Designed by SmartHomeGuys in the UK, the DeskUp Pro is an ESP32-based standing desk controller compatible with Home Assistant, Homey Pro, and other Smart Home hubs, using the desk’s standard RJ11/RJ12 connection.
Many modern standing desks come with a controller from Jiecang or another company featuring an RJ12 port. The DeskUp Pro plugs directly into this port, draws power without an external USB supply, and bridges the desk’s controls to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. This allows you to automate your desk height, set health-focused standing reminders, or use voice assistants like Google Home and Alexa, all while keeping the desk’s original physical keypad fully functional.
DeskUp Pro specifications:
- MCU – Espressif Systems ESP32-C6 or ESP32-S3 microcontroller with 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE
- Desk connectivity – Built-in RJ11/RJ12 cable for data and power
- USB – USB Type-C port for initial setup and firmware flashing
- Misc
- Supported Jiecang control boxes
- JCB36NE2 (used in Desktronic Home One)
- JCB36N2HAG-230 (used in Boho Office),
- JCHT35K72C, JCB35M11C, and JCHT35K9-003-v4
- Power Supply – Powered directly from the desk controller via the RJ12 connection
- Dimensions – TBD
- Enclosure – Custom 3D-printed case
The developer created this project to automate standing reminders, helping reduce issues like sciatica caused by prolonged sitting. It is built using community reverse-engineered desk commands, allowing the DeskUp Pro to convert smart home commands into the signals needed to control the desk’s motor.
He also mentions that desk manufacturers frequently change their internal electronics and software (even under the same model number), so compatibility is not universally guaranteed. However, known working models include the Maidesite Premium/Standard lines, Desktronic Home One, Boho Office Basic Line, and the IKEA Uppspel. Note that Maidesite removed the RJ12 port on their Standard controllers manufactured after July 2025.
The DeskUp Pro standing desk controller comes pre-flashed with ESPHome firmware and exposes up to 32 entities in Home Assistant, including height control, sensor values, and preset positions, enabling full desk automation and monitoring. It also features a built-in web interface and REST API, allowing integration with other smart home platforms that support API requests, making it flexible beyond a single ecosystem. Initial setup can be done via USB-C or Bluetooth, and the project is open-source with documentation, example dashboards, and automation templates available for customization or DIY builds.
The DeskUp Pro is available on Ebay UK (57.42 GBP) and Tindie for $75, with the price dropping to $65 when buying multiple units. If you prefer a DIY approach, you can build your own using the provided wiring instructions and YAML configuration from its GitHub repository. But keep in mind that the open-source project is licensed for personal, non-commercial use only.
Debashis Das is a technical content writer and embedded engineer with over five years of experience in the industry. With expertise in Embedded C, PCB Design, and SEO optimization, he effectively blends difficult technical topics with clear communication
Support CNX Software! Donate via cryptocurrencies, become a Patron on Patreon, or purchase goods on Amazon or Aliexpress. We also use affiliate links in articles to earn commissions if you make a purchase after clicking on those links.
