What is the difference between warm white and cool white LED tape?
Warm white LED tape looks slightly yellowish and is often used in more homely environments. The Cool white variant is more coldish and is widely used within retail display environments as it is clearer and brighter.
Are there any other types of single colour LED strip variants?
Yes these are. In order of popularity these are Amber, Blue, Red and Green. Amber seems to be the most popular and is usually installed in entertainment venues.
What is RGB LED tape and how do I use it?
RGB means Red, Green, Blue. RGB LED tape is used to create millions of vibrant colours by mixing between the three LEDs. RGB tape offers an exciting twist to traditional lighting schemes as dynamic colour changing scenes and unique colours can be created. To do this a quality DMX control setup is advised.
To create a professional and reliable DMX setup you will need to use MAD's UK manufactured (In- house in Leicestershire) DMX driver modules which have been specifically designed for LED tape. These will power the LED tape and will receive a DMX signal from your DMX compatible controller. Quality DMX control systems are available from the likes of Mode, Lutron, Rako, Crestron and many other leading control manufacturers. These will work seamlessly with a LEDION driver module.
Other types of control systems include imported control systems which are harder to install and often come with unexpected problems such as interference and faulty components. These are usually very inexpensive and supplied as a DMX receiver and transformer. Please bear in mind not all imported control systems are of bad quality but always test these before committing to a large installation. For peace of mind use our UK manufactured DMX Driver Modules which are designed, manufactured and tested in house in our Leicestershire factory.
Advantages of Quad Flex by MAD over all other LED Tape systems
Quad Flex is an RGB(W) LED tape that allows for vibrant RGB colour changing, essential whites and everything inbetween i.e pastel hues and shades and all whites (Warm, Soft, Neutral & Cool). Due to the added white you can truely mix the colours to get the shade you need. We can offer Quad Flex in either a DMX or Wireless setup depending on what you prefer. For this project a DMX setup is better in our opinion.
Although Quad Flex is more expensive you get so much more from the system. You get millions of quality colours, dynamic colour scenes, advanced control and added reliability (In traditional RGB systems having the RGB LEDs all on to make white is damaging to the strip. With Quadflex you get dedicated white LEDs to deliver a reliable effect).
The difference between SMD3528 and SMD5050 LED Strips
Currently there are 2 main types of LED strips one uses SMD3528 LED chips whilst the other uses SMD5050 LED chips. The difference between these is the sizes of the chip. The 5050 chip is 5.0mm x 5.0mm and the 3528 chip is 3.5mm by 2.8mm. Another noticeable difference is the width of the circuit board. The SMD3528 has an 8mm circuit board whilst the SMD5050 has a 10mm circuit board.
Despite the size of the 5050 being only slightly bigger it is x3 as bright as the 3528. This makes the 5050 version extremely popular when high brightness is required in a small space. MAD LED supply both types and have healthy supply of stock at all times. We are a full LED solutions provider and will take the time to help you with your requirements no matter how inventive they may seem!
Difference between NON-IP, IP65, IP67 AND IP68 waterproof LED Tape
Non IP LED tape is simply a circuit board with SMD LEDs placed along it. It has no resistance to liquid and should be installed in areas where water or other liquids cannot make contact with it.
IP65 strip has an epoxy resin coating that protects the LEDs from water splashes. It is ideal for bar areas however it should not be used in areas with heavy waterfall. IP65 is extremely difficult to cut, solder and re-seal as the epoxy resin must first be scraped away carefully before being soldered. MAD offers a professional cut to length & seal service to make your life easier. Call us now on 0116 278 2627.
IP67 tape has a silicon coating which is very flexible and can withstand temporary water immersion between 15cm and 1M. We don’t recommend IP67 for underwater usage but it is perfect for exterior environments and around water areas such as fountains, pools and waterfalls. It is also easy to cut and re-seal as it comes with a mini sealing kit with every reel.
IP68 LED tape is ideal for use underwater and has a silicon coating filled with epoxy resin. This is a very rigid strip that is suitable for water and underwater applications.
How to mount different types of LED Tape
All our non-ip & IP65 LED tape has a 3M branded backing tape. On our IP67/68 LED tape strip we offer mounting clips or they can come with 3M tape if requested. We also offer a further professional double sided tape solution which adds strength to the installation.
