Manuals+

GLEDOPTO GL-C-017WL-D GL-RC-001WL

WLED Digital LED Controller User Manual

Model: GL-C-017WL-D / GL-RC-001WL

Brand: GLEDOPTO

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the GLEDOPTO ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller, models GL-C-017WL-D and GL-RC-001WL. This advanced controller is designed for addressable LED strips, offering versatile control options, dynamic lighting effects, and robust safety features. It is ideal for various lighting projects, from home decoration to commercial installations.

Key features include:

  • 4-Channel Independent Output & Zoned Lighting Control: Drive and individually control up to four LED strips with segmented programming via the WLED app for multi-zone lighting effects.
  • Music Sync & 100+ Dynamic Effects: A built-in microphone enables sound-reactive lighting, while the WLED app provides over 100 preloaded dynamic effects such as rainbow waves, fire flicker, and meteor trails.
  • Triple-Layer Safety & Energy Efficiency: Features a 15A overcurrent protection fuse, an energy-saving relay, and a Level Shifter IC for stable signal transmission, ensuring safety and efficiency for high-power setups.
  • Wireless/Wired Firmware Updates & Broad Compatibility: Supports Over-The-Air (OTA) updates via the WLED app and wired UART upgrades. Compatible with all mainstream addressable LED protocols.
  • Compact & User-Friendly Design: Designed with clear wiring ports and powered by ESP32 for reliable performance.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

Diagram showing the contents of the product package, including the controller, cables, terminal blocks, and user manual.
Figure 2.1: Package Contents
  1. ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller (GL-C-017WL-D) x 1
  2. Connect cables x 1
  3. User Instruction x 1
  4. One-to-four terminal blocks x 2
  5. 3cm Sticker x 1
  6. (Optional) WLED Remote Control (GL-RC-001WL) x 1 (if purchased as a set)

3. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Model NumberGL-C-017WL-D / GL-RC-001WL
Input VoltageDC 5-24V
Total Output Current15A Max
Max. Load Power360W
Power SourceDC
ProtocolWiFi
Connection ModeWLED App
Controlled MethodAPP Control
MaterialABS
Operating Temperature-20~45℃
Suggested Wire Type0.34-4mm (22-12AWG)
Stripping Length10mm
Dimensions108 x 45 x 18mm
Net Weight53.4g
Gross Weight86.6g
Applicable LightsDigital RGB IC WS2811, WS2812, SK6812, TM1814, WS2813, WS2815
Remote Distance (GL-RC-001WL)30m
Close-up view of the GL-C-017WL-D WLED Digital LED Controller, highlighting its ports and labels.
Figure 3.1: GL-C-017WL-D Controller
Internal circuit board of the controller showing the 15A Fuse-link and TI level shifter IC.
Figure 3.2: Internal Circuitry with Safety Features

4. Setup

4.1 Power Connection

The controller supports DC 5-24V input. Choose one of the suitable connection methods for power input:

Diagram showing two power connection options: V+, V- power interface and a 5.5x2.1mm DC Socket.
Figure 4.1: Power Connector Options
  • V+, V- Power Interface: Connect your DC power supply wires directly to the V+ and V- terminals.
  • 5.5x2.1mm DC Socket: Use a compatible DC power adapter plug into this socket.

Important: Ensure the input voltage matches the requirements of your LED strips and the controller (DC 5-24V). The total output current must not exceed 15A.

4.2 LED Strip Wiring

The controller features four independent output channels. Choose the correct wiring configuration based on the number of LED strips you are connecting.

Detailed wiring diagrams for connecting one, two, three, or four digital LED light strips to the controller's GPIO pins.
Figure 4.2: Wiring Diagram for Multiple Light Strips

Follow the diagram carefully to connect your digital RGB IC LED strips (e.g., WS2811, WS2812, SK6812, TM1814, WS2813, WS2815) to the appropriate GPIO pins (GPIO1, GPIO2, GPIO4, GPIO16) and GND terminals. Ensure proper polarity (V+, V-, Data).

4.3 Initial WLED App Connection

  1. Power on the controller.
  2. On your smartphone or tablet, connect to the Wi-Fi network broadcast by the controller (usually named "WLED-AP" followed by some numbers).
  3. Open the WLED app (available on app stores) or navigate to http://4.3.2.1 in a web browser.
  4. Follow the in-app instructions to connect the controller to your home Wi-Fi network. Once connected, the controller will no longer broadcast its own Wi-Fi, and you can control it via your home network.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 WLED App Control

The WLED app provides comprehensive control over your LED strips.

  • Segmented Color Control: Personalize every strip segment to display different colors and effects. This allows for multi-zone lighting effects from a single controller.
    • Smartphone screen showing the WLED app interface with segmented color control options, allowing users to personalize different sections of an LED strip.
    Figure 5.1: Segmented Color Control via WLED App
  • Dynamic Effects: Choose from over 100 preloaded dynamic effects to create immersive lighting scenes.
    • Smartphone screen displaying the WLED app with a list of over 100 dynamic lighting effects, such as 'Bouncing Balls' and 'Rainbow'.
    Figure 5.2: Over 100 Dynamic Effects
  • Music Synchronization: Utilize the built-in microphone function to synchronize your LED lights with music. The lights will follow the rhythm and beat of the audio.
    • A family enjoying LED strip lighting synchronized with music, demonstrating the microphone function.
    Figure 5.3: Microphone Function for Music Sync

5.2 Remote Control (GL-RC-001WL, if applicable)

If your package includes the GL-RC-001WL remote control, you can use it for convenient wireless operation of your LED strips. The remote offers fast transmission, strong anti-interference, and low power consumption, with a range of up to 30 meters.

A hand holding the GL-RC-001WL remote control, pointing towards LED strips in a room, indicating remote operation.
Figure 5.4: WLED Remote Control in Use

6. Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Gently wipe the controller with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
  • Environment: Ensure the controller is operated within the specified temperature range (-20~45℃) and away from excessive moisture or direct heat sources.
  • Connections: Periodically check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion.

7. Troubleshooting

  • Controller Not Responding:
    • Check power connections to ensure the controller is receiving adequate power (DC 5-24V).
    • Verify Wi-Fi connection in the WLED app. If disconnected, try reconnecting to the controller's AP and re-configuring your home Wi-Fi.
    • Perform a soft reset by briefly pressing the "Reset" button on the controller.
  • LED Strips Not Lighting Up or Incorrect Colors:
    • Ensure LED strip wiring is correct according to the wiring diagram (Figure 4.2), paying attention to Data, V+, and GND connections.
    • Confirm that the LED strip type is supported (WS2811, WS2812, SK6812, TM1814, WS2813, WS2815).
    • Check the WLED app settings for correct LED strip configuration (e.g., number of LEDs, type).
  • High Standby Power Consumption:

    The controller includes a relay configuration to reduce standby power consumption. Ensure this feature is enabled in the WLED app settings.

    Comparison image showing high standby power consumption without relay and low standby power consumption with relay, along with WLED app settings to enable the relay.
    Figure 7.1: Relay Configuration for Power Saving
  • Synchronized Light Effects Issue:

    If you are experiencing issues with synchronized light effects across multiple controllers or segments, ensure the sync settings are correctly configured in the WLED app.

    WLED app interface showing 'Before Sync' and 'After Sync' states, illustrating how to synchronize light effects.
    Figure 7.2: Sync Setting in WLED App
  • Microphone Function Not Working:

    After resetting the device, the microphone parameters may need to be reconfigured for the first time. The device may also need to be restarted after configuration.

    WLED app screenshots detailing the steps for microphone configuration, including selecting microphone type and setting pins.
    Figure 7.3: Microphone Configuration Steps

    Configuration information (Note: This setting applies to firmware version 0.14):

    • Microphone type: Generic I2S
    • I2S SD pin: 26
    • I2S WS pin: 5
    • I2S SCK pin: 21

8. Firmware Updates

The controller supports both wireless (OTA) and wired (UART) firmware updates.

  • OTA Updates: Firmware updates can be performed wirelessly through the WLED app. Ensure your controller is connected to the internet via your home Wi-Fi network.
  • Wired UART Upgrades: For wired updates, connect the controller to a computer via its Type-C UART port.

Caution: When updating firmware, always select "WLED 0.15.X ESP32.Bin" or the appropriate firmware version for ESP32. Using incorrect firmware can erase original firmware information and potentially damage the controller.

9. User Tips

  • Experiment with Segments: Leverage the 4-channel independent output and segmented control in the WLED app to create complex and unique lighting zones within a single LED strip or across multiple strips.
  • Optimize Power: Enable the relay configuration in the WLED app settings to reduce standby power consumption, especially for installations that are frequently turned off but remain connected to power.
  • Explore Dynamic Effects: With over 100 dynamic effects, take time to browse and customize them to match your mood or occasion. The WLED community often shares new effects and configurations.
  • Music Sync Placement: For optimal music synchronization, place the controller or an external microphone (if used) in a location where it can clearly pick up audio without excessive background noise.

10. Certifications

This product complies with the following certifications:

  • CE
  • EMC
  • FCC
  • LVD
  • ROHS

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the seller's official website or contact their customer service. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

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