I’m a tech dummy so it took me 2 days to even figure out how to connect and set up. I had to watch the vids several times to figure it out. Boy let me tell you the feeling when I got it going. Felt like a kid in a candy store! Was so excited I spent an hour with my little neice playing with the lights and all the different patterns! Thanks @DrZzs
Got everything you mentioned in the 1st video, just got 1 string to test out and now i have to convince wife to let me buy more strings. Everything is super simple. Thanks
This came along at the right time, I've tried to get Rob's led V2 code working without success. Having seen the options on wLED, I'm going to switch my efforts onto this. Thanks so much for these kind of videos, they are awesome.
thank you mate, I have finally done mine this year, a 25m long strip around the house , HUGE thing is missing in that software and that is a simple timer Monday to Sunday , ON at 16:30 OFF at 8:00, I could not believe that there isn't an option for that , I hope the devs can have a look and create one is the most usefull option on any Christmas lights. Cheers !
Dude your vids are super helpful and very well thought out. Couldn’t have tackled my 2400 led house lighting project without your help. Can’t wait to watch the home assistant integration ones too.
Afternoon, I have a bit of a mystery on my LED system. I have a long continuous porch with 835 LED. Due to the length and not wanting to run a super thick wire to make the length I ran 24v transfer main power and 24v-5v converts at 1/3 and 2/3. I have about 30ft of line from NodeMCU/logic level shifter to first LED. Now I have a 60A 5V extra system for our garage. I have hooked up that power source to power just the 8266 and logic to the led’s and works just fine. 24V powers the leds with the converters. Now I tried to switch to a 5V 3A power supply just to power the the NodeMCU and logic to the LEDs but it seems to power 3-5 leds and they are usually a light blue and no color change. NodeMCU seems to response just keeps the same 5 leds powered. I tried splitting the power at the power plug running a set to power the +\- on the bread pad and another set right to the logic level shifter and same thing. I didn’t think I would have a power issue. Do you think the power supply has higher power then 5V or do you think I need a larger power supply? Any advice would be very much appreciated.
hmmm. I've had several people describe something similar with just the first few LEDs lighting up. I don't know exactly what the problem is. You're sure all the grounds are connected? Especially between the controller and the LEDs. Otherwise, I'm not sure. Can you take some pictures or even video of what you're seeing and post it in Discord or FB? Maybe if we get some more eyes on the problem we can come up with the solution together. Wish I had the answer for you.
Can someone help me with some information? To put it simply as possible, I am new to DIY RGB strips, my interest stemmed from owning 2 x LIFX RGBW bulbs which are fantastic. I have 2 metres of 144 LED/M ws2812b strip, hooked up to an sp108e wifi addressable controller, powered by a 30a 5v psu. I basically want the colour replication that the LIFX bulbs have on my strips. The main colours RGB are just about there, but when it comes to making pinks, purples and other colours the strips seem to be lacking in colour replication. Is this a limitation of the controller I am using? Would I benefit from a node mcu with WLED module? Or is there another controller that you can recommend that can tell these strips how to make awesome colours??. I'm less interested in lots and lots of functions than I am of awesome colours. Can someone please help me out?
Hi Doc. Just to let you know I was able to use this software to use xlights. But I have to say the patterns on this are better than the one's in xlights for strings on the house, arches etc. However I need xlights as I have a Megatree so xlights has better patterns for that. And I use multiple pins on my nodes. So When wled can do those, then this will be the best light control software. I can't wait.
Static IP is good for having lights in Home Assistant or when you want to access them via the app without needing to search each time. I usually use static as reserved addresses in DHCP server. I use the DHCP Server addon for HASS.IO, so Home Assistant looks after most of my network :). I found HA more reliably picks things up, like voice assistants and media players as well as lights, if they don't change too much. For the syncing, I am glad you clarified how you were setting the ports in an overlay port. It would be bad news to use actual port 22 and port 21 as they are reserved for known services. 21 is FTP as an example :) I think you will always have more to do with WLED, Aircoookie may just have created the ultimate LED control software for us makers/DIYers.
I’m getting ready to tackle all this, using my daughters room as a small scale test run before the house. Is there a way to set the lights on timers? Say turn on at 6am and turn off at 8am? That way she can wake up to the lights? On that same note when I install them on the house can I have them come on at a certain time(dusk) and stay on sat till midnight?
Thanks Dr Z, I was able to put pixel lights all around my roofline. I was planning to use a falcon controller to control my lights. during the non-holidays, the lights will be white. since watching this video I got myself three Kee Wees boards and a 12v to 5v converter. I would like to know where I can get a hold of the manual you where using in the video. thanks again for sharing your knowledge with all of us LED fans.
so glad i came across this.. very excited to get going with it in the house. Quick Q. I'd also like to run a controller in my camper van, it has an Android head unit, can I connect to that directly 🤔
@@DrZzs the wiring you did in part 1 seen probably more often than my kids lately :-) great job showing basics for folks like me. Now fighting with HA.
Yeah I second that, Currently have several addressable led setups using FastLED on Arduino which work OK for the most part but always looking for new options but its a must to integrate into HA & NodeRed.
Can you only have one effect active at one time or can you string several of them together? So have effect A last for 10 seconds then effect B last for 10 seconds and so on then repeat the cycle?
First of all, THX for these helpfull Videos. *g But i haven't found a hind, how to create an individual effect just like, i.e., grouping 5 LEDs with a dark field of 10 LEDs between the groups, so that it looks like downlights and playing with them. Is there an option to address LEDs in this way? Greets Stefan
Awesome video. Thank you so much. I followed the instructions to create few presets on LED strips. It working BUT when I am disconnecting the ESP and connect again I dont see my presets... What do I need to do in order to save the segments and presets?
Have an LED related question? Be sure to ask your question in led-lighting-diy- Channel on discord! discord.gg/8gvF67h Our LED masterminds, the PixelHeads, generally hang out there and can answer your question(s) swiftly.
i am looking for ways to mount my nodemcu board outside with the led strips, could you go over how you took care of outside wiring and where you placed your nodemcu?
I’m starting to learn and setup my house with pixel strings like yours. So my question is do you “Still” feel I should move forward with the setup you have with the small controller with WLED software or should I just go with a better controller and use xlights and Vixen? Thanks for your help!
How many nodemcu are you using for Christmas lights? Are they run on separate groups with different power controllers as well? Can you run just 1 and wiring?
Hey Doc - loving WLED. I had already completed install using the old Holiday LEDs code, but switching to WLED was super simple thanks to these videos. One question - how have you replaced effects such as Candy Cane, Holly Jolly, Hail, and other striped effects? I have several of those that I like to use but haven’t found an equivalent in WLED that keeps the stripes cleanly separated. Any suggestions or a way to add those effects into WLED via customization? Thanks!
Running or Running2 are good substitutes. Adjust the Primary and Secondary colors to whatever you like (Red/White, Maize/Blue, etc) Use the Intensity slider to adjust the size of the color bars. Save it as a Preset when you get it the way you like it. I also have used Wave to create my old "Touchdown" effect. Hope that helps!
A huge thank you DrZzs! For a couple years I've been wanting to do the addressable LED strip thing, but it was too complicated and too many variables for me to comfortably start ordering things. This video series was exactly what I needed to get me going. I used your links to order two 3-packs of the controller and a short 3' section of the 5V waterproof LED strip. I followed your instructions, and it worked 100% as expected. One quick question *what do you think the maximum distance is between two strips?* For example, I want to run strips under my 43' motorhome, but there will be 5' gaps where I have to go around the dual axles in the back. You mentioned that the data cable distance between the strip and the controller should be kept to a minimum, but is that also the case for the gap between the strips? This is the only remaining question that is keeping me from ordering 120' for the coach.
The quick answer is you can jump up to 40 meters from one strip to another. :O Check out the video I just posted today. I did a bunch of testing for that exact situation. ua-cam.com/video/ZFO_QOBG9Bs/v-deo.html
I know it's quite old. I just want to ask, what is the equivalent of the gpio-0 and D3 in esp32-wroom-32D. Thanks for the video and thanks in advance to anyone.
Thanks so much for the video. I plan to use these controllers for a year round setup. I have two questions for anyone out there. 1) How many LEDs can one controller handle on a string? (Considering power is properly taken care of) 2) In a future video, can you show how to integrate these controllers with Xlights? Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are welcome! For WLED I believe Aircoookie recommends like 600 max. It's mostly to do with the processing power of the nodeMCU. It's great for what it is, but it does have limits. Yes, I will be showing some how-to's for WLED and xlights. Stay tuned!
Im just waiting for my controllers and strip to get here to funk up my first one and get it out of the way. When was WLED created and how long have I been in the dark buying way too many of the dreamcolor rbgic prefab very limited strips?
Hi Again! Just wondering, can you use multiple control methods, by splitting the data wire or some other method? For example, wifi and Bluetooth, or rf and wifi, or 2 different wifi controllers? Multiple controllers could be convenient and provide back-up control. Thanks!
DrZzs does each string require its own power supply and MCU? I would like to add lights to the roof line, front concrete columns and possibly a few small Christmas ornaments in the yard.
You videos have helped me with so many projects and i'm very greatful for all the effort you put into them. So first, thank you so much for that! I do have an issue I was hoping maybe you'd know how to fix. I have 2 esp32's with wLED connected to alexa but when added to a group (kitchen) in alexa only 1 will show up. Regardless of whether I add controller 1 or controller 2 or both, when i click to save it always says "controller 1 added" and only controller 1. Apparently its because of a bug related to them having the same unique ID and there is a fix concerning changing this in the API somewhere. Thats about as much as i can figure out. Was hoping you'd have some insight on how this might be achieved. I appreciate any help you can give me.
How does the sync work? Does it just start the same effect on both led Strips or is it like it starts at the 1st led Strip and continues at the 2nd one ? For example Comet effect
Hi, I have a 2815 led strip and an esp8266. esp8266 is powered via usb and only the d4 pin is split and connected to data in and backup data at led.(no other connection from led to esp8266) Led is powered via 12v 20amps dc convertor. Wled is not working as expected. Not all 300 led light up when set to 300 in wled, when i set to 700 all of them light up. any help will be appreciated
Everything works great except I can only access my NodeMCU's via the direct IP address. The mDNS address doesn't work for me and tried it from several PC's on my network. I currently have 2 NodeMCU's in my network and both only let me access via direct IP. Any suggestions?
at 19:00 you have a list on the left side of the screen showing the macros where can i find the full list of macros i cant see it in the wiki... under macros where is it ?
My version of WLED looks a little different and doesn't have the toggles on the home page for setting primary colors, and won't save. How do I get my primary colors to save? Please help.
I can certainly do something with some more details on how to set colors for the automations in WLED. And I'm planning to get something together about using xLights before Christmas. As far as getting into the WLED code and creating totally new effects, I don't think that'll happen. Honestly, there are so many effects and so many color options, I'm sure you can make something pretty close to what you have in mind by using what's already available. If there is an effect you've seen somewhere else that isn't in WLED, send the details to AirCoookie via github or Discord and maybe he can add it. Thanks!
A lot of other tutorials use MOSFETs when connecting the microcontroller to the leds. I am wondering why you aren't. Are they built into your leds already? Thanks for the help!
DrZzs, This is an amazing video as are all of your videos. Thanks! I need some help setting the maximum current setting in the LED setup menu on WLED. I have the MENZO 12v 30a Dc Universal Regulated switching power supply 360w from Amazon to power WS2811 LED Strip 12v max power 36W, 150LEDs. Of course, I used the step down you suggested to get to 5v for the NodeMCU. I think I am able to make my LED's brighter than what they are now, but afraid of making them go "Poof!" Since my lights are 12v, I can't figure out this setting. Can you help a brother out? Thanks!
ah yes. there is a difference in the calculation with 12v lights. If you only have 150 leds you're pretty save. I would set the max current to 30000. That'll maximize the brightness.
This is amazing! Your videos are so helpful - essential to me getting started with LEDs - that I went to support you on Patreon. Enjoy a couple tacos al pastor! :)
Seriously great videos! Super helpful. Couple of questions: did you use just 1 nodeMCU for all the lights on the front of your house? Or did you use 3 (the link is for 3)? Also, if I use 12v, can I still run parallel power and inject for each string, just as a precaution and to ensure maximum brightness? Last, for the jumper wires, does the AWG matter (22, 20, 18)? Thanks!
Initially yes. I had one controller with the data signal split to 3 strings of LEDs. I have since split them up so (hopefully soon) I can use my lights to make cool music shows with xLights. Yes, you can still run extra wires with 12v lights. Usually if you are less than 5 Strings you don't need to, but it won't hurt anything if you do it. I believe the Jumpers are usually a standard size. I think they are 22 or sometimes even smaller. Bigger is going to be better if you have the choice. If you get solid 20 or 22g wire it works really well too, but it doesn't come with the ends for easy connection.
@@DrZzs Thanks! I'll be ordering my stuff soon and hopefully everything goes well. How did you go about splitting the data 3 ways? One jumper off of controller and then split somehow? Or 3 jumpers somehow connected to same pin on controller? If I don't intend to do music shows, do you think it looks better with 1 controller or 3? Thanks again!
I'm a little confused, can you only use one strip per controller? Also where do you put the controller? Also how do I inject power to multiple parts of a strip?
I updated to 11.1 and don't have an FX 2. Color button for example. The surface doesn't look like that for me and some default settings are missing. There I only have default brightness and default preset. Not more. I am using the ESP32 Datapin16 version. what can it be?
I’m running two separate runs and utilizing two 29amp power supplies. I have 3 power injections on the long run of 125 feet and 2 power injections on the 32 foot run. Running 60/leds per meter. All power injections are run with 16 gauge wire. I’ve tested extensively with no issues but Reddit users seem concerned with the 16 gauge wire being too thin. Any advice?
well, When you turn the leds on, does the wire get warm? If it isn't getting warm it's gonna be fine. That's my hack-way of knowing if the wire is big enough.
got this running on my wemos d1 mini.. gradually upping the number of leds... currently running 22 ws2812b leds.... on usb with a 2 amp usb power bank... 2200mah... what i wanted to ask is if i turn down the maximum current on the led setup to say 500 ma, thats what i am using... is it actually limiting the total brightness of the strip and will it be safe running 22 leds ? i not really turned up the current much more than 900ma as i concerned i will probably fry the d1 mini onboard regulator ? also any links to setting up macros.. i cant find much information on the wleds wiki...?
hi, if you have 2 device wled (WLED1 and WLED2), and I connect 2 stripLed of 5m to each controller, so io have 4 x 5m stripped. It's possible to synchronize the 2 wled device to operate like one unique 4x5m stripLed ?
im using nord mcu with prismatik to control ambilight of my pc screen.. is there any way to wifi control it with wled ? i mean does wled support ambilight ?
This video is amazing - and im excited - thank you for your help. im really excited. question - can one nodemcu power 800 led's? planning a pixel tree home grown.
@DrZzs followed all ur steps. Works good 👍. xept that they flash way to fast to enjoy any effect. Any idea what I'm doing wrong or how to slow down? Thanks
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LG646VS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 logic level converter - works great. I have my controller in 2 cases 20 foot from my first led and I don't have any flickering. Also super easy to wire.
Would I need to do anything with the data line if I run 5 strings of 150. obviously I need to inject power every 5m but do I need to do anything with the data line or can the controller handle that much?
I tried wled with D1 mini and it was working perfect but I had to change e1 31 to art net then I press the reset button and it didn't turn on after that idk what did I do wrong now it doesn't work even I tried to plug it into pc arrr I'm just really sad I can't get my project working
0.8.6 says it can control up to 1500 LED's although they recommend staying below 900 for optimal performance. I would think you could get by with one controller. You will very likely have to power inject though.
Check your area for a Maker-space or library or school that might have a 3d-printer you could use. Or check 3dhubs.com You might find someone local that is willing to print something for you. If not of that works out let me know and I'll print one and send it to you. I've just got so many things going on I'm sure getting it from me won't be the fastest method. Hope that helps!
Is wled, an extention to fastled? So fastled with added app, wifi and lan setup support? What I'm trying to ask is, is wled the same as fastled, but with easier controls?
You need to put Part 1, Part 2, etc in the video title. Would make it easier to find and watch in order.
Feel free to archive his videos and post them on here comment wise :)
I’m a tech dummy so it took me 2 days to even figure out how to connect and set up. I had to watch the vids several times to figure it out. Boy let me tell you the feeling when I got it going. Felt like a kid in a candy store! Was so excited I spent an hour with my little neice playing with the lights and all the different patterns! Thanks @DrZzs
Got everything you mentioned in the 1st video, just got 1 string to test out and now i have to convince wife to let me buy more strings. Everything is super simple. Thanks
Awesome!
Good luck!
This came along at the right time, I've tried to get Rob's led V2 code working without success. Having seen the options on wLED, I'm going to switch my efforts onto this. Thanks so much for these kind of videos, they are awesome.
Excellent!
I love WLED! It's dang near perfect.
Great video as always. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and big props to Aircookie for being the mastermind behind WLED.
These videos are extraordinarily helpful. I've never tried LED's and thought they were way more complicated than you're showing! Thank you!
thank you mate, I have finally done mine this year, a 25m long strip around the house , HUGE thing is missing in that software and that is a simple timer Monday to Sunday , ON at 16:30 OFF at 8:00, I could not believe that there isn't an option for that , I hope the devs can have a look and create one is the most usefull option on any Christmas lights. Cheers !
How many esp8266 did you use.
Did you use power injection.
Did you use the WLED software.
Can you do an updated video of this?
I've been into neo pixels for a few years now, I didn't know you could control them using an app until I saw some of your vids. Awesome work Doc.
Dude your vids are super helpful and very well thought out. Couldn’t have tackled my 2400 led house lighting project without your help. Can’t wait to watch the home assistant integration ones too.
What a thorough tutorial! Very nicely done
I loved this video, thanks. BTW...I have some Phillips Hue lights and was able to successfully integrate WLED into them. It works great. Thanks again.
Awesome!!
How were you able to integrate the Philips Hue lights with WLED? I really want to play with this!
Just got everything running in test. Next step install. Thanks for the great tutorials. Christmas is going to be awesome this year.
Thanks Doc!!! Works perfectly!!! Great tutorials. WLED rocks!!!!!
Afternoon, I have a bit of a mystery on my LED system. I have a long continuous porch with 835 LED. Due to the length and not wanting to run a super thick wire to make the length I ran 24v transfer main power and 24v-5v converts at 1/3 and 2/3. I have about 30ft of line from NodeMCU/logic level shifter to first LED. Now I have a 60A 5V extra system for our garage. I have hooked up that power source to power just the 8266 and logic to the led’s and works just fine. 24V powers the leds with the converters. Now I tried to switch to a 5V 3A power supply just to power the the NodeMCU and logic to the LEDs but it seems to power 3-5 leds and they are usually a light blue and no color change. NodeMCU seems to response just keeps the same 5 leds powered. I tried splitting the power at the power plug running a set to power the +\- on the bread pad and another set right to the logic level shifter and same thing. I didn’t think I would have a power issue. Do you think the power supply has higher power then 5V or do you think I need a larger power supply? Any advice would be very much appreciated.
hmmm. I've had several people describe something similar with just the first few LEDs lighting up. I don't know exactly what the problem is. You're sure all the grounds are connected? Especially between the controller and the LEDs.
Otherwise, I'm not sure. Can you take some pictures or even video of what you're seeing and post it in Discord or FB? Maybe if we get some more eyes on the problem we can come up with the solution together.
Wish I had the answer for you.
Awesome 👍 thanks.
Configuring the led colors/motions takes me back to the good old days of my hobby
What hobby is that?
Have you ever tried to use the Nodes and syncing your lights to music?
Can someone help me with some information? To put it simply as possible, I am new to DIY RGB strips, my interest stemmed from owning 2 x LIFX RGBW bulbs which are fantastic. I have 2 metres of 144 LED/M ws2812b strip, hooked up to an sp108e wifi addressable controller, powered by a 30a 5v psu. I basically want the colour replication that the LIFX bulbs have on my strips. The main colours RGB are just about there, but when it comes to making pinks, purples and other colours the strips seem to be lacking in colour replication. Is this a limitation of the controller I am using? Would I benefit from a node mcu with WLED module? Or is there another controller that you can recommend that can tell these strips how to make awesome colours??. I'm less interested in lots and lots of functions than I am of awesome colours. Can someone please help me out?
Do you have a video that explains how to connect several controllers being controlled by WLED ( tabs showing at top of Sync setup time at 13:32)?
Thank you. If you have time I have a few questions about a diy underglow project. Thanks.
Hi Doc. Just to let you know I was able to use this software to use xlights. But I have to say the patterns on this are better than the one's in xlights for strings on the house, arches etc. However I need xlights as I have a Megatree so xlights has better patterns for that. And I use multiple pins on my nodes. So When wled can do those, then this will be the best light control software. I can't wait.
Hello, very good video, especially for a newbie like me, but I have a silly question about that interface that is seen in the video, where is it from?
Static IP is good for having lights in Home Assistant or when you want to access them via the app without needing to search each time.
I usually use static as reserved addresses in DHCP server. I use the DHCP Server addon for HASS.IO, so Home Assistant looks after most of my network :).
I found HA more reliably picks things up, like voice assistants and media players as well as lights, if they don't change too much.
For the syncing, I am glad you clarified how you were setting the ports in an overlay port. It would be bad news to use actual port 22 and port 21 as they are reserved for known services. 21 is FTP as an example :)
I think you will always have more to do with WLED, Aircoookie may just have created the ultimate LED control software for us makers/DIYers.
Hi Dr, thanks for your great tutorial, please advise me one Nodemcu can control how many strings or how many LED’s.
I’m getting ready to tackle all this, using my daughters room as a small scale test run before the house. Is there a way to set the lights on timers? Say turn on at 6am and turn off at 8am? That way she can wake up to the lights?
On that same note when I install them on the house can I have them come on at a certain time(dusk) and stay on sat till midnight?
Great video again Dr Zzs! Still waiting on my PCB's to get back from OSH to make my controllers, but can't wait to get WLED on them!
Thanks!
Excellent!
Thanks Dr Z, I was able to put pixel lights all around my roofline. I was planning to use a falcon controller to control my lights. during the non-holidays, the lights will be white. since watching this video I got myself three Kee Wees boards and a 12v to 5v converter. I would like to know where I can get a hold of the manual you where using in the video. thanks again for sharing your knowledge with all of us LED fans.
so glad i came across this.. very excited to get going with it in the house.
Quick Q. I'd also like to run a controller in my camper van, it has an Android head unit, can I connect to that directly 🤔
Great video, really a very well built app with a ton of features. Huge props to Aircookie!
Thanks!
For sure! Aircoookie deserves some kind of award for WLED. It's fantastic!
I look forward watching "PART 3 - The WLED integration in HA" the simple guide for folks like me. :-) ( Part 4 - NodeRed..maybe? )
you betcha!
There's probably going to be 5-6 parts :)
@@DrZzs the wiring you did in part 1 seen probably more often than my kids lately :-) great job showing basics for folks like me. Now fighting with HA.
Yeah I second that, Currently have several addressable led setups using FastLED on Arduino which work OK for the most part but always looking for new options but its a must to integrate into HA & NodeRed.
19:30 how do we set the preset cycle macro on the new version of WLED? Since I can only enter numbers now.
Truly an amazing tutorial! Thanks allot! :D
Can you only have one effect active at one time or can you string several of them together? So have effect A last for 10 seconds then effect B last for 10 seconds and so on then repeat the cycle?
Fantastic video. Thanks Doc.
Great tutorial. Can be set to transition from one effect to another?
First of all, THX for these helpfull Videos. *g
But i haven't found a hind, how to create an individual effect just like, i.e., grouping 5 LEDs with a dark field of 10 LEDs between the groups, so that it looks like downlights and playing with them.
Is there an option to address LEDs in this way?
Greets
Stefan
very good explanation
Awesome video. Thank you so much. I followed the instructions to create few presets on LED strips. It working BUT when I am disconnecting the ESP and connect again I dont see my presets... What do I need to do in order to save the segments and presets?
Have an LED related question? Be sure to ask your question in led-lighting-diy- Channel on discord! discord.gg/8gvF67h Our LED masterminds, the PixelHeads, generally hang out there and can answer your question(s) swiftly.
i am looking for ways to mount my nodemcu board outside with the led strips, could you go over how you took care of outside wiring and where you placed your nodemcu?
I’m starting to learn and setup my house with pixel strings like yours. So my question is do you “Still” feel I should move forward with the setup you have with the small controller with WLED software or should I just go with a better controller and use xlights and Vixen? Thanks for your help!
Hey DrZzs can WLED run RGBWW type strips, for warm white light?
Hey can I use multiple strips with single controller with different pins?
How many nodemcu are you using for Christmas lights? Are they run on separate groups with different power controllers as well? Can you run just 1 and wiring?
Hey Doc - loving WLED. I had already completed install using the old Holiday LEDs code, but switching to WLED was super simple thanks to these videos. One question - how have you replaced effects such as Candy Cane, Holly Jolly, Hail, and other striped effects? I have several of those that I like to use but haven’t found an equivalent in WLED that keeps the stripes cleanly separated. Any suggestions or a way to add those effects into WLED via customization? Thanks!
Running or Running2 are good substitutes. Adjust the Primary and Secondary colors to whatever you like (Red/White, Maize/Blue, etc) Use the Intensity slider to adjust the size of the color bars. Save it as a Preset when you get it the way you like it.
I also have used Wave to create my old "Touchdown" effect.
Hope that helps!
great video.........Can i use Sonoff instead of Node MCU ,,,, and use sonoff basic's GPIO as Data Pin?
A huge thank you DrZzs! For a couple years I've been wanting to do the addressable LED strip thing, but it was too complicated and too many variables for me to comfortably start ordering things. This video series was exactly what I needed to get me going. I used your links to order two 3-packs of the controller and a short 3' section of the 5V waterproof LED strip. I followed your instructions, and it worked 100% as expected. One quick question *what do you think the maximum distance is between two strips?* For example, I want to run strips under my 43' motorhome, but there will be 5' gaps where I have to go around the dual axles in the back. You mentioned that the data cable distance between the strip and the controller should be kept to a minimum, but is that also the case for the gap between the strips? This is the only remaining question that is keeping me from ordering 120' for the coach.
The quick answer is you can jump up to 40 meters from one strip to another. :O
Check out the video I just posted today. I did a bunch of testing for that exact situation.
ua-cam.com/video/ZFO_QOBG9Bs/v-deo.html
I know it's quite old. I just want to ask, what is the equivalent of the gpio-0 and D3 in esp32-wroom-32D. Thanks for the video and thanks in advance to anyone.
Hi Doc, Can you recommend a good FM transmitter for my light show. I don't really understand the fcc stuff.
Hii DrZzs! Is there a way to add a potentiometer to control the brightness of the led's?
I'm on a Macbook. Can't seem to find a classic version download so that I can configure in classic mode. Can you help please?
Thanks so much for the video. I plan to use these controllers for a year round setup. I have two questions for anyone out there.
1) How many LEDs can one controller handle on a string? (Considering power is properly taken care of)
2) In a future video, can you show how to integrate these controllers with Xlights?
Thanks so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are welcome!
For WLED I believe Aircoookie recommends like 600 max. It's mostly to do with the processing power of the nodeMCU. It's great for what it is, but it does have limits.
Yes, I will be showing some how-to's for WLED and xlights.
Stay tuned!
Just buy a string with less lights per meter. Problem solved or at least will stretch those runs out a bit further.
Im just waiting for my controllers and strip to get here to funk up my first one and get it out of the way. When was WLED created and how long have I been in the dark buying way too many of the dreamcolor rbgic prefab very limited strips?
Hi Again! Just wondering, can you use multiple control methods, by splitting the data wire or some other method? For example, wifi and Bluetooth, or rf and wifi, or 2 different wifi controllers? Multiple controllers could be convenient and provide back-up control. Thanks!
Can I use ir Or pir sensors in macros to trigger lights?
DrZzs does each string require its own power supply and MCU? I would like to add lights to the roof line, front concrete columns and possibly a few small Christmas ornaments in the yard.
Awesome video again Dr Zzs. Thanks!
Thank you, Thank you!
You videos have helped me with so many projects and i'm very greatful for all the effort you put into them. So first, thank you so much for that! I do have an issue I was hoping maybe you'd know how to fix. I have 2 esp32's with wLED connected to alexa but when added to a group (kitchen) in alexa only 1 will show up. Regardless of whether I add controller 1 or controller 2 or both, when i click to save it always says "controller 1 added" and only controller 1. Apparently its because of a bug related to them having the same unique ID and there is a fix concerning changing this in the API somewhere. Thats about as much as i can figure out. Was hoping you'd have some insight on how this might be achieved. I appreciate any help you can give me.
Any tips on adding a button to the Wemos D1 mini?? What pin is used for the button?
"If you have she who shall not be named" hahaha brilliant
How does the sync work? Does it just start the same effect on both led Strips or is it like it starts at the 1st led Strip and continues at the 2nd one ? For example Comet effect
Hi,
I have a 2815 led strip and an esp8266.
esp8266 is powered via usb and only the d4 pin is split and connected to data in and backup data at led.(no other connection from led to esp8266)
Led is powered via 12v 20amps dc convertor.
Wled is not working as expected. Not all 300 led light up when set to 300 in wled, when i set to 700 all of them light up.
any help will be appreciated
Everything works great except I can only access my NodeMCU's via the direct IP address. The mDNS address doesn't work for me and tried it from several PC's on my network. I currently have 2 NodeMCU's in my network and both only let me access via direct IP. Any suggestions?
Hmmmm, Do you think it would be possible to setup a motion sensor attached to the unit to turn on when it detects motion?
Can you connect it to custom coded programs?
Was going to order a 12v strip of ws2812b ip65. But it had a backup data cable. Do i just ignore it, or wire both data lines together?
at 19:00 you have a list on the left side of the screen showing the macros where can i find the full list of macros i cant see it in the wiki... under macros where is it ?
? anyone
@@MrHandsomejackuk
It is under API
github.com/Aircoookie/WLED/wiki/HTTP-request-API
Hope this helps you.
My version of WLED looks a little different and doesn't have the toggles on the home page for setting primary colors, and won't save. How do I get my primary colors to save? Please help.
Great video! Would you be able to do a video on adding custom animations to wled?
I can certainly do something with some more details on how to set colors for the automations in WLED. And I'm planning to get something together about using xLights before Christmas.
As far as getting into the WLED code and creating totally new effects, I don't think that'll happen. Honestly, there are so many effects and so many color options, I'm sure you can make something pretty close to what you have in mind by using what's already available.
If there is an effect you've seen somewhere else that isn't in WLED, send the details to AirCoookie via github or Discord and maybe he can add it.
Thanks!
A lot of other tutorials use MOSFETs when connecting the microcontroller to the leds. I am wondering why you aren't. Are they built into your leds already? Thanks for the help!
Perfect video. Thanks man.
DrZzs, This is an amazing video as are all of your videos. Thanks! I need some help setting the maximum current setting in the LED setup menu on WLED. I have the MENZO 12v 30a Dc Universal Regulated switching power supply 360w from Amazon to power WS2811 LED Strip 12v max power 36W, 150LEDs. Of course, I used the step down you suggested to get to 5v for the NodeMCU. I think I am able to make my LED's brighter than what they are now, but afraid of making them go "Poof!" Since my lights are 12v, I can't figure out this setting. Can you help a brother out? Thanks!
ah yes. there is a difference in the calculation with 12v lights. If you only have 150 leds you're pretty save. I would set the max current to 30000. That'll maximize the brightness.
@@DrZzs Thanks, man. You're the best!
This is amazing! Your videos are so helpful - essential to me getting started with LEDs - that I went to support you on Patreon. Enjoy a couple tacos al pastor! :)
Thank you, followed the tutorial and it works flawlessly . :-)
Seriously great videos! Super helpful. Couple of questions: did you use just 1 nodeMCU for all the lights on the front of your house? Or did you use 3 (the link is for 3)? Also, if I use 12v, can I still run parallel power and inject for each string, just as a precaution and to ensure maximum brightness? Last, for the jumper wires, does the AWG matter (22, 20, 18)? Thanks!
Initially yes. I had one controller with the data signal split to 3 strings of LEDs. I have since split them up so (hopefully soon) I can use my lights to make cool music shows with xLights.
Yes, you can still run extra wires with 12v lights. Usually if you are less than 5 Strings you don't need to, but it won't hurt anything if you do it.
I believe the Jumpers are usually a standard size. I think they are 22 or sometimes even smaller. Bigger is going to be better if you have the choice. If you get solid 20 or 22g wire it works really well too, but it doesn't come with the ends for easy connection.
@@DrZzs Thanks! I'll be ordering my stuff soon and hopefully everything goes well. How did you go about splitting the data 3 ways? One jumper off of controller and then split somehow? Or 3 jumpers somehow connected to same pin on controller? If I don't intend to do music shows, do you think it looks better with 1 controller or 3? Thanks again!
I'm a little confused, can you only use one strip per controller? Also where do you put the controller? Also how do I inject power to multiple parts of a strip?
great video, do you know how many pixels this controller can output looking at 12 v pixels
Cheers.
1200 nodes with proper power injection
I updated to 11.1 and don't have an FX 2. Color button for example. The surface doesn't look like that for me and some default settings are missing. There I only have default brightness and default preset. Not more. I am using the ESP32 Datapin16 version.
what can it be?
you can use this together with a color extractor and we have almost an ambilight effect :)
I’m running two separate runs and utilizing two 29amp power supplies. I have 3 power injections on the long run of 125 feet and 2 power injections on the 32 foot run. Running 60/leds per meter. All power injections are run with 16 gauge wire. I’ve tested extensively with no issues but Reddit users seem concerned with the 16 gauge wire being too thin. Any advice?
well, When you turn the leds on, does the wire get warm? If it isn't getting warm it's gonna be fine. That's my hack-way of knowing if the wire is big enough.
got this running on my wemos d1 mini.. gradually upping the number of leds... currently running 22 ws2812b leds.... on usb with a 2 amp usb power bank... 2200mah... what i wanted to ask is if i turn down the maximum current on the led setup to say 500 ma, thats what i am using... is it actually limiting the total brightness of the strip and will it be safe running 22 leds ? i not really turned up the current much more than 900ma as i concerned i will probably fry the d1 mini onboard regulator ? also any links to setting up macros.. i cant find much information on the wleds wiki...?
hi, if you have 2 device wled (WLED1 and WLED2), and I connect 2 stripLed of 5m to each controller, so io have 4 x 5m stripped. It's possible to synchronize the 2 wled device to operate like one unique 4x5m stripLed ?
im using nord mcu with prismatik to control ambilight of my pc screen.. is there any way to wifi control it with wled ? i mean does wled support ambilight ?
what controller do I use with Non addressable Christmas lights with a 8 channel relay board? and still use wled and xlights
This video is amazing - and im excited - thank you for your help. im really excited. question - can one nodemcu power 800 led's? planning a pixel tree home grown.
It can't "power" them but it can "drive" them (data)
How many led's we can light up with one controller
@DrZzs followed all ur steps. Works good 👍. xept that they flash way to fast to enjoy any effect. Any idea what I'm doing wrong or how to slow down?
Thanks
I wonder if the PVC pipe will harm the LED visibility when mounted. Thanks for the video.
Thin walled PVC works as a difuser and gives the leds a nice look. That's what he is using in the video.
I was surprised, but yes, you can see the light through the pvc. Just make sure you get the thin stuff. Sch40 is too thick.
@@DrZzs I guess it will serve as protection against sun, rain & snow as well. Good idea - well done!
Great video! Thanks for your dedication on this project! Still ironing out the flicker!! Grrr!!!
Shoot me some pics. We'll sort it out.
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07LG646VS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
logic level converter - works great. I have my controller in 2 cases 20 foot from my first led and I don't have any flickering. Also super easy to wire.
I think this is for an older version of WLED. Screens and settings are not the same but I can figure it out because it is similar.
Would I need to do anything with the data line if I run 5 strings of 150. obviously I need to inject power every 5m but do I need to do anything with the data line or can the controller handle that much?
I tried wled with D1 mini and it was working perfect but I had to change e1 31 to art net then I press the reset button and it didn't turn on after that idk what did I do wrong now it doesn't work even I tried to plug it into pc arrr I'm just really sad I can't get my project working
I would buy these and wish I had someone that knew how to do this install them.
is there a way to save ur presets to reuse in different WLEDs boards?
What pcb do you use for your lights?
Am I able to do this with a 64 foot room. I would need 4 16 feet strips, but I am not sure of I need 4 controllers, one for each strip.
0.8.6 says it can control up to 1500 LED's although they recommend staying below 900 for optimal performance. I would think you could get by with one controller. You will very likely have to power inject though.
what is the maximum current i can set for the led? I'm using a 650w computer power supply
This - awesomeness! Thanks!!!
You are super welcome!
Not familiar with Github & don’t own a 3D printer. Any suggestions on how to get my hands on your J-channel drilling jig?
Check your area for a Maker-space or library or school that might have a 3d-printer you could use. Or check 3dhubs.com
You might find someone local that is willing to print something for you.
If not of that works out let me know and I'll print one and send it to you. I've just got so many things going on I'm sure getting it from me won't be the fastest method.
Hope that helps!
Is wled, an extention to fastled? So fastled with added app, wifi and lan setup support?
What I'm trying to ask is, is wled the same as fastled, but with easier controls?
How do I connect the lights to a Amazon Alexa?