Build on the bench first.

1. Match the hardware to the sketch

Use the wiring reference to compare your controller’s actual connections with the source. Check the GPS connector and voltage, SD bus, relay control interface and maintenance button. Do not assume that boards sharing an ESP32-S3 chip share a pin map.

2. Bring up the controller and storage

Begin with stable USB power. Provision the microSD card with a compatible geofences.bin and retain an external backup. The current updater keeps that original file and creates separate update slots. Verify startup messages before proceeding.

3. Add GPS and the maintenance button

Connect the confirmed GNSS interface and momentary button with power removed. On restart, inspect the GPS status outdoors with a clear view of the sky. Press the maintenance button and follow the configuration guide.

4. Verify the output separately

Use the intended low-voltage driver and indicator, with its electrical design reviewed first. Confirm that the driver responds to the firmware’s active-high output and that reset leaves the output inactive. Record the exact hardware combination that passes testing.

5. Evaluate the panel as a separate subsystem

The proposed panel is clear when unpowered and opaque when energized. Confirm that behavior with its manufacturer-approved supply before connecting the controller. Ordinary PDLC film can have the opposite unpowered state; the marketing name alone is insufficient.

6. Plan the installation

Confirm plate-display requirements before any vehicle use. Plan protected power, mounting, enclosure, antenna placement, strain relief and cable routing. Keep wiring clear of airbags, pedals, steering components and heat. The vehicle-specific electrical drawing and final installation photographs remain to be added.