LED strip lights are a versatile and energy-efficient lighting solution that can transform any space. When it comes to wiring LED strip lights, it's important to follow the proper steps to ensure a safe and successful installation.
One of the most popular types of LED strip lights is the COB (Chip-on-Board) LED strip. COB LED strips offer a seamless, uniform light output that is perfect for a range of applications, from under-cabinet lighting to accent lighting.
To wire a COB LED strip light, you'll need to connect the strip to a power source, such as a DC power adapter or a compatible LED driver. The process is straightforward, but it's crucial to pay attention to the polarity and voltage requirements to avoid damaging the LEDs.This article will detail how to wire various types of LED strips, including single color, tunable white, RGB, RGBW, RGBCCT.
To better understand how to wire, we need to learn about voltage drop and parallel connection first. Additionally, please read the following articles:
Voltage Drop
The voltage drop of an LED strip refers to the reduction in voltage from the power supply to the actual LEDs. This voltage drop occurs due to resistance within the circuit, and the higher the resistance, the more significant the voltage drop.
What is the reason for the voltage drop in LED light strips?
1. The inherent resistance of any length of wire. The longer the wire, the greater its resistance. This resistance causes a voltage drop, which causes the LED to dim.
2. The resistance of the printed circuit board (PCB) itself. This resistance dissipates a portion of the voltage, converting electrical energy into heat.
The resistance of a PCB is directly related to its cross-sectional dimensions, which correspond to the width of the PCB board and the thickness of the copper. The larger the cross-section, the lower the resistance, while the longer the PCB, the greater the resistance.
Minimizing voltage drop in LED strips
To minimize the impact of voltage drop in LED strips, several steps can be taken:
1. Parallel Connection
1.Single color LED Strip
The single-color LED strip is the simplest. It has only two wires and can only emit a specific color of light.
Tunable white LED strips, also called CCT-tunable LED strips, usually have three wires and two LEDs with different color temperatures for dimming.
RGB LED strip has four wires, which are common anode, R, G, and B.Mainly used with LED controllers.
RGBW LED strips come in four colors: red, green, blue, and white. This can produce both vibrant colors and pure white light for more versatility.
RGBWW LED Strips include Red, Green, Blue, Cool White and Warm White. This allows for a full spectrum of colors as well as adjustable color temperature, providing both vibrant colors and customizable white lighting.
By following the manufacturer's instructions and taking the necessary precautions, you can easily incorporate COB LED strip lights into your home or business, creating a beautiful and energy-efficient lighting solution.