1. Product Overview
The BTF-LIGHTING DR04W is a 2.4G WiFi SPI RGBW LED Controller designed for addressable RGB+W LED strips. It supports various IC types such as SK6812RGBW, WS2814, SM16704, UCS2904, and TM1824. This kit includes the DR04W controller and an RC03RF RF remote, offering versatile control options via Tuya/Smart Life APP, Google Home, Alexa, and the included RF remote. It enables dynamic lighting effects, color calibration, and group control for a customized lighting experience.
Package Contents:
- 1 x DR04W SPI RGBW LED Controller
- 1 x RC03RF RF Remote Control
- 1 x User Manual
Key Features:
- WiFi Control: Manage your LED strips via Tuya/Smart Life APP. Operates exclusively on 2.4G Wi-Fi networks.
- Wide Compatibility: Supports most one-wire LED driver ICs including FCOB RGBW WS2814 IC, SK6812RGBW, SM16704 RGBW, UCS2904 RGBW, and TM1824 RGBW.
- Group Control: Independently control up to 4 zones with no device limits. Multiple controllers can be linked for extended range.
- 2.4G Wireless Transmitting: The RC03RFB remote offers a control range of up to 98 feet with a user-friendly touch wheel and button design.
- Color Calibration: Adjust core type and R/G/B/W color sequence via the Tuya app to ensure accurate color display.
- Rich Dynamic Effects: Choose from 44 default dynamic modes and over 10 custom modes (jumping, breathing, flickering, flowing, rainbow, meteor). Brightness and speed are adjustable.
- Multi-function: Includes voice command, timer setting, countdown on/off, Tap-to-Run, automation, scene customization, sleep/wakeup plans, do not disturb mode, and device sharing.
- Supports Full or Segmented Control: RGBW adjustment range from 20 to 700 ICs. Change colors for the entire strip or individual segments via the Tuya APP.
Image 1.1: The BTF-LIGHTING DR04W SPI RGBW LED Controller and RC03RF RF Remote Kit.
2. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | BTF-LIGHTING |
| Model Number | DR04W+RC03RFB |
| Input Voltage | DC 5V/12V/24V |
| Output Signal | SPI Signal x 2 |
| Max Pixels | 700 ICs |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to 55°C |
| Control Method | App (Tuya/Smart Life), RF Remote, Voice Control (Alexa/Google Home) |
| Wireless Connectivity | 2.4G WiFi, 2.4G RF |
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
| Material | Plastic |
| Item Weight | 5.6 ounces |
3. Setup and Installation
3.1 Power Supply Selection
Ensure you select a power supply that matches the voltage requirements of your LED strip. For 5V LED strips, always use a 5V DC power source. Using an incorrect voltage can damage the LED strip or the controller.
Image 3.1: Example of a DC5V10A power supply. Always match the power supply voltage to your LED strip's requirements.
3.2 Controller Wiring
Connect the power supply and LED strip to the DR04W controller using the designated terminals. The controller has terminals for positive (V+), data (DAT), and negative (GND) connections. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections.
Image 3.2: Detailed wiring connections for the DR04W controller, showing DC input, wiring connections, and output terminals.
Video 3.1: This video demonstrates the proper wiring procedure for the DR04W WiFi Controller and how to initiate control.
3.3 LED Strip Connection
Connect your SPI RGBW LED strip to the controller's output terminals. Pay close attention to the data direction indicated on your LED strip (often by an arrow) to ensure proper signal flow. Connect the V+, Data, and GND wires from the strip to the corresponding terminals on the controller.
Image 3.3: Diagram illustrating how to connect an addressable LED strip (e.g., WS2814 RGBW) to the DR04W controller, highlighting data direction and power connections.
3.4 Powering the System
Once all connections are secure, connect the power supply to the DC input jack on the DR04W controller. The controller and LED strip should power on, and the indicator light on the controller will show its status.
3.5 Series and Parallel Connections
For longer LED strip installations, you may need to use series or parallel connections with voltage supplementation to prevent voltage drop and ensure consistent brightness across the entire strip. The power output voltage must match the LED strip's working voltage.
Image 3.4: Example of series connection and voltage supplementation for multiple LED strip rolls.
Image 3.5: Example of parallel connection and voltage supplementation using a signal amplifier for multiple LED strips.
4. App Control (Tuya/Smart Life)
4.1 App Download and Pairing
- Download the Tuya Smart or Smart Life app from your smartphone's app store.
- Register or log in to your account.
- Power on the DR04W controller. Long press the 'SET' button on the controller for over 3 seconds until the indicator light blinks, indicating it has entered pairing mode.
- In the app, tap '+' to add a device. The app should automatically discover the 'Dream Color RGBW' device.
- Select your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network and enter the password. Note: The controller does not support 5.0 GHz Wi-Fi networks.
- Once successfully added, you can rename the device and begin controlling your LED strip.
Image 4.1: The DR04W controller features a QR code for easy app installation. Scan the QR code to download the Tuya Smart or Smart Life app from smartapp.tuya.com/smartlife.
Video 4.1: This video provides a step-by-step guide on how to connect and control the DR04W WiFi Controller using your smartphone app.
4.2 Setting LED Strip Length
To ensure accurate control and display, set the actual controlled length of your SPI addressable RGB LED Strip in the app. The adjustable range is typically 20-700 ICs (pixels).
Image 4.2: Screenshot of the app interface showing how to set the LED strip length (pixel count) for optimal performance.
4.3 IC Chip Model Selection
After configuring the controller with your network, select the corresponding IC chip type of your LED strip from the app's chip selection menu. This ensures the LED strip operates correctly.
Image 4.3: Screenshot of the app interface for selecting the correct IC chip model for your LED strip.
4.4 Color Correction
If the app's displayed color is inconsistent with the actual color of your LED strip (e.g., green appears blue), use the color correction feature in the app. Enter the color correction interface and select the button that matches the actual color displayed by the LED.
Image 4.4: Screenshot of the app's color correction interface, allowing users to adjust colors for consistency.
4.5 Color Modes and Dynamic Effects
The app offers various ways to customize your lighting:
- Color Bucket: Change the color of the full segment of the LED strip. Choose from 'Colour', 'Color Card', and 'Combination' patterns.
- Colored Pens: Paint custom colors onto single segments of the LED strip, which will instantly match your selection.
- Eraser: Turn off a single segment of the LED strip.
Explore 44 default dynamic modes and create over 10 custom dynamic scenarios, including jumping, breathing, flickering, flowing, rainbow, and meteor effects. Adjust brightness and speed to your preference.
Image 4.5: Screenshots demonstrating various color modes available in the app, including Color Bucket, Colored Pens, and Combination.
Image 4.6: The app offers a wide selection of predefined dynamic scenarios and custom options for diverse lighting effects.
Image 4.7: Create your own dynamic lighting effects using the app's DIY features.
4.6 Music Synchronization
The LED controller supports music rhythm functions, allowing your lights to sync with audio. You can use either the built-in microphone on the controller or your mobile phone's microphone to collect music and create dynamic light shows.
Image 4.8: The app interface for music synchronization, offering various rhythm modes and microphone options.
5. RF Remote Control (RC03RF)
5.1 Remote Pairing
To pair the RC03RF remote with the DR04W controller:
- Ensure the controller is powered on.
- Press and hold the 'ON' button on the remote within 5 seconds of powering on the controller.
- The LED strip should flash to confirm successful pairing.
5.2 Remote Functions
The RC03RF remote provides convenient control over your LED strips:
- ON/OFF: Power the LED strip on or off.
- Color Wheel: Select static colors by touching the color wheel.
- Brightness Adjustment: Increase or decrease the brightness.
- Mode Selection (M): Cycle through various dynamic modes.
- Speed Adjustment (S+/S-): Increase or decrease the speed of dynamic modes.
- White Light (W): Activate pure white light.
- Zone Selection (1-4): Control individual zones if multiple controllers are set up.
Image 5.1: The RC03RF RF Remote Control, showing its touch wheel and button layout for intuitive operation.
5.3 Group Control and Auto-Transmitting
The system supports 4-zone group control, allowing you to manage different lighting areas independently. The controller also features an auto-transmitting function, where one controller can transmit signals from the remote to another controller within 30 meters. This allows for an extended and potentially limitless control distance as long as controllers are within range of each other.
Image 5.2: Diagram illustrating how the 4-zone group control allows management of multiple lighting areas.
Image 5.3: Visual representation of the auto-transmitting function, extending the remote control distance.
6. Voice Control Integration
The DR04W controller is compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home through the Tuya/Smart Life app. Once integrated, you can control your LED strips using simple voice commands.
- Ensure your DR04W controller is successfully paired with the Tuya/Smart Life app.
- Open your Amazon Alexa or Google Home app.
- Enable the 'Tuya Smart' or 'Smart Life' skill/service.
- Link your Tuya/Smart Life account with your voice assistant account.
- Discover devices. Your LED strip controller should appear.
- You can now use voice commands such as "Alexa, turn on the LED light" or "Hey Google, change LED color to blue."
Image 6.1: The DR04W controller supports voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for convenient operation.
7. Advanced Features
7.1 Timer Setting
Set schedules for your LED strips to automatically turn on or off at specific times. This feature allows you to automate your lighting based on your daily routine.
Image 7.1: Screenshot of the app's timer setting feature, enabling scheduled lighting control.
7.2 Do Not Disturb Mode
Activate "Do Not Disturb" mode to prevent the lights from automatically turning on after a power outage. In this mode, the light will only illuminate after being powered on twice, which can be useful for energy saving in areas with frequent power fluctuations.
Image 7.2: Illustration of the "Do Not Disturb" mode, preventing automatic power-on after outages.
7.3 Tap-to-Run and Automation
Create custom "Tap-to-Run" scenarios and automations within the app to set up specific ambiances or trigger actions based on conditions. This allows for personalized smart home integration.
Image 7.3: The app supports Tap-to-Run and Automation features for creating customized lighting scenes.
7.4 Device Sharing
Share control of your DR04W controller with family members through the app. This allows multiple users to manage the lighting devices and perform scenes from their own accounts.
Image 7.4: The device sharing feature allows multiple family members to control the lighting system.
8. Troubleshooting
- Controller not connecting to Wi-Fi: Ensure your Wi-Fi network is 2.4GHz. Check that the controller is in pairing mode (indicator light blinking) and your Wi-Fi password is correct. Move the controller closer to the router if necessary.
- LED strip not lighting up: Verify all wiring connections (V+, Data, GND) are secure and correctly polarized. Confirm the power supply voltage matches the LED strip's requirements. Check if the LED strip itself is functional.
- Incorrect colors displayed: Use the "Color Correction" feature in the Tuya/Smart Life app to calibrate the colors. Ensure the correct IC chip model is selected in the app.
- RF remote not responding: Ensure the remote is paired with the controller. Check the remote's battery. Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the controller.
- Inconsistent brightness or color along the strip: This may indicate a voltage drop. Consider adding voltage supplementation at intervals along longer LED strips (refer to Section 3.5).
- App control delays or unresponsiveness: Check your Wi-Fi signal strength. Restart the app and the controller. Ensure your smartphone's operating system is up to date.
9. Warranty and Support
BTF-LIGHTING products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, technical support, or any inquiries regarding your DR04W SPI RGBW LED Controller and RC03RF RF Remote Kit, please refer to the product packaging or contact BTF-LIGHTING customer service directly through their official website or the platform where the product was purchased. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
