1. Introduction
The GLEDOPTO ESP32 WLED LED Controller is a versatile device designed for controlling various types of LED strips, including addressable pixel strips (WS2811, WS2812, SK6812, etc.) and PWM LED strips (RGB, RGBW, RGBCCT, Dimmer). Featuring a powerful ESP32 chip, built-in microphone for sound-reactive effects, and Wi-Fi connectivity, it offers intuitive control via the WLED app and compatibility with smart home systems like Alexa.
This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and a captivating lighting experience.
Video: Product overview, unboxing, and basic app control demonstration.
2. Safety Information
- Ensure the input voltage of the constant voltage power supply matches the controller's requirements (DC 5-24V). Connecting a voltage higher than 24V will damage the controller.
- Always check the correct connection of both cathode and anode.
- Do not attempt to disassemble the controller if you are not a professional user, as this may lead to fire or electric shock.
- The operating temperature range is -20°C to 60°C. Avoid using the device in direct sunlight, high humidity, or other high-temperature environments.
- Do not use the controller near metal areas or strong magnetic fields, as this can adversely affect the control distance and performance.
- When loading a 15A device, the cable diameter should be greater than 1.5mm².
- Incorrect firmware updates can cause damage to the product. Always confirm the chip version (ESP32 or ESP8266) before updating.
3. Package Contents
Upon opening the product packaging, you should find the following items:
- GLEDOPTO WLED LED Controller
- Instruction Sheet / QR Code for App
Image: GLEDOPTO WLED LED Controller showing different housing colors (white, black, orange).
4. Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | SUNSPURT (GLEDOPTO) |
| Model Numbers | GL-C-014WL, GL-C-015WL, GL-C-015WL-M, GL-C-015WL-D, GL-C-016WL-D, GL-C-017WL-D, GL-C-211WL, GL-C-001DM, GL-C-213 |
| Item Type | RGB controller |
| Input Voltage | DC 5-24V |
| Output Current/Channel | 10A Max |
| Total Output Current | 15A Max |
| Max. Load Power | 360W (for 24V) |
| IC Quantity | 800 Max (Note: If the number of ICs is too large, consider if it exceeds the rated current. Increase power supply if current is too large.) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 45°C |
| Material | Plastic (PC) |
| Connection Mode | WLED |
| Control Method | APP/Voice Controller (Alexa/Home Assistant Wifi Voice) |
| Remote Distance | 50M (for WLED remote control) |
| Features | Remote / APP control, Built-in microphone, Type-C UART, DIY GPIO interface, 4-channel relay switch (on some models) |
| Applicable Lights | WS2811, WS2812, SK6812, TM1814, WS2813, WS2815, PWM Strip Light |
| Certifications | CCC, CE, EMC, FCC, GS, LVD, ROHS, SAA |
| Dimensions (GL-C-211WL) | 108mm x 45mm x 18mm |
| Net Weight (GL-C-211WL) | 56.4g |
| Gross Weight (GL-C-211WL) | 64.3g |
Note: Multi-stranded wires (0.34-4mm² / 22-12AWG) are recommended for high current connections.
Image: Detailed product parameters for model GL-C-211WL.
Image: Comparison table of different WLED controller models, highlighting chip types, microphone presence, and UART download capabilities.
5. Setup Guide
5.1. Wiring the Controller
Choose the correct wiring configuration based on your LED strip type and the number of strips.
Quick Connect Port Design
The controller features quick connect ports for convenient wiring. To connect, open the connector upwards, insert the wire, and then press down to secure it. Ensure wiring is complete before use.
Image: Steps for using the quick connect port: 1. Open connector, 2. Insert wire and press down, 3. Wiring complete.
Wiring Diagrams for Digital Pixel Strips
Connect your digital pixel LED strips to the controller's V+, DATA, and GND terminals. For multiple strips, ensure proper power distribution.
Image: Wiring diagrams illustrating connections for one, two, three, and four digital pixel light strips to the controller.
Wiring Diagrams for PWM LED Strips
The ESP32 WLED PWM LED Controller supports various PWM strip types. Connect the corresponding channels (e.g., R, G, B, W, CCT) to the GPIO pins as indicated.
Image: Wiring diagrams for connecting RGB, CCT, RGBW, and Dimmer PWM LED strips to the ESP32 WLED PWM LED Controller.
1-Channel Digital Signal Output
Image: Wiring diagram for a single digital signal output, showing power supply and data line connection to an LED strip.
5-Channel PWM Output
Image: Wiring diagram for 5-channel PWM output, connecting multiple PWM channels to an LED strip.
Connection Methods for 3/4-Wire Strip Lights (Monochrome Pixel LED Controller)
Image: Diagrams showing connections for 3-wire (V+, DI, GND) and 4-wire (V+, DI, BI, GND) pixel LED strips.
5.2. App Download & Initial Connection
The GLEDOPTO WLED Controller is controlled via the WLED app. No gateway is required.
Download the WLED App
- iOS: Search and download "WLED" in the App Store.
- Android: Download from the official GitHub repository: github.com/Aircoookie/WLED-App/releases.
Image: Instructions for downloading the WLED app on iOS (App Store) and Android (GitHub).
Initial App Configuration Steps
- Open your phone settings and enter Wi-Fi settings. Find and connect to the hotspot named "WLED-AP" with the password "wled1234".
- After successful connection, it will automatically jump to the WLED page (or enter the website 4.3.2.1 in your browser to access the WLED page).
- Click "WIFI SETTINGS", set your home Wi-Fi account and password, then click "Save & Connect" at the top of the screen.
- Open the WLED app. Click the "+" icon in the upper right corner of the screen, and then click "DISCOVER LIGHTS...". The button below will display "Found WLED!", indicating the controller has been found. Click on the found light to add it.
Image: Four-step visual guide for initial WLED app configuration and connecting to your home Wi-Fi network.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. App Control
The WLED app provides comprehensive control over your LED strips.
Image: WLED app interface showing color wheel and device list for simple operation without a gateway.
Adjusting Colors and Brightness
Use the color wheel in the app to select desired colors. Adjust brightness using the slider.
Selecting Dynamic Effects
The controller features over 100 preloaded dynamic modes. Navigate to the 'Effects' tab in the app to browse and select various lighting effects.
Image: WLED app interface demonstrating DIY lighting effects with up to 250 user presets.
Music Sync (Sound Reactive)
The built-in microphone allows the LED strips to synchronize with musical rhythms. Ensure microphone settings are configured in the app.
Sync Effects
On the same Wi-Fi network, the lighting effects of multiple LED strips connected to WLED controllers can be synchronized.
Image: Comparison of LED strip lighting before and after applying sync effects via the WLED app.
Five Mode Switching
The controller supports five different output modes: RGBCCT, RGBW, RGB, CCT, and Dimmer. These can be configured in the app's hardware setup.
Image: WLED app screenshots showing hardware setup configurations for RGBCCT, RGBW, RGB, CCT, and Dimmer modes.
6.2. Physical Button Functions
The controller features physical buttons for basic control:
- Restart Button: Pressing this button will power off the controller module. Releasing it will power it back on. This is useful for restarting the controller after configuring the microphone.
- Opt Button:
- Short Press: Power on/off.
- Long Press for 1 second: Switch colors.
- Set Button (Monochrome Pixel LED Controller):
- Short Press: Pause/Resume LED dynamic effects.
- Double Press: Scan IC quantity (50 ICs by default). Note: Perform this operation while the LED strip is OFF.
- Long Press: Adjust Speed.
- Push Button (Monochrome Pixel LED Controller):
- Short Press: ON/OFF.
- Double Press: Switch dynamic effect.
- Long Press: Adjust Brightness.
- Long Press for 10 seconds (on some models): Reset the WLED controller and activate the WLED-AP hotspot.
Image: Diagram showing the Restart and Opt button functions on the ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller.
Image: Key functions for the Opt, Set, and Push buttons on the Monochrome Pixel LED Controller.
6.3. Remote Control
The controller supports WLED remote control, offering a long transmission distance and stable signals.
Image: A hand holding a WLED remote control, demonstrating its use for controlling LED strips.
Remote Control Specifications (GL-RC-001WL)
- Model NO.: GL-RC-001WL
- Input Voltage: 3V
- Standby Current: <13uA
- Battery Type: 1.5V (2*AAA Battery)
- Control Distance: 50m
- Wireless Communication: WiFi
- Working Temperature: -20-45°C
- Material: PC
- Net Weight: 51.8g
- Gross Weight: 62.0g
- Waterproof Rating: IP20
- Size: 39x16x143mm
Image: Detailed product parameters and dimensions for the GL-RC-001WL remote control.
6.4. Voice Control (Alexa Integration)
The controller is fully compatible with Alexa, allowing for voice control of your lighting setup.
Steps for Connecting with Alexa
- Go to the control page of the WLED controller, click on the "Config" button in the top right corner to enter the settings, and then click on "Sync Interfaces".
- Scroll up to find "Alexa Voice Assistant", check the box next to "Emulate Alexa device", and then save.
- After successfully saving, power cycle the WLED controller once by turning it off and on.
- Open "Amazon Alexa" app, click on the "Devices" page at the top right corner on the "+" sign, and then click "Add Device".
- Then, scroll up and click on "Other" to enter, select "Wi-Fi", and then click "Discover Devices" to search for lights.
Image: Eight-step visual guide for integrating the WLED controller with Amazon Alexa for voice control.
6.5. Relay Configuration (for models with relay switch)
Some models include a 4-channel relay switch. When the power is turned off, there is no current passing through the LED strip, thus reducing power consumption.
Image: Wiring diagram for the 4-channel relay switch with an independent Type-C power supply, and app screenshot showing how to enable the relay reverse function.
To use the relay function of WLED, the relay reverse function needs to be enabled in the app settings.
7. Maintenance
- Keep the controller clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
- Avoid exposing the device to water or excessive moisture.
- Regularly check wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from damage.
- For optimal performance, ensure the controller has adequate ventilation and is not enclosed in a tight space.
8. Troubleshooting
- Controller not responding: Check power supply connections. Ensure the input voltage is within the 5-24V range. Try restarting the controller by briefly pressing the Restart button or power cycling it.
- Cannot connect to WLED-AP hotspot: Ensure the controller is powered on. If you have previously configured Wi-Fi, perform a factory reset by long-pressing the designated button for 10 seconds (on supported models) to reactivate the WLED-AP hotspot.
- App cannot find the controller: Ensure your mobile phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as the controller. If the controller is in AP mode, ensure your phone is connected to the "WLED-AP" hotspot.
- LED strips not lighting up or incorrect colors: Check all wiring connections (V+, DATA, GND, and individual color channels for PWM). Verify that the correct LED output mode (RGBCCT, RGBW, RGB, CCT, Dimmer) is selected in the WLED app's hardware setup.
- Dynamic effects not working or flickering: Ensure the IC quantity setting in the app matches your LED strip's specifications. If the number of ICs is too large, it might exceed the controller's rated current, requiring an increased power supply.
- Microphone not reacting to sound: After resetting the controller, the microphone parameters may need to be reconfigured in the app, and the device restarted. Check the microphone configuration settings in the WLED app (e.g., Microphone type, SD pin, WS pin, SCK pin).
- Firmware update issues: Always confirm the correct chip version (ESP32 or ESP8266) before updating firmware. Use the Type-C UART interface for updates and ensure the correct file (e.g., WLED_x.xx.x_ESP32.bin) is used. Incorrect firmware can damage the product.
9. User Tips
- For advanced users, the exposed Type-C UART interface simplifies firmware updates and allows for custom programming.
- Utilize the DIY GPIO interface for connecting various custom devices and expanding functionality.
- When using the microphone for music synchronization, experiment with different sensitivity settings in the app to achieve the best visual response to your audio.
- Take advantage of the WLED app's ability to save up to 250 user presets for quick access to your favorite lighting effects.
10. Warranty and Support
This product comes with a 2-year warranty.
For further questions, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact GLEDOPTO customer support through the seller's platform or official channels. Provide your model number and a detailed description of the issue for efficient support.
