DotC - Dot Matrix Enclosure Clock with ESP32

DotC

This enclosure is designed for MAX7219 LED dot matrix display modules paired with an ESP32 microcontroller, creating a clean, timeless housing for a wide range of LED matrix projects.

While it works great as a clock, this enclosure is intentionally flexible and well-suited for many builds, such as:

• Clock (NTP / WiFi synced)
• Weather station display
• Counter or timer
• Calendar
• IoT status display
• Custom WiFi-connected dashboards

Features

• Two enclosure versions
  • Standard smooth version
  • Wood-texture version that looks great with wood-filled filaments and stained (light sanding is suggested for the best result). 
    It is included in CAD files as a .3mf file, ready to slice with the required settings, due to its mesh complexity and long slicing time.
• Front panel options
  • Best visual result with a 3 mm acrylic front panel (DXF included for laser cutting)
  • Fully 3D-printed front panel included as an alternative
    • The printed front panel works especially well in PETG
    • When using the printed front panel, the LED matrix should be mounted with the included spacers to keep the display crisp and evenly aligned
• Powered directly via the ESP32’s USB-C port, which is exposed at the rear of the case for easy access and a clean setup (no extra wiring or connectors needed)

Assembly & Hardware

• The front panel slides into the outer shell at the angle shown in the photos
• Required hardware:
  • 8× M3×6 mm heat inserts
  • 8× M3×8 mm cap head screws (case assembly + display mounting)
  • 2× M2×3 mm heat inserts
  • 2× M2×4 mm screws (ESP board mounting)
  • (Optional) 4x rubber feet, 6mm diameter, self-adhesive, for an elevated finish and look
• Default support for ESP32 S2 Mini
• ESP32 C3 Super Mini is also supported using the included mounting adapter
• I suggest soldering only the used pin headers closest to the USB-C port to avoid interference with the LED Matrix.
• If the Dot Matrix is connected with included jumper wires, the header should be bent slightly to fit into the case (see photos).

Example Firmware

DotC works well with many available firmwares. Please note that this project is not associated with the development of any of them. A few popular examples:

• ESPTimeCast™
• ER Great's Clock
• WiFi Message Board

This enclosure is easy to print, straightforward to assemble, and suits both functional builds and display pieces—especially if you prefer a cleaner, more classic look.