When buying or installing LED neon flex, many users sometimes wonder how to use and install the LED neon tubes. For example, how to connect the LED neon tubes, because the LED neon tubes are 12V and 24V. Because the LED neon tubes are too heavy. The general 3M glue cannot stick to them and will fall off easily. When we need to install LED neon flex, what kind of LED neon flex accessories do we need to buy? More information, pls read Everything You Need to Know Before Buying LED Neon Flex
This article will systematically introduce the six key accessories commonly used in the installation of LED neon flex. Including power supply, controllers, waterproof connectors, IP67 end caps, fixing fixtures, and mounting aluminum. By fully understanding these accessories, you will be able to complete the installation more easily.
Power Supply
LED neon flex are generally powered by low voltage, so it is the first impport accessories. Usually using 12V or 24V low-voltage DC power supply. So, after we buy the right LED neon tube, we need to choose the right power adapter. Which is the first step in installing the LED flexible neon light.
It should be noted that insufficient power will cause dim or flickering lights. While excessive power may damage the light strip.
To choose a suitable power supply, you need to first understand a simple calculation formula. For example, the power of the LED neon tube you bought is 10W per meter. Aand you plan to use 5 meters per meter and connect a power supply.
- Required power supply power (W) = LED light strip power per meter × light strip length × safety factor (usually 1.2)
- 10W × 5 meters × 1.2 = 60W It is recommended to use a power adapter with a rated power of 60W or higher.
In addition, if it is used outdoors, it is recommended to choose a waterproof power supply (IP65 and above). Which is to prevent short circuits caused by rain or moisture. Buy well-known brands such as Mean Well power supply, although the price is slightly higher. But the stability and service life are more guaranteed.
LED Neon Flex Controller Accessories
If you buy a single-color LED neon strip, you can usually run it with just one power supply. But if you use RGB, RGBW, or addressable neon signs. You need a controller to manage color changes, brightness adjustments, dynamic effects, etc.
If you buy RGB or RGBW LED neon flex, you need to choose a compatible RGB, RGBW controller accessories. There are ordinary controllers for you to choose from, and there are also smart controllers that connect to mobile phone apps via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to provide more advanced functions such as scene settings, timer switches, and music synchronisation.
There are also special DMX512 and SPILED neon lights that require professional DMX and SPI controllers, which can accurately control multiple light strips to achieve complex light show effects. When choosing a controller, consider its compatibility, control distance, and response speed.
Waterproof Connector
Regular LED neon tubes are 5 meters long, and of course, they also support customised lengths. However, in order to achieve a more flexible layout or extend the length of the light strip, waterproof connectors are often required.
If it is used outdoors, waterproof male and female plugs are generally used. Male and female connectors are used to extend the connection between light strips, and models that match the width of the light strip should be selected.
When installing the male and female connectors of LED neon tubes, pay attention to cleaning the contact points and ensure that the waterproof cover is fully inserted and locked.
IP67 LED Neon Llex End Caps Accessories
I can call the end caps IP67 silicone end caps, which are small accessories but have a big role. When you need to cut the LED flexible neon lights to fit a specific length, the exposed ends are prone to dust and moisture entering, causing damage to the internal circuit.
Then we need this IP67 silicone end cap to effectively seal the cut and prevent these problems from happening. Pay attention to choosing the end caps that match the light strip model.
Fixed Installation (3M Glue vs. Mounting Clip)
In fact, for LED neon flex, they are generally fixed with mounting clips accessories. In addition to their beautiful appearance, the more important thing is that they will not fall off.
3M glue fixing is the easiest method, which is quick to install and almost invisible. However, LED neon tubes are too heavy for a long time, and may fall off due to weakened glue after long-term use.
Snap-on fixing brackets provide more solid support, especially suitable for outdoor or vibration environments. Although the installation is slightly complicated, it can be reused and is easy to adjust the position.
LED Aluminum Profiles
If LED neon tubes are used for exterior wall construction, then accessory LED aluminum profiles are generally selected. Because it allows LED flexible neon lights to be fixed and dissipated, and can also help extend the life of LEDs.
Common U-shaped slot aluminum profiles are suitable for most straight-line installations, with common lengths of 1m/2m/3m, while round or special-shaped aluminum profiles can be used for creative designs.
When choosing accessories, pay attention to size matching to ensure that the light strip can be safely placed in the slot. Aluminum with a diffuser can soften the light, with a variety of options for diffusion, transparent, frosted, and black to create different lighting effects.
Conclusion
When it comes to the use and installation of LED neon flex lights, you need to choose suitable and compatible accessories. This is the only way to truly achieve safe, stable and efficient lighting effects. From the power of the power adapter to the quality of the waterproof connector to the protective effect of the end cap. Each accessory has its own use. Finally, the fixing fixture and the installation of the LED aluminum determine the beauty and stability of the final installation effect.
If you need to buy LED neon flex, please contact us for a professional LED neon strip manufacturer.
FAQs
Not necessarily. If it is a single-color light strip, you can work directly by connecting it to the power supply without using a controller; but if you buy RGB, RGBW or addressable light strips, you must use a controller to adjust the color, brightness and lighting effects.
If the LED neon light is marked as cuttable, it can be cut. But it can only be cut at the marked line. After cutting, the end must be closed with a special IP67 end cap, and it is recommended to use silicone or heat shrink tubing for sealing to prevent dust and water.
It mainly depends on the type of LED neon tube you choose. For home users, it is recommended to use a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi controller, which can be controlled with a mobile phone app.
This is not necessary, but we recommend using LED profiles for installation. Because LED neon tubes are heavy, if they are left on for a long time, they may fall off.