Aquacomputer Farbwerk LED Controller USB (53170)

The Aquacomputer Farbwerk LED Controller USB is a four channel RGB controller for non-addressable 12 V LED strips (common anode). It has four sensor inputs, a USB interface and an aquabus interface for an aquaero 5 or 6. It is set up in the free of charge aquasuite software and then runs on its own, without a PC.

Properties

Channels

4 RGB outputs, 12 color channels, 13 bits each

Output current

max. 2.5 A per channel, 8 A combined at 12 V

Inputs

4 temperature sensor inputs

Interface

USB, aquabus

Supply

12 V and 5 V from a PC power supply plug

Size

47 x 41 x 20 mm

Twelve channels with smooth transitions

Aquacomputer calls the farbwerk an innovative LED controller. In German, the name derives from the words for color and for factory/plant/work (Werk). Its twelve channels can drive up to four RGB strips, or they can be used as individual channels. Each one has a resolution of 13 bits (8192 individual steps), resulting in smooth color transitions even at low brightness settings.

An embedded micro processor makes the controller an autonomous device that can be operated without a PC. The configuration is saved in the microprocessor, so USB can be disconnected after initial setup. With compatible temperature sensors (not included in delivery) on the four sensor inputs, the controller can visualize temperatures as colors.

For those creative users interested in electronics, the sensor inputs can also connect potentiometers or work as a 0 - 3.3 V voltage input. With a little creativity the outputs serve other applications as well, for example fans. Aquacomputer says that, if used outside the PC, they can even run devices requiring up to 24 Volts.

Ways to control the outputs

These features are available to control the outputs:

• Direct color selection: intuitive interface controls in the aquasuite allow a precise choice of color, with adjustments for intensity and brightness.
• Adjustable color transitions: the aquasuite sets transitions that are continuously displayed at an adjustable speed.
• Effects: a brightness curve can be defined to add a pulsating effect.
• Control by the controller's own sensor inputs: a sensor input can change the color of its assigned channel directly. For example, a transition between 20 °C and 35 °C is set in the aquasuite and will be processed by the hardware of the farbwerk.
• Software sensors (e. g. CPU load, network etc.): like the aquaero, the controller can be configured to use them.

For the software sensors, communication between the aquasuite and the tools HWiNFO, AIDA and Open Hardware Monitor allows many different system values to drive the channels. The CPU load, for example, can automatically adjust the color within a specific range. Since these software sensors can also be accessed via Bluetooth, Aquacomputer notes it would be possible to display them on a smartphone.

aquasuite software

Configuration uses the aquasuite software and a USB connection to the PC. The software supports an unlimited number of simultaneously connected farbwerk controllers. In addition to the USB interface, an aquabus or Bluetooth interface is available, depending on the version of the controller.

This product contains a license for the current version of the aquasuite, with an upgrade service for at least six (6) months following activation. After the upgrade service expires, you may keep using and reinstalling the latest version from that period with no time limit. For a fee, the update service can be extended or renewed at any time. Please note that an internet connection is required for installation and activation of the software. Further information about licensing and activation can be found on Aquacomputer's licensing site.

aquabus version (53170)

This aquabus version connects to an aquaero 5 or aquaero 6 controller, such as the aquaero 6 LT. The aquaero can then be configured to control the outputs of the farbwerk, or to transmit its own sensor data to the farbwerk to be processed there. Up to two farbwerk controllers can be connected to one aquaero 5/6 simultaneously. As a matter of course, it also works as a plain USB device without an aquabus connection, and USB and aquabus can be used at the same time.

Aquacomputer also makes a Bluetooth and aquabus version (revision 2, 53207), which is a different article from the one sold here. That one can have all outputs controlled via Bluetooth, and all sensor inputs are additionally available via Bluetooth. This requires a Bluetooth device as well as an app. Aqua Computer currently supplies a basic Android demo app (compatible with Android 4.4 KitKat or higher), including source code, to set the outputs. Other mobile operating systems are not supported.

What you need to connect it

Power comes from a power plug of your PC's power supply unit. The USB connector goes to an internal USB header of your motherboard, usually a 9 pin connector with two independent USB ports; make sure the pin alignment matches. An aquaero connects through a compatible aquabus cable, such as the aquabus cable 53122, which is not included in delivery.

Suitable LED strips are 12 V, common anode and non-addressable; suitable LED strips and connectors are available from Aqua Computer, and more are in our RGB LED strips section. The color sequence of the contacts may vary between strips, so select the LED type in the software to match the markings on the strip.

The controller can be installed inside the PC case with screws and nuts. To reach the mounting holes, bend the rubber insulation away from the top cover and remove the cover, then reinstall it. Alternatively, double sided adhesive tape holds it in place.

Compatibility

Aquacomputer's manual lists these aquaero controllers as compatible aquabus devices:

• aquaero 6 XT (53146, 53206, 53250, 53251, 53262, 53263)
• aquaero 6 PRO (53145, 53253)
• aquaero 6 LT (53234)
• aquaero 5 XT (53089, 53125, 53249)
• aquaero 5 PRO (53090, 53252)
• aquaero 5 LT (53095)

These temperature sensors fit the four sensor inputs:

• Temperature sensor inline G1/4 (53066)
• Temperature sensor inner/outer thread G1/4 (53067)
• Temperature sensor G1/4 (53147)
• Temperature sensor plug&cool (53025)
• Temperature sensor 70 cm (53026)

Technical details

Notes

• The LED outputs are not short-circuit proof.
• Use the controller inside a PC case only, and keep its electric connectors clear of metal parts and other electronic devices in the case.
• Completely turn off the power supply, or disconnect the mains power cord, before connecting or disconnecting any cable.
• Clean with a dry and soft cloth. Electronic components and headers must not get in contact with coolant or water.

In the box

• 1x farbwerk USB board
• 1x 70cm Internal USB cable (5pin)
• 1x Manual

Aquacomputer's manual for the farbwerk is an English PDF that covers every connector, the aquasuite settings and the Bluetooth demo app.