RGB LED strip lights are a great way to add a touch of color to your home. They are very flexible and easy to work with, and they come in a variety of colors to meet your needs.
If you have a RGB LED strip, you want to connect it properly so that it works correctly. This can be a tricky thing to do, and you need to make sure that you have all the proper connections in place.
First, you need to figure out what type of LED strip you have. There are two basic types of LED strips: analog and digital. Analog-type strips use an analog system to control their individual LEDs, while digital-type strips have a chip that allows you to send digitally coded data to the LEDs in your strip.
To make sure that you are using the correct kind of LED strip, check to see what is marked on the strip itself. If the color markings match those on your RGB controller, you are using the right type of LED strip.
You can also tell that you are using the correct type of LED strip by looking at its connectors. Typically, RGB strips have four connectors: one for each LED, plus a common anode or cathode lead that is connected to the other leads.
After you’ve made sure that you’re using the correct type of LED strip, it’s time to start wiring it up. Before you begin, it’s a good idea to prepare your RGB controller and power supply.
Once your RGB controller and power supply are ready, you’ll need to connect the RGB LED strip to them. To make this easier, you can use a solderless connector.
It’s a good idea to have a solderless connector handy because it makes the connection much easier, and it also helps to keep you safe from burns while you’re working with these wires. You can purchase solderless connectors from a number of different places, but SparkFun has some that are compatible with our RGB lighting kits.
Another option is to use a T-connector. This little connector will allow you to connect multiple 10mm LED strips in a T configuration, which can be very useful for changing the angle of your installation or for creating two outputs from one.
You can find a T-connector at any hardware store. It’s a small plastic plug that fits into the end of an LED strip. Gently push down the tab to secure the connection.
Once you’ve made the connection, test the strip to make sure it is working properly. You can also use a remote control to turn the strip on and off or change its colors.
If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it’s best to have an electrician do the job for you. They are trained in working with circuits and can help you safely hook up the LED strip. They can also help you ensure that you’re wiring your strip in the correct polarity.