Your ESP8266 Needs More Memory

We just got through reviewing MicroPython on the ESP8266, and one of the main takehomes is that our ESP modules need more flash memory. You may be in the same boat — the earliest (and cheapest) modules on the market only had 512 kB of flash. For over-the-air programming, or to give you some more space for fancier programs, you’re going to want 1 MB or even 4 MB.

The solution? Just buy a new flash chip and solder it on. This is especially easy if you’ve got an ESP-01, ESP-03, or ESP-11 modules where the flash chip is exposed. Desolder, resolder, done. It can be a little trickier for those modules with a tin can around chips, but that’s nothing that a little hot air can’t fix. See the video embedded below for a good walk-through.

When ordering parts, don’t confuse 4 Mb (megabits = 512 kB) with 4 MB (megabytes = 32 Mb). Most manufacturers of flash will specify the bits number, so the part you want will have a 32 (for Mb) somewhere in its name.

With the price of flash being even cheaper than the cost of the ESP-01s that are cluttering up your junk drawer, you’ve got very little to lose by giving it a try.

Filed under: hardware, wireless hacks

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