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Description We're developing a battery-powered consumer audio device that plays pre-loaded audio recordings on a daily schedule (three fixed times per day). Audio quality is the #1 technical priority — every design decision (DAC selection, power delivery, speaker driving, trace routing) should prioritize clean, warm, rich audio reproduction. This is Phase 1 — electronics design only. Enclosure design is a separate engagement. Your deliverables are digital design files. We handle fabrication and assembly separately via JLCPCB, so your designs must be production-ready and JLCPCB-optimized. No enclosure work — that's a separate Phase 2 engagement. Device Functionality Plays a 2–3 minute audio recording at three scheduled times daily 3 toggle switches to enable/disable each scheduled time independently Rotary switch to select from 8–12 audio recordings stored on onboard SPI flash Volume control via rotary knob Mute button — stops playback immediately Test button — press to play the currently selected audio at current volume; press again to stop Low battery indicator — LED blinks and a short audio tone plays before scheduled audio when battery is low Time set once via small hidden display — no network sync, no app Target: 1+ year battery life on 3–4 AA batteries using deep sleep Technical Requirements Microcontroller: ESP32-S3 (preferred) or STM32L4 — WiFi/BT disabled for maximum battery life. Open to candidate recommendations on optimal variant for ultra-low-power operation. Real-Time Clock: DS3231 with coin cell backup (±2 ppm accuracy) Audio Output: I2S DAC/amp (MAX98357A or better) + speaker connection header Audio quality is critical to the product's value proposition Must produce clean, warm playback — not tinny or distorted Single forward-facing speaker, mounted behind a decorative grille in the enclosure Speaker driver size ~1.5–2" for Sanctus model Engineer must recommend a specific high-quality speaker driver in the BOM — this is a premium audio product, not a beeping alarm. Speaker selection should maximize clarity and warmth within the size and power constraints. Include speaker mounting footprint in PCB documentation for enclosure designer handoff Storage: Onboard SPI flash — W25Q128 (16MB) or W25Q256 (32MB) depending on audio format chosen. Must store 8–12 recordings of 2–3 minutes each. Engineer to recommend flash size based on audio format selection. Audio Format: Engineer to recommend optimal format balancing audio quality, storage efficiency, firmware simplicity, and power consumption. Options include: WAV (PCM or IMA ADPCM) — simplest decoding, higher storage MP3 — smallest files (~0.75MB per 3-min recording), more firmware complexity Must store 8–12 recordings of 2–3 minutes each within chosen flash size We provide source audio (high-quality WAV); engineer specifies the encoding pipeline and final format for production. Include format recommendation and storage math in your proposal. Controls: Rotary switches (audio selection + volume) Toggle switches (3× scheduled times) Push buttons (time setting) Mute button (large, prominent) Test button — momentary push button with pull-up resistor Display: 4-digit 7-segment or 0.96" OLED (time setting only, hidden in base) LED: Warm white or amber LED — used only for low battery warning (blink pattern) and setup/test feedback. Not a decorative or always-visible element. Power: 3–4 AA batteries, deep sleep architecture, 1+ year target battery life. Candidate must provide power budget calculations demonstrating feasibility. Battery Monitoring: Voltage divider (two resistors) on battery line → ESP32 ADC input. Firmware reads voltage on each wake cycle. When voltage drops below threshold (~1.0V/cell), trigger LED blink pattern + short audio tone before scheduled playback. JLCPCB Optimization (Non-Negotiable) Must use components from JLCPCB's parts library: [login to view URL] Prefer "Basic" parts over "Extended" to minimize assembly fees This directly affects manufacturing cost Model-Agnostic Design The PCB and firmware must work across three product sizes with minimal changes: 1. Small — Compact desk unit (4–5") 2. Medium — Mantel display (6–8") — PRIMARY TARGET 3. Large — Room display (10–12", USB-C powered) Same PCB, same firmware. Only differences: speaker driver, power source (batteries vs USB-C), enclosure size. Design connector headers/jumpers where needed so one PCB serves all three. Note: Only the Sanctus (medium) is being prototyped now. The model-agnostic requirement ensures the same PCB can be reused in future variants without a redesign. Test Button Specification Single momentary push button (normally open) 10kΩ pull-up resistor to 3.3V Software debouncing (20–50ms) One ESP32 GPIO pin with interrupt capability Behavior: Press wakes from deep sleep → plays full currently selected audio at current volume → press again to stop → returns to deep sleep after playback completes or 30 seconds of inactivity Uses existing I2S DAC/amp — no additional audio hardware LED provides feedback during test playback (confirms device is active) Deliverables 1. Complete schematic files (KiCad preferred) 2. PCB layout files 3. JLCPCB manufacturing files (Gerbers, NC Drill, pick-and-place) 4. Bill of Materials with verified JLCPCB part numbers 5. Firmware source code (Arduino or ESP-IDF) — clean, commented, production-ready Deep sleep + RTC wake + I2S audio playback Scheduled playback at three configurable times Test button handling Bench-test mode for validating assembled boards (GPIO cycling, speaker test, battery voltage readout) 6. Power budget calculations — detailed breakdown proving 1+ year battery life target 7. Documentation (setup guide, programming instructions) 8. Per-unit cost estimate for 100-unit production run via JLCPCB 9. Scalability notes — how the design adapts across all three sizes Audio Loading Audio files must be loadable onto the SPI flash during manufacturing and for future content updates. Specify the method: USB/UART via ESP32 (preferred — allows end-user updates without special tools) SPI flash programmer (acceptable for manufacturing only) Document the loading procedure in the setup guide What We Provide Complete product specification Source WAV audio files (we handle recording; engineer specifies format/encoding requirements) Direct access to project lead for questions Milestone-based payment via platform milestone Timeline: 2–4 weeks (propose your breakdown) Payment: Platform escrow Revisions: Budget includes 1 round of schematic review and 1 round of PCB layout revision Verification bonus : Order a V1 prototype via JLCPCB, assemble and test at your own bench, and deliver verified design files with test results. We cover fab and shipping costs. Not required, but strongly preferred — candidates willing to verify their design will be weighted heavily in selection. IP: All deliverables become client's exclusive property upon final payment To Apply — Must Include: ☑ An ESP32 custom PCB project you've completed (show files or photos) ☑ Your approach to deep sleep + RTC wake + I2S audio ☑ Confirmation you can design for JLCPCB's parts library ☑ Proposed timeline with cost breakdown by milestone ☑ Include **'ANGELUS-ESP32'** in your proposal ☑ Any technical questions about the spec Ideal Candidate 3+ years ESP32 development Custom PCB design experience (not just dev boards) I2S audio implementation experience Low-power / battery optimization expertise JLCPCB parts library familiarity Clean, well-documented firmware Responsive communication (replies within 24 hours) Phase 1 of a two-phase project. Phase 2 (enclosure design) will be handled by a separate industrial designer once board dimensions are finalized. Fabrication via JLCPCB/PCBWay.
Project ID: 40238418
21 proposals
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Active 26 days ago
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21 freelancers are bidding on average $668 USD for this job

As an experienced Electrical Engineer with a keen focus on Embedded Systems and PCB Design, I understand the importance of delivering audio devices that prioritize cleaner, richer, and warm audio reproduction, such as your ESP32 low-power audio device. My background in product engineering, especially IoT product engineering, aligns effectively with this project's objectives. I have a solid grip on ultra-low-power operation strategies for microcontrollers like the ESP32-S3 or STM32L4, which will sail this device towards its target: a year-long battery life and optimized battery monitoring using voltage divider architecture. One of the critical aspects of your audio player is the choice of a high-quality speaker driver that maximizes clarity and warmth within the given size and power constraints. With vast experience in accommodating RF hardware into PCB designs, reaching a delicate balance between perfect fit-for-design enclosures and robust audio output quality won't be a challenge for me. Having worked on several projects involving real-time connectivity (like MQTT, Wi-Fi), I'm confident in my ability to design an intuitive control system featuring rotary switches for audio selection and volume control.
$750 USD in 7 days
8.0
8.0

As a veteran Electrical/Electronics Engineer with over 8 years of hands-on experience in designing high-quality circuit boards using Eagle, Altium, KiCAD, and EasyEDA, I offer you a comprehensive set of skills vital for bringing your ESP32 low-power audio device to life. My understanding of audio quality as the paramount concern aligns perfectly with your project's emphasis on clean, warm, and rich playback. I strongly believe in delivering production-ready and JLCPCB-optimized designs that are compatible with your chosen fabrication service which eliminates any headaches you might have regarding PCB production. Furthermore, my expertise in power optimization and deep sleep architecture ensures that I can maximize battery life on 3-4 AA batteries, meeting or even exceeding your target of 1+ year battery life. With a meticulous approach to both technical functionality and user experience, I'm confident in my ability to recommend the right components (including DSP options) and formats based on your needs. Combining this with my proficiency in EasyEDA -which you guys use- (as a Certified EasyEDA Designer), my design skills in CAD software like Fusion360 for housing/enclosure design and commitment to producing the best outputs makes me the perfect fit.
$500 USD in 7 days
6.3
6.3

Hello. I read your project description very carefully. I have completed many projects regarding esp32 . I have a deep understanding and experience in the areas of microcontroller that you mentioned. We are a company of mechatronics, electrical, computer and software engineers with vast expertise in PCB layout, embedded systems, AC/DC converters, stepper motors, transformers, python, machine learning, raspberry pi, automation, power management, sensors & signal processing projects, unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, genetic algorithm, convolutional model, recurrent network, We can assure you that your work will be done within the given timeline with complete task achievement. Feel free to contact for further queries so I may guide you well.
$500 USD in 7 days
4.8
4.8

Hi, I'm very glad to have an opportunity to help you with PCB design. This job is very appealing to me because I have a lot of experience in PCB design of various kinds of the electronic devices. Especially, IoT devices I also have enough experience in high speed multi-layer routing and RF impedance control. I'm very familiar with Altium, Eagle and KiCAD. I have my own Altium license and Eagle license. So if you hire me, I can start work immidiately. Also, I have 5+ years experience in developing an FW for various MCU such as STM, PIC, Atemga, ESP etc. I'll provide you all design files and manufacturing files (part library, schematic, layout, BoM, pnp, ODB++, assembly document, gerber, DRC document, and 3d model) Also, I can support you for PCB manufacturing and PCBA from our local company(READA company) in Shenzhen, China if you want. We will provide high-quality in PCB manufacturing and PCBA, reliable part sourcing, functional test according to customer's specifications, and quick shipping. Also, I can help you to order PCBs from JLCPCB, PCBWay and SEEEDStudio if you want. I'm confident my skills and experience in PCB design make me a good candidate for your job. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Kind Regards. Ting
$750 USD in 7 days
4.9
4.9

Hello, I have extensive skills in Electronics, design for manufacturing, audio processing and prototyping. I can design and fabricate a prototype for you then ship it. Please message me for more discussions.
$500 USD in 7 days
4.6
4.6

Hi There! - ANGELUS-ESP32 -As you can see in the portfolio on my profile, I have significant experience developing PCBs and mass-production equipment, not just KiCAD renders. I have experience using the ESP32 for audio output via both the internal DAC and I2S. I have developed small devices with speakers, such as toys or customizable home doorbells. In any case, I prefer using an ESP32-WROVER or a module with 16MB of flash rather than using external SPI memory. I have previously used a Python script to convert .wav files to 8-bit, Mono, 16 kHz with acceptable audio quality, fitting fairly large audio tracks into the 4MB ESP32 internal memory. I am confident that a 3-minute track with even better quality can be integrated. -I work primarily with Altium Designer, though I can also use KiCAD if you prefer. I have extensive experience with ESP32 PCBs across its various versions. I do not produce hobbyist-level PCBs; I have the capability to assemble a prototype (though I know it is not required) to test firmware or finalize any details you may need. I can provide all the requested deliverables without any issues. I look forward to the possibility of us working together! Regards!
$250 USD in 7 days
4.4
4.4

Hi We have designed ESP32 audio devices since 2008 including battery powered players with MAX98357A DACs deep sleep under 10 microamps and DS3231 RTC wake Your project is standard work for us Our approach ESP32 S3 in deep sleep drawing 8 microamps RTC wakes at three scheduled times plays 2 minute I2S audio from SPI flash then returns to sleep Power budget confirms 14 months on 4 AA batteries Audio format IMA ADPCM balances quality and storage 16MB flash holds 12 recordings All components sourced from JLCPCB Basic parts library MAX98357A DS3231 W25Q128 and switches all available No Extended parts to minimize assembly cost PCB designed for 4 layer JLCPCB stackup with star grounding under analog sections Model agnostic design single PCB serves all three sizes Speaker header jumper selects driver size Power header accepts batteries or USB C ANGELUS ESP32 Share your audio sample files and we start schematic capture tomorrow.
$300 USD in 7 days
4.4
4.4

As an AI Creative Professional who is also well-versed in Audio Engineering, Audio Processing, and Circuit Design, I bring a unique set of skills to your ESP32 Low-Power Audio Device project. I understand the importance of audio quality for your product and how crucial every design decision is. My expertise with audio processing techniques such as DAC selection, power delivery, speaker driving, and trace routing will ensure clean, warm, and rich audio reproduction that aligns perfectly with your project objectives. Moreover, my proficiency in circuit design is particularly relevant to the low-power requirements of your device. My ability to optimize power consumption while maintaining performance makes me a standout candidate for the project. I can recommend high-quality components including speaker drivers and flash sizes that not only meet your needs but also maximize clarity and warmth within the specified constraints.
$250 USD in 1 day
4.0
4.0

As a seasoned embedded systems and electrical engineer, I possess the necessary skills set for your ESP32 low-power audio device project. I have a strong background in microcontroller programming such as C, Arduino, and STM32 which will be pivotal in developing complex functionalities of your product including scheduled audio playback, user controls, and power optimization features. Not only am I adept at generating precise PCB designs using KiCad, but my Electrical & Electronics Engineering training also allows me to make informed decisions on component selection, trace routing, and system integration. Given JLCPCB's non-negotiable requirement for optimization from their parts library, my familiarity with this library will expedite the design process and minimize any potential errors. What sets me apart is my versatility -- not only am I proficient in firmware development, but I'm also trained as a Software Engineer and can fluently tackle both ends of your project. From optimizing your audio format selection to extend the battery life while maintaining top-tier audio quality to designing an intuitive UI experience through the time setting display and control buttons, I'm equipped to handle it all without compromising functionality or quality. Let's team up!
$250 USD in 7 days
2.8
2.8

ANGELUS-ESP32 Hello, After carefully reviewing the specification, I want to be transparent: this is not a simple ESP32 + speaker board. It is a full consumer product development with premium audio performance and strict ultra-low-power requirements. Achieving clean, warm, rich playback from a 1.5–2” driver on battery power requires deliberate engineering decisions in DAC selection, power filtering, ground strategy, PCB stackup, speaker choice, deep sleep optimization, battery calculations, and JLCPCB-ready production design. My background: • Custom ESP32 PCBs optimized for JLCPCB • Extensive ESP-IDF and low-power design • Consumer audio circuit development • Multiple validated prototypes via JLCPCB/PCBWay • Lab measurement of real current consumption This scope requires ~220–240 engineering hours. Realistic timeline: • 6–8 weeks engineering • 7–9 weeks with physical validation Since the platform caps bids at $1,499, I am submitting the first milestone only. Total Engineering Fee: $5,800 USD Includes architecture & power budget, full schematic (KiCad), 4-layer audio-optimized PCB, complete firmware, production files with verified JLC parts, and optional bench validation (fabrication/shipping covered by client). Minimum budget (with no validation): $4,930 USD. Below this range, the engineering depth required for premium audio and 1-year battery life cannot be guaranteed. Please contact me if you want to talk more in detail about the project. Regards, Hammurabi
$870 USD in 7 days
1.8
1.8

Hi, I’m an experienced Electronics Engineer with extensive ESP32-based PCB design and low-power firmware development. I can deliver a production-ready, JLCPCB-optimized PCB for your battery-powered audio device, including KiCad schematics, PCB layout, Gerbers, BOM with verified parts, and clean, well-documented firmware implementing deep sleep, RTC wake, scheduled I2S audio playback, and test/mute functions. I will provide power budget calculations, setup instructions, and ensure scalability across all three product sizes. I am confident in delivering high-quality audio performance and meeting your 1+ year battery life target. ANGELUS-ESP32.
$300 USD in 13 days
1.5
1.5

I have just completed a similar project. I recently engineered a battery-powered audio device featuring ultra-low power ESP32-S3 design with I2S DAC playback and scheduled triggers, achieving one-year battery life on AA cells while ensuring pristine, warm audio quality. You won’t find a specialist better aligned with what you’re looking for. I understand the importance of JLCPCB-optimized production-ready design and ultra-high-fidelity audio in your premium consumer product. I specialize in transforming complex business requirements into high-converting, user-centric digital assets with expertise in low-power embedded systems, ESP32 custom PCBs, high-quality audio, and rigorous power budgeting. I’d love to chat about your project! The worst that can happen is you walk away with a free consultation. Regards, Bjork Bronkhorst
$550 USD in 7 days
0.0
0.0

Hello, I’ve reviewed the full ANGELUS-ESP32 spec and I can handle Phase 1 end-to-end — custom ESP32 PCB, low-power design, I2S audio chain, firmware, and JLCPCB-ready production files. My approach will focus heavily on: Clean, warm audio playback (proper DAC/amp selection + careful PCB routing) Deep sleep architecture with DS3231 RTC wake 1+ year battery target with detailed power budget Optimized BOM using JLCPCB parts (prefer Basic parts where possible) I’ll deliver complete schematic, PCB layout, Gerbers, BOM with JLC part numbers, production-ready firmware, and documentation. Timeline: 3–4 weeks Total cost: $2,500 Happy to answer any technical questions before starting. ANGELUS-ESP32 Best regards, Bobir
$2,500 USD in 14 days
0.0
0.0

Hi Greetings from OSTronik India! We are a technology-driven company specializing in Power Electronics and Embedded System Design integrated with Artificial Intelligence (AI), delivering reliable, industrial-grade Electronic Solutions—from concept to mass production, all under one roof. Our in-house capabilities include R&D, Firmware Development (C & Python Programming), Hardware Design, Prototyping, and Scalable Mass Production with a focus on quality and cost efficiency. Core Expertise: • Microcontroller : PIC, STM32, ESP Family, AVR, Nuvoton, XBee. • Microprocessors: Raspberry Pi • Development Tools: MPLAB X IDE, Keil, STM32CubeIDE, Arduino IDE, Atmel Studio, VS Code. • Hardware Design: Industrial-grade multilayer PCBs using Altium Designer, KiCad, with efficient power design, isolation handling, and EMI/EMC compliance. • Communication Protocols: UART, SPI, I²C, CAN, Modbus, MQTT, LAN, S-Bus, RS-485, RS-232. • RF Modules: LoRa, nRF Series, XBee, Laird RF Modules. Project Capabilities: Power Monitoring & Energy Management Units, CNC Controllers, BLDC/DC Motor Control, IoT-based Agriculture, Smart Home & Industrial Automation, Inverters, Stabilizers, and Gimbal-based Videography Control Systems. We have already transformed the concept into a successful Electronic solution for multiple clients. To help you better visualise our expertise, we would be glad to share a brief reference video. Let’s schedule a meeting to discuss further. Best Regards, Team OSTronik India
$500 USD in 7 days
0.0
0.0

*ANGELUS-ESP32* Hi, there. Please check my previous ESP32 PCB project once your click: https://www.freelancer.com/projects/embedded-systems/OTA-Dual-Bank-STM-Update/proposals DS3231 alarms wake the MCU and the firmware boots fast configures I2S and streams audio from SPI flash then returns to deep sleep with all power domains minimized. Time line: 3 weeks. step 1: schematic and BOM step 2: PCB layout and manufacturing files step 3: firmware bring up and bench test mode step 4: documentation and cost estimate I have 2 quez, please connect and discuss about it. Totally, I can make it. Iet's talk about it.
$1,400 USD in 21 days
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