An add-on VLC (Visible Light Communication) controller for an LED lighting device includes a power input port, a power output port, a housing, a control unit in the housing, and at least one data signal receiver in the control unit. A power input of the control unit is connected to the power input port. A power output of the control unit is connected to the power output port. The data signal receiver is configured to receive data from the external data source. The control unit further includes VLC protocol engine configured for interpreting the received data according to VLC protocol, and a VLC transceiver for converting the received data into one or more LIBM (Light Intensity Baseband Modulation) modulated signals. The control unit is configured to activate and deactivate the power output port to supply output voltage responsive to the one or more LIBM-modulated signals.