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Wiring and Installation

This section explains how to connect the SLWF-09 controller, add-on modules, and LED strips safely and correctly.
Follow all instructions carefully to ensure reliable operation and to avoid damage to the controller or connected equipment.

3.1 Safety Precautions

  • Disconnect power before attaching or removing any cables or add-on modules.

  • Verify that your LED strip voltage matches the power supply voltage (5 V, 12 V, or 24 V).

  • Never connect different voltage levels (e.g., 12 V LED strip with 5 V power supply).

  • When using PoE, ensure your network switch or injector supports IEEE 802.3af.

  • Observe correct polarity when wiring power and LED connections.

3.2 Powering the SLWF-09

You can power the SLWF-09 in three different ways:

  1. USB-C port – 5V or 12V

    • Ideal for testing, firmware updates, or low-power LED setups.

    • Supports USB PD for negotiation, can supply 5V or 12V.

  2. DC plug-in – 5 V to 24 V DC

    • Connect a DC plug into DC plug-in connector.

    • DC "+" goes to LED strips through the onboard MOSFET (relay) switch or to VCC directly bypassing MOSFET (relay).

  3. Wire fast-connect terminal – 5 V to 24 V DC

    • Connect a wire directly to the VIN (+) and GND (–) terminals.

    • VIN also powers the LED strips through the onboard MOSFET switch.

  4. PoE Module (optional) – IEEE 802.3af

    • Provides 5 V from an Ethernet connection via a PoE-enabled switch or injector.

    • Can be used together with the Ethernet add-on for single-cable operation.

3.3 Connecting LED Strips

The SLWF-09 supports most addressable LED protocols, including WS2812B, SK6812, APA102, and others.

Steps:

  1. Identify your LED strip’s Data (and optional Clock) lines, V+, and GND.

  2. Connect LED OUT 1 or LED OUT 2 on the SLWF-09 to the corresponding LED strip input:

    • Data → DATA pin

    • Clock → CLOCK pin (only for clocked LED types such as APA102)

    • V+ → LED supply voltage (must match power source)

    • GND → Common ground between SLWF-09 and LED strip

  3. If controlling long LED runs, use an external power injection every several tens of meters to avoid voltage drop.

3.4 Installing Add-on Modules

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3.4.1 Ethernet Module

  1. Align the module with the Ethernet header on the main board.

  2. Insert firmly, ensuring the keyed connector matches the socket.

  3. Connect your network cable to the RJ45 port.

3.4.2 PoE Module

  1. Install the PoE module between the Ethernet add-on and network cable.

  2. Connect the network cable from a PoE switch/injector to the module.

  3. The module will automatically power the SLWF-09.

3.4.3 Microphone Module

  1. Align the module with the MIC header on the main board.

  2. Insert carefully; the keyed connector ensures correct orientation.

  3. Enable sound-reactive mode in WLED settings.

3.5 First Power-On

  1. Double-check all wiring connections.

  2. Apply power via your chosen method.

  3. Observe the status LEDs:

    • Power LED – solid on when powered

    • Status LED – WLED activity indicator

  4. Connect to the SLWF-09 via Wi-Fi or Ethernet to complete setup.

  • Mount the SLWF-09 in a ventilated place to protect from dust and accidental contact.

  • For permanent installations, secure cables with strain relief.

  • Keep data wires short to reduce signal degradation.

  • Use twisted pair or shielded cable for long data runs.

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