The ZimaCube, with its built-in ESP32 and WS2812 LED strip, is a fantastic device. However, the official firmware for controlling the lights didn’t quite satisfy my craving for customization. As a maker, I decided to take matters into my own hands and enhance the ZimaCube’s lighting effects, which led to the birth of CubeFX.
First, let’s look at the Effect!
1. Hardware Exploration
After examining the hardware, I discovered that the ZimaCube’s 7-th Bay an ESP32-C3 Super Mini module. This module is connected to a WS2812B LED strip with 13 individual LEDs. The magic of this type of LED strip is that each LED has its own built-in IC, allowing for independent control of all LEDs using just one GPIO pin. This meant I could create an almost limitless number of lighting combinations, making the ZimaCube’s lighting effects even more impressive.
2. Firmware Upgrade: Injecting a New Soul
My goal was to avoid hardware modifications and instead rewrite the firmware, providing a more flexible and dazzling lighting control experience. With the help of the open source project WS2018FX, I realized to design new and exciting lighting effects.You can even control the color of each LED bead!
During development, I noticed that some community members expressed a desire for an easy way to turn off the lights or disable WiFi. Taking their feedback to heart, I incorporated these features directly into the firmware. Users can now effortlessly control the lights and WiFi status through a user-friendly web interface, achieving true customization at their fingertips.
3. Simplicity is Key: Easy to Use, Even for Beginners
To ensure that even ZimaCube owners without any programming experience could enjoy the magic of CubeFX, I created a web-based firmware flashing platform. All you need is a Type-C data cable and access to the webpage. Follow the straightforward instructions, and you’ll have the new firmware up and running in no time. Additionally, the firmware itself supports over-the-air updates via WiFi.
4. Beyond Lighting
Through CubeFX, I hope to make the ZimaCube even more captivating and inspire others to explore their creativity.
If you’re a ZimaCube owner who yearns to infuse your device with more personality, don’t hesitate to give CubeFX a try! I’m confident you won’t be disappointed!
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CubeFX Installer: CubeFX installer
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Project Link: GitHub - Cp0204/CubeFX: A better ZimaCube light strip system.
