Programming esp32 via uart

[Beno2024]

Hey
Ive designed a pcb with the esp32-c3-mini-1 as the main piece. I wanted to program the esp32 via the uart pins so i prepeared a uart connector with rx,tx,3v3,gnd pins. I would like to program the eap using an external ftdi connected to the laptop and to the uart connector , will that work? Or do i have to use the jtag lines ?
Because i know the usb lines can be used programming pins

[DrMickeyLauer]

UART: You need to set the device manually into the download mode, since it doesn't sound like you have adopted the RTS/DTS circuit for automatic reset into download mode.
JTAG: Once you have initial software running, you can program the device via JTAG. JTAG can reset the device on its own.

[Beno2024]

Thanks !
I would rather not use Jtag due to other constrains.
Ao what I gather from what you say is I can use the uart for programming if I put the esp to download mode, via hardware ?
Ben

[mikemoy]

Ao what I gather from what you say is I can use the uart for programming if I put the esp to download mode, via hardware ?

yes