DIY Guide: Adding Extra USB Ports to Your Smart Floodlight

Have you ever wished your smart floodlight had an extra USB port for added versatility? I recently faced this dilemma with my Wyze Floodlight Pro and decided to take matters into my own hands! Here’s how I did it, and why you might want to consider this simple DIY upgrade. ### **Why Add an Extra USB Port?**Wyze’s decision to remove the second USB port in their newer models made sense from a design perspective, as they aimed to simplify the user experience and reduce costs. However, for those of us who rely on multiple devices or want redundancy (like me), having that extra port is invaluable. Whether you want to connect a secondary camera, power an external sensor, or simply have more flexibility, adding a USB port is a great way to customize your setup.### What You’ll Need- A weatherproof surge protector with USB ports (I recommend IPx6 rated for added protection)- Basic wiring tools (pliers, wire strippers, etc.)- A rated outdoor extension cord (optional, but helpful for longer distances)- Screws and anchors for securing the surge protector### Step-by-Step Installation1. Choose the Right Surge Protector Look for one that’s compact, weatherproof, and has both USB ports and AC outlets. I found a great option on Amazon that fit all my needs for under $25.2. Prepare the Wires Cut the plug end off the surge protector’s cord and strip the insulation to expose the black, white, and green wires.3. Connect to the Floodlight Feed the wires through the junction box on your floodlight and twist them together with the existing power wires. Secure everything with wire nuts and ensure the ground wires are properly connected.4. Mount the Surge Protector Find a secure spot near your floodlight and mount the surge protector using screws and anchors. This keeps everything tidy and protected from the elements.5. Test Your Setup Power on your floodlight and plug in your devices to ensure everything works as expected. I was thrilled to see my secondary camera and sensors functioning perfectly!### Why This Upgrade is Worth It- Flexibility: Now I can connect multiple devices without worrying about running out of ports.- Redundancy: Having a secondary camera on the same floodlight but powered separately gives me peace of mind.- Cost-Effective: Instead of buying a new floodlight with extra ports, this DIY solution saves money while adding functionality.### Final ThoughtsThis project was surprisingly straightforward and has significantly enhanced my smart home setup. If you’re looking to customize your floodlight or add some much-needed versatility, I highly recommend giving this DIY a try! Let me know if you have any questions or tips for improving this guide. Happy hacking! :rocket: