LightCoding Series Overview
LightCoding is a way to turn ideas into light
The Socolode LightCoding series is a creation platform that makes "playing with light" accessible to everyone. Its core isn't a piece of hardware — it's an idea: describe the light effect you want, and let it handle the rest.
In this series, you don't need to learn complex programming or study circuits. Just describe in one sentence "I want an ambient light that pulses with the music" or "a light that draws an arrow in a long-exposure shot," and the AI turns it into a light program that you drag into the device and play.
Both devices share the same way of creating — as simple as dragging a file onto a USB drive — but come in different forms to suit creators at different stages.
One way of creating, two forms
Firefly T1 — A pocket-sized tool for ideas
A palm-sized light controller, lightweight and portable, perfect for your first steps into light creation. Install a battery and start — get your first effect running in 5 minutes.
- Form: Square body, palm-sized, built-in color screen and five-way keys
- Way of creating: Plug-and-play, paired with AI-generated light programs
- Best for: Light painting, desk setup ambience, party decoration
- Highlights: Built-in microphone, motion sensor, and buzzer — enjoy sound-and-light interactivity right out of the box
Beetle S1 — A handheld partner for pro creators
A one-piece, handle-shaped light controller for long handheld sessions and driving larger light installations. It's the advanced version of Firefly T1.
- Form: One-piece handle-shaped body, built-in round color screen and physical keys
- Way of creating: The same Python-based approach, with higher power and more expansion
- Best for: Professional light painting, large light installations, interactive installations
- Highlights: High-power output, 4PIN expansion interface (connect sensors), and a snail gimbal for flexible mounting of accessories
Why this series stands out
- Describe instead of code: AI-native — say the effect you want in one sentence and get a light program
- As simple as dragging a file: Drag the light program into the device — no soldering, no programming background needed
- One way, from small to large: From a pocket controller to a pro handheld, the way of creating is identical — learn it once and use it everywhere
- Open and hackable: Built on the Python ecosystem, with customization and community sharing
- Unlimited play: From light painting photography to a desktop clock, from rhythm lights to interactive installations
Quick navigation
| What do you want to do | Recommended entry |
|---|---|
| Get your first app running quickly | Quick start |
| Browse all built-in effects | App list |
| Learn to write your own effects | App development |
| Common questions | FAQ |
How to choose?
Choose Firefly T1 if:
- You're new to light creation and want an easy start
- You need a small device to carry with you and create anywhere
- You want to experience the full range of light play in the lightest way
Choose Beetle S1 if:
- You need to create while holding the device for long periods — the handle is more comfortable
- You need to drive high-density long LED strips or large light installations
- You want to connect sensors and build interactive installations for even more play