What Does LED Tape Do?

LED strip or LED tape is a versatile lighting solution that provides endless possibilities. Let me start by explaining what it actually is:

How LED Strips Work

Construction of LED Strips

LED lighting strip, in its essence, is a continuous row of LEDs that have been soldered onto a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) together with resistors to form a circuit. When powered by a power supply or driver, the LEDs produce a seamless light, similar to a fluorescent. LEDs are low voltage and require a DC (direct current) supply, which is usually 12 or 24 volt DC. When connecting the strips to a mains voltage power source, the use of a power supply or LED driver must be used. The LED driver converts mains 230V AC into 12V or 24V DC. The power rating requirement of the LED driver, measured in watts, is determined by the wattage and the total length of the strip.

Types of LED Strips

There are three main types of LED strips; the first is non-waterproof. This version is the most basic and fragile as the LEDs are placed on a piece of card or plastic without any cover to protect them. The second type is silicone or gel coated, which is waterproof and rated at IP65. This version is made up of a similar row of LEDs but is covered by a clear, thin silicone layer. The third version is fully sealed to IP68 and is water-resistant; it is mainly used outdoors. This version provides greater protection as the LEDs are sealed in a silicone coating.

LED Strip Chip Technology

SMD Chips: Surface Mount Device

These variants are only the construction of the lighting strips. Within the strips, there are many types of LED chips that could be used, ranging from smaller dimmer chips to larger, brighter chips. When larger chips are used, the strip needs to be wider to house them. The LED chips used in strip lights are called SMD, which stands for Surface Mount Device.

The Rise of LED Strips in Household Use

Affordable and Accessible Lighting

LED strip has been used in commercial applications for many years, but until recently, it was deemed too expensive and complicated for household use. As the price of LEDs gradually decreases due to higher demand and mass production, LED strips are now more accessible. Easy-to-order, plug-and-play kits allow consumers to install them themselves, and many people are realizing the full potential that LED strips have to offer.

Common Applications of LED Strips

Under Kitchen Cabinet Lighting

One of the fastest-growing areas where LED strips are used is under kitchen cabinet lighting. The benefits of using lighting strips here are that they can be cut to almost the exact lengths required (usually within 50mm). Basic installations can be done in a matter of minutes, as the strips can be stuck directly to the cabinets using the self-adhesive backing. Then, simply plug the power supply (also known as an LED driver) into a standard wall socket or wire it into the mains, and the job is done.

Choosing the Right LED Strip

For new users of LED strips, the options can seem daunting. However, most companies have now realized that there is no need to stock every type of strip available when one type will cover most applications. The most universal strip type is SMD5050, which contains LED chips that are 5mm by 5mm in size. This version is available with 30 LEDs per meter or the super-bright 60 LEDs per meter. Even when you have selected your type of strip, different variations exist as they are manufactured in different factories, which have different quality control procedures.

COB LED Strips: A New Generation of Lighting

What is COB LED Strip?

COB (Chip-on-Board) LED strips are a newer type of LED strip that offers a more advanced lighting solution. Unlike traditional SMD (Surface Mount Device) LED strips, COB LEDs are made by placing multiple LED chips directly onto the PCB in a continuous pattern, providing a smooth, uniform light without visible gaps between the LEDs. This makes COB LED strips ideal for creating a clean and sleek lighting effect.

Specifications of COB LED Strips

COB LED strips have considerably more LEDs per metre, the popular version has 480 LEDs per metre and a power rating of 15W per meter, making them much brighter and more efficient than many other types of LED strips. With their high LED density, COB strips emit a continuous beam of light that is perfect for high-quality, diffused illumination in applications like accent lighting, architectural lighting, and display lighting. They are particularly suited for environments where a uniform light output is essential, without the visible "dots" that can appear with traditional LED strips.

Controlling Your LED Strips

Basic and Advanced Control Options

Controlling the strip can be done using a basic on/off switch, a remote control, a smartphone, and many other controller types. The most advanced way is to control the lights from an iPhone or smartphone, which allows you to dim or change the color of the strip in your room from anywhere in the world! This is a great way to surprise or frighten the rest of the household when you're on holiday or working away.

LED Tape Lighting: A Versatile Solution

Short and Long Runs of LED Tape

LED tape lighting can be supplied in very short runs, ranging from just 50mm up to hundreds of meters. The use of hard-wired, heavy-duty power supplies must be used for longer runs. Hard-wired installations should be done by a qualified electrician, but shorter runs (around 10 meters) can be done by almost anyone using plug-in power supplies, as no tools or electrical knowledge is required.