Arduino compiling "Failed to execute script 'esptool' due to unhandled exception"

The error message "Failed to execute script 'esptool' due to unhandled exception" is common when trying to upload code to ESP32 or ESP8266 boards using the Arduino IDE. It typically indicates an issue with the esptool.py script or related dependencies that handle communication with the ESP board.

Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:

1. Check Python Installation

The esptool relies on Python, so make sure you have Python installed correctly.

• Open a terminal (or command prompt) and run:

  bash
  python --version
  

  or

  bash
  python3 --version
  

• If Python is not installed, install it from here.

2. Update ESP32/ESP8266 Board Libraries

The problem may also be related to outdated board libraries. You can update them via the Arduino IDE:

• Open the Arduino IDE.
• Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager.
• Search for "ESP32" or "ESP8266" and update the corresponding board package.

3. Install Required Python Libraries

If the required Python packages (such as pyserial) are not installed or are outdated, you may encounter this error.

• Open a terminal (or command prompt) and install the necessary libraries:

  bash
  pip install pyserial esptool
  

4. Check USB Cable and Port

Sometimes, the issue might simply be due to a bad USB cable or connection. Try the following:

• Make sure you're using a data transfer USB cable and not a charge-only cable.
• Try different USB ports on your computer or another cable.

5. Verify the Board and COM Port Settings

• Ensure that the correct board and port are selected in the Arduino IDE:
  • Go to Tools > Board and select your ESP board.
  • Go to Tools > Port and select the correct COM port.

6. Reinstall or Repair Arduino IDE and ESP32/ESP8266 Core

If the above steps don’t work, try reinstalling the ESP32/ESP8266 core.

• Go to File > Preferences, then click the link next to "More preferences can be edited directly in the file."
• Delete the espressif folder.
• Reinstall the ESP32/ESP8266 core via Boards Manager.

After trying these steps, see if the error persists. Let me know if it does, and I can assist with more specific debugging.