ESP32-CAM Video Streaming Web Server

Turns ESP32-CAM into a live video streaming web server. Camera streams MJPEG video to any browser on local network. Web interface includes live video feed, camera controls (resolution QQVGA to UXGA, brightness, contrast, saturation, special effects), flash LED control, and snapshot capture (saves JPEG to SD card). Resolution options: QQVGA 160x120 (fastest), VGA 640x480 (default), SVGA 800x600, XGA 1024x768, UXGA 1600x1200 (highest quality). ESP32-CAM uses OV2640 2MP camera. FTDI programmer needed for first upload (GPIO0 to GND during flash). Power requirement: 5V 2A stable supply (camera draws 500mA during streaming). Frame rate at VGA: ~20fps. mDNS: access via http://esp32cam.local instead of IP address. Libraries: esp_camera, WiFi, WebServer.

Detailed Project Description

ESP32-CAM Video Streaming Web Server applies computer vision to camera frames to detect or recognise what is in view and act on the result automatically.

How It Works
1. The camera captures frames continuously.
2. Frames are pre-processed and fed to the detection/recognition model.
3. Detections are drawn on the output and used to trigger the required action (log, alert, unlock, count).
4. Results and images are stored or streamed to a browser/dashboard.

Key Components and Their Role
- ESP32-CAM: ESP32 module with an OV2640 camera used to capture images or stream video.
- microSD card module: storage for logs, audio or images over SPI.
- Camera module: image sensor used for capture, streaming or computer vision.

Implementation Steps
1. Collect the components and study each module's datasheet (pin-out, voltage, interface).
2. Wire the circuit on a breadboard following the pin mapping; power sensors from the correct rail (3.3 V / 5 V).
3. Install Arduino IDE, ESP32 Camera Library, ESP32 Board Package and the required libraries; flash a minimal test sketch for each module separately.
4. Write the main firmware: read sensors → process → drive outputs / send data.
5. Configure network or cloud credentials and test communication end-to-end.
6. Calibrate thresholds, add error handling (reconnect, sensor time-out) and run a long-duration test.
7. Finalise on a PCB / enclosure and document wiring, code and results.

Key Features
- Real-time detection
- Annotated output
- Event logging
- Adjustable confidence threshold

Expected Output
On completion the student will have a live video/image feed with detected objects highlighted and the corresponding actions logged.

Deliverables
- Complete source code with comments
- Circuit diagram and pin mapping
- Project report with screenshots and results
- Demonstration-ready build