Home automation is the primary use case for the ANAVI Miracle Emitter. In the two previous weekly updates, we explored how to flash the open source firmware WLED directly from a web browser onto ANAVI Miracle Emitter and how to control 2D LED panels using the same setup. Building on that foundation, this article demonstrates how to retrofit a basic RGB floor lamp using addressable LED strips, the open source hardware ANAVI Miracle Emitter, and the WLED firmware for advanced control and lighting effects.

Retrofitting the Lamp

The project began with a commercially available, low-cost, 150 cm multicolor LED floor lamp. After unboxing, it was discovered that one of the LED strip connections required soldering. Once repaired, the lamp was assembled according to its included instructions and its original controller was tested to confirm the LEDs were functional.

To replace the stock controller, the lamp’s internal wiring was examined to identify the power (5V), ground, and data signal lines. These were then connected to the ANAVI Miracle Emitter, our open source hardware development board based on the ESP32-C3 microcontroller. The board was attached to the base of the lamp using hot glue, while basic cable management was done with duct tape.

The ANAVI Miracle Emitter had previously been flashed with WLED via a web browser. Once connected, it was configured through WLED’s web interface. Key settings included: the number of LEDs in the strip (70), the maximum allowable current (950 mA), and the correct GPIO for data output (GPIO 10), which matches the ANAVI Miracle Emitter’s schematics.

Power Supply and Configuration

The lamp’s original USB power adapter delivers 5 V at 1 A, which is adequate for this setup, as the ESP32-C3 microcontroller also operates within that current limit. In WLED’s web interface, under Config > LED Preferences, the maximum current was configured to 950 mA to match the power supply, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Once WLED was properly configured, the lamp became fully controllable from any web browser or smartphone. Users can choose from a wide variety of lighting effects and animations. The project was further expanded by retrofitting a second lamp of the same model and integrating both into Home Assistant. One of WLED’s key advantages is its native support for Home Assistant, enabling seamless automation and control. Home Assistant can be installed on a Raspberry Pi, similar single-board computer, or dedicated hardware like the Home Assistant Yellow or Home Assistant Green.

Open Source Freedom and Flexibility

Although the ANAVI Miracle Emitter ships with a custom open source firmware designed for Home Assistant integration via MQTT, it can be re-flashed with WLED. This alternative firmware offers a rich set of color effects, particularly for controlling NeoPixel LED strips and 2D LED panels, making it an ideal choice for DIY smart lighting projects.

To support this open source initiative, you can order ANAVI Miracle Emitter during its crowdfunding campaign on Crowd Supply. Your support helps sustain the development of this open hardware and firmware project for makers and developers.