Radiation Mapper Using DFRobot Beetle ESP32-C6

🧠 Overview

In an age where invisible environmental factors matter more than ever, having personal access to real-time radiation data can be both empowering and educational. This project transforms the tiny but powerful Beetle ESP32-C6

into a wearable Geiger Counter, enabling background radiation monitoring, data logging, and potential cloud integration—all in a portable form factor.

Whether you're exploring vintage collectibles, surveying urban areas, or just curious about your surroundings, this compact DIY device is a step toward environmental awareness.

🧰 Components

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🔧 Hardware Setup

Wiring

Geiger Module  →  Beetle ESP32-C6
----------------------------------
VCC            →  3.3V
GND            →  GND
OUT            →  GPIO4

⚠️ Be cautious around the Geiger tube—it operates at ~400V and is fragile.

🖥️ Arduino IDE Configuration

Install ESP32-C6 board support: Add this URL to Board Manager: https://raw.githubusercontent.com/espressif/arduino-esp32/gh-pages/package_esp32_index.json

Select the board: Beetle ESP32-C6 → Partition Scheme: “Minimal SPIFFS (Large App)”

Install DFRobot_Geiger library via Library Manager or from this GIT Repo.

🧪 Arduino Code

#include <DFRobot_Geiger.h>
#define detect_pin 4
DFRobot_Geiger geiger(detect_pin);

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200);
  geiger.start(); // Start counting
}

void loop() {
  delay(3000);
  Serial.print("CPM: ");
  Serial.println(geiger.getCPM());
  Serial.print("µSv/h: ");
  Serial.println(geiger.getuSvh());
}

CPM = Counts Per Minute µSv/h = Radiation dose rate (safe background levels are usually 0.05–0.2 µSv/h)

📦 Real-World Use Cases

🔬 Physics Demos – Quick hands-on tool for teaching radiation in schools.

🧱 Antique & Gem Scans – Detect hidden radioactive elements in old items or minerals.

🌆 Urban Mapping – Log background levels in metro stations or granite-rich zones.

🚨 Emergency Monitoring – Lightweight safety gear for post-disaster areas.

🏠 Home Check – Scan tiles, marble, and powders for elevated readings.

🛰️ Cosmic Ray Tracker– Capture fluctuations during hikes or balloon launches.

🚀 Optional Enhancements

• 📍 GPS Logging: Pair with a GPS module to create timestamped radiation maps
• ☁️ Wi-Fi Uploads: Send readings to Qubitro or ThingSpeak dashboards
• 🧾 Telegram Bot: Trigger measurement and get results remotely
• 🖥️ OLED Display: Add compact readouts for field use
• 🔋 Solar Charging: Combine with a small panel for outdoors

📝 Final Thoughts

This project leverages the versatility of the Beetle ESP32-C6 and the precision of DFRobot’s Geiger counter to create a meaningful gadget. It’s easy to build, scales well with wireless/cloud modules, and makes environmental sensing more accessible to hobbyists, educators, and citizen scientists alike.