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Hardware Overview

The SMLIGHT SLWF-09 is designed as a modular, ESP32-based LED controller with optional add-on boards for Ethernet, Power over Ethernet (PoE), and digital microphone functionality. This section describes the main components and interfaces of the SLWF-09 and its supported add-ons.

2.1 Main Board Features

  • ESP32-D0WD-V3 microcontroller with 16 MB flash memory

  • Pre-installed WLED firmware for plug-and-play operation

  • Two LED control channels by default (expandable to six via GPIO)

  • USB-C port with UART auto-flash for firmware updates

  • Power input options:

    • USB-C (supports PD negotiation - can drive either 5V ortr 12V LED strips)

    • VIN screw terminal (5–24 V)

    • DC plug in (5-24V)
    • Wire terminal (5-24V)
    • PoE module (optional, 5V output)

  • Two on-board buttons for mode selection and reset

  • Expansion headers for add-on modules (Ethernet, PoE, Microphone, future expansions)

  • Level-shifted LED outputs for wide LED voltage compatibility (level shifting 5V)

  • DIY Terminal - for external buttons sensors or relays.

2.2 Add-on Modules

2.2.1 Ethernet Module (Optional)

  • Based on LAN8720 Ethernet PHY

  • Standard RJ45 connector with integrated magnetics and status LEDs

  • 10/100 Mbps full-duplex operation

  • Connects directly to the SLWF-09 via dedicated header

  • Can be used standalone or with the PoE module

Benefits:

  • Reliable, low-latency connection for installations where Wi-Fi is unstable or not preferred

  • Full Home Assistant and WLED Ethernet support

2.2.2 PoE Module (Optional)

  • IEEE 802.3af compliant (PoE Class 0)

  • Integrated DC/DC converter provides regulated 5 V power to the SLWF-09

  • Connects between Ethernet add-on and network cable

  • Eliminates the need for a separate power adapter

Benefits:

  • Single-cable solution for both data and power

  • Ideal for ceiling, wall, or inaccessible installations

2.2.3 Microphone Module (Optional)

  • ICS-43432 digital MEMS microphone

  • Connects via dedicated header to ESP32 I²S pins

  • Used by WLED to enable sound-reactive LED effects

  • No additional power supply required (powered from main board)

Benefits:

  • Real-time music synchronization without external sound sensors

  • High-quality digital audio sampling

2.3 Physical Dimensions

  • Main Board: approx. 57 × 30 × 23 mm

  • Ethernet Module: approx. 60 × 18 × 15 mm

  • PoE Module: approx. 31.5 × 28.7 × 16 mm

  • Microphone Module: approx. 15 × 12 mm

2.4 Connectivity Summary

Interface Description
USB-C

Power input (5V or 12V - based on switch selector) and UART programming

VIN Screw terminal power input (5–24 V)
LED OUT 1/2 Two independent addressable LED channels
Add-on Ports Headers for Ethernet, PoE, and Microphone modules
Buttons Boot/flash and reset/mode selection