Update: I've bought a new ESP cam from a different manufacturer and I still have the same problems

I've tried uploading using the ESP32-CAM MD shield, same problem.

I tried using a second PC to do the uploading, same problem.

Tried multiple USB cables, doesn't seem to be the issue

I tried using ...

When I try to upload the CameraWebServer example to an esp32 cam via an FTDI adapter (this one https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07R17BMTL?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details), it seems to not be giving me a serial connection.

I get a solid red LED on the FTDI adapter when I hook it up.

I ...

I have created a bit of simple code to test the functionality of the 10 touch pins on the ESP32.

void setup()
{
Serial.begin(115200);
delay(1000); // give me time to bring up serial monitor
Serial.println("ESP32 Touch Test");
}

void loop()
{
Serial.println("");
Serial.println("");
Serial ...