LED strip lights get power by being connected to a DC (Direct Current) power supply, either directly or through a daisy chain connection to another LED strip segment that's already powered.
Here's a breakdown of how it works:
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DC Power Requirement: LED strip lights operate on low-voltage DC power, typically 12V or 24V. This is different from standard household AC (Alternating Current) power.
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Power Supply Conversion: To use LED strip lights with standard AC power, you need a power supply (also called a driver or transformer) that converts AC power to the appropriate DC voltage. This power supply usually comes with the LED strip light kit or is purchased separately.
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Connection Methods:
- Direct Connection: The most common method is to connect the LED strip directly to the DC power supply using wires or connectors. Some LED strip kits have pre-attached connectors for easy installation.
- Daisy Chaining: Some LED strips allow you to connect multiple segments together in a series, also known as daisy chaining. The first segment is connected to the DC power supply, and the subsequent segments draw power from the previous one. However, there's a limit to how many segments you can daisy chain before the voltage drops too low and the lights become dim or don't work.
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Power Supply Selection: Choosing the correct power supply is crucial. You need to consider:
- Voltage: Match the voltage of the power supply to the voltage required by the LED strip (e.g., 12V power supply for a 12V LED strip).
- Wattage: Calculate the total wattage required by the LED strip. Multiply the wattage per meter by the total length of the strip. The power supply must have a wattage rating equal to or greater than the total wattage of the LED strip. It's generally recommended to choose a power supply with at least 10-20% higher wattage than required to account for voltage drops and ensure reliable operation.
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Example Scenario: Imagine you have a 5-meter LED strip that consumes 5 watts per meter and operates at 12V. You would need a 12V power supply with a minimum wattage of 25 watts (5 meters * 5 watts/meter = 25 watts). A 30-watt or 35-watt 12V power supply would be a suitable choice.
In summary, LED strip lights require a DC power supply that converts standard AC power into the appropriate low-voltage DC power that the LEDs need to function. They connect directly to the power supply or through a daisy-chain configuration. Ensuring the correct voltage and wattage of the power supply is key to proper operation.
