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Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI : Comprehensive analysis about Common Issues & Solutions for NORVI ESP32 HMI with LVGL

Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI

The step-by-step Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI can be explored here. Possible problems and solutions are described in this article.

Introduction to Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI

Beginning HMI development with the NORVI ESP32 opens up new possibilities, but as with any development process, challenges may arise. This troubleshooting guide is intended to help developers by addressing common issues encountered while developing ESP32 HMI on NORVI and providing practical solutions to keep your projects on track.  9 possible problems and solutions as a Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI is listed as follows;

1. Connectivity Issues:

Problem: Unstable Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections.

Solutions:

  • Ensure correct initialization of Wi-Fi/Bluetooth modules.
  • Check for interference or signal obstruction.
  • Update firmware for improved connectivity.

2. Compiling Issues

Problem:  Unable to compile LVGL Code / Error detecting libraries

Solution:

Install all the following libraries and make the provided Changes to the library.

  • Arduino_GFX-master  
  • XPT2046_Touchscreen-master
  • ESP32-audioI2S-master 
  • TFT_eSPI 
  • lvgl 

3. The display is blank

 

Problem:  The display stays black and does not show the content

Solution:

  • Ensure to select the correct Display size. NORVI ESP32 HMI should be 800×480.
  • Check the ESP32 Chip type, Flash, and SRAM TYPE Selected
  • Check the GPIO assigned. The GPIO of NORVI ESP32-HMI display is as follows.

4. ESP32 Continuous reboot

Problem: The HMI device repeatedly restarts, preventing normal operation. 

Solution:

  • Check for any voltage drops or irregularities in the power supply.
  • Ensure that there are no loose or frayed wires.
  • Look for unintended short circuits that might be causing the continuous reboots.
  • Optimize the code to reduce memory usage. 
  • Examine error messages or stack traces printed during the reboot.
  • Check ESP32 Chip type, Flash, and SRAM type.

5. Display Rendering Problems:

Problem: Unexpected glitches, flickering, or distorted UI rendering.

Solution:

  • Confirm the correct initialization of the NORVI ESP32 HMI display.
  • Check the pin configuration of the program.
  • Update graphics drivers or firmware.
  • Adjust LVGL configuration settings for optimal rendering.

Copy the lv_conf.h  file and replace it under the Arduino library file, it must be in the same root directory as the library TFT_eSPI. If there is an existing lv_conf.h file needs to be replaced. Need to copy the demos folder in the lvgl library file to the src folder in the lvgl library file.

6. Touchscreen Calibration and Responsiveness:

Problem: Inaccurate or unresponsive touchscreen input.

Solution: 

  • Calibrate the touchscreen using calibration libraries and parts related to touch calibration in the code

#define TOUCH_XPT2046

#define TOUCH_XPT2046_SCK 12

#define TOUCH_XPT2046_MISO 13

#define TOUCH_XPT2046_MOSI 11

#define TOUCH_XPT2046_CS 39

#define TOUCH_XPT2046_INT 42

#define TOUCH_XPT2046_ROTATION 2

#define TOUCH_MAP_X1 270

#define TOUCH_MAP_X2 3800

#define TOUCH_MAP_Y1 3600

#define TOUCH_MAP_Y2 330

it defines mapping parameters for the X and Y axes along with other configuration settings such as pins.

  • calibrate the touch screen on the example program.

Access the relevant calibration code. Modify parameters like TOUCH_MAP_X1, TOUCH_MAP_X2, TOUCH_MAP_Y1, and TOUCH_MAP_Y2 in the code, starting with default values and making incremental adjustments. Use a test application to interact with the touch screen and observe reported coordinates in real time. Guide yourself through touching specific points and iteratively adjusting calibration values until reported coordinates align with touched points. Consider factors like rotation and axis swapping (TOUCH_SWAP_XY). Document final calibration values in the code and provide visual feedback for touch detection.

7. Firmware and Library Compatibility:

Problem: Incompatibility issues with firmware or LVGL versions.

Solution:

  • Ensure that the firmware and LVGL versions are compatible.
  • Keep libraries and dependencies up-to-date.
  • Check release notes for any known compatibility issues.

8. Sensor Integration:

Problem: Issues with integrating sensors or external devices.

Solution:

4 x Digital Inputs

4 x Analog Inputs 0-10V

4 x Transistor outputs 

  • Check for device-specific libraries or drivers.
  • Debug sensor code for accurate data acquisition.

9. Debugging Techniques:

Problem: Difficulty in identifying the root cause of issues.

Solution:

  • Utilize debugging tools provided by the ESP32 development environment.
  • Enable Verbose in the Programming Environment.
  • Implement logging and debugging statements in your code.
  • Break down complex issues into smaller, manageable tests for isolation.

Conclusion

The Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI was crafted to serve as an informative article, emphasizing precautionary measures. Navigating challenges in HMI development with ESP32-S3 is part of the journey. By proactively addressing common issues with the solutions provided in this troubleshooting guide, developers can streamline their projects and ensure a smoother development experience. Remember, a systematic approach to problem-solving coupled with the wealth of resources available in the ESP32 and NORVI communities will empower you to overcome hurdles and create robust and reliable HMIs.  Hope the Troubleshooting Guide for ESP32 HMI is useful for your innovative projects.

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