Smallest WLED Controller Ever Xiao ESP32-C3

I created this housing for my WLED project, but it could also be used for other applications.

Printing
Prints with no supports on standard settings. I used PLA. In the file section, there is a file with the correct orientation for each part.

Assembly
Because it’s so small, it is finicky to put together. Here are some instructions and tips that worked for me:

First, gather all the parts. Additionally, for the microcontroller, you’ll need one of those JST LED connection cables. This can also be swapped for whatever interfaces with your LEDs best.

Next, you want to guide the wires through the outlet part and then solder the wires to the appropriate ports according to my picture. Also, install the antenna.

To fit the antenna cable, you need to coil it up as shown in the picture below.

In this picture, you can also see how I secured the button with tape from the outside before sliding the unit into it.

Stack everything on top of each other and slide it all the way in. Notice the guides inside the part for the individual components.

Before closing everything up, make sure there is a clear path for the button extender. Then gently slide the cap into place. If there is significant resistance, take it back out and check for issues—don’t force it.

Here is a GIF of the renderings to help you understand how everything fits together.

Installing WLED

Go here:
https://install.wled.me/
and follow the instructions.

I used version 0.14.4 at the time of this tutorial, and it worked. Newer versions might work as well, but they also might not.

After successful installation, you need to configure the button and the LED output pin. Use these values under Settings → LED Preferences → Hardware Setup:

• LED output: GPIO 10
• Button input: GPIO 9

Safety

Supposedly, the 5V is directly connected to the USB with a 0.4mm trace. According to this, I wouldn’t run more than 2 amps through it. To keep it on the safe side, I recommend no more than 30 LEDs with this setup.