Frequently asked questions

• What is the Type-C UART port for?

  The USB Type-C UART port is for serial download: through it you update or fully reflash the open-source WLED firmware on the ESP32, with the official release or your own build. Use a Type-C data cable (not charge-only) and keep the board powered during the flash. For routine updates there is also OTA, straight from the WLED web UI.
• Can I wire a physical button or sensor?

  Yes. The IO13 pin is brought out and can be configured in WLED as an input for a wall button or a sensor, with no soldering on the board. That is what brings the GL-C-017WL-D close to a DIY platform: beyond app and scene control, you get a real physical trigger for the pixel light.
• Does it need a Gledopto gateway or hub?

  No. The controller has an ESP32 with WLED and joins your home Wi-Fi directly — no Gledopto gateway, no Zigbee hub and no cloud. On first power-up it raises its own Wi-Fi access point; you connect from a browser or the WLED-AP app and configure it. Local-network control works even with no internet.
• Which LED strip type, and how many outputs?

  Addressable (digital) pixel strips only, not analogue single-colour tape. The confirmed ICs are WS2811, WS2812B, WS2813, WS2815, SK6812, SM16703P and TM1814, up to 800 chips total. It has four digital outputs (IO16, IO12, IO4, IO2), and the input is DC 5, 12 or 24 V — match the controller to your strip's voltage.
• Does it integrate with Home Assistant, and does it use the cloud?

  It integrates natively: WLED has a Home Assistant integration over Wi-Fi, the controller is auto-discovered and each segment appears as a light entity for scenes. It uses no cloud — everything stays on the local network, and beyond HA, WLED supports MQTT and multi-controller sync.
• Why pick the reflashable version over a closed controller?

  Because the firmware does not fall behind: when WLED ships a new feature you get it with a single flash over OTA or UART, without replacing the device. The open-source WLED engine brings a hundred-plus effects, presets, macros and MQTT, and the controller stays yours rather than tied to a maker's app or cloud.
• Can I use the controller outdoors, on a terrace?

  Not directly: the GL-C-017WL-D is rated IP20 and is meant for indoor installation, in an enclosure or behind furniture. For a terrace, mount the controller in a sealed box and use waterproof pixel strip; the flame-retardant polycarbonate body protects the electronics, but not against rain.