Are there any camera modules easy to use IoT device powered by ESP32 or similar STM32,
- stable library
- 3..5MP
- M12 leans
- can have low movement fluttering in relatively low light
- can be used outdoor, so temperature range down to -20C

I was thinking Arducam Mega 3/5MP. Simple SPI interface works even with 8bit MCU without problems due to rolling shutter. BUT, it probably does not work in outdoors temperature.

Any ideas?

 

Camera modules intended for use with an actual computer are available. Never saw one for use with a PCB module.

 

PCB is not necessary but camera interface and library for the MCU is the key problem. Better cameras seems to be only for USB and for WIndows/Linux.

 

PCB is not necessary but camera interface and library for the MCU is the key problem. Better cameras seems to be only for USB and for WIndows/Linux.

I doubt that you are looking at the right sources for cameras. Those ones used for automotive crash testing seems to have very low noise and very fast response. Those used for other science research are also quite good. Probably NOTHING on the mass marketer websites is in the same quality realm. PLUS having no customer support at all.
NONE of the cameras used for accurate high speed video use a USB interface. Those connectors are not even close to adequately reliable enough, plus the data rate is far too slow. Good enough for home movies, though.

 

Are there any camera modules easy to use IoT device powered by ESP32 or similar STM32,
- stable library
- 3..5MP
- M12 leans
- can have low movement fluttering in relatively low light
- can be used outdoor, so temperature range down to -20C

I was thinking Arducam Mega 3/5MP. Simple SPI interface works even with 8bit MCU without problems due to rolling shutter. BUT, it probably does not work in outdoors temperature.

Any ideas?

What about the ESP32-CAM?

 

The good thing is that I am not looking for video support but just still aimage support.
It start to look that there is nothing acceptable on the market. I mean as I mentioned there are lot of cameras but they require USB and full scale USB drivers like in WIndows or in Linux.
Omnivision cameras (like in ESP-cam) just are too noisy.

It is quite strange that only Ominivision cameras are supported by open libraries while manufacturers like Sony (makes excellent camera cells) are not too much in camera business. Companies who makes cameras (modules) just are not interested in developing libraries for MCUs.

Or, I just cannot find find them...

 

Youare looking for cameras in the totally wrong area. Look in the products section of "PHOTONICS" magazine, or even "Design News". AND, that computer may be able to switch video signals but not do any serious processing or analysis.

 

Are there any camera modules easy to use IoT device powered by ESP32 or similar STM32,
- stable library
- 3..5MP
- M12 leans
- can have low movement fluttering in relatively low light
- can be used outdoor, so temperature range down to -20C

I was thinking Arducam Mega 3/5MP. Simple SPI interface works even with 8bit MCU without problems due to rolling shutter. BUT, it probably does not work in outdoors temperature.

Any ideas?

Some of the criteria are fulfilled by the ESP32-CAM.
https://www.theengineeringprojects.com/2025/03/how-to-program-the-esp32-cam.html
However, it is 2MP, whereas you are looking for 3.5MP. It is based on OV2640. Operating temperature is -20°C to 70°C. If it is possible to compromise with your desired MP, you can give it a try. This one is convenient for IoT projects.