This project is a compact, low‑cost RGB+CCT LED strip controller designed for professional lighting applications. It combines an ESP32‑C3‑WROOM‑02 with efficient power conversion (LM2678 buck 12V→5V and TPS7A20 LDO 5V→3.3V) on a 2‑layer PCB, driving up to 5 independent channels (RGB + Warm White + Cool White) with robust IRLZ44N MOSFETs. Programming and configuration are done via USB‑C, making it versatile for both prototyping and deployment in smart lighting systems.

Why this design matters

In many contexts, lighting controllers are either too expensive, too limited, or not optimized for high‑density LED strips.

• High current demands (up to 2A per channel) require careful PCB design and power management.
• Imported controllers often lack flexibility or are difficult to repair.
• Professional lighting needs precise control of both color (RGB) and ambience (CCT).

This project was motivated by the need for a solution that is:

• Accessible: built with widely available components and open design.
• Robust: handles high current safely with protection circuits (polyfuse, TVS, Schottky diodes).
• Flexible: supports both 5V RGB strips and 12V CCT strips on the same board.
• Connected: WiFi + Bluetooth via ESP32‑C3 for IoT integration. "Engineered for reliability, designed for creativity."

Operation Flow

Important note: The controller provides two different output connectors (RGB at 5V and CCT at 12V), but they are mutually exclusive. You must connect either RGB strips or CCT strips, not both at the same time. This ensures stable operation and prevents overloading the power stage.

Power Input:

• 12V / 5A supply via dedicated connector with fuse and polarity protection.
• USB‑C provides 5V for logic and programming.

Power Conversion:

• LM2678T‑ADJ buck regulator converts 12V to 5V for RGB strips.
• TPS7A20 LDO regulates 5V down to 3.3V for the ESP32‑C3.

LED Driving:

• 4‑pin connector for RGB strips (5V, R, G, B).
• 3‑pin connector for CCT strips (12V, CW, WW).
• Each channel switched on the low side with IRLZ44N MOSFETs.

Ground Management:

• Net‑Tie separates GND_PWR and GND_LOGIC, reducing noise coupling between high‑current paths and the microcontroller.

Key Technical Features

• Drives up to 5 channels at 2A each (total 10A capability across outputs).
• WiFi + BLE connectivity for wireless control and IoT integration.
• USB‑C for programming and optional 5V input.
• Robust protections: polyfuse, TVS diodes, Schottky diodes.
• Optimized PCB layout for thermal dissipation and current handling.
• Exclusive output selection: choose RGB (5V) or CCT (12V), never both simultaneously.

This project demonstrates how with careful design and component selection, it’s possible to build a professional‑grade LED controller that is both cost‑effective and reliable. Every element from MOSFET choice to ground separation was chosen to balance performance, availability, and durability, making it suitable for smart homes, architectural lighting, and creative installations.

If you’re interested in bringing this project or a similar one to life, I’d love to collaborate. Let’s make it real together!