Mini Pupper 2: connect Wi-Fi and use the Web Controller
A powered-on Mini Pupper 2 that does not move does not immediately need a new microSD image or firmware update. To control it in a browser, first check the network: the robot and your phone or computer must be able to reach each other. This guide covers the MangDang Mini Pupper 2 listed by ROBOLERO, not the original Mini Pupper or a Pro variant. It uses manufacturer documentation and an external owner's account; ROBOLERO has not tested your unit.
Before opening the browser
Check which kit you received and what software is already installed. The MangDang store distinguishes pre-assembled, legs-pre-assembled and upgrade kits. MangDang recommends the Web Controller for Mini Pupper 1 and 2: a handheld controller is not included as standard, and Bluetooth control with the CM4 module can be unreliable. This does not mean advanced functions are ready in every box. Camera, LiDAR and their software depend on the purchased configuration.
Place the robot on a clear surface, power it as described in the official Quick Start, and let it finish booting. The display shows an IP address when a network connection is available. If no address appears, guessing numbers in a browser will not fix the underlying connection.
| What you see | Useful check | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| An IP on the display | Copy the actual address; use a device on the same network | Reusing an address from someone else's tutorial |
| No IP | Check power, boot and the default Wi-Fi network | Reinstalling the system immediately |
| The page will not open | Check the phone or PC network, IP and port `8080` | Exposing that port to the Internet |
| The page opens but movement fails | Check Controller and Pupper status and clear the floor | Forcing movement while legs are obstructed |
Connect through the initial network
The Quick Start describes a default Wi-Fi network that the robot seeks on startup. MangDang's short official video shows how to prepare it using a phone. It demonstrates that initial step, not connectivity in every home or with every firmware. Follow the network name and password in the documentation supplied for your version. If they are still the defaults, change them or move to your private network once access works. Do not leave a setup network accessible to unauthorized people.
Connect your phone or computer to the same network as the robot. In the browser, enter the IP shown on the display followed by `:8080`. The address printed as an example in the manual is not your device's address. Mobile data, a VPN or an isolated guest Wi-Fi can prevent access even while the robot is on. Bring both devices onto the same local network and retry the real address. You do not need to forward a router port to the Internet.
Move to your home Wi-Fi
Once the initial interface opens, MangDang's Quick Start says to choose Setting, enter the home network name and password, then choose Connect and Reboot. Confirm that network is active and the password is right before rebooting. Afterwards read the new IP on the robot's display: it may have changed. Rejoin the same new network on the phone or PC, then open the new address with `:8080`. Do not put the Wi-Fi password in public screenshots or support requests.
If the page still fails, identify which failure you have: no IP on the robot, an IP but no page on the port, or a working page that does not command movement. Record the case, software version and network type for support, without sharing credentials. MangDang's more technical material also describes the Web Controller and ROS services; do not apply those steps blindly to a pre-assembled kit.
Test movement and decide what comes next
In the documented interface, activate Controller and Pupper, choose Walk, then test movement only with clear space around the robot. Keep it away from edges, stairs, pets and cables. The independent devemin account describes a supplied review sample. It is one person's experience, not a guarantee for another kit or network.
For a classroom or home, verify local control and a way to recover network access before adding a camera, LiDAR or ROS project. Compare the Mini Pupper 2 listing and first-start guide. If your configuration is unclear, ask the seller to identify the variant and matching documentation before changing wiring or software.