DFRobot EDGE102-DMX512 lighting controller combines ESP32-S3 MCU and DMX512 protocol chip

DFRobot’s EDGE102-DMX512 is a DMX512 lighting programming controller based on ESP32-S3 wireless MCU designed for efficient management of stage, theater, and venue lighting. With integrated WiFi and Bluetooth, the controller supports wireless programming and control, simplifying the setup of advanced lighting systems. It offers RS485 (master/slave modes) interfaces, I2C, UART, and GPIO pins for compatibility with a wide range of sensors and boards.

This controller enables automation through sensor integration, supporting devices such as infrared detectors, sound level meters, and laser sensors. Its eight optically isolated industrial switch inputs ensure seamless compatibility with PNP sensors, allowing lighting effects to respond automatically to environmental inputs. By reducing dependence on manual DMX consoles, it is well-suited for automated lighting in theaters, stages, and commercial venues.

EDGE102-DMX512 specifications:

SoC – Espressif ESP32-S3
- CPU – Dual-core Tensilica LX7 up to 240 MHz with vector instructions for AI acceleration
- Memory – 512 KB of internal SRAM
- Storage – Octal SPI flash and PSRAM support
- Connectivity
  - 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi 4 with 40 MHz bandwidth support
  - Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) 5.0 connectivity with long-range support, up to 2Mbps data rate.
Digital inputs – 8 Optically Isolated Digital Inputs support standard PNP switch sensors
Light controller
- Dedicated DMX512 Protocol Chip
- Three-pin XLR female connector for DMX512 signal output
Communication Interfaces
- RS485 port (supports master and slave modes)
- I2C interface
- UART port
- 2x GPIO pins
- Relay output
USB – USB Type-C port acting as a “Download Program Interface”
Misc
- Real-Time Clock (RTC) – Provides time-based lighting control with ±3-second accuracy over 30 days; includes backup power for 12-hour clock retention during power failures.
- Power LED
- Test light connected to the ESP32-S3’s IO21 port.
- Reset Button
- 120Ω RS485 switch
- WiFi and Bluetooth antenna (SMA female interface)
Power supply
- Power input – 12V to 24V DC-in via terminal block or 2.1mm DC jack
- Power output – 4-pin terminal block for +3.3V, +5V and GND
Dimensions – 158 x 83 x 37 mm
Weight – 400 grams

The controller supports open-source platforms like Arduino and ESPHome. Detailed information about software setup, hardware connections, DMX512 driver instructions, and example code can be found on the official wiki page.

Previously, we covered the H801 WiFi RGB LED Controller and the LA1016, LA2016, and LA5016 Logic Analyzers supporting the DMX512 communication protocol. We also wrote about the ESP8266-based ANAVI Light Controller and Anavi Light pHAT for light control without DMX512.

DFRobot’s EDGE102-DMX512 lighting programming controller is built with an alloy steel enclosure with support for rail mount and wall mount installations. The package includes the DMX512 programmable controller, a WiFi/Bluetooth antenna, two 35mm DIN rail clips, two mounting brackets, and a pack of mounting screws. It is available for purchase on DFRobot’s store for $59.00.

Sayantan Nandy

Sayantan Nandy, an electronics engineer with over four years of hands-on experience in PCB design, circuit development and power electronics, is proficient in EAGLE CAD, Ki-Cad, and Altium. He has a proven track record of delivering efficient and effective systems. His expertise extends from R&D, and prototyping to production support, making him a valuable asset to any engineering team.