2023/08/23، 02:05 AM
How to Cut and Connect LED Strip Light: A Comprehensive Guide
The popularity of LED strip lights as accent lighting for homes, outdoor structures, and landscapes has soared. If you’re seeking guidance on cutting and connecting these versatile light strips to achieve your desired length, look no further. In this article, we’ll draw upon the expertise of Edgar M Downs - LED light specialist and provide you with comprehensive, step-by-step instructions. Let’s begin this informative journey!
Making the Right Voltage Selection
Before we jump into the cutting and connecting process, let’s discuss the two types of LED strip lights available in the market: the low voltage DC version (12V or 24V) and the high voltage AC version (120V).
If you’re working on a small decoration project, such as under cabinet lighting or kitchen back lighting, it’s better to opt for the 12V or 24V version. However, for larger projects like outdoor deck lighting or task lighting, the 120V LED strip lighting is a better choice.
Low voltage LED strip lights require an adapter to convert the AC voltage (120V) to DC voltage (12V or 24V). It’s important to note that the adapter’s maximum load power should not exceed the wattage supported by the LED strip light. To calculate the total power, multiply the wattage per meter by the length of the strip light. For example, if the strip light’s wattage is 9.6W per meter, and you have a 5-meter strip, the total wattage is 48W. It’s recommended to leave a 20% headroom, so you should buy an adapter with a wattage of 58W or higher.
Keep in mind that the maximum running length of LED strips is typically limited to 10 meters (32.8 feet). Longer distances between the LEDs and the power supply result in a lower electrical current, which may prevent the LEDs from lighting up. To overcome this, it’s common to install the LEDs in parallel, which requires the use of connectors.
Cutting the 12V or 24V LED Strip Light
Cutting the strip light is completely safe, as both the 12V and 24V versions operate on low voltage. For 12V LED strips, you can cut them every three LEDs, while for 24V strips, you can cut them every six LEDs. These cut points are marked on the strip, and you can use sharp scissors to cut along the designated lines.
At the end of each “functional unit” (3 LEDs for 12V and 6 LEDs for 24V), you’ll find copper dots that allow you to solder external wires for power supply or control lines. If you accidentally cut the strip in the wrong place, only the damaged functional unit will be affected, while the rest will continue to work.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on cutting the strip:
1. Measure the desired length and locate the nearest cut line.
2. Use sharp scissors to cut the LED strip along the marked line.
![[تصویر: how-to-cut-LED-light-strip.jpg]](https://www.chiuer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/how-to-cut-LED-light-strip.jpg)
Cutting the 110V/120V LED Strip Light
Some high voltage 120V LED strip lights are not cuttable. Therefore, it’s important to check with the seller before purchasing. If the LED lights can be cut, look for the transparent gap and use sharp scissors to cut it according to your desired length. In most cases, high voltage strip lights can be cut every one meter.
![[تصویر: how-to-cut-110v-led-strip-light.jpg]](https://www.chiuer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/how-to-cut-110v-led-strip-light.jpg)
Choosing the Right LED Strip Light
Before proceeding with the installation, there are a few things to consider. First, determine whether you need an IP65 rated waterproof LED strip light or a non-waterproof version. Waterproof LED strips are coated with silicone resin, protecting them from dust, water, and moisture. If you plan to use the LED strip light in wet areas like the bathroom or kitchen, opting for the waterproof version is a must, even though it may be slightly more expensive.
Next, decide on the light color. You have options such as RGB (multicolor), single colors like red, blue, green, yellow, and various shades of white (ranging from warm white to cool white). RGB lights offer more color combinations and effects, but remember to use a 3-channel controller to achieve the desired results.
Additionally, consider the lumens output for your project. This is measured by lumens per meter, which is determined by the number of LED chips per meter. Higher density LED strip lights have more LEDs per area. For example, high-density strips may have 3 LEDs every 2 inches, while standard density strips have 3 LEDs every 4 inches. If you require high lumen output, opt for high-density LED strips.
Installing the 12V or 24V LED Strip Light
Installing these low voltage strip lights is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Clean the surface where you plan to install the strip light and ensure it’s dry.
2. Unroll the LED strip and use sharp scissors to cut it to the desired length.
3. Peel off the adhesive tape on the back of the strip and firmly press it onto the surface, removing any air bubbles.
![[تصویر: install-LED-strip-light.jpg]](https://www.chiuer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/install-LED-strip-light.jpg)
4. Connect the LED strip light to the controller and adapter.
5. Plug the adapter into a power source and turn on the lights.
![[تصویر: connect-LED-strip-light-with-adapter-and-controller.jpg]](https://www.chiuer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/connect-LED-strip-light-with-adapter-and-controller.jpg)
>>> Follow us to view more best LED light strips
Installing the 120V LED Strip Light
For the 120V LED strip light, which can be quite long (up to 100 meters), follow these installation steps:
1. Take the LED strip out of the package and unroll it.
2. Place the strip on the desired surface and secure it with clips. Avoid clipping over the LED chips.
3. Cut the strip at the transparent gap and use pins to connect it to the controller. Ensure the end cap is securely attached to prevent any electrical leakage.
4. Plug the strip into a power source.
![[تصویر: unroll-the-LED-strip-light.jpg]](https://www.chiuer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/unroll-the-LED-strip-light.jpg)
By following these instructions, you’ll be able to easily cut and connect LED strip lights for your decoration projects. Whether you’re adding ambiance to your home or illuminating outdoor spaces, LED strip lights offer versatility and style. Happy lighting![url=https://twitback.com/bestledlightstripsblls][/url]
The popularity of LED strip lights as accent lighting for homes, outdoor structures, and landscapes has soared. If you’re seeking guidance on cutting and connecting these versatile light strips to achieve your desired length, look no further. In this article, we’ll draw upon the expertise of Edgar M Downs - LED light specialist and provide you with comprehensive, step-by-step instructions. Let’s begin this informative journey!
Making the Right Voltage Selection
Before we jump into the cutting and connecting process, let’s discuss the two types of LED strip lights available in the market: the low voltage DC version (12V or 24V) and the high voltage AC version (120V).
If you’re working on a small decoration project, such as under cabinet lighting or kitchen back lighting, it’s better to opt for the 12V or 24V version. However, for larger projects like outdoor deck lighting or task lighting, the 120V LED strip lighting is a better choice.
Low voltage LED strip lights require an adapter to convert the AC voltage (120V) to DC voltage (12V or 24V). It’s important to note that the adapter’s maximum load power should not exceed the wattage supported by the LED strip light. To calculate the total power, multiply the wattage per meter by the length of the strip light. For example, if the strip light’s wattage is 9.6W per meter, and you have a 5-meter strip, the total wattage is 48W. It’s recommended to leave a 20% headroom, so you should buy an adapter with a wattage of 58W or higher.
Keep in mind that the maximum running length of LED strips is typically limited to 10 meters (32.8 feet). Longer distances between the LEDs and the power supply result in a lower electrical current, which may prevent the LEDs from lighting up. To overcome this, it’s common to install the LEDs in parallel, which requires the use of connectors.
Cutting the 12V or 24V LED Strip Light
Cutting the strip light is completely safe, as both the 12V and 24V versions operate on low voltage. For 12V LED strips, you can cut them every three LEDs, while for 24V strips, you can cut them every six LEDs. These cut points are marked on the strip, and you can use sharp scissors to cut along the designated lines.
At the end of each “functional unit” (3 LEDs for 12V and 6 LEDs for 24V), you’ll find copper dots that allow you to solder external wires for power supply or control lines. If you accidentally cut the strip in the wrong place, only the damaged functional unit will be affected, while the rest will continue to work.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on cutting the strip:
1. Measure the desired length and locate the nearest cut line.
2. Use sharp scissors to cut the LED strip along the marked line.
Cutting the 110V/120V LED Strip Light
Some high voltage 120V LED strip lights are not cuttable. Therefore, it’s important to check with the seller before purchasing. If the LED lights can be cut, look for the transparent gap and use sharp scissors to cut it according to your desired length. In most cases, high voltage strip lights can be cut every one meter.
Choosing the Right LED Strip Light
Before proceeding with the installation, there are a few things to consider. First, determine whether you need an IP65 rated waterproof LED strip light or a non-waterproof version. Waterproof LED strips are coated with silicone resin, protecting them from dust, water, and moisture. If you plan to use the LED strip light in wet areas like the bathroom or kitchen, opting for the waterproof version is a must, even though it may be slightly more expensive.
Next, decide on the light color. You have options such as RGB (multicolor), single colors like red, blue, green, yellow, and various shades of white (ranging from warm white to cool white). RGB lights offer more color combinations and effects, but remember to use a 3-channel controller to achieve the desired results.
Additionally, consider the lumens output for your project. This is measured by lumens per meter, which is determined by the number of LED chips per meter. Higher density LED strip lights have more LEDs per area. For example, high-density strips may have 3 LEDs every 2 inches, while standard density strips have 3 LEDs every 4 inches. If you require high lumen output, opt for high-density LED strips.
Installing the 12V or 24V LED Strip Light
Installing these low voltage strip lights is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Clean the surface where you plan to install the strip light and ensure it’s dry.
2. Unroll the LED strip and use sharp scissors to cut it to the desired length.
3. Peel off the adhesive tape on the back of the strip and firmly press it onto the surface, removing any air bubbles.
4. Connect the LED strip light to the controller and adapter.
5. Plug the adapter into a power source and turn on the lights.
>>> Follow us to view more best LED light strips
Installing the 120V LED Strip Light
For the 120V LED strip light, which can be quite long (up to 100 meters), follow these installation steps:
1. Take the LED strip out of the package and unroll it.
2. Place the strip on the desired surface and secure it with clips. Avoid clipping over the LED chips.
3. Cut the strip at the transparent gap and use pins to connect it to the controller. Ensure the end cap is securely attached to prevent any electrical leakage.
4. Plug the strip into a power source.
By following these instructions, you’ll be able to easily cut and connect LED strip lights for your decoration projects. Whether you’re adding ambiance to your home or illuminating outdoor spaces, LED strip lights offer versatility and style. Happy lighting![url=https://twitback.com/bestledlightstripsblls][/url]
