.
- We agree with you how the boards should cooperate
- We develop the firmware and, if needed, dedicated electronics
- We test the network on the real hardware
Need remote control? One board in the network can also act as a bridge to Wi-Fi and the internet. We will help you choose the right architecture. See all our services on the ESP32 programmers page.
ESP-NOW network FAQ
Is a main board required?
Not necessarily. Boards can coordinate among themselves with no central unit, or report to a main board: it depends on the project.
How many boards can be connected?
It depends on the project and how many messages are exchanged. The right number is defined at the design stage.
What happens if a board switches off?
In a network designed for it, the other boards notice and keep working.
Can the network be controlled over the internet?
Yes, if one board is also connected to Wi-Fi and acts as a bridge between the ESP-NOW network and the internet.
Contact us
Want several boards to work together in your project? Write to us or give us a call.