DOMRAEM DOM-WLE-12P ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller

1. Introduction

The DOMRAEM DOM-WLE-12P is an advanced ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller designed for addressable LED strips. It features flexible dual-system power input (Type-C PD and dual DC 5-24V), a built-in microphone for music reactive effects, and a UART port for easy DIY programming. This controller offers extensive lighting effects and smart control options via mobile app and remote control, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting applications.

Figure 1: Product Overview with Key Features

2. Safety Information

• Voltage Matching: When using PD power, always ensure the voltage (5V, 12V, or 20V) matches your LED strip's requirement before connecting to prevent damage. Incorrect voltage will damage the LED strip.
• Power Input: Do not exceed the maximum input voltage of 24V for DC power.
• Fuse Protection: The controller is equipped with a 16A fuse for overcurrent protection.
• Operating Environment: Use the device within the specified operating temperature range of -20°C to +45°C.

Figure 2: Important Voltage Matching Warning

3. Product Overview

3.1 Key Features

• Flexible Dual-System Power Supply: Supports Type-C PD 3.0 (5V/3A, 12V/3A, 20V/3A Max) and dual independent 5-24V DC inputs (up to 16A total).
• Pre-installed WLED: Comes with over 100 built-in lighting effects, including Rainbow, Breathing, and Music Sync.
• Smart Control: Manage lights via WLED Mobile App, web interface, and dedicated remote control.
• Segment Control: Divide LED strips into independent segments for customized lighting.
• Music Reactive: High-sensitivity microphone for real-time music synchronization.
• Easy DIY Programming: UART download port via USB-C for programming without opening the case.
• Wide Compatibility: Supports mainstream digital LEDs like WS2812B, SK6812, APA102, covering DIMMER, CCT, RGB, RGBW, and RGBCCT types.
• Stable & Durable Design: Features a high-performance ESP32 module, NXP high-speed cache chip, solid-state capacitors, and large electrolytic capacitors.
• Safety Assurance: Protected by a 16A fuse and low standby power (~0.5W).
• Expansion Ports: Includes a backup interface for connecting an IR receiver or physical PUSH switch.

3.2 Component Identification

Figure 3: External Port and Connection Diagram

• GND: Ground connection.
• GPIO2, GPIO16: General Purpose Input/Output pins.
• V+: Positive voltage input/output.
• 1033: Push button for various functions.
• 16A Fuse: Overcurrent protection.
• Microphone: For music reactive effects.
• UART: Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter port for programming.
• Opt: Option button.
• Restart: Restart button.
• Indicator Light (IL): Status indicator.
• USB-C Port: For PD power input and UART download.
• DC 5-12V-24V Input: Barrel jack for DC power input.

Figure 4: Internal Components of the ESP32 WLED Core Board

1. Powered by USB-C: 5V/3A, 12V/3A, 20V/3A Max
2. PD chip
3. UART chip
4. Backup interface (for IR receiver, PUSH switch, etc.)
5. NXP high-speed cache chip
6. MOS (reduces power consumption)
7. Sensitive microphone
8. High Stability ESP32 Module
9. 16A Fuse
10. Large electrolytic capacitors (stronger anti-interference)
11. Solid-state capacitors (better durability and stability)

4. Specifications

Figure 5: Product Dimensions

5. Setup Guide

5.1 Wiring the LED Controller

Connect your LED strips and power supply to the controller as shown in the product overview diagram (Figure 3). Ensure correct polarity for V+ and GND connections. For digital LED strips, connect the data line (D) to the corresponding data output on the controller.

5.2 Power Input Options

• Type-C PD Power: Connect a compatible USB-C PD charger (5V/3A, 12V/3A, or 20V/3A) to the USB-C port. Ensure the PD voltage matches your LED strip's voltage requirement.
• Dual DC Power: Connect a 5-24V DC power supply to the screw terminals labeled 'INPUT DC 5-24V'. The controller supports two independent DC inputs.

5.3 Initial App Connection (No additional APP download required)

The controller can be accessed via its built-in Wi-Fi interface. Follow these steps:

Figure 6: Initial Wi-Fi Connection Steps

1. Power on the WLED controller.
2. Open your phone's Wi-Fi settings, find the network named "WLED-AP" and connect to it.
3. Enter the password "wled1234" and click "Join".
4. After successful connection, it will automatically redirect to the WLED page (or open a browser to enter the WLED page). Click "TO THE CONTROLS!".
5. You can now control your LED strips via the web interface.

5.4 APP Configuration Steps (for permanent Wi-Fi connection)

To connect the controller to your home Wi-Fi network for broader control, follow these steps:

Figure 7: WLED App Configuration for Home Wi-Fi

1. Step one: Power on the WLED controller.
2. Step two: After successful connection to "WLED-AP" (as in 5.3), it will automatically redirect to the WLED page. Click "WIFI SETTINGS".
3. Step three: Click "Scan" to display available networks.
4. Step four: Enter the password for your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network and click "Save" at the top of the screen.
5. Step five: Connect your phone and WLED controller to the same Wi-Fi network.
6. Step six: After successful connection, open the WLED App.
7. Step seven: Click on "Blank space" to enter the WLED page.
8. Step eight: Enter the WLED page for configuration.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Button Functions

Figure 8: Controller Button Functions

6.2 WLED App Control

The WLED app provides comprehensive control over your LED strips. It offers:

• 100+ Dynamic Effects: Choose from a wide range of pre-programmed lighting effects.
• Segmented Color Control: Personalize every strip segment to show different colors.
• Sync Effects: Synchronize lighting effects across multiple LED strips connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Figure 9: WLED App - Dynamic Effects

Figure 10: WLED App - Segmented Color Control

Figure 11: WLED App - Sync Effects

6.3 Remote Control

The included remote control allows for quick adjustments to your lighting. It features:

• ON/OFF functionality.
• Brightness adjustment.
• Four preset lighting modes.
• Sleep mode.
• Wi-Fi control.
• Control distance of up to 50 meters.

Figure 12: WLED Remote Control Diagram

The remote control can also be used to set four favorite modes for quick access.

Figure 13: Setting Favorite Modes with Remote Control

6.4 Music Dynamic Mode

The controller's built-in microphone enables music reactive lighting effects. After initial setup, the LED strips will synchronize with ambient sound.

Figure 14: Music Dynamic Mode in Action

Microphone Function Configuration

After resetting the device, the microphone parameters need to be configured for the first time, and the device needs to be restarted.

Figure 15: Microphone Function Configuration

Configuration Information:

1. Microphone type: Generic I2S PDM
2. I2S SD pin: 26
3. I2S WS pin: 21

6.5 One-Touch Download Mode (DIY Programming)

For advanced users, the controller supports easy firmware updates or custom programming via its UART port.

Figure 16: One-Touch Download Mode

Simply short-press the Restart button until the indicator turns blue. Connect the controller to your computer via the USB-C port and transfer the WLED firmware file (e.g., WLED_x.xx.x_ESP32.bin).

6.6 Relay Configuration

The controller supports relay configuration, which can be used to cut power to the LED strip when turned off, reducing power consumption.

Figure 17: Relay Configuration in WLED App

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a dry, soft cloth to clean the controller. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the controller in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features. Use the one-touch download mode for safe updates.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure the power supply (Type-C PD or DC) is correctly connected and providing the correct voltage. Check the 16A fuse for any damage.
• LEDs Not Lighting Up: Verify that the LED strip's voltage matches the controller's output voltage. Check all wiring connections (V+, GND, Data) for proper contact. Ensure the LED strip type is compatible with the controller.
• Wi-Fi Connection Issues: Make sure the controller is within range of your Wi-Fi router. Confirm you are connecting to a 2.4GHz network. Double-check the Wi-Fi password. If issues persist, try resetting the controller (hold Opt button for 10s) and reconfiguring the Wi-Fi.
• App Not Responding: Ensure your phone and the controller are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Restart the WLED app.
• Music Reactive Mode Not Working: Check microphone configuration settings in the WLED app (Figure 15). Ensure the microphone is enabled and parameters are set correctly. Restart the device after configuration.

9. User Tips

• Always double-check the voltage requirements of your LED strips before connecting them to the controller, especially when using Type-C PD power, to prevent irreversible damage.
• For optimal Wi-Fi performance, ensure the controller is placed in an area with good signal strength and connected to a 2.4GHz network.
• Explore the various effects and segment controls within the WLED app to fully customize your lighting experience.
• Consider using the relay configuration feature to completely cut power to your LED strips when not in use, contributing to energy saving.
• Regularly back up your WLED configuration settings if you make extensive customizations.

10. Warranty and Support

This DOMRAEM DOM-WLE-12P controller comes with a 2-year warranty from the date of purchase. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. It does not cover damage caused by improper installation, incorrect voltage application, physical abuse, or unauthorized modifications.

For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact DOMRAEM customer service through your purchase platform or the official DOMRAEM website.