Skip to content

Basic Wiring Guide

Basic LED Wiring

Basic LED strip wiring guide

Simple Wiring Diagram 

[Power Supply +] ──── [Controller VIN] ──── [Strip +5V]
[Power Supply -] ──── [Controller GND] ──── [Strip GND]
                        [Controller D4]  ──── [Strip DIN]

Step-by-Step

  1. Connect power supply to controller

    • PSU + → Controller VIN (5V pin)
    • PSU - → Controller GND
    • Use 18 AWG wire for runs under 1m

  2. Connect controller to strip

    • Controller GND → Strip GND (white wire)
    • Controller D4 (GPIO4) → Strip DIN (green wire)
    • Controller VIN → Strip +5V (red wire)

  3. Add a data resistor (recommended)

    • Place a 330-470Ω resistor on the data line near the strip
    • This reduces signal reflections and protects the first pixel

  4. Add a capacitor (recommended)

    • Place a 470-1000µF electrolytic capacitor across + and - near the strip
    • This smooths power fluctuations and protects LEDs
Always connect GND first! Connecting data without a common ground can damage the first LED.

Check Before Powering On

CheckWhat to look for
VoltagePSU output matches strip rating (5V or 12V)
Polarity+ and - not reversed
Data pinConnected to correct GPIO on controller
No shortsNo exposed wires touching
FuseInline fuse on + wire (3-5A for testing)

Testing

  1. Power on the controller
  2. If using WLED: Connect to WiFi, go to the web UI
  3. Click a color — the first few LEDs should light up
  4. If nothing happens: check power, check data line, check GND

Next: What is WLED? →