led strip lights are designed to be flexible and customizable, which allows you to cut them to the desired length without affecting their functionality—provided you cut them at the right spots. Here’s how LED strip lights work when cut and what happens to the rest of the strip:
LED strip lights consist of a flexible circuit board with multiple LED modules mounted along it. Each segment of the strip typically contains several LEDs and the circuitry needed to power them. The strips are designed to be cut at specific points between these segments, known as cut points.
Cut Points: These points are usually marked with a scissor icon or dotted lines, indicating where you can safely cut the strip without damaging the circuit.
Segments: Each segment of LEDs is typically connected in parallel, so cutting at the right points will not affect the rest of the strip’s functionality.
When you cut LED strip lights at the designated points, the remaining part of the strip (the uncut side) will continue to work, as the circuit is intact. The cut end will no longer receive power, but the remaining sections will still function as long as they are properly connected to a power source.
Uncut Sections: After cutting, the uncut sections will still light up as before, as long as the power supply matches the strip's voltage (12V or 24V).
Cut Sections: The cut section will no longer work unless you reconnect it to a power source, either using connectors or soldering.
If you want to keep using both parts of the LED strip (the cut and uncut sections), you can reconnect them.
Using Connectors: There are specialized LED strip connectors that allow you to reconnect the two cut ends without soldering. These connectors are available for both single-color and RGB strips.
Soldering: For a more permanent solution, you can solder wires to the cut ends of the LED strips to create a secure connection. This will allow the current to flow from one section to another, effectively "bridging" the cut.
It’s important to make sure your power supply is adequate after cutting the LED strip. The length of the strip determines the amount of power needed.
For Shorter Strips: If you cut the LED strip to a shorter length, the power supply may need less power. However, ensure it still provides the right voltage.
For Longer Strips: If you reconnect the pieces to extend the LED strip or add more strips, your power supply will need to handle the total wattage. Be sure to check the total wattage and voltage required by the full setup to prevent overloading.
Cutting at the wrong spots: Always cut at the marked cut points. Cutting the strips between the segments can break the internal circuit, causing that part of the strip to stop working.
Damaging the circuit: Be careful not to damage the copper contacts or the circuit board when cutting. Use a sharp, clean cutting tool to avoid unnecessary damage.
