Newb Question - Can I use QWIIC sensor with older (non-I2C) ESP32 Thing?

Qwiic System
1

Hi folks,

I just want to confirm, I assume I CANNOT use a non-I2C board with QWIIC sensors, correct?

Recently ordered the QWIIC log writer and pulse oximetry sensors, had planned on using them with my ESP32 Thing that I’ve had in my parts case for awhile. They’re both red, right? Should work!

Initially assumed that the QWIIC system was more about simple stuff like connections and jacks, I’d be able to wire the ESP32 Thing to it with just a little more work than plugging in the wire. After a bit of reading that I should’ve done first, turns out it’s a whole different bus, it sounds FAR different than TX/RX.

My project will use the oximetry and heart rate sensor and record values to the micro-SD card. The wifi capability of that board would let me get the time from a network time server. Coulda bought the non-QWIIC logger, but that sensor seems to be QWIIC-only.

Bonus points will be awarded if you can give me a good QWIIC board that’ll let me do the same wifi stuff. I think the SparkFun Thing Plus - ESP32 WROOM (U.FL) is my best bet yeah? Kinda like the design of the SparkFun Redboard Edge, but would have to add wifi and a logger to it somehow.

Thanks!

2

Qwiic is an I2C interface, NOT TX/RX… that is Serial. The Qwiic connector has GND, 3V3, SDA and SCL, 4 wires. That is it. You can connect the boards to any I2C, including on the ESP32. OK you need to have the right wires / connectors but there is nothing else fancy about it. There is a wire-harness available with a Qwiic connector on one end and on the other end just pins. Just connect these pins to the right place to the ESP32 and you are done. Of course do not forget the SDA/SCL pull ups. Oh and as a last point… instead of ESP32 (which I like a lot !!!) … you could consider a Particle Argon…and actually add Cloud connection…