Armacost 131250 RibbonFlex Pro LED Accent Lighting Installation Guide
- June 6, 2024
- Armacost
Table of Contents
Armacost 131250 RibbonFlex Pro LED Accent Lighting
Please read completely before installing.
It is important to read these guidelines completely to understand how LED tape
lighting works and how it can be configured, cut to size, connected, and
installed so you can properly design your lighting layout.
Installing tape lighting is an easy DIY project. However, basic wiring
skills and tools for stripping, splicing, and connecting wires are required.
IMPORTANT
- Use only with low-voltage DC constant voltage power supplies. Never connect LED tape light directly to 120-volt household power.
- Do not power LED tape while coiled on the reel, as the LEDs will overheat. The mounting surface will act as a heat sink to dissipate heat.
- Do not stare directly into the LED lights when illuminated.
- Never connect more than one power supply to a run of LED lighting.
- Do not install a tape light where it can come in direct contact with water. Do not use long-term in high humidity environments.
- Use only insulated staples and plastic clips to secure cords and wires.
- Route and secure wires so they will not become pinched or damaged.
- Use certified CL2 or better cabling for wire runs inside walls.
- Do not install DC wiring in the same runs as 120-volt AC power.
All wiring must be in accordance with national and local electrical codes, low-voltage Class 2 circuit. If you are unclear as to how to install and wire this product, consult a qualified professional.
Planning
RibbonFlex Pro LED lighting is designed for indirect lighting applications. The LEDs themselves are not intended to be seen directly by the eye. Every installation is unique, and the desired lighting effect is based primarily upon personal preference. Installation location, wall colors, mounting angles, and the light’s reflection off walls, surfaces, and objects will affect the final lighting appearance. Subtle adjustments to the positioning and angle of the LED tape can greatly impact the overall lighting effect.
Installation considerations
- How will you switch your LED lighting on and off?
- Do you want to be able to dim your lighting?
- What is the best layout configuration for your installation?
- Where will you locate your power supply?
- What are the best ways to mount the tape lighting?
- How will you cut, connect, and conceal the wires to your lighting?
Choosing a power supply
Power supplies come in various sizes with different wattages and are often
referred to as transformers, AC/DC adaptors, or LED drivers. RibbonFlex Pro
LED tape operates on low voltage and requires a power supply to convert
120-volt household AC power to DC power.
- Never connect RibbonFlex LED Tape Lighting directly to 120-volt household power
- Never use both a 120-volt and a low-voltage dimmer in the same circuit
- Only use RibbonFlex with Armacost Lighting approved LED drivers and power supplies. Using other power supplies will void the warranty
The type of power supply you choose will be based on how you want to turn on/off or dim your lighting.
Using Standard 120-volt AC dimmers (e.g., Lutron® style)
NOTE: Tunable white tape light requires the use of a tunable white controller and can’t be used with an AC dimmer.
To use an AC dimmer, your Armacost Lighting LED driver/power supply must
clearly state on the packaging and case label that it is dimmable with
120-volt AC dimmers. Using a 120-volt dimmer with a power supply model that is
NOT dimmable will damage the power supply.
Typical wiring diagram when used with an AC dimmer
Using Armacost Lighting low-voltage LED dimmers
When using a Tunable White tape light or if installing an in-wall AC dimmer
isn’t practical for use with Dim-to-Warm or Continuous White models, choose an
Armacost low-voltage dimmer. These dimmers connect on the low-voltage side
anywhere between your power and LED lighting. Wireless model options are
available, useful in situations where installing new wiring can be difficult.
Choose from RF designer-style touchpads or Wi-Fi® controllers that work with
any smartphone.
For large lighting applications and multi-zone lighting control, use multiple Armacost dimmers. To learn more, visit armacostlighting.com.
For simple on/off control (no dimming)
If an AC outlet controlled by a wall switch is not available for your power
supply, use an Armacost Lighting Wireless Switch. This device adds switched
outlet convenience without running any new wires
RV, boat, and solar system applications
LED tape lighting can be powered directly by a 24-volt battery
A low-voltage LED dimmer can also be used with battery-powered systems.
Power supply size
Determining your wattage requirements
LED tape light power requirements are stated in watts and are based on several
factors, including your design configuration. RibbonFlex Pro can be installed
in a series (strips connected or wired end-to-end) or in an array (multiple
legs of LED strips or series of strips wired directly to a single power
supply).
TYPICAL DESIGN CONFIGURATIONS
Straight Run:
Only one end of the LED strip is powered. Multiple strips can be connected
in a series for a continuous run. LEDs farther away from the power supply may
appear dimmer due to voltage drop, especially if longer wires are used in
between to connect strips.
Center Feed / LoopBack
Either power two equal legs of tape lighting from the center or loop back
and power both ends of the LED tape. These configurations will produce more
consistent brightness and color over the length of the strip. A loopback is
excellent for room perimeter tray ceiling or cove lighting.
Array
An array uses two or more legs of various lengths wired to a power supply in a parallel connection. You will need to calculate the total wattage used in an array to guard against overloading the power supply.
Choosing a higher wattage power supply does not necessarily mean you can run longer lengths of LED tape light. However, it will allow for more lighting legs in an array design. Exceeding the maximum lengths in the chart at the end of this manual will cause LEDs furthest from the power supply to appear dimmer when at 100% brightness due to voltage drop. Using a higher wattage power supply will not reduce the effect of voltage drop.
Maximum recommended tape length
Configuration
| Dim-to-Warm White| Tunable White| Continuous White
Length ft. (m)| Watts used| Length ft. (m)|
Watts used| Length ft. (m)| Watts used
Straight run| 16.4 (5)| 44.8| 23 (7)| 37.32| 16.4 (5)| 60
Center feed / Loopback| 32.8 (10)| 89.6| 45.9 (14)| 74.64| 32.8 (10)|
120
Array| Varies based on layout and max wattage of power supply
How to calculate the total wattage required in a lighting system
Using the chart below, determine the watts used in each leg of lighting. A
straight run is considered one leg. A center feed is two equal-length legs of
lighting. An array can have many legs. Include only the lengths of LED tape in
your calculation, not the connecting wires.
Add together the watts used in each leg of lighting to get the total watts
required. Note this is when lighting is at 100% full brightness and when it
will use the most watts of energy.
Approximate watts used per meter at full brightness
Dim-to-Warm White
Meters| 1| 2| 3| 4| 5
Feet| 3.3| 6.6| 9.8| 13| 16.4
Watts used| 10.88| 20.16| 30| 38.64| 44.8
Tunable White
Meters| 1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6| 7
Feet| 3.3| 6.6| 9.8| 13| 16.4| 19.7| 23
Watts used| 6| 11.76| 17.02| 22.25| 26.59|
30.24| 37.32
Continuous White
Meters| 1| 2| 3| 4| 5
Feet| 3.3| 6.6| 9.8| 13| 16.4
Watts used| 12| 24| 36| 48| 60
- Watts used is the power consumed by your LED lighting system, not the watt rating of a power supply.
- Always choose a power supply rated at or greater than your needs.
- Due to voltage drop, longer lengths of LED tape will average fewer watts per foot than shorter lengths.
- To accurately measure watts used by your LED lighting system, use a multimeter. Watts are calculated by multiplying volts by amps used in your LED system.
Power supply location and voltage drop
The shorter the wire leads between the power supply and the LED lighting, the
brighter and more consistent your lighting will be – do not coil excess wire.
If the LEDs furthest from the power supply appear dimmer, it is probably due
to voltage drop. Voltage drop is the gradual decrease in voltage that occurs
from your power supply to your LED lighting. Voltage drop only becomes
undesirable if you notice the brightness in one area of your lighting is
objectionably different than in another area. As a practical approach, test
your LED lighting prior to final installation. If voltage drop appears to be
an issue, use thicker, heavier gauge wires, divide or power strips from both
ends (see loopback and array configurations) or useless lighting. To learn
more visit armacostlighting.com/voltagedrop for an easy-to-use online voltage
drop calculator.
Cutting, connecting, and wiring
There are two methods for connecting power wires and splicing together two
pieces of LED tape lighting: soldering or using connectors. Soldering is a
sure method for making strong, reliable electrical connections. For tips on
how to solder tape light, visit
armacostlighting.com/installation.
Soldered connections are required for marine and RV applications due to vehicle movement and vibrations. Wherever possible, it is recommended that you connect any needed low-voltage power wires to your tape lighting before installing.
How to cut tape light
- Whether you are soldering wires or using connectors, cut the LED tape with scissors directly in the center of the copper pad as shown in position “A” below.
- You can also cut the tape at position “B,” but do not use connectors on these tape light joints. You can solder wires to these joints.
IMPORTANT: Always use the + / – indicators printed on the tape light to maintain the same polarity (+ to + and – to –).
Using connectors
- Connectors are used to join two sections of LED tape.
- Use a wire lead connector to make turns and go around corners. They can also be spliced and extended for gaps of any size. 18–20 AWG wire is recommended for custom lengths (not included).
NOTE : Be sure all 24-volt connections are secure and protected from electrical shorting. Options include electrical tape, small wire nuts, crimp connectors, etc.
-
Peel about 1/4 inch of the paper from the LED strip adhesive backing at the connection point.
-
Use a gentle side-to-side motion to slide the strip into the connector, making sure the tape slides under the internal connector contact points.
-
Perform a power test before closing the connector. If the LEDs flicker or do not light, repeat the steps in this guide.
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SureLock connector: Close and lock pressure pad door. Use a flat head screwdriver to securely lock the door if necessary.
-
Continuous White connector: Press the top of the connector down to close.
Splice Connectors
Splice connectors are used to join two strips, creating a continuous run of
LED lighting. Use the + / – indicators printed on the tape light to maintain
the same polarity (+ to + and – to –).
If the + / – marks do not line up, flip the tape and use the opposite end for proper alignment.
Preparing the assembly location
-
Power the LED tape lighting and temporarily hold or tape into position with painter’s tape or masking tape – do not remove the adhesive paper backing.
-
Adjust the lighting to various angles and positions to get the desired level of illumination and lighting appearance. If the LEDs create undesirable light spots on walls or reflections, reposition the tape light strip farther away from surfaces or try a different mounting angle.
-
Once you have determined your final mounting position, remove
any dirt and dust present where the tape will be applied. Mounting surfaces should be clean, completely dry, and as dust-free as possible. For best results, install when temperatures are above 60ºF (15ºC). When installing on painted surfaces, paint should be fully cured based on the manufacturer’s cure time.
Installing the LED strip
-
Working from one end to the other, remove the paper backing protecting the adhesive and firmly press the LED tape down with your fingers or a clean cloth, taking care not to press on the individual LEDs.
-
Support and secure the power cables leading to the tape light with the included wire support clips.
-
NOTE : Although the LED tape can be installed in curved and irregular spaces, avoid sharp bends or bending on the solder joints as you could damage the LED tape light. If an LED is inadvertently damaged and fails to light, the remaining LEDs will continue to operate.
-
Support power wire leads, especially when mounting under cabinets and shelves.
Placement options for under cabinet lighting
For maximum light output, mount the LED tape towards the front of the cabinet
with LEDs facing down. To focus light on the work surface and also light your
backsplash, position the tape light an inch or two back from the front of the
cabinet. This mounting position works best with dull or matte finished
surfaces.
If your countertop is reflective,
install the LED tape lighting on the inside back of the cabinet lip frame with
the LEDs facing towards your backsplash. This method helps eliminate unwanted
light reflections and bright spots reflecting off your countertop. Because of
the wide beam angle of the tape light, this mounting position will still
provide ample lighting.
Continuous run mounting
of LED tape lighting is achieved by drilling a 1/2 in. the hole through
cabinet side frame lips. When mounting on the back side of the front frame
lip, use a multi-tool oscillating saw to make small vertical cuts in the
dividers to create slots that allow the tape lighting to pass from one cabinet
to another.
Tape light installed through a drilled hole.
Tape light installed through a slot cut into cabinet divider.
Create a visual barrier
when mounting under a cabinet or shelf with no lip to conceal the LED tape
light strip. Use a piece of angle trim, quarter-round molding, or any type of
trim desired to hide the LEDs.
Above Cabinet Uplighting
Most cabinet tops have uneven surfaces. To create beautiful, indirect
uplighting over cabinets, simply mount the LED tape light strip on any rigid
strip (e.g., thin lattice or corner guard molding) and place on top of
cabinets. Angle the strip position to achieve the desired illumination.
Cove Lighting
Try different mounting positions to get your desired lighting effect. For a
seamless glow with no bright light spots, keep the LED tape light strip at
least 3/4 in. away from walls.
Troubleshooting
Tape light strip does not light
- Make sure your LED power supply is receiving 120-volt power.
- Confirm you have maintained correct polarity (+ to + and – to –) when joining LED strips and when connecting to the power supply.
- Check all tape light connections and any switch or dimmer connections from the power supply to the LED tape light. Consider testing with a multimeter to ensure the light strip is receiving power.
Only part of the LED tape light strip is lit
- Check connections to the part of the strip that is not lit.
- Confirm that you have maintained correct polarity to the unlit section.
- RibbonFlex is made with multiple LEDs connected as one series between each set of copper pads. If you experience a partial failure, you can carefully cut out the damaged section and splice in a new section as needed to repair.
LED tape lights blink on and off
- Your power supply is not adequate for the length of the LED tape light you are powering. Install a higher wattage power supply or reduce watts used by shortening the lengths of your LED tape lighting.
LEDs farthest from the power supply are noticeably dimmer
- This is the result of a voltage drop. Decrease the length of the power feed wires or use thicker power feed wires between the power supply and the tape lighting.
- Use shorter lengths of LED tape lighting. Refer to Configuration options in these guidelines. Consider a different configuration.
Visitarmacostlighting.com/installation
for additional installation tips and FAQs.
Input voltage ……………………………………………………………… 24-volt DC Beam angle
………………………………………………………………………. 120°
LED light source: Dim-to-Warm White ……………………………….SMD 2835 Tunable White
……………………………………..SMD 2835 Continuous White ………………………………….SMD 2216
See product packaging or visit armacostlighting.com for additional product-
specific information.
Three-year limited warranty
Improper installation, abuse, or failure to use this product for its intended
purpose will void the warranty. This warranty only applies when all
components, including LED power supplies, have been provided by or approved
for use by Armacost Lighting. The warranty does not cover labor or any other
costs or expense to remove or install any defective, repaired or replaced
products.
Baltimore, Maryland armacostlighting.com