Control NeoPixel LED strips through an ESP8266 web server

NeoPixel LEDs are cheap and easy-to-use RGB LEDs, digitally addressable. Example code, libraries and supporting content can be found easily everywhere. In the September-October 2018 issue of Elektor Magazine one can read the extensive description of an ESP8266 web server for NeoPixel LED strips. Both the PCB and the ESP module are available from our online store.

ESP8266 Web Server for Neopixel LED strips – Click to enlarge

NeoPixel LEDs are cheap, easy-to-use and digitally addressable RGB LEDs. Example code, libraries and supporting content can be found easily everywhere. In the September & October 2018 issue of ElektorLabs Magazine you can read the extensive description of an ESP8266 Web Server for NeoPixel LED strips.

Control strips of as many LEDs as you want…

This original Elektor LABS project allows you to fully control via Wi-Fi the light effects on a WS2812 RGB NeoPixel LED strip. An ESP-01 module, based on the ESP8266, does all the communication work by setting up a Wi-Fi access point.
To send a command from any smartphone or tablet, simply log in with your mobile device and select the desired light effects. Different levels of light intensity are available. The well-commented sketch is open to learning and optional modification.
This video shows how to proceed:

Now that’s power!

Lighting LED strips in an attractive fashion isn’t just a question of nice programming, it is also a matter of power. Connecting a 5 V / 2 A supply will suffice for about 30 LEDs (i.e. a 1-m strip). WS2812 CMS LEDs (60 mA) are widely available in through-hole (TH) format.
If you connect a longer strip, do avoid operating all LEDs at full intensity at the same time.
For strips longer than 2 m, be sure to use a beefier supply (up to 4 A).
Even though it uses some SMD components, the wiring of the printed circuit board is easy. For the housing, we used a nice Hammond case.
Both the PCB and the ESP module are available from our online store (follow the links below).