Microcontroller hardware has achieved the power to process camera modules that usually require a full computer or FPGA. RP2040 and ESP32-Sx chips offer 8-bit data output, DMA, and RAM to buffer raw images. With Adafruit's OV5640 Camera Breakout - 120 Degree Low Distortion, interfacing is simplified.

The Adafruit OV5640 Camera Breakout provides a 5 Megapixel sensor element and 120-degree wide angle lens that offers minimal distortion for the best image quality. It also comes equipped with all the necessary support circuitry. We looked at existing camera modules and while this breakout board is backwards compatible, we made some improvements:

• Standard 2x9 header if you want it, but also a duplicated header strip 0.3" apart so you can plug it into a breadboard or perfboard 
• Selectable external or internal 24MHz "XCLK" clock generation - save one gpio pin, or just have a nice stable 24 MHz signal even if your microcontroller can't generate it for you.
• Heat-sinking camera area with exposed ground pad, with lots of vias for good thermal transfer. Helpful for when doing continuous encoding and reducing thermal image drift.
• Optional VMotor 3.3V power jumper on DATA1, for auto-focusing camera modules
• 3.3V power-good LED on back that can be disabled