COB LED Strip Lights: How To Cut, Install, and Use Them

how to cut and use COB led strip lights

Not everyone likes the dotted look that comes with most traditional LED strip lights. If you’re someone who prefers a smoother and more seamless finish, COB LED strip lights might just be a better fit.

Lamomo offers COB LED strip lights in 24V and 120V options, with each designed for different lighting needs and spaces.

Here’s what you need to know before cutting, installing, or using either one.

Tools You’ll Need

Before taking any steps, start by gathering everything you need for the job. The tools and accessories are slightly different depending on which Lamomo model you’re using.

Have ready:

  • Sharp scissors for cutting the LED strip at the marked points.
  • Mounting clips and screws for securing the strip.
  • Suitable wall anchors or expansion tubes for installations that require additional support.
  • For the 24V COB LED strip, have the included power supply, controller, remote control, and quick-connect cord ready if your kit includes one.
  • For the 120V COB LED strip, have the included power cord, mounting clips and screws, expansion tubes, end caps, and silicone glue ready.

How To Cut COB LED Strip Lights

With your materials ready, the cutting process is fairly straightforward. Start by measuring the area you want to cover to determine how much strip you’ll need. Make sure you test the strip first, then disconnect it from the power source before making any cuts.

1. Locate the marked cutting line.

  • 24V COB LED Strip: Cut every 5 cm (1.96 in).
  • 120V COB LED Strip: Cut every 50 cm (19.69 in).

2. Use sharp scissors to cut directly along the marked line. Cutting outside the designated marks can damage the strip.

3. Prepare the cut end according to the model.

  • 24V COB LED Strip: The strip doesn’t require soldering for standard cutting. Select length options also include quick-connect cords for connecting sections.
  • 120V COB LED Strip: Insulate and waterproof the cut end before powering the strip. The set includes end caps and glue for sealing the exposed end.

How To Install COB LED Strip Lights

After the strip has been cut to the right length, you can then move on to installation. The two Lamomo COB LED strip lights have different installation setups, with adhesive backing only on the 24V model.

1. Plan the route and clean the surface. Make sure the surface is smooth, clean, and completely dry before attaching the strip.

2. Attach the strip securely.

  • 24V COB LED Strip: Peel off the adhesive backing gradually as you work along the planned route, pressing the strip firmly against the surface. Use the included mounting clips and screws for additional support, especially for longer runs or outdoor installations.
  • 120V COB LED Strip: Use the included mounting clips, screws, and expansion tubes to secure the strip firmly, particularly on harder surfaces.

3. Connect the strip to its power source.

  • 24V COB LED Strip: Connect the strip to the controller, then connect the controller to the 24V power supply before plugging it into an outlet.
  • 120V COB LED Strip: Connect the strip to the included 1.8 m power cord and plug it into an outlet. No separate power adapter is required.

4. Protect the electrical connections. If you’re installing the strip outdoors, keep the plug, power supply, end caps, and other electrical connections protected from water. The IP65 rating applies to the strip itself, not the other components in the setup.

How To Use Lamomo COB LED Strip Lights

The two COB LED strip light models work differently, so how you use them depends on the model you choose.

For the 24V COB LED strip light:

  • Adjust the Brightness: Use the remote to set the brightness anywhere from 10% to 100%.
  • Choose a Lighting Mode: Switch between Fade, Jump, and Flash modes to change the look of your lighting.
  • Set a Timer: Choose a 10-, 30-, or 60-minute timer when you want the lights to turn off automatically.
  • Use the Memory Function: The strip remembers your last lighting setting for easier everyday use.

The 24V model works well for cabinets, shelves, kitchen counters, bedrooms, hallways, staircases, home bars, and commercial displays where adjustable lighting is useful.

For the 120V COB LED strip light:

  • Plug It In to Power the Strip: This model connects directly to an outlet and doesn’t require a separate power adapter.
  • Use It for Longer Runs: Its longer length options make it suitable for ceilings, patios, fences, garden paths, backyards, offices, restaurants, and other larger spaces.

The 120V model doesn’t have dimming, remote control, timer, or lighting modes, so it’s designed for straightforward, continuous lighting.

To learn about the installation and usage guide for all the light strips, read the previous article: The Ultimate LED Strip Light Installation Guide for Beginners

FAQ

1. How to install LED strip lights when the adhesive isn’t sticking?

Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly and letting it dry completely. Dust, grease, moisture, or an uneven surface can prevent the adhesive from sticking properly.  If that doesn’t work, use mounting clips to secure the strip instead.

2. Can COB LED strip lights be installed on ceilings?

Yes. The Lamomo COB LED strip lights can be installed on ceilings. For longer installations, mounting clips can provide additional support, especially when adhesive backing isn’t available.

3. Can I use mounting clips instead of adhesive backing?

Yes. Mounting clips can be used to secure the COB LED strips when you want additional support. The 120V model doesn’t have adhesive backing, so it requires mounting clips, screws, and expansion tubes for installation.

4. Can you cut LED strip lights to fit a circular space?

Yes. You can cut Lamomo COB LED strip lights to fit a circular space, as long as each cut is made at a designated cutting mark. The 24V model can be cut every 5 cm (1.96 in), while the 120V model can be cut every 50 cm (19.69 in).

Conclusion

COB LED strip lights offer a smooth and uniform finish with plenty of flexibility for different spaces and applications.

For your other lighting needs, explore Lamomo’s range of LED lighting options to find the one that suits your space and project.

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