FAQ
TL;DR: For TYWE2S/ESP8285 Connecto plugs, plan a 2MB backup; "make a 2MB backup" before any flashing. This quick FAQ helps with wired flashing, OTA limits, Tasmota setup, button/LED mapping, and recovery. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20934190]
Why it matters: It prevents bricks and speeds troubleshooting for makers flashing the Connecto Smart Plug 1P IP44’s TYWE2S (ESP8285).
Quick Facts
- The plug carries a TYWE2S module built on an ESP8285 MCU, confirmed by teardown. [Elektroda, Tilator, post #20933824]
- Create a full 2MB flash backup before any modification or OTA attempt. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20934190]
- OTA via tuya-convert is often patched; use esptool.py or Tasmota Web Installer instead. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20934604]
- Entering flash mode may require a hidden GPIO0 test pad; one case needed desoldering. [Elektroda, Tilator, post #20936554]
- Misconfigured Tasmota buttons can force AP mode; trace the PCB to the correct GPIO via. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20937205]
Does tuya-convert still work on the Connecto Smart Plug with TYWE2S/ESP8285?
Usually no for recent units. "ESP devices could be flashed by tuya-convert, but most of the devices are patched nowadays." If it fails, use esptool.py or the Tasmota Web Installer. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20934604]
Can tuya-cloudcutter flash ESP8285 devices like TYWE2S?
No. tuya-cloudcutter targets Beken BK7231/TuyaOS devices, not ESP8285/ESP8266. Use ESP-focused tools, such as esptool.py or Tasmota Web Installer. [tuya-cloudcutter README]
How do I back up the original 2MB firmware?
Use esptool.py. 1. Put the module in UART flash mode. 2. Run: esptool.py read_flash 0x0 0x200000 backup.bin. 3. Verify a complete image saved. This captures the full 2MB flash for recovery. [esptool.py README]
How do I put TYWE2S (ESP8285) into UART flashing mode?
Hold GPIO0 low and reset to enter the UART bootloader. Power the module with 3.3V, connect GND, and cross TX/RX. Release GPIO0 after it is in download mode. Use only an isolated 3.3V supply. [ESP8285 Datasheet]
I grounded GPIO0 using the module pad, but flash mode still fails. What now?
Use the dedicated GPIO0 test pad if available. Some boards reroute or buffer the visible pad. One user only succeeded after soldering to the test pad. Keep GPIO0 low during reset. As a last resort, desolder the module. [Elektroda, Tilator, post #20936554]
Is desoldering the TYWE2S required for flashing this Connecto plug?
Not typically, but it happened here. The poster desoldered the module to flash successfully. Inspect both sides for UART and strap test pads before deciding. In-circuit flashing works if those pads are available. [Elektroda, Tilator, post #20936554]
Which Tasmota binary should I start with for a single-relay plug?
Start with the Sonoff Basic build. In this case, it toggled the relay from the web UI without extra settings. You can map LEDs and buttons later using a Template. [Elektroda, Tilator, post #20936554]
Why did my device revert to AP mode after I mapped a button?
A mis-mapped button reads as always pressed. Tasmota then triggers the long‑press AP fallback. "It may think that button is pressed and return to AP." Recheck the PCB trace and any vias to the real GPIO. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20937205]
How can I see if the button press is detected in Tasmota?
Open the Tasmota console and set weblog 4 for verbose logs. Press the button and watch for Button1 or Switch1 events. You can also enable SerialLog if required. Reduce logs after testing with weblog 2. [Tasmota Commands]
The button isn’t on any TYWE2S GPIO — how do I locate it?
Trace the button pads to a via or resistor and then to a module pin. "It has to go somewhere... maybe there is a via?" Confirm with continuity testing. Update your Tasmota Template with the discovered GPIO. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20937205]
How do I configure the dual‑color LED and relay in Tasmota?
Use Template configuration to assign GPIO roles. Map Relay1 to the relay pin, and Led1i and Led2i to the LED pins. Invert LED logic if needed. Test with Power1 on/off and observe LED behavior. [Tasmota Template]
What flash size and memory does ESP8285 provide?
ESP8285 integrates 1 MB embedded SPI flash. Firmware behavior and boot strapping mirror ESP8266 class parts. Size firmware appropriately and avoid exceeding the embedded limit. [ESP8285 Datasheet]
OTA flashing failed. What should I try next?
OTA exploits are commonly blocked now. Switch to a wired flash using esptool.py or Tasmota Web Installer. This bypasses OTA dependence and restores control quickly. [Elektroda, p.kaczmarek2, post #20934604]
My USB‑UART adapter is unreliable. Any workaround?
Change adapters or use an OS with working drivers. The poster’s older Prolific adapter only worked on older Windows. Move to a different machine or adapter before flashing. [Elektroda, Tilator, post #20936044]
Any safety tips when opening and flashing this IP44 mains plug?
Disconnect mains before opening. Program the module off‑mains using an isolated 3.3V supply. Never attach USB‑UART when the board is live. Keep leads short to avoid resets during flashing. [Tasmota Serial Flashing]
