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Hardware

Exploded Specifications

The Livegrid stack is intentionally modular so you can swap panels, sensors, and enclosures without reworking the entire device. The control electronics are published as open hardware; see the schematics and PCB notes inside the development section.

Prerequisites: Basic familiarity with ESP32 development boards and HUB75 LED panels makes it easier to follow along, but beginners can start with the quick checklist below.

Technical Specifications

  • Controller: ESP32-S3 dual-core MCU with integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
  • Displays: HUB75 RGB matrices (64×64 default) or recycled MBI5153-based modules via the alternate control board.
  • Power: 5 V DC input over USB‑C or header.
  • Sensors: Temperature, humidity, CO₂ (SCD41/SCD40 class), and ambient light.
  • Expansion: I²C breakout header, fan connector, and spare GPIO pads on the backplane.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, optional Ethernet via USB-C dongles supported in firmware.

Assembly Highlights

  1. Mount the control board directly to the panel using the supplied standoffs.
  2. Connect the sensor/backplane board with the keyed ribbon cable.
  3. Feed 5 V into the USB‑C port or JST power header; the regulator handles up to 5 A.
  4. Route the touch buttons and speaker (if used) through the side headers.
  5. Close the enclosure and run a smoke test with the built-in demo mode.

The exploded diagram above shows the default stack-up. For custom enclosures, export the DXF from the PCB projects to align mounting holes.

Common Use Cases

  • Desk dashboards: Mount the panel in a picture frame enclosure and power it from USB.
  • Wall-mounted sensors: Run a thin USB-C cable through the wall and surface-mount the panel flush.
  • Installations: Daisy-chain multiple panels with PoE injectors and sync content using the UDP streaming mode.

Resources

  • Development Guide: Firmware architecture, build instructions, and PCB downloads.
  • eDMX: Control the panel from lighting consoles and media servers.
  • MQTT & Home Assistant: Integrate with smart-home automations and dashboards.