Drivers and actuators
WLED LED Strip Controller (ESP32)
An ESP32-based WLED firmware controller for addressable LED strips like WS2812B, controlled over WiFi from a browser or mobile app.
Drivers and actuators
WLEDLED stripESP32addressable LEDWiFi
ESP32
Official path: https://oshwhub.com/xpya/WLED
01 Overview
WLED is an open-source LED control firmware running on ESP32, supporting addressable strips such as WS2812B and SK6812.
The board carries an ESP32 module with a GPIO output for LED data; power input is 5V or 12V depending on the strip.
Once on WiFi, the strip is controlled from a web page or mobile app for effects, color, and brightness.
Ideal for home ambiance lighting, decorative installations, and rapid prototyping without additional hardware.
This is not a general-purpose dev board; it is optimized for LED control and not intended for other I/O expansion.
02 Hardware
MCU: ESP32 family module (e.g., ESP32-WROOM-32) with integrated WiFi and Bluetooth.
LED data pin: default GPIO2 (check silkscreen on the board).
Power: 5V input, on-board regulator to 3.3V for the ESP32; LED strip power must be external.
Programming: USB or pin headers for flashing and debugging.
Strip connection: 3P or 4P terminal with VCC, GND, DATA; mind voltage levels.
Level shifting: if the strip expects 5V data, add a level shifter or use 3.3V-compatible strips.
Power design: high-current strips need a separate supply; avoid ground loops with the ESP32.
Layout: keep data traces short and away from power lines to reduce interference.
03 Software flow
Flash the official WLED firmware from GitHub releases using esptool or the web installer.
On first boot, enter AP mode and connect to the WLED-AP hotspot to configure WiFi.
Configure LED type, count, and data pin (default GPIO2).
Use the web UI or mobile app to control effects, brightness, color, and presets.
OTA updates are supported, so future firmware upgrades don't require rewiring.
Advanced features like schedules or sound reactivity can be enabled with additional hardware.
04 Core points
No additional core modules; single ESP32 MCU.
Remember: the strip must have its own power supply; the on-board regulator only powers the ESP32.
Data pin voltage may not match 5V strips; verify or add level shifting.
Different strip protocols (e.g., WS2812B vs SK6812) have different timings; select the correct type in config.
WiFi interference can affect control; adjust channel or use wired connection if needed.
Do not reverse the strip power polarity to avoid damaging the board.
