The basics of LED strip lighting

LED tape, also known as LED strip lights or LED ribbons are different lighting options that offer a lot of versatility, which afford users a means to produce professional lighting setups with only a fraction of the effort and time it takes to put up other forms of lighting.

Voltage

LEDs that come with a self-adhesive back usually run on twelve volts and can cut up every two centimetres depending on the kind of lighting strip you have chosen. The usage of LEDs equate to the power consumption at a much lower value as opposed to older light sources. Research has shown the LEDs have a much longer lifespan with an expectancy of around ten years onwards. This makes LED lighting an extremely cost efficient solution to any user over a significant period of time.

Major LED Types

Single coloured and alternating colour are two main types of LED lighting available on the market, ranging from cool to warm colours. Generally, it is ideal if the light is there for a subtle effect, somewhat offering an ambience rather than main source of lighting. Many people use these lights to mount them on the underside of cabinets and kickboards in order to produce an appealing and functional lighting system – however they work just as well when used to highlight or produce accent lighting to enhance a homes atmosphere.

LED Light Selection

There is a special kind of LED that is in fact colour changing, managing to blend RGB light at the source point to produce a wider range of colour. Like the single colour strip, the colour changing LED strip can be utilized for various applications as well as while permitting a user to switch from a static to dynamic colour choices, with a diverse unit of control. There are various factors to consider when selecting LED lighting, including IP rating, chip size, brightness, length and driver.

Brightness Levels

The brightness or power of a ribbon varies dependant on the size and number of LEDs utilized. LEDs used by the tape are in fact a compressed version called Surface Mounted Devices (SMDs). These come in two sizes; 3258 for small and 5050 for the larger ones. Depending on the number of LEDs, there will be a greater number of LEDs that will increase the brightness, while less LEDs per metre will produce less power.

Drivers

LED drivers are needed for LED tapes run on a direct twelve volt current, which will bring down the voltage of the mains. These can be bought separately, or in a kit and a maximum load is common for many drivers; which must be good enough to control the light's power consumption. Should you wish to use LEDs outdoors, you can find ones suitable for this. Alternatively, waterproof and splash proof coating are applied on strips thus allowing them to be used to light areas that can be prone to moisture (outside, kitchens and bathrooms).

Thankfully, LED lighting is highly customisable and can be cut to certain requirements to allow you the ability to customise anything your heart desires. LED illuminations can cater for all of your lighting needs, so check out their website now!

For more information on LED strip lighting, please consult: http://www.ledilluminations.co.uk/products-page/led-ribbon-lights-and-strip-lighting/