What is an LED strip?
LED strips are a form of lighting, the use of which is growing every year, as they allow countless possibilities of use. There are many types but they mostly have the following advantages:- the possibility of installation in a small space,
- possibility of gluing,
- easy control and activation,
- low voltage,
- many species.
The main features are:
- it consists of a strip on which there are many individual LEDs,
- operate on low voltage direct current,
- they are available in a wide range of fixed and variable colors and brightness,
- there is an adhesive strip on the back for easy attachment.
Features of the LED strip
Species
SMD3528
The abbreviation SMD (Surface Mounted Diode) indicates a type of LED that is mounted on the surface. The number 3528 indicates the size of each LED - 3528 means 3.5mm x 2.8mm.
SMD5050
The abbreviation SMD (Surface Mounted Diode) indicates a type of LED that is mounted on the surface. The number 5050 indicates the size of the individual LED - 5050 means 5.0mm x 5.0mm.
COB
The abbreviation COB (Chip on Board) indicates a type of LED that is built directly into the tape. The main advantage of this type is that there are no interrupted dark fields and therefore a more homogeneous light. They also emit less heat, which is why they are more efficient and long-lasting.
Width:
LED strip is usually 8 - 10 - 12 mm wide and up to 5 meters long or more. You can cut them to specific lengths with scissors along the cuts, which are usually located every 2-3 LEDs on the strip. Depending on the width and type, it is also necessary to select the appropriate connectors.
Length:
They are available in a long reel (5 meters, in our store zarniceinsvetila.si price per 1 meter), which can be cut to the desired length. It is possible to connect them in series with the appropriate connector.
Gostota LED diod:
The density of LEDs is specified by the number of LEDs per meter.
Individual diodes are placed along the strip, usually with a density of 30 - 60 - 120 - 240 diodes per meter. Double the density with the same diodes also means twice the power.
IN our shop zarniceinsvetila.si the information is written in the name of the article, e.g. 60 LEDs.
Power:
The power of the strip is specified as W/m and tells us how much power the LED strip consumes for operation.
At the same power, the strips can have different luminance, which depends on the type.
Depending on the power, we also choose the appropriate power supply.
Luminosity
The brightness of LED strips is indicated by lumens. Unlike incandescent bulbs, different strips can have different levels of efficiency, so wattage is not always important in determining actual light output.
The brightness of an LED strip is usually described in lumens per meter. A quality LED strip must provide at least 1500 lumens per meter.
Color
LED strips are available in different colors - from white to adjustable.
White led strips are additionally marked according to the shade of white light in degrees Kelvin. From warm white to cool white.
The RGB label means that the LED strip has the ability to adjust the color of the light.
The CRI label is also important - the higher the CRI index, the better the color spectrum.
You can see the range of different LED strips on our website zarniceinsvetila.si.
Input voltage
Most LED strips are configured to operate at 12 V or 24 V DC. When switching off the standard mains power source (e.g. household wall outlets) at 120/240 V AC, the power must be converted to a suitable low voltage DC signal. This is most often and easily achieved by using a power supply.
Make sure your power supply has enough power to power the strips. Any DC power supply will list the maximum current rating (in amps) or power (in watts). Use the following formula to determine the total power of the LED strip:
Strength = tape strength (per m) x tape length (in m)
Example: 3 meter LED strip with a power specification of 10 W per m:
Moč = 10 W per m x 3 m = 30 W.
Based on this, you should choose a power supply with a minimum power of at least 30W.Check the offer of power supplies and other accessories in our online store zarniceinsvetila.si.
How to connect LED strips?
Each individual LED strip must be connected to a DC power supply or another identical LED strip already connected to a DC power supply (connected in series). You can also solder LED strips.Not sure how or don't want to get into soldering? You can also use to connect LED strips to power supplies and other strips connectors.
Aluminum profiles
Despite their versatility and ease of use, LED strips are still bare, and not the most aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
The right way is to mount the LED strip in an aluminum profile and protect it with a diffused glass cover. Installation in an aluminum profile is also important for heat dissipation.
The profiles are packed in sets with end elements and a diffuser. They are available in various forms, also for installation in plasterboard and ceramics.
Particularly interesting are the black profiles, which further improve the aesthetic aspect.
Control
LED strips are controlled via a power supply with a normal switch or via a remote control.
Choose appropriate professionals for installation.
