Controlling MagWLED-1 without WiFi (USB / offline use)
The MagWLED-1 runs WLED, which is primarily a WiFi-controlled system. However, there are several ways to use it in environments without WiFi or where WiFi connectivity is unreliable.
Option 1: Standalone presets (no WiFi needed)
WLED can run completely standalone after initial setup:
- Connect to the WLED-AP hotspot and configure your lighting presets
- Set a default preset to load on boot: Config → LED Preferences → Boot preset
- Unplug and redeploy — the device will boot and run the saved preset without any network
This is the simplest approach for fixed installations.
Option 2: Button-triggered presets
Use the onboard button or an external button connected to a GPIO pad to cycle through presets or toggle effects. No WiFi required during operation.
Configure in WLED: Config → Usermods → Button
Option 3: USB serial control
WLED supports a JSON API over serial (USB). You can send commands to the device via a USB connection from a computer or microcontroller:
- Baud rate: 115200
- Send JSON commands like
{"on":true,"bri":128,"seg":[{"fx":0,"col":[[255,0,0]]}]}
This is useful for integration with game software, kiosk systems, or any host computer that can open a serial port.
Option 4: Use the built-in access point
If no external WiFi is available, the MagWLED-1 can operate in AP mode (broadcasting WLED-AP). Connect your control device (phone, tablet, laptop) directly to the WLED-AP network and use the WLED app or browser interface to control it.
Enable permanent AP mode: Config → WiFi Setup → AP behavior → Always