DOMRAEM ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller User Manual

1. Introduction

The DOMRAEM ESP32 WLED Digital LED Controller is a versatile and powerful device designed to control addressable LED strips. Featuring flexible power options including USB-C Power Delivery (PD) and dual DC inputs, it offers extensive compatibility and smart control capabilities through the pre-installed WLED firmware. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your controller.

Key features include:

• Flexible Dual-System Power Supply: Supports Type-C PD 3.0 (5V/3A, 12V/3A, 20V/3A) and dual 5-24V DC inputs.
• 100+ Effects & Smart Control: Pre-installed WLED firmware with numerous lighting effects, mobile app, and web control.
• Wide Compatibility: Supports mainstream digital LEDs like WS2812B, SK6812, APA102, covering DIMMER, CCT, RGB, RGBW, and RGBCCT types.
• Reliable Components: High-performance ESP32 module, NXP high-speed cache chip, solid-state and large electrolytic capacitors for stability.
• Safety Assurance: Protected by a 16A fuse and features low standby power (~0.5W).
• Expansion Ports: Backup interface for IR receiver or physical PUSH switch.
• Model Specific Features:
  • DOM-WLE-10P: Standard controller without microphone or UART download port.
  • DOM-WLE-11P: Includes a sensitive microphone for music reactive modes.
  • DOM-WLE-12P: Includes a sensitive microphone and a UART download port for easy DIY programming.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: When using PD power, always ensure the voltage matches your LED strip's requirement before connecting to prevent damage to the LED strip and controller. Incorrect voltage will damage the LED strip.

Always disconnect power before making any wiring changes. Ensure all connections are secure to prevent short circuits.

3. Product Overview

3.1. Controller Components and Pinout

The DOMRAEM WLED controller features various input/output ports and control buttons. Refer to the diagrams below for specific pinout details for each model.

DOM-WLE-10P Pinout

Key Components: GND, GPIO2, GPIO16, V+, 1033, 16A Fuse, Opt Button, Restart Button, Indicator Light (IL), USB-C Power Input, DC 5-12V-24V Barrel Jack Input.

DOM-WLE-11P Pinout

Key Components: GND, GPIO2, GPIO16, V+, 1033, 16A Fuse, Microphone, Opt Button, Restart Button, Indicator Light (IL), USB-C Power Input, DC 5-12V-24V Barrel Jack Input.

DOM-WLE-12P Pinout

Key Components: GND, GPIO2, GPIO16, V+, 1033, 16A Fuse, Microphone, UART Port, Opt Button, Restart Button, Indicator Light (IL), USB-C Power Input, DC 5-12V-24V Barrel Jack Input.

3.2. Internal Board Layout

DOM-WLE-10P Core Board

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

DOM-WLE-11P Core Board

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

DOM-WLE-12P Core Board

1. Powered by USB-C 5V/3A/12V/3A/20V/3A Max
2. PD chip
3. UART chip
4. Backup interface (IR receiver, PUSH switch)
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 for anti-interference
11. Solid-state capacitors for durability and stability

4. Specifications

4.1. WLED Remote Control (Optional Accessory)

5. Setup Guide

5.1. Power Supply Connection

The controller offers two flexible power input options:

• USB-C PD Input: Connect a compatible USB-C PD charger or power bank (5V/3A, 12V/3A, or 20V/3A) to the USB-C port. This is ideal for convenient testing and portable setups.
• Dual DC Inputs: Use the barrel jack (Ø5.5mm x 2.1mm) or the quick-connect screw terminals for 5-24V DC power. Ensure the power supply matches the voltage requirements of your LED strip. The quick connect port supports up to 16A total output.

Important: Always match the input voltage to your LED strip's voltage (e.g., 5V strip with 5V power, 12V strip with 12V power). Mismatched voltages will damage the LED strip.

Image: USB-C Power Delivery Support, showing compatibility with 5V/3A, 12V/3A, and 20V/3A protocols.

5.2. LED Strip Wiring

Connect your addressable LED strip to the output terminals. The controller supports two channels. Ensure correct polarity (V+ to V+, GND to GND, Data to GPIO2 or GPIO16).

General Wiring:

• V+: Connect to the positive power input of your LED strip.
• GND: Connect to the ground of your LED strip.
• D (Data): Connect to the data input of your LED strip. The controller provides GPIO2 and GPIO16 for data output.

5.3. Initial WLED Configuration (App/Web)

The controller comes pre-installed with WLED firmware. Follow these steps to connect and configure your device:

1. Power On: Power on the WLED controller using either USB-C PD or DC input.
2. Connect to WLED-Ap WiFi: On your mobile phone or computer, open WiFi settings. Find and connect to the network named "WLED-Ap". The default password is "wled1234".
3. Access WLED Interface: After a successful connection, your device should automatically redirect to the WLED page in a browser. If not, open a web browser and navigate to the WLED page (usually by typing 4.3.2.1 or wled.local in the address bar). Click "TO THE CONTROLS!".
4. Save WiFi Credentials: Enter your home WiFi network name (SSID) and password. Click "Save" at the top of the screen. Ensure you are connecting to a 2.4GHz WiFi network, as 5GHz is not supported.
5. Connect to Home WiFi: Connect your phone/computer to the same home WiFi network that you configured the WLED controller to use.
6. Open WLED App: Download and open the WLED app (search "WLED" or "WLED Native" on App Store/Google Play Store, or download from github.com/Aircoookie/WLED-App/releases).
7. Discover Controller: The app should discover your WLED controller on the local network. Tap on the controller to enter the WLED page for configuration.

Image: Step-by-step guide for connecting to the WLED controller via WiFi and configuring it through the WLED application.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1. WLED App Control

The WLED app provides comprehensive control over your LED strips. You can:

• Change Colors: Use the color wheel to select static colors.
• Apply Effects: Choose from over 100 built-in dynamic effects (Rainbow Gradient, Breathing, etc.).
• Segment Control: Divide your LED strip into multiple independent segments, each with its own color and effect settings. This allows for highly customized lighting patterns.
• Music Sync (DOM-WLE-11P/12P): Utilize the built-in microphone to synchronize lighting effects with music in real-time.
• Sync Effects: Synchronize lighting effects across multiple WLED controllers on the same WiFi network.

Image: WLED App control interface showing color selection, effects, segments, and presets.

Image: Segmented Color Control, demonstrating how to personalize each strip segment.

Image: Sync Effects feature, showing how lighting effects can be synchronized across controllers.

6.2. Remote Control (Optional)

If you have the optional WLED remote control (Model DOM-WLE-RC005), you can use it for basic operations:

• ON/OFF: Turn the lights on or off.
• Brightness: Adjust brightness levels.
• Lighting Modes: Switch between preset lighting modes (1-4).
• Night Light: Activate a night light function.
• Favorite Modes: The remote can be configured to set four favorite modes.

Image: The WLED Remote Control can set four favorite modes for quick access.

6.3. Button Functions (On-board)

The controller features two on-board buttons: Restart and Opt.

DOM-WLE-10P Button Functions

Button	Time	Status	Indicator Light (IL)
Restart	Long Press 8s	Switch to 5V/3A Max	Green
Restart	Long Press 8s	Switch to 12V/3A Max	Yellow
Restart	Long Press 8s	Switch to 20V/3A Max	Red
Opt	Hold 10s to reset; Briefly press to turn on/off; Press and hold for 2 seconds to switch colors.

DOM-WLE-11P/12P Button Functions

Button	Time	Status	Indicator Light (IL)
Restart	Long Press 8s	Switch to 5V/3A Max	Green
Restart	Long Press 8s	Switch to 12V/3A Max	Yellow
Restart	Long Press 8s	Switch to 20V/3A Max	Red
Restart	Short Press 1s	Switch to Download Mode	Blue
Opt	Hold 10s to reset; Briefly press to turn on/off; Press and hold for 2 seconds to switch colors.

6.4. Microphone Function (DOM-WLE-11P/12P)

For models with a microphone, after resetting the device, the microphone parameters need to be configured for the first time. The device will then need to be restarted.

Configuration Information:

• Microphone type: Generic I2S PDM
• I2S SD pin: 26
• I2S WS pin: 21

6.5. DIY Programming (DOM-WLE-12P Only)

The DOM-WLE-12P model features a UART download port. This allows for easy DIY programming by connecting via USB-C without needing to open the case. This is useful for advanced users who wish to customize the firmware or add new functionalities.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a dry, soft cloth to clean the controller. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Storage: Store the controller in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the official WLED project website or community forums for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.

8. Troubleshooting

• LEDs not lighting up:
  • Check power connections and ensure the power supply voltage matches the LED strip voltage.
  • Verify data line (D) connection to the correct GPIO pin.
  • Ensure the LED strip is compatible with the controller (WS281X, SK6812, APA102, etc.).
  • Check if the WLED app shows the controller as connected and if effects are enabled.
• Controller not connecting to WiFi:
  • Ensure you are connecting to a 2.4GHz WiFi network.
  • Double-check the WiFi password.
  • Try resetting the controller's WiFi settings by holding the Opt button for 10 seconds.
• Music Sync not working (DOM-WLE-11P/12P):
  • Ensure the microphone parameters are correctly configured in the WLED settings after a reset.
  • Check if the controller is placed in an area where it can pick up sound clearly.
• Unexpected behavior:
  • Perform a soft reset via the WLED app or by briefly pressing the Opt button.
  • If issues persist, perform a factory reset by holding the Opt button for 10 seconds. Note that this will erase all custom settings.

9. User Tips

• Power Supply Matching: Always use a power supply that matches the voltage of your LED strip. If using a 5V strip, use a 5V power supply. If using a 12V strip, use a 12V power supply. This is crucial to prevent damage.
• Heat Management: For long LED strips or high brightness settings, ensure adequate ventilation around both the controller and the LED strip to prevent overheating.
• Experiment with Segments: The segment control feature in WLED is very powerful. Experiment with different segment lengths and effects to create unique and complex lighting patterns.
• Community Support: The WLED community is very active. If you encounter advanced issues or want to explore more features, refer to the official WLED documentation and community forums online.

10. Warranty and Support

This product comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. For technical support or further inquiries, please refer to the seller's contact information or the official WLED community resources.