I’m having trouble controlling a WS2814 LED strip with an ESP32. The data signal doesn’t seem to work properly, and I’m experiencing weird behavior:
I soldered the two data cables, but the LEDs don’t respond at all.
I tried using different clamps to connect the data line, and sometimes it works, but it flickers heavily.
When I use a ~1m long cable with alligator clips for the data line, it suddenly works fine.
I also tried using a 5V level shifter, but it didn’t help (though I’m not sure if the level shifter is working correctly, because im using a “normal” I2C shifter with a 5k pull up resistor for the 5V data line).
For the 24V and GND I’m using these WAGO clips and I tried these also for the data line, but then the strip is flickering. (2 days ago the clips were working fine, but not today) As I mentioned, even the soldered connection didn’t work, which I really can’t understand. The only working solution without any flickering is the version you can see in the image.
Does anyone have an idea why this is happening? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’ve seen these level shifters before, but I’m not sure which one would be the best choice. I’d prefer the TXS0102 or TXS0108 since they are available as breakout boards. However, I’ve read that they might not work properly for WS281x LEDs.
Another option would be the SN74HCT125, but I can’t find a good seller that stocks it—most places only have the SN74AHCT125N.
Do the TXS0102 / TXS0108 really not work for this application?
Thats sounds good. Currently the fix is, that I seperated the data cable from the power cables on the section, where the solderes part is. It looks like there is too much interference on this part.
For now it works fine, but maybe I will try the Level Shifter. So thank you. Also the tip with the FPS is very helpful. I will try some different settings
I used to have similar issues with 12VDC strips but have since then given up developing my own PCB and switched to smlight SLWF-03 for all my LED strips with >5.5VDC supply.
They come with the ability to control WS2814 from about version 0.14 or the most recent and are not much more expensive than ESP32 dev boards used to be.
I‘m sure that the others answering here have made good proposals but if you’re planning to install more than two or three separate LED controllers I would suggest you search for the controller I mentioned above.
I am not affiliated. Just a very satisfied customer.
