Plug and Play USB-C PD WLED Driver

In this project, I will create a PCB for a WLED driver with USB Power Delivery (PD) support. This means you won't need a large external power supply to power your LED setup; you can use a charger that supports USB PD. Additionally, we will use the XIAO ESP32C3 to run the WLED firmware. Let's begin the build!

Supplies

• Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32C3
• CH224K PD IC
• 4*10K 0805 resistors
• 2*1k 0805 resistors
• 0805 LED Green
• 1uf 0805 Capacitor
• USB-C Female port

suggesting buying a USB PD module and taking the components from it to build a new PCB

Tools

• PD 65w Mini Hot Plate
• RELIFE RL-404S Solder Paste (138°C melting point)
• Tweezer

Step 1: PCB Design and Manufacturing

I designed this PCB according to the schematics given above using Easyeda and exported it to a Gerber file for fabrication

I used SeeedStudio Fusion PCB Service, which offers comprehensive PCB manufacturing, prototype PCB assembly, and more. Their services cover everything from PCB fabrication, parts sourcing, and assembly to testing, ensuring top-notch quality throughout the process. Furthermore, once you've gauged market interest and validated your prototype, the Seeed Co-create Program can assist you in bringing your product to market with expert guidance and a well-established network of connections.

Step 2: PCB Assembly

for this project, I sourced all the parts for the USB PD module, I desolder all the components from that module. and solder all the components to the new PCB, in the end, solder both the OLED and wire connector

R1, R3, R4, R5=10K

R2, R6=1K

C1=1uf

Apply solder paste to all SMD pads using a fine nozzle or stencil.

Place components one by one:

• CH224K
• Resistors (check their orientation if needed)
• Capacitor
• LED (watch the polarity)
• USB-C female connector

Preheat the mini hot plate

Gently place the PCB on the plate. Watch the solder melt and components self-align.

Carefully lift the board off once the solder paste reflows and allow it to cool.

Solder the XIAO ESP32C3 (either directly or via headers, depending on your PCB design).

Step 3: WLED Installation

To do this, go to the WLED installation page on GitHub; you can find the link in my description. Connect your XIAO ESP32-C3 to your computer, select "ESP32-C3" as the board type, click "Install, " and choose your XIAO from the port options. After installing, enter your Wi-Fi password and SSID, and click "OK."

My previous instructables will help you install WLED https://www.instructables.com/WLED-ON-XIAO-ESP32/

Step 4: WLED Set Up

• Plug a USB PD charger (5V/3A) into the USB-C port.
• The CH224K will trigger the appropriate voltage.
• The green LED should light up to indicate power.
• Your WLED firmware should boot and broadcast its Wi-Fi hotspot

Also, we are using GPIO 8 as DOUT pin for WS2812b make sure to enter this in LED configuration

Step 5: Connecting the LED

Optionally, we can use wire terminals to connect the LED wires to the PCB, or we can solder the wires directly to it. The 5V, OUT, and GND pins are clearly marked; connect your LED strip pins accordingly.

Step 6: Conclusion

This is a great little project to build a minimal, USB-C powered WLED controller. Perfect for compact lighting setups and a great way to learn about USB PD, ESP32, and WLED firmware. No more bulky bricks—just plug in a charger and light up your world