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How to connect led strip lights to power supply
EZ Clip Connectors
Screw-in Connectors
LED Splitters
A critical aspect to consider when dealing with LED strip installations is the power source you'll use. The adequacy of power significantly impacts whether the lights will operate optimally or encounter issues. Keep reading to discover the proper method for connecting LED strip lights to a power supply.
Exploring Two LED Power Supply Options
When making the decision on the most suitable power supply for your LED setup, you have the choice between two distinct alternatives.
Option 1: Hardwiring
The first option involves a hardwired power source that directly links to 120 volts AC wires. This power supply efficiently delivers low-voltage DC voltage to your LED strips, ensuring both safety and effectiveness.
These power supplies are typically more compact, facilitating discreet placement behind walls or in desired locations. Enclosed or caged power sources fall within this category, offering passive cooling to prevent overheating. They feature screw-in multiple terminal ports and versatile mounting options, granting them ease of use and a professional appearance. However, it's essential to note that this option requires main connections to your lights.
If you choose this path, you can opt to cut the connector from the strip and utilize wire or solder nuts for wire-to-wire connections. Consider the benefits of soldering as well—soldered connections are permanent, ensuring consistent current flow.
Soldering LED strips, while not overly complicated, necessitates the right equipment, components, and supplies, all of which are readily accessible. With practice, you can master the art of creating exceptional solder connections, ensuring a reliable and steady flow of current.
Option 2: Power Brick
One primary choice is to harness the convenience of a power brick, seamlessly plugging into a standard wall outlet. This ingenious device adeptly converts the line voltage into a steady 12 volts DC, tailor-made for fueling your LED strips.
This solution proves particularly advantageous for compact projects or scenarios demanding a discreetly tucked-away outlet. It substantially simplifies the wiring process, negating the need to directly connect cables to the primary electrical lines.
Key Considerations for Power Supply Selection
When deciding on the optimal power source, take into account the following critical factors:
LED Voltage
The voltage requirement of your LEDs significantly impacts the choice of the suitable power source. You'll find the LED strip voltage specified in the product details or description when making your purchase.
In most instances, the voltage falls within the range of 12 to 24 volts. Once you have this voltage information, it's crucial to ensure compatibility with the power supply you intend to use.
For instance, if your LED strip operates at 12 volts, the power source must also be 12 volts. Check the AC input voltage to ensure it aligns with the voltage standard in your country.
Failure to consider this essential match can result in LED strip malfunction.
Furthermore, the phenomenon of voltage drop is another crucial aspect in LED strip installations. Voltage gradually diminishes as the LED strip traverses a DC circuit.
The longer the LED strip, the greater the voltage drop per foot. As a consequence, one end of your LED strip lights may appear brighter than the other.
An LED strip functions optimally until the voltage drop reaches a specific threshold. Beyond this point, its brightness diminishes considerably, becoming noticeable to the human eye.
To mitigate voltage drop in your LED strip setup, there are several measures you can take:
Divide long LED lights lengths into shorter segments.
Establish additional parallel connections for each new LED strip originating from the power source. Repeat this process as necessary.
Add extra wiring from the power supply to uncut LED strips when voltage drops become an issue.
Considering these voltage-related factors will ensure a more successful and consistent LED strip installation.
Power Usage Considerations
When making a purchase, carefully review the product description to identify the power wattage specifications of your LED strip lights.
Once you have this wattage value, it's straightforward to calculate the corresponding amperage. This information becomes valuable for determining the proper compatibility between your strip lights and the power supply you intend to use.
It is feasible to increase the amperage and wattage of the power source while maintaining the voltage consistent with the LED strips' requirements.
The power supply's ability to precisely regulate and deliver the appropriate amount of current that your LED lights consume makes this feasible. This eliminates concerns about overcharging your LED strip lights.
However, it's essential to avoid the opposite scenario: utilizing a power source that provides less power than what your LED strips require. This approach is ill-advised as the power supply will eventually run out, leading to inadequate lighting and unreliable connections. The LED strips may exhibit issues such as flickering, dimness, or even complete failure to illuminate.
Useful Components for LED Strip to Power Supply Connection
Here are several valuable components that can significantly simplify the process of connecting your LED strips:
EZ Clip Connectors
These connectors conveniently snap onto the endpoints of your LED strips, eliminating the need for soldering. They are especially useful for easily connecting LED strip lights or creating gaps in your installation.
Screw-in Connectors
These compact connectors are incredibly handy when you need to join two sets of wiring together. The simple screwing mechanism enables easy attachment of wire connectors for both male and female ends. This is an excellent choice for connecting wire ends to either a 2.1mm or a 2.5mm socket.
LED Splitters
With these connectors, you can effortlessly plug in a single electrical source and then connect multiple LED strips to a single power source. These splitters are available in various options, including single color, RGB, and up to four-output connections, providing versatile solutions for your LED strip setup.
Conclusion
The widespread utilization of LED strips as a versatile light source is no secret. Given their multifaceted applications, it's essential to grasp the correct installation methods to fully appreciate the array of benefits they offer. By mastering the art of connecting LED strip lights to a power supply, you can unleash their potential without hesitation. No need to worry, as you're already on the right track!
view more: Best Led Lights
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