All in One LED Controller/Dimmer/Driver Project

[theatrus]

Still working on this? I'm curious why you think it would be better to use the ESP32 for PWM instead.

For WiFi, its much simpler since you get a free 16 channels of PWM.

I'm working on a variant of this with a few other learnings from the ReefPi controller.

 

[MaddyP]

Following!

 

[Reefaholic727]

Yes. I'm working on a framework for all of the Reef-Pi boards already, and this isn't that much of a leap software wise. Web connectivity is in a later phase.

There are a few callouts and open ended questions:

• Focus on the 0-1A range, or the 0-3A (really 1.5-2A) range? You lose software current programmability on the upper end, meaning channels are locked to their configured maximum output.
• Currently, the unit lacks any display for status outside of an RGB LED. I'm not keen on providing a whole programming interface in a tiny space, but is there interest in more ... visibility?

Did you ever finish this project? I'm mid project right now and have a few questions for those with knowledge.

I'm building my own light with a reef-pi OS. I've got everything but programmable dimmers so far. I'm honestly a little lost on which ones to buy. I had a few in mind & would like some feedback. I had planned to start fairly soon with the final stages of assembly. All LEDS are tinned, array has been layed out, etc..

All my lights are going out and I unfortunately didn't have enough to afford the 1k+ on lighting for my tank I had originally planned for. So I opted to build my own. All areas have been taken care of minus the drivers, and lenses. if I'm not forgetting anything. Months of research went into this. I just need a little more help.

Thanks in advance

 

[oreo54]

Did you ever finish this project? I'm mid project right now and have a few questions for those with knowledge.

I'm building my own light with a reef-pi OS. I've got everything but programmable dimmers so far. I'm honestly a little lost on which ones to buy. I had a few in mind & would like some feedback. I had planned to start fairly soon with the final stages of assembly. All LEDS are tinned, array has been layed out, etc..

All my lights are going out and I unfortunately didn't have enough to afford the 1k+ on lighting for my tank I had originally planned for. So I opted to build my own. All areas have been taken care of minus the drivers, and lenses. if I'm not forgetting anything. Months of research went into this. I just need a little more help.

Thanks in advance

Generally speaking it is usually easiest and cheapest to use Meanwell ldd-h dc/dc drivers.

Most things like the pi have pwm outputs of 3.3 or 5v.

Typically they can run 31.5w of LEDs each (45v (48v power supply) x .700mA)
About 10 3w class in series ( check the v(f) at the desired current)

Using the large AC/dc drivers generally involves the additional hassle of converting the pwm to say 10v analog dimming.
You will generally use fewer but more expensive drivers so cost is a wash.

Found this at Reddit. Aduino based but it's the same general idea.

 

[Solo McReefer]

What was the name of that one DIY wifi controller

Encased in blue plastic box of a sort?

Think it had a bird logo

It wasn't the Storm or StormX, those don't have wifi

I should dig through all my old LED stuff, see if anyone can use it

Not a bird, a fish
Blue Fish

 

[oreo54]

What was the name of that one DIY wifi controller

Encased in blue plastic box of a sort?

Think it had a bird logo

It wasn't the Storm or StormX, those don't have wifi

I should dig through all my old LED stuff, see if anyone can use it

Bluefish maybe...
Not a blue box ( mini is just a blue circuit board. Can usually find a 3d printed box for it)

Bluefish LED CONTROLLER | BLUEFISH Aquarium LED Controller

Control your lighting from your phone or tablet! Bluefish LED controller is an app-enabled (Android/iOS), Wi-Fi connected device that can control a multitude of lighting products. With Bluefish, you can even control many LED products that do not have dimming interfaces or dimmable drivers...

aquarium-led-controller.com

Cheapest wifi is any modified Chinese strip controller like the tc-421
.420...421s the same.
Fortunately the frequency is compatible w the ldd (100Hz to 1kHz if I remember correctly).

 

[Solo McReefer]

Generally speaking it is usually easiest and cheapest to use Meanwell ldd-h dc/dc drivers.

True

They are so big and bulky, and you need 5 or 6 of them for each light

 

[Solo McReefer]

Bluefish maybe...
Not a blue box ( mini is just a blue circuit board. Can usually find a 3d printed box for it)

That's exactly what it was

And there was Typhon too. Just remember the name

 

[oreo54]

That's exactly what it was

And there was Typhon too. Just remember the name

Typons now the Hurricane.