This guide walks you through setting up a Windows PC as the host controller and an ESP32-S3-based robot driver board as the device, connected through USB CDC.

Once configured, you can use the PC to send commands, run automation scripts, and build complex robot control workflows.

📦 GitHub Repository:

https://github.com/EffectsMachine/robot_driver_with_esp32s3_lite


1. What Is USB CDC?

USB CDC (Communications Device Class) is a standard protocol that lets a USB device appear as a virtual serial port on your computer.

It allows direct communication between your PC (the host) and the driver board (the device) — without requiring a separate USB-to-UART converter.


2. Why Use USB CDC?

Feature Description Benefits
🔗 No Converter Required The board includes a native USB interface. Simplifies wiring, reduces parts and cost.
High-Speed Data Transfer rate up to 60–65 packets/sec. Stable, fast, and ideal for debugging or real-time control.
🛡️ More Reliable Uses the ESP32-S3’s native USB port — no extra CH340/CP2102 chip. Fewer connection issues, higher durability.
🔌 Plug & Play Automatically recognized by most OSes. No manual driver installation needed.
💻 Cross-Platform Support Works on Windows / macOS / Linux / Android. One unified communication method.

3. Graphical Debugging with YAT

💡 If you’re new to USB CDC, start here.

This method uses a simple graphical terminal to test communication before running automation scripts.

Step 1: Install YAT

Download and install YAT (Yet Another Terminal):

YAT-2.7.2_x64_(64-bit)_installer.zip

Step 2: Connect the Board