Title: Chameleon Ultra
Description: Connect GhostESP to a Chameleon Ultra reader
URL: /v2.1/nfc/chameleon-ultra/
Version: v2.1
Section: NFC
Search index: /search-index.json

# Chameleon Ultra

> Connect GhostESP to a Chameleon Ultra reader

## On this page

- [Overview](#overview)
- [Prerequisites](#prerequisites)
- [Supported Devices](#supported-devices)
- [Connecting to Chameleon Ultra](#connecting-to-chameleon-ultra)
- [On-Device UI](#on-device-ui)
- [Command Line](#command-line)
- [Saving Dumps](#saving-dumps)
- [Troubleshooting](#troubleshooting)
- [Next Steps](#next-steps)

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## Overview
GhostESP can control a Chameleon Ultra over BLE. Once paired, use the NFC scan/save flows — note that the Chameleon Ultra uses a different backend (BLE GATT protocol) than the PN532 (SPI/I2C), so some behavior differs.
## Prerequisites
- Firmware: GhostESP build with BLE and Chameleon Ultra features enabled.
- Hardware: A powered Chameleon Ultra advertising over BLE.
## Supported Devices
Chameleon Ultra support is available on the following GhostESP builds:
- esp32-generic.zip
- esp32s3-generic.zip
- esp32c3-generic.zip
- esp32c5-generic-v01.zip
- esp32c6-generic.zip
- MarauderV4_FlipperHub.zip
- MarauderV6_AwokDual.zip
- ghostboard.zip
- ESP32-S3-Cardputer.zip
- CYD2USB.zip
- CYDMicroUSB.zip
- CYDDualUSB.zip
- CYD2USB2.4Inch.zip
- CYD2USB2.4Inch_C.zip
- CYD2432S028R.zip
- LilyGo-T-Deck.zip
- LilyGo-TEmbedC1101.zip
- LilyGo-S3TWatch-2020.zip
- LilyGo-TDisplayS3-Touch.zip
- JCMK_DevBoardPro.zip
- RabbitLabs_Minion.zip
- Lolin_S3_Pro.zip
- CardputerADV.zip
## Connecting to Chameleon Ultra
Note: GhostESP suspends the access point and Wi-Fi services during BLE sessions (including Chameleon connections) to free memory. The radio comes back automatically after you disconnect or run stop.
### On-Device UI
- Open Main Menu → NFC → Chameleon Ultra → Connect.
The device scans for nearby Chameleon Ultra devices.
- Wait for the connection popup to show “Connected”.
Battery voltage and percentage appear below the status.
- Use Disconnect from the same menu when finished.
Wi-Fi services resume automatically after disconnecting.
### Command Line
- Run chameleon connect to start pairing.
Optional arguments:
timeout in seconds (default 10) if you need more time for discovery.
- pin if your Chameleon Ultra requires a 4–6 digit security code.
Example: chameleon connect 15 1234
- Wait for pairing confirmation in the terminal.
The CLI announces when the link succeeds.
- Check status with chameleon status or battery with chameleon battery.
Voltage and percentage display before starting long dumps.
- Run chameleon disconnect when finished.
BLE releases and the Wi-Fi services will restore automatically.
### Saving Dumps
- Save HF scans: After chameleon scanhf completes, run chameleon savehf <name> to write the dump to /mnt/ghostesp/nfc/.
- Name files clearly: Use short descriptive names without spaces, for example office_door.
## Troubleshooting
- Connection timeouts: Keep the Chameleon Ultra awake (press any button) and re-run chameleon connect 20 for a longer window.
- PIN failures: Verify the configured code on the Chameleon Ultra; three failed attempts may force a power cycle.
- No BLE advertisements: Check the Chameleon Ultra’s BLE settings or reboot it; GhostESP only connects to active broadcasts.
## Next Steps
- Scanning: Continue with [PN532-based scanning guide](/v2.1/nfc/scanning/).
- Saving: Store remote dumps using [Saving Tags](/v2.1/nfc/saving/).
- Compatibility: Review what tag families work via [Supported Tags](/v2.1/nfc/supported/).