Neon LED strip lighting has come a long way, evolving from simple decorative elements to versatile, high-tech solutions that transform spaces both aesthetically and functionally. As technology continues to advance, the future of neon LED strip lighting is set to introduce even more innovative trends and designs. In this blog, we'll explore the upcoming trends in neon LED strip technology and how these advancements will influence home and commercial lighting in the future. We’ll also highlight how Flexible Neon's extensive product range is at the forefront of these exciting developments.
With festoon lighting, transforming any space into a charming and inviting area is as simple as flipping a switch. These versatile strings of light not only illuminate your surroundings but also infuse an air of magic into events, garden parties, and cosy indoor nooks.
Embracing extra low voltage lighting within your business not only signifies a technological advancement but also embodies a strategic choice laden with a multitude of benefits. One of the foremost advantages lies in the heightened safety offered by low voltage systems. By inherently reducing electrical risks, these systems create a secure environment conducive to the well-being of both employees and customers. This is particularly true for establishments equipped with our collections, which include 12V, 24V, and 36V lighting solutions, ensuring enhanced safety across diverse business landscapes, from corporate offices to bustling retail hubs.
Furthermore, extra low voltage lighting seamlessly aligns with contemporary sustainability goals. Engineered for maximum energy efficiency, our 12V, 24V, and 36V lighting systems curtail overall energy consumption, leading to tangible reductions in operational expenditures. This not only contributes to lower costs but also positions your business as a champion of environmental stewardship. By opting for our eco-friendly lighting solutions, you demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices, bolstering your brand reputation as a responsible custodian of the planet.
In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, businesses that embrace our extra low voltage lighting solutions take a definitive stride towards a luminous, safer, and greener future. By prioritising safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability, you're not only illuminating your spaces but also setting a precedent for responsible and forward-thinking operational paradigms.
Festoon lighting has become a staple in outdoor decor, offering a versatile and charming way to illuminate outdoor spaces. Whether you're hosting a summer soirée, creating a cosy patio retreat, or adding ambience to your garden, festoon lighting can transform your outdoor area into a magical oasis. In this blog post, we'll explore 10 creative ways to use festoon lighting to enhance your outdoor space and create unforgettable moments under the stars.
String Along Fences and Railings: Drape festoon lights along fences, railings, or pergolas to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft glow of the lights will add depth and dimension to your outdoor space while providing practical lighting for evening gatherings.
Illuminate Dining Areas: Hang festoon lights above outdoor dining tables to create an intimate and cosy ambience. The soft, diffused light will set the perfect mood for alfresco dinners with family and friends, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
Define Outdoor Seating Areas: Use festoon lighting to define outdoor seating areas and create visual interest in your backyard. Hang lights around seating areas, such as lounge chairs or benches, to delineate the space and draw attention to cosy nooks where guests can relax and unwind.
Line Pathways and Walkways: Guide guests to your outdoor space by lining pathways and walkways with festoon lighting. Not only will this add a touch of whimsy to your garden, but it will also provide a safe and well-lit passage for evening strolls.
Create a Canopy of Lights: Hang festoon lights overhead to create a canopy of lights that casts a warm and inviting glow over your outdoor space. This creates a magical ambience reminiscent of a starry night sky, perfect for romantic evenings or festive celebrations.
Highlight Outdoor Features: Use festoon lighting to highlight outdoor features such as trees, shrubs, or architectural elements. By strategically placing lights around key features, you can create a focal point and add drama to your outdoor landscape.
Decorate Outdoor Structures: Adorn outdoor structures such as pergolas, arbours, or gazebos with festoon lighting to enhance their beauty and charm. The soft, ambient light will transform these structures into enchanting focal points that beckon guests to gather and linger.
Add Colour with LED Bulbs: Experiment with coloured LED bulbs to add a playful and festive touch to your outdoor space. Whether you opt for vibrant hues or soft pastels, coloured festoon lights can instantly elevate the mood and create a festive atmosphere for outdoor parties and events.
Create a Cosy Fire Pit Setting: Enhance the ambience of your outdoor fire pit area by pairing it with festoon lighting. Hang lights overhead to create a cosy and inviting setting where guests can gather around the fire, share stories, and enjoy each other's company late into the night.
Extend Outdoor Living into the Night: With festoon lighting, you can extend your outdoor living space into the night, allowing you to enjoy your garden or patio long after the sun goes down. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, relaxing with a good book, or stargazing with loved ones, festoon lighting adds warmth and charm to your outdoor retreat.
From intimate gatherings to festive celebrations, festoon lighting offers endless possibilities for enhancing your outdoor space and creating memorable moments under the stars. Whether you're looking to add ambience to a cosy patio or transform your garden into a magical oasis, festoon lighting is sure to illuminate your outdoor adventures with style and charm. So, gather your loved ones, string up some lights, and let the magic of festoon lighting bring your outdoor space to life.
When it comes to creating stunning festoon lighting displays, choosing the right E27 festoon cable is crucial. Festoon cables not only provide the electrical connection for your lights but also play a significant role in determining the spacing and layout of your lighting arrangement. With various options available, selecting the ideal festoon cable can seem daunting. In this guide, we'll explore the different types of E27 festoon cables and provide insights to help you make the right choice for your lighting project.
Understanding E27 Festoon Cable Options: E27 festoon cables come in a variety of styles and configurations, each offering unique features and benefits. However, all the cables have a 80m max single feed festoon cable length. Here's a closer look at some common options available:
Festoon Cable BLK E27 Flat 0.25m Spacing (mtr): This type of festoon cable features a flat design with a spacing of 0.25 meters between sockets. It is ideal for creating densely packed lighting arrangements, providing a high concentration of lights in a limited space.
Festoon Cable BLK E27 Flat 0.50m Spacing (mtr): Similar to the 0.25m spacing option, this festoon cable features a flat design but with a slightly wider spacing of 0.50 meters between sockets. It offers a balanced combination of coverage and spacing, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Festoon Cable BLK E27 Flat 0.90m Spacing (mtr): With a spacing of 0.90 meters between sockets, this festoon cable provides ample room for larger lighting fixtures and allows for a more spread-out arrangement. It is ideal for illuminating outdoor spaces such as gardens, patios, and event venues.
Festoon Cable BLK E27 Round 0.50m (mtr): Featuring a round design with a spacing of 0.50 meters between sockets, this festoon cable offers a classic and elegant look. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and provides flexibility in terms of layout and configuration.
Festoon Cable WHT E27 Round 0.50m Spacing (mtr): Similar to the black round festoon cable, this white round festoon cable also has a spacing of 0.50 meters between sockets. It adds a touch of sophistication to any lighting display and blends seamlessly with various decor styles.
Festoon Cable BLK E27 Round 0.50m with 0.4m droppers (mtr): This festoon cable combines the classic round design with droppers, allowing for easy installation and adjustment of the lighting arrangement. The droppers provide additional support and stability, making it suitable for outdoor use in windy conditions.
Festoon Cable BLK E27 Round 0.90m with 0.4m droppers (mtr): Similar to the previous option, this festoon cable features a round design with droppers but with a wider spacing of 0.90 meters between sockets. It offers enhanced stability and coverage, making it suitable for larger outdoor spaces and events.
Choosing the Right E27 Festoon Cable: When selecting an E27 festoon cable, consider factors such as the size of the space, the desired lighting density, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. For smaller areas or tightly packed arrangements, opt for cables with shorter spacing. For larger spaces or more spread-out displays, choose cables with wider spacing. Additionally, consider the durability and weather resistance of the cable, especially for outdoor applications.
E27 festoon cables are essential components of festoon lighting setups, providing the electrical connection and layout for your lighting arrangement. By understanding the different options available and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the right E27 festoon cable to create stunning and memorable lighting displays for any occasion. Whether you're decorating a commercial venue, hosting an outdoor event, or adding ambience to your backyard, the wide range of E27 festoon cable options ensures that you'll find the perfect solution for your lighting project.
While festoon lighting is available in various voltages, including 12V and 240V, opting for 24V festoon lighting offers many distinct advantages. Here's why you should consider choosing 24V festoon lighting for your next lighting project:
Enhanced Safety: One of the primary reasons to choose 24V festoon lighting is its enhanced safety features. Compared to higher voltage options, such as 240V, 24V lighting poses a significantly lower risk of electric shock, making it safer for use in both indoor and outdoor environments. This is particularly important for installations in public spaces, events, and areas frequented by children or pets.
Reduced Voltage Drop: Voltage drop occurs when electricity travels through a wire, resulting in a decrease in voltage along the length of the cable. With 24V festoon lighting, you'll experience less voltage drop compared to lower voltage options like 12V. This means that your lights will maintain consistent brightness and performance over longer cable lengths, ensuring even illumination across your installation.
Longer Cable Runs: The use of 24V festoon lighting allows for longer cable runs without sacrificing brightness or performance. This flexibility is especially beneficial for large-scale installations or outdoor lighting setups where longer cable lengths are required to cover expansive areas. With 24V lighting, you can achieve your desired lighting design without worrying about limitations imposed by voltage drop.
Compatibility with LED Technology: 24V festoon lighting is well-suited for use with energy-efficient LED bulbs and fixtures. LED bulbs offer numerous advantages over traditional incandescent bulbs, including lower energy consumption, longer lifespan, and enhanced durability. By choosing 24V festoon lighting compatible with LED technology, you can enjoy the benefits of efficient and eco-friendly lighting solutions for your home, business, or event.
Versatile Applications: Whether you're decorating a backyard for a garden party, illuminating a wedding venue, or enhancing the ambience of a commercial space, 24V festoon lighting offers versatile applications. Its low voltage, combined with a wide range of bulb styles and cable options, makes it suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, including gardens, patios, cafés, restaurants, festivals, and more.
Compliance with Regulations: In Australia, electrical regulations dictate the use of low-voltage lighting solutions for certain applications, particularly in outdoor and public spaces. Choosing 24V festoon lighting ensures compliance with relevant regulations and standards, giving you peace of mind knowing that your lighting installation meets safety requirements and guidelines.
24V festoon lighting offers enhanced safety, reduced voltage drop, longer cable runs, compatibility with LED technology, versatile applications, and compliance with regulations. Whether you're a homeowner, event planner, or business owner, opting for 24V festoon lighting provides a reliable and efficient lighting solution that delivers exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal for any occasion.
Festoon lighting has become a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor lighting applications, adding a touch of charm and elegance to any space. Whether you're decorating your backyard for a summer party or illuminating a wedding venue, festoon lighting offers versatility, style, and ambience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about festoon lighting, from its history and types to installation tips and creative ideas.
1. What is Festoon Lighting? Festoon lighting, also known as string lighting or café lighting, consists of a series of bulbs suspended from a cable or wire at regular intervals. These lights are commonly used for decorative purposes in outdoor settings such as gardens, patios, weddings, festivals, and commercial spaces. Festoon lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and large-scale events.
2. The History of Festoon Lighting: Festoon lighting has its roots in traditional outdoor lighting used for festivals, celebrations, and special occasions. Historically, festoon lights were often hung between buildings or across streets to illuminate outdoor markets and public gatherings. Over time, festoon lighting evolved from simple incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LED lights, offering greater flexibility and durability.
3. Why Choose 24v festoon lighting? 24V festoon lighting offers enhanced safety, reduced voltage drop, longer cable runs, compatibility with LED technology, versatile applications, and compliance with regulations. Whether you're a homeowner, event planner, or business owner, opting for 24V festoon lighting provides a reliable and efficient lighting solution that delivers exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal for any occasion.
4. Types of Festoon Lighting:
6. Choosing the Right Festoon Lighting: When selecting festoon lighting for your space, consider the following factors:
7. Festoon Lighting Installation Tips:
8. Festoon Lighting Creative Ideas:
9. Maintenance and Safety Tips:
Festoon lighting offers a versatile, stylish, and practical lighting solution for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. Whether you're hosting a backyard soirée, planning a wedding reception, or decorating a commercial space, festoon lighting can transform any space into a magical and inviting environment. By considering factors such as bulb style, cable type, installation tips, and creative ideas, you can select the perfect festoon lighting setup to suit your needs and create unforgettable lighting displays that captivate and delight.
Festoon lighting is a popular choice for illuminating outdoor spaces with charm and ambience. One of the key components of festoon lighting setups is the E27 festoon bulb, available in a variety of styles and colours. In Australia, festoon bulbs are widely used for decorative lighting purposes, thanks to their versatility and aesthetic appeal. In this guide, we'll explore the different E27 festoon bulb styles available and provide insights into choosing the right style for your needs.
Understanding E27 Festoon Bulb Styles: E27 festoon bulbs come in various styles, each offering unique features and characteristics. From standard round bulbs to teardrop and vintage-inspired designs, there's a wide range of options to choose from. Here's a closer look at some popular E27 festoon bulb styles:
G45: The G45 style features a standard size round bulb design, making it a versatile choice for various applications. With its classic shape, the G45 bulb offers a timeless aesthetic that complements any festoon lighting setup.
G60: The G60 bulb is designed to cover up the socket, maximising the overall look of the festoon lighting arrangement. This style is expected to become increasingly popular due to its ability to enhance the visual appeal of the lighting display.
G80: Slightly larger than the G60, the G80 bulb works well with larger festoon bulbs like the G95 and G125. Available in different filament configurations and colours, the G80 bulb offers versatility and customisation options.
G95: Similar to the G80, the G95 bulb is larger in size and pairs well with other large festoon bulbs. It comes in various filament configurations and colours, allowing for creative lighting designs.
G125: The G125 bulb is one of the largest festoon bulb styles available, making it a statement piece in any lighting display. With its wide range of filament options, the G125 bulb offers flexibility and customisation possibilities.
C35: The C35 bulb features a festive teardrop design, adding a touch of whimsy to any festoon lighting setup. Available in clear and milky finishes, as well as a variety of colours, the C35 bulb is perfect for creating vibrant and eye-catching displays.
ST58 and ST64: Inspired by the light bulbs of the early 1900s, the ST58 and ST64 bulbs offer a vintage aesthetic that adds character to any setting. Made from special polycarbonate for safety, these bulbs come in clear filament configurations for a warm and inviting glow.
Cabochon: The Cabochon bulb is a fun and colourful option that adds a playful element to festoon lighting arrangements. Available in a range of vibrant colours, the Cabochon bulb is perfect for special events and themed decorations.
Strobe: The Strobe bulb is designed to grab attention with its flashing effect, making it ideal for amusement and entertainment purposes.
Choosing the Right E27 Festoon Bulb Style: When selecting an E27 festoon bulb style, consider factors such as the desired aesthetic, the size of the space, and the overall theme of the event or venue. For a classic look, opt for standard round bulbs like the G45 or vintage-inspired designs like the ST58 and ST64. For a more festive vibe, choose colourful options like the C35 or Cabochon bulbs. Additionally, consider the level of brightness and the colour temperature of the bulbs to ensure they complement the ambience of the space.
E27 festoon bulbs are an essential component of festoon lighting setups, offering versatility, style, and functionality. By understanding the different bulb styles available and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the right E27 festoon bulbs to create stunning lighting displays for any occasion. Whether you're decorating a commercial venue, hosting an outdoor event, or adding festive touches to your space, the wide range of E27 festoon bulb styles available ensures that you'll find the perfect lighting solution for your needs.
Festoon lighting has become increasingly popular for both indoor and outdoor events, adding a touch of ambience and charm to any space. However, choosing the right festoon accessories can be overwhelming with the plethora of options available. In this guide, we'll delve into the various festoon accessories and provide insights to help you make the best choices for your specific needs.
Understanding Festoon Accessories: Festoon accessories encompass a wide range of items that enhance the functionality and aesthetics of festoon lighting setups. From shades and droppers to lanterns of different shapes and sizes, these accessories offer versatility and customisation options to suit any event or space.
Shades: Shades are one of the most popular festoon accessories, available in a variety of colours and styles to complement different themes and settings. White shades create a soft, elegant glow, while Firetruck Red adds a vibrant pop of colour, ideal for festive occasions. Black shades offer a sleek and modern look, perfect for contemporary settings. When choosing shades, consider the atmosphere you want to create and select colours that align with your overall design scheme.
Droppers: Droppers play a crucial role in suspending festoon lights, providing stability and support. Black and white droppers are commonly used and blend seamlessly with most decor styles. These droppers are available in different lengths (20cm, 40cm, 60cm & 80cm), allowing you to customise the height of your festoon lights to suit the size and layout of your space. When installing festoon lighting, ensure that droppers are securely attached to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
Lanterns: Lanterns are a charming addition to festoon lighting setups, offering visual interest and texture. There are various types of lanterns available, including beehive, rectangular, cylindrical, and round lanterns, each with its unique shape and design. Beehive lanterns exude a rustic, whimsical charm, while rectangular lanterns offer a contemporary edge. Cylinder and round lanterns provide a classic and timeless look, suitable for a wide range of events and occasions. Consider mixing and matching different lantern styles to create visual contrast and dimension in your lighting design.
Tips for Choosing Festoon Accessories:
Choosing the right festoon accessories is essential for creating an inviting and captivating atmosphere for your event or space. Whether you prefer classic lanterns or modern shades, there are plenty of options available to suit your style and preferences. By carefully considering your design goals and selecting accessories that enhance your lighting setup, you can create a stunning and memorable ambience that will impress your guests and elevate your decor.
When it comes to illuminating outdoor spaces, our floodlights are indispensable for creating ambience, enhancing security, and highlighting architectural features. At Flexible Neon, we offer a wide range of floodlights tailored to meet diverse lighting needs, from single-coloured options to RGBW variations in various wattage. Let's explore the options we provide and their versatile uses in architectural lighting design.
Single-Coloured Floodlights: Our single-coloured floodlights are designed to deliver powerful and uniform illumination, making them ideal for accentuating architectural elements, landscaping, and outdoor areas. Available in wattage ranging from 50W to 200W, these floodlights provide reliable and energy-efficient lighting solutions for commercial and residential applications.
RGBW Floodlights: For those seeking dynamic and customisable lighting options, our RGBW floodlights are the perfect choice. With the ability to produce millions of colours and various lighting effects, these floodlights offer unparalleled versatility. Available in wattage of 250W and 500W, our RGBW floodlights are suitable for large-scale architectural projects, event lighting, and outdoor installations where colour-changing capabilities are desired.
Uses and Applications:
Architectural Lighting: Whether illuminating facades, highlighting building features, or creating dramatic lighting effects, our floodlights are essential for architectural lighting design. Their versatility allows architects and designers to enhance the aesthetics of any structure and create visually striking environments.
Outdoor Spaces: From gardens and parks to stadiums and parking lots, our floodlights provide reliable and efficient illumination for outdoor spaces of all sizes. Whether used for security lighting, landscape illumination, or outdoor events, our floodlights ensure safety and visibility in any environment.
Wall Washing: Our wall washer floodlights are specifically designed to evenly wash walls with light, creating a uniform and visually appealing glow. Ideal for highlighting textured surfaces, architectural details, and signage, wall washer floodlights add depth and dimension to any space.
Linear Wall Washer: Our linear wall washer floodlights offer precise and uniform illumination along architectural surfaces, such as building facades, bridges, and monuments. Their sleek and compact design makes them perfect for applications where space is limited, while their high-performance LED's ensure long-lasting and efficient operation.
At Flexible Neon, we understand the importance of reliable and high-quality lighting solutions in architectural design. Our floodlights are engineered to deliver exceptional performance, durability, and versatility, making them the perfect choice for commercial-grade lighting projects in Australia and beyond.
Whether you're illuminating a building facade, enhancing outdoor landscapes, or creating dynamic lighting effects, our floodlights are designed to meet your unique lighting needs. Explore our range of floodlights today and elevate your architectural lighting design with Flexible Neon.
In the realm of architectural lighting and beyond, the captivating glow of neon is unparalleled. At Flexible Neon, we offer a diverse range of neon options tailored to elevate any space or project, from architectural lighting to sign making and accent lighting. Let's delve into the various options we provide and explore the myriad of versatile uses for each.
6x12mm Neon Flex: The slender and discreet 6x12mm Neon Flex is ideal for creating stunning signage. Its compact size allows for intricate detailing, making it a popular choice for custom neon signs that command attention and convey messages with flair.
8x16mm Neon Flex: For those seeking to make a bold statement, the 8x16mm Neon Flex offers a wider profile suitable for both architectural lighting and accentuating signage. Its flexibility makes it easy to shape and mould, allowing for creative applications in various indoor and outdoor settings.
8x10x16mm Neon Flex: Designed for durability and versatility, the 8x10x16mm Neon Flex is not only resilient enough for outdoor installations but also perfect for accent lighting in interior spaces. Its robust construction makes it a reliable choice for architectural lighting fixtures, while its vibrant glow adds ambience and visual interest to any environment.
10x12x22mm Neon Flex: With its larger profile and maximum impact, the 10x12x22mm Neon Flex is perfect for creating eye-catching signage that demands attention. Its versatility extends beyond signage to accent lighting, where it can be used to highlight architectural features, create focal points, or set the mood in any space.
13x15mm Neon Flex: The 13x15mm Neon Flex strikes a balance between size and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether used for accent lighting or decorative installations, its versatility knows no bounds, allowing for endless creative expression.
At Flexible Neon, we pride ourselves on delivering customisable neon solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're looking to enhance a commercial space, create captivating signage, or add ambience to a residential interior, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you bring your vision to life.
With our commitment to quality, versatility, and innovation, Flexible Neon is your go-to destination for all your neon lighting needs. Explore our extensive range of options and discover the transformative power of neon in architectural design, signage, and accent lighting. Experience the beauty of neon and elevate your space with Flexible Neon today.
Tip: Flexible neon signs are particularly effective for businesses aiming to make a bold statement or establish a unique brand identity.
Unlimited Customisation: The flexibility of flexible neon allows for endless customisation possibilities. Whether you desire intricate designs, unique shapes, or personalised messages, flexible neon signs can be tailored to suit your brand's aesthetics and marketing objectives.
Nighttime Appeal: Unlike traditional signage that may fade into the darkness after sunset, flexible neon signs shine brightly, ensuring your business remains visible and inviting, even after hours. Their vibrant illumination creates an inviting ambience, enticing potential customers to explore further.
Energy Efficiency: Despite their luminous presence, flexible neon signs are surprisingly energy-efficient. Compared to conventional signage options, they consume minimal electricity, resulting in cost savings on both installation and operational expenses. Plus, utilising extra low voltage (12V) technology ensures safety while reducing energy consumption.
Longevity and Durability: Built to withstand the elements and the test of time, flexible neon signs boast impressive longevity. With proper installation and maintenance, they can last up to 12 years or more (depending on LED Lifespan usage and other factors), ensuring a durable and reliable signage solution for your business.
Consumer Appeal: With a rich history in advertising, neon signs have ingrained themselves in consumer consciousness. About 68 percent of participants in a survey said they bought a product or service simply because a neon sign caught their eye. Furthermore, a study by FedEx Office found that nearly 76% of consumers enter a store they have never visited before based purely on its signs. This demonstrates the incredible allure and consumer appeal of neon signage, making it an effective tool for attracting foot traffic and increasing brand awareness.
Install a Flexible Neon Sign & Illuminate Your Business With Style At Flexible Neon, we specialise in crafting high-quality flexible neon signs that elevate your brand presence and captivate your audience. Our experienced team ensures seamless installation, allowing you to reap the benefits of flexible neon signage immediately. Stand out from the competition and make a lasting impression with a custom flexible neon sign from Flexible Neon.
The magical allure of Christmas lights brings joy and warmth to the holiday season. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a dazzling display that spreads festive cheer in your home or outdoor space.
1. Planning Your Display:
2. Gathering Supplies:
3. Checking Lights:
4. Safety First:
5. Installing Lights:
6. Highlighting Special Features:
7. Balancing Colours:
8. Adding Personal Touches:
9. Testing and Adjusting:
10. Sustainable Practices:
11. Showcasing Your Work:
Creating a festive light display is an art that combines creativity, safety, and a dash of holiday spirit. Use this guide to illuminate your surroundings and share the magic of Christmas with the world.
Connecting low voltage wires together is a common task when working with lighting systems like festoon cables, LED drivers, dotless strips, modules, flexible neon, and more. Follow this detailed guide to ensure safe and reliable connections for your low voltage lighting projects.
Materials You Will Need:
Procedure:
1. Safety First:
2. Prepare the Wires:
3. Choose the Connection Method:
Wire Connectors (WAGO):
Soldering (for Permanent Connections):
4. Insulate the Connection:
5. Secure and Organise the Wires:
6. Test the Connection:
7. Repeat as Needed:
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively connect low voltage wires for your festoon cables, dotless strips, modules, flexible neon, and other low voltage lighting applications. Always adhere to safety guidelines and manufacturer recommendations for your specific lighting products.
Soldering Flexible Neon (12V) can be a precise process, but with the right tools and technique, it can be accomplished effectively. Here's a detailed guide on how to solder Flexible Neon for single-colour, RGB, and pixel applications:
Note: Before you begin, make sure you have the appropriate safety gear, such as safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves, and that you're working in a well-ventilated area. Also, ensure you're using the correct soldering equipment and have some experience with soldering techniques.
1. Prepare Your Work Area:
2. Prepare the Wires:
3. Tinning the Wires:
4. Soldering the Connections:
For Single Colour:
For RGB:
For Pixel:
5. Waterproofing and Protecting the Connections:
6. Final Checks:
Remember to exercise caution when working with hot soldering irons, and always follow safety guidelines to prevent burns or other injuries. If you're unsure about any part of the soldering process or need assistance with choosing the right controller, it's advisable to contact Flexible Neon for guidance and support.
When it comes to creating the perfect ambience in your living or working spaces, understanding the nuances of lighting is crucial. Two of the most popular lighting schemes, direct lighting and indirect lighting, offer distinct advantages and applications. Before embarking on any lighting project, it's essential to grasp the key differences between them.
Direct Lighting: Focusing the Beam
Direct lighting is all about precision. In this scheme, the light source directs its rays to illuminate a specific area or object. The result is a focused and intense spotlight effect, creating a well-defined hotspot at the centre of attention. Think of the concentrated illumination from a desk lamp, and you have a classic example of direct lighting.
Indirect Lighting: The Art of Diffusion
Conversely, indirect lighting takes a different approach. Here, the light source emits its rays upwards, allowing light to diffuse throughout the space. Rather than concentrating on a particular area, indirect lighting bathes the entire room in a gentle, even glow. It achieves this by reflecting light off surfaces, such as ceilings or walls, before it spreads throughout the space.
Distinguishing Between Direct and Indirect Lighting
Understanding the distinctions between these two lighting schemes is vital. Let's explore the pros and cons of each:
Direct Lighting: Shedding Light on the Benefits
Direct Lighting: Shedding Light on the Drawbacks
Indirect Lighting: Benefits of the Subtle Approach
Indirect Lighting: Consider the Drawbacks
When to Use Direct and Indirect Lighting
The choice between direct and indirect lighting largely depends on the purpose of the lighting and the space in question:
Direct Lighting - Ideal For:
Indirect Lighting - Ideal For:
Combining Direct and Indirect Lighting
To achieve the best of both worlds, you can combine direct and indirect lighting in your space. For instance, use indirect lighting to create a warm, ambient atmosphere throughout the room, and then employ direct lighting to focus on specific tasks or areas.
Direct Lighting Vs. Indirect Lighting: The Verdict
While both direct and indirect lighting have their merits, indirect lighting often shines as the preferred choice for its even and elegant illumination. It reduces glare, provides superior visibility, and contributes to a modern aesthetic. In contrast, direct lighting can be ideal for spotlighting specific areas or objects but comes with limitations like harsh shadows and uneven lighting. Ultimately, the choice between these two lighting schemes depends on your specific needs and the desired ambience.
Types of Lighting Schemes:
Lighting schemes are categorised into five types:
Understanding these lighting schemes can help you make informed decisions when designing the lighting for your space. Whether you prefer the precision of direct lighting or the elegance of indirect lighting, choosing the right lighting scheme can transform any room into a comfortable and functional environment.
When selecting an LED neon flex for your lighting project, several key factors must be considered to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here are the essential considerations:
1. Brightness: Determine the desired brightness by checking the lumen rating in the specifications. Higher lumen ratings indicate a brighter output. Flexible Neon employs high-quality SMD technology to ensure a consistently bright display. When choosing brightness levels within our range of neon, use the wattage as an indicator (higher wattage = brighter).
2. Waterproofing: For outdoor use, it's crucial to select a waterproof LED neon flex. Check the Ingress Protection (IP) rating, with IP67 or IP68 being ideal for water-resistant lighting.
3. Colour: Our range of Flexible Neon (12V) offer a wide range of colour options, including Emerald Green, Fire Truck Red, Hot Pink, Rose Pink, Light Pink, Icy Blue, Mars Green, Warm White 3000K, Neutral White 4000K, Pure White 6000K, Pixel, RGB, Royal Blue, Sun Yellow, Tangerine Orange. Our pixel neon allow you to control the colour pattern of specific sections, enabling dynamic lighting effects. Whereas RGB allows you to control throughout the colour wheel and through basic modes that the whole strip adheres to.
4. Dimension: The size and shape of the LED neon flex can impact its lighting output. A thicker and wider flex will provide more prominent illumination. Choose the dimension that aligns with your lighting requirements.
5. Shape: LED neon flexes come in various shapes, such as flat, slim, mushroom, semicircle, mini, and more. Each shape creates different lighting effects, so select one that suits your design objectives.
6. CRI (Colour Rendering Index): For applications where colour accuracy is crucial, consider the CRI rating. A CRI rating above 80 ensures high-quality colour representation.
7. Bend Type: Different LED neon flexes offer various bending options, including horizontal and vertical. Select the bending type that aligns with your design needs. Horizontal bending is particularly well-suited for creating signs and other designs where the neon flex needs to follow a specific shape or contour. This bending option allows for precise shaping, ensuring that your neon sign or lighting element accurately represents your intended design. Whether it's a logo, text, or any custom shape, horizontal bending provides the flexibility needed to bring your creative vision to life. Vertical bending, refers to the bending of the flexible neon strip in a vertical direction. This bending style allows you to create designs or lighting elements where the neon flex extends vertically or up and down.
8. Price: LED neon flex prices vary based on factors like structure, colour, and bending type. We at Flexible Neon try to keep our prices as affordable, to encourage a brighter and fun world.
9. Warranty: Pay close attention to warranty policies, especially for outdoor installations, where the neon must withstand harsh weather conditions. Our range of silicone is best suited for the outdoors due to its better UV rating.
What Are Flexible Neon Signs?
Neon signs, reimagined with silicone rather than the traditional glass tubes filled with volatile gases, represent a contemporary shift in lighting technology. Unlike the outdated and potentially hazardous gas-filled methods, our silicone or PVC based neon signs offer a safer, more versatile, and energy-efficient solution. These signs harness the power of modern LED technology to deliver vibrant and customisable illumination, making them perfect for a wide array of applications, from signage to decorative lighting. They are suitable for outdoor advertisements and can also be used to decorate homes, offices, restaurants, and more.
How Do Flexible Neon Signs Work?
Silicone and PVC neon flex lights differ from traditional glass-tube neon signs. These contemporary alternatives use flexible materials and incorporate LED components for illumination. Inside these neon flex lights are LED's, which emit light when an electrical current passes through them. The specific materials and LED designs determine the light's colour, offering a wide range of customisation. These lights are flexible, durable, and energy-efficient due to LED technology, making them ideal for various applications, from signage to decorative lighting
Colours of Flexible Neon Signs
Our Flexible Neon colour range includes Emerald Green, Fire Truck Red, Hot Pink, Rose Pink, Light Pink, Icy Blue, Mars Green, Warm White 3000K, Neutral White 4000K, Pure White 6000K, Pixel, RGB, Royal Blue, Sun Yellow, and Tangerine Orange.
What Are Flexible Neon Signs?
Flexible Neon signs are an affordable alternative to traditional, costly neon signage. They are made using PVC or silicone-wrapped flexible linear SMD LED strips, known as Flexible Neon lights. These Flexible Neon is safer, more durable, and more cost-effective than traditional neon signs. Therefore, Flexible Neon lights are an excellent choice for creating DIY Flexible Neon signs.
How to Make Your Own Flexible Neon Sign
You can create your own Flexible Neon sign without professional assistance. It's a fun and creative project that you can accomplish with a few pieces of equipment and following some straightforward steps. Here's how you can design and craft your own Flexible Neon sign:
What Do You Need to Make a Flexible Neon Sign?
Before you embark on creating your Flexible Neon sign, gather the necessary materials and tools. Here's a list of what you'll need:
With these materials at hand, you're ready to bring your DIY Flexible Neon sign to life. Follow the subsequent steps to craft your personalised Flexible Neon sign.
Designing and Crafting Your DIY LED Neon Sign:
Follow along with our how-to video with one of our talented Flexible Neon team member on YOUTUBE
Now that you have gathered all the necessary materials, follow these detailed steps to create your personalised Flexible Neon sign:
Step 1: Design Your Sign
1.1. Begin by sketching your desired design for the Flexible Neon sign on a piece of paper. This will serve as your blueprint.
1.2. Pay close attention to the size and shape of your sign, as this will determine the length of Flexible Neon required.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mounting Surface
2.1. Choose a suitable surface to mount your Flexible Neon sign. It could be a wall, a wooden board, or any other flat surface.
2.2. If needed, paint or decorate the surface to enhance the visual appeal of your sign.
2.3. Spray paint your Flexible Channel to the colour of the surface.
Step 3: Secure the Flexible Mounting Channel
3.1. Attach the flexible mounting channel to your prepared surface. Use screws to secure it firmly in place.
3.2. Ensure that the mounting channel follows the shape and dimensions of your sign design.
Step 4: Measure and Cut the Flexible Neon
4.1. Measure the length of LED neon flex lights required for your design, following the outline of your sketch.
4.2. Use cutters suitable for Flexible Neon to trim the LED neon flex lights to the precise length needed.
Step 5: Wiring and Connection (please see our wiring guide for further details)
5.1. Examine the Flexible Neon lights and identify the input and output ends.
5.2. Using appropriate wires and a soldering iron, connect the input end of the Flexible Neon to the power source. Be sure to connect the right polarities, and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for wiring.
5.3. Secure the wires and connections to prevent any loose or exposed components. We recommend using silicone glue and end caps to protect the LED's.
5.4. Test the connection to ensure the Flexible Neon lights illuminate correctly.
Step 6: Install the Flexible Neon
6.1. Carefully insert the Flexible Neon into the flexible mounting channel, following the shape of your design.
6.2. Secure the Flexible Neon in place within the channel, ensuring they remain evenly spaced and aligned. Some silicone glue may be used for extra adhesion.
Step 7: Final Touches
7.1. Inspect the Flexible Neon for any loose components, exposed wires, or irregularities.
7.2. If necessary, use a hot glue gun to secure any loose parts and ensure a tidy appearance.
7.3. Make any final adjustments to the positioning of the Flexible Neon.
Step 8: Power Up Your DIY LED Neon Sign
8.1. Connect the Meanwell LED Driver to the Flexible Neon sign.
8.2. Turn on the power and enjoy the vibrant glow of your personalised Flexible Neon sign.
Tips and Precautions:
Safety First: When working with electrical components, prioritise safety. Ensure the power source is disconnected while making connections, and only turn it on once everything is securely in place.
Precision Matters: Measure and cut the Flexible Neon accurately to match your design. Precise cutting will ensure a professional-looking finished product.
Proper Wiring: Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for wiring and connections to prevent any electrical issues or damage to the Flexible Neon.
Securely Mount: Ensure the flexible mounting channel is firmly attached to the chosen surface to support the weight of the Flexible Neon.
Test Before Finalising: Before securing all components permanently, test the Flexible Neon sign to confirm that it functions correctly.
Creative Freedom: Don't hesitate to experiment with different colours and designs to achieve your desired aesthetic.
Creating your DIY Flexible Neon sign can be a rewarding and visually striking project. With attention to detail and safety precautions, you can craft a personalised piece of illuminated art to enhance your space or promote your message. Enjoy the vibrant glow of your unique creation!
Extra Low Voltage (ELV) lighting systems offer a multitude of benefits, making them an excellent choice for a variety of applications. From practical advantages like easy installation to safety and energy efficiency, ELV lighting systems provide a versatile and reliable solution for both residential and commercial settings. In this guide, we'll explore the numerous benefits of using ELV lighting systems.
1. Safety: ELV lighting operates at lower voltages (typically 12V or 24V), significantly reducing the risk of electrical shock or injury. This makes ELV lighting safer for homeowners and installers alike.
2. Ease of Installation: ELV lighting systems are easier to install compared to high-voltage systems. They do not require deep trenching for wiring, which can be especially advantageous in garden and outdoor settings. ELV systems can run above ground, eliminating the need for extensive digging or underground conduit installation.
3. No Electrician Needed for Initial Installation (in Some Cases): ELV systems, particularly those designed for residential use, are often designed for simple DIY installation. This means homeowners can set up their ELV lighting without the need for professional electricians, saving on installation costs.
4. Energy Efficiency: ELV lighting systems are inherently energy-efficient. Lower voltage systems consume less electricity, resulting in reduced energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
5. Extended Lamp Life: Lower voltage operation tends to extend the life of lamps and bulbs used in ELV lighting systems. This reduces the frequency of bulb replacements, saving both time and money.
6. Less Heat Generation: ELV lighting systems generate less heat compared to higher voltage systems. This can be advantageous in garden or outdoor settings where excessive heat could affect plant growth or create discomfort.
7. Dimming Capabilities: Many ELV lighting systems are designed with dimming capabilities, allowing users to adjust the brightness to suit their needs. This flexibility enhances ambience and can save energy further.
8. Reduced Voltage Drop: ELV systems are less susceptible to voltage drop over long cable runs compared to high-voltage systems. This ensures consistent lighting performance throughout the entire installation.
9. Enhanced Landscape Lighting: ELV lighting is particularly well-suited for landscape lighting. Its low voltage minimises disruption to garden beds and lawns, and it can be easily adjusted to highlight specific features, pathways, or plants.
10. No Need for Extensive Compliance Testing (in Residential Settings): In many residential settings, ELV lighting installations do not require rigorous compliance testing or certification. This simplifies the installation process and reduces associated costs.
11. Easily Expandable: ELV systems are modular and can be easily expanded or modified as needed. This scalability allows homeowners and businesses to adapt their lighting setups over time.
12. Compliance with Regulations: ELV lighting systems often meet specific electrical safety regulations and standards, ensuring that your lighting installation is compliant with local codes.
13. Commercial Benefits: In commercial settings, ELV lighting can still be installed by non-electricians. Electricians are only needed to test and tag the transformer, reducing labour costs during initial installation.
14. Compatibility with Renewable Energy Sources: ELV lighting systems can be integrated with solar panels or other renewable energy sources, making them an eco-friendly choice for sustainable projects.
15. Remote Control and Automation: Many ELV lighting systems can be controlled remotely, allowing users to adjust lighting levels and schedules through smartphones or home automation systems.
16. Low Maintenance: ELV lighting systems require minimal maintenance, resulting in lower upkeep costs and fewer disruptions.
In summary, Extra Low Voltage (ELV) lighting systems offer a wide range of benefits, from enhanced safety and ease of installation to energy efficiency and versatility. Whether you're illuminating your garden, enhancing your landscape, or planning a commercial lighting project, ELV lighting can provide a practical, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution. Be sure to consult with a lighting professional or supplier to determine the most suitable ELV lighting system for your specific needs and requirements.
Selecting the appropriate wire American Wire Gauge (AWG) or gauge for your lighting applications is crucial to ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal performance. Wires come in various gauges, each designed for specific purposes. In your lighting projects, such as using our products with 12V, 24V, or 36V, the right wire gauge can make a significant difference. Let's delve into the details to help you choose the right wire gauge for your specific needs:
Understanding Wire Gauge (AWG):
Wire gauge, often represented as AWG, refers to the thickness or diameter of a wire. It's a standardised system used to classify wires based on their cross-sectional area. The lower the AWG number, the thicker and more robust the wire. Conversely, higher AWG numbers indicate thinner wires. Choosing the correct AWG is crucial to ensure your wires can safely carry the required current without overheating or voltage drop.
Factors to Consider:
Voltage Rating:
Current Load:
Wire Length:
Ambient Temperature:
Wire Material:
Voltage Drop Tolerance:
Choosing the Right AWG for Common Lighting Applications:
Here are recommendations for wire gauges based on common lighting applications and voltage levels:
12V Lighting:
For shorter runs (up to 6 meters):
For longer runs (up to 15 meters for best performance, beyond, too much voltage drop may occur):
24V Lighting:
For shorter runs (up to 6 meters):
For longer runs (up to 15 meters for best performance, beyond, too much voltage drop may occur):
36V Lighting:
For shorter runs (up to 6 meters):
For longer runs (up to 15 meters for best performance, beyond, too much voltage drop may occur):
Floodlights:
Dot less Strip Lights, Fairy Lights, and Festoon Bulbs:
Flexible Neon:
Additional Tips:
Conclusion:
Selecting the right wire gauge (AWG) for your lighting projects is essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal performance. Consider factors such as voltage rating, current load, wire length, ambient temperature, and voltage drop tolerance when choosing the appropriate wire gauge. Refer to the recommended wire gauges for common lighting applications mentioned above as a starting point, and always refer to the manufacturer's specifications for specific products. With the right wire gauge, your lighting installations will function reliably and safely.
LED strip lights, like those offered by Flexible Neon, are renowned for their longevity and versatility. To understand how long these LED strip lights can last, it's essential to examine their structure and the factors that influence their lifespan.
The Structure of LED Strip Lights:
The main components of LED strips include LED's (Light Emitting Diodes), FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Boards), resistors, and other essential elements. These components are assembled using Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Assembly Process, which mounts LED's, resistors, and other components onto the FPCB.
Some outdoor or underwater LED strips may also have a protective silicone or PU glue coating. However, it's crucial to note that LED strips with higher IP ratings, designed for enhanced protection against dust and water, may have a somewhat shorter lifespan compared to IP20-rated LED strips. This is primarily because LED strips with higher IP ratings struggle to dissipate heat as efficiently. Generally, cooler environments support a longer LED lifespan, as higher temperatures tend to reduce light output. (For more details on how heat affects LED's, see "How are LED's affected by heat?")
Understanding LED Lifetime and the "L70" Rule:
Unlike traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs that fail abruptly, LED's gradually lose their light output over time. They continue working until they become too dim to be practical. The industry has established a standard for this gradual decrease in light output, known as the "L70" metric. It signifies the point at which an LED has dimmed to 70% of its original brightness.
In some instances, you may come across symbols like "LxByCz(h)" to describe the lifetime of LED luminaires. Here's what it means:
For example, "L70B10C0.1 (50,000 h)" means that after 50,000 hours:
How Is "L70" Calculated?
To calculate LED lifetime, a testing method called LM-80 is often employed. This method specifies a predetermined temperature and driving current for testing LED samples. The light output change is measured at intervals of 1000 hours, up to a maximum of 10,000 hours. Reputable manufacturers conduct LM-80 testing at third-party laboratories to ensure impartial results. They then publish these results in report format. It's important to note that reliable LED strip suppliers should be able to provide LM80 test reports, especially when purchasing large quantities.
However, LED life testing can be time-consuming. For instance, even with LED's operating 24/7, a 10,000-hour test takes around 14 months. This timeframe is impractical for fast-moving industries like LED lighting. To address this issue, the TM-21 extrapolation algorithm is employed. It considers the performance of LM-80-tested samples during the first few thousand hours and provides an estimated lifetime.
Factors Affecting LED Strip Light Lifespan:
Several factors can affect the lifespan of LED strip lights:
FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board): High-quality, double-layer pure copper flexible PCBs facilitate the smooth passage of significant current, reduce heat generation, and promote efficient heat dissipation. By attaching the LED strip to an aluminium profile, you can dissipate heat effectively and lower the operating temperature, thus extending LED life.
Double-Sided Tape: Quality matters when it comes to adhesive tape. LED strip lights from reputable suppliers often use high-quality tapes, like the 3M brand VHB tape. Proper tape quality ensures long-lasting installations and good thermal conductivity.
Resistors: Resistors regulate the forward current through LED's to maintain their designed brightness. It's crucial to use high-quality resistors from reputable manufacturers to avoid shortening the LED strip's life or causing damage.
Power Supply: The power supply is a critical component. Always use a reliable, brand-name power supply to ensure stable voltage output. Low-quality power supplies can deliver unstable voltages that might exceed the LED strip's working voltage, potentially damaging it.
Heat Dissipation: Heat can significantly reduce LED lifespan. To manage heat effectively, install LED strips in well-ventilated areas. If feasible, attach the LED strip to an aluminium profile to aid in heat dissipation, as aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat.
By considering these factors and following best practices for installation and maintenance, you can maximise the lifespan of your Flexible Neon LED strip lights, ensuring they provide brilliant and reliable illumination for years to come.
Whether you're working on electrical projects or crafting intricate setups, knowing how to properly connect wires is essential for safety and efficiency. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through two common methods: soldering and using Wago connectors. We'll also emphasise the importance of maintaining consistent wire polarity to ensure your connections work seamlessly.
Materials You'll Need:
Method 1: Soldering Wires
Step 1: Prepare the Wires
Step 2: Solder the Wires
Step 3: Insulate with Heat Shrink Tubing (This step can be done before step 2 to make a more streamlined connection)
Method 2: Using Wago Connectors
Step 1: Prepare the Wires
Step 2: Secure the Wires
Step 3: Verify Polarity
General Tips:
Maintain Consistent Polarity: To prevent electrical issues, ensure that the wires' polarity (positive and negative) matches correctly when connecting them. A reversed polarity can lead to equipment damage or malfunction.
Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area, and take necessary precautions to avoid burns when soldering. If using Wago connectors, handle them carefully to prevent any accidental damage.
Practice Good Wire Management: Keep the wire connections tidy by using cable ties, conduit, or other wire management solutions.
Test Your Connections: Before finalising your project, test the connected wires using appropriate electrical equipment to verify that the connections are functioning as intended.
Wear Safety Gear: When soldering, protect your hands with gloves and your eyes with safety goggles to prevent accidental burns or splashes.
By following this guide, you'll be able to confidently and safely connect wires using both soldering and Wago connectors while maintaining proper polarity. This skill will prove invaluable for a wide range of electrical and DIY projects.
Flexible Neon lighting offers a versatile and captivating way to create stunning LED signs and features that draw attention and enhance the ambience of any space. With a wide range of neon sizes and complementary accessories, you can let your creativity shine and design captivating displays. Follow this detailed guide to harness the full potential of Flexible Neon accessories for crafting your own LED masterpiece.
Step 1: Choose Your Neon Size
Flexible Neon comes in various sizes, allowing you to customise your LED sign or feature according to your design and space requirements. Available sizes include:
Step 2: Plan Your Design
Decide on the layout, text, or pattern you want to create with your Flexible Neon LED sign. Take measurements of the area where you plan to install the sign to ensure the neon size fits perfectly.
Step 3: Gather Your Accessories
Flexible Neon accessories play a crucial role in achieving a professional and secure installation. Here's a breakdown of available accessories and their uses:
End Caps: Seal the ends of your Flexible Neon for protection and a clean finish. Available in various styles including regular, end cap with hole, side entry, and low entry.
Mounting Clips: Choose from stainless steel, aluminium, and plastic mounting clips to securely attach the neon to different surfaces. Available in various sizes to match your neon dimensions.
Mounting Channels: Aluminium and stainless steel mounting channels provide a secure and polished way to hold your neon in place. These channels can be bent to fit curved or straight surfaces. The flexible channel is a great way to hold the neon in place around curves and can be easily spray-painted to blend in with your amazing design.
Quick Connectors: Solderless connectors simplify the installation process by allowing you to easily connect neon segments without complex wiring.
Snap Connectors: Solderless connectors to simplify joining two separate pieces of neon together easily and quickly.
End Caps: Waterproof your design with end caps, using silicone glue to hold them in place. Even choose from ones with entry holes in almost every direction.
Coloured End Caps: Enhance the visual impact of your LED sign by using coloured end caps that match or contrast with your neon.
Step 4: Installation Follow these steps to assemble and install your LED sign or feature:
a. Assemble Neon: Using the quick connectors, join the individual neon segments together to form your desired design. Ensure the connections are secure.
b. Attach Mounting Clips: Depending on your surface, attach the appropriate mounting clips to the neon using adhesive or screws.
c. Insert Neon into Mounting Channels: For a more polished look, slide the neon into the aluminium or stainless steel mounting clips/channels, bending them as needed to match your design.
d. Install End Caps: Seal the ends of the neon with end caps using adhesive to maintain the IP rating.
Step 5: Powering Up
Connect the neon to an appropriate power source using trusted 12V LED drivers. Ensure you follow safety guidelines and adhere to electrical regulations during this step.
Step 6: Test and Adjust
Before finalising the installation, test the LED sign to ensure all neon segments are illuminated correctly. Make any necessary adjustments to positioning, angles, or connections.
Step 7: Secure and Enjoy
Once you're satisfied with the installation, secure all components in place and enjoy your custom LED sign or feature. Whether indoors or outdoors, your creation will captivate and illuminate its surroundings.
By utilising the wide array of Flexible Neon accessories and sizes, you can bring your creative visions to life, crafting unique and captivating LED signs and features that leave a lasting impression. Experiment with different combinations to achieve the desired aesthetics and lighting effects for your space.
Welcome to Flexible Neon - Australian design, led by Mitch Harrison. Our festoon lights are thoughtfully crafted to combine aesthetics with safety and efficiency. Unlike traditional bulbs, there's no risk of broken glass and high voltage, ensuring peace of mind for all. Built with commercial-grade materials, our festoon lights boast the biggest range of bulbs to suit any ambience. Inexpensive to run and maintenance-free, they're an ideal solution for any occasion. Operating on 24V DC (AC/DC bulbs), our festoon light system is not just decorative, but also provides substantial illumination. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, our IP-rated festoon lights promise durability and reliability.
Cable: Our festoon light cable comes with various socket spacing - 0.25m, 0.5m, and 0.9m - available in black or 0.5m in white. With the option of round or flat cables, you can choose the design that suits your needs best. For added versatility, we also offer 0.5m and 0.9m spacing with 0.4m droppers. Crafted from high-grade wire, our cables can accommodate long runs of up to 100m (depending on the bulb), ensuring flexibility in your lighting setup. The cable's simple yet intelligent design includes no separate flange, eliminating the risk of lost parts. For longer cable runs exceeding 7m, a support cable is recommended. Additionally, to prevent voltage drop, it's advisable to run a maximum of 10m from the LED Driver to the festoon cable for feeder cables.
Bulb: At Flexible Neon, we offer a wide selection of bulbs in various sizes for E27 fittings. Choose from a range of sizes, including G45, G60, G80, G95, G125, C35, Strobe and Cabochon, to perfectly suit your lighting needs. Within these sizes, we offer a diverse range of LED types/animations, filament colours, filament amounts, filament sizes, cap colours, and options for milky or clear caps. For added convenience, our bulbs are available in different wattage to match your desired brightness level.
In our vibrant colour range, you'll find over 7 different captivating colours to add an enchanting touch to any setting. Our bulbs operate on both AC and DC, ensuring compatibility with a variety of setups and making them highly versatile.
Rest assured that our bulbs are built to last, with a lifespan rated to over 10,000 hours, ensuring long-lasting illumination for your space. To ensure safety during use, our bulbs come equipped with a plastic cap, providing an extra layer of protection. With our extensive bulb collection, you'll find the perfect lighting solution for any event or space.
LED Drivers: Our commitment to quality extends to our LED drivers, where we exclusively use Meanwell LED Drivers. These drivers, available in various wattage, ensure stable and reliable 24V DC power for your festoon lights. Rated for outdoor use, our LED drivers are designed to withstand challenging environmental conditions.
Accessories: Enhance your festoon light setup with our range of accessories. We offer black and white droppers in 0.2m, 0.4m, 0.6m, and 0.8m lengths, providing flexibility in your light installation. Add a touch of style with our shades available in black, white, or firetruck red, and choose from a variety of shapes - beehive, cylinder, rectangle, or round lantern - to customise your lighting design.
At Flexible Neon, we prefer warm white lighting for several compelling reasons. Warm white light offers a softer, more natural glow that closely resembles traditional incandescent lighting, creating a welcoming and cosy ambience in any space. Here are some key reasons why warm white is our top choice:
Comfort and Relaxation: Warm white light has a colour temperature typically ranging from 2700K to 3500K, which emits a gentle, calming glow that promotes relaxation. It's ideal for areas where people gather, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and dining spaces.
Enhancing Decor: Warm white light complements various interior designs and colour schemes, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your space. It creates a harmonious atmosphere that suits both modern and classic settings.
Aesthetic Appeal: Warm white light is often preferred for its flattering effect on skin tones, making it an excellent choice for retail and hospitality spaces, as well as photography studios.
Cosy Ambience: Whether it's in a restaurant, café, or residential setting, warm white lighting helps to create a cosy and inviting environment that encourages social interaction and relaxation.
Versatility: Warm white lighting is incredibly versatile and can be used in various applications, such as accent lighting, cove lighting, or general room illumination.
Well-Being: Warm white light has been associated with improved mood and overall well-being. It is considered more soothing and less disruptive to circadian rhythms than cool white or daylight lighting.
Subtle and Stylish: Warm white light adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space, making it an excellent choice for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
At Flexible Neon, we prioritise the well-being and satisfaction of our customers. We believe that warm white lighting enhances the overall experience and comfort in any environment, making it a preferred option for a wide range of lighting projects. With our extensive collection of warm white LED products, we are committed to helping you achieve the perfect lighting solution that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Pixel LED's, also known as addressable LED's or smart LED's, are a fascinating type of light-emitting diode that allows individual control over each LED in a strip or matrix. They have revolutionised the world of lighting, enabling dynamic and mesmerising visual effects. Here's a comprehensive guide on how pixel LED's work:
1. Basic Structure: Pixel LED's consist of three main components: the RGB LED chip, a controller, and a driver. The RGB LED chip contains three individual LEDs - red, green, and blue - all integrated into one package. The controller is the brain that processes data and sends signals to each LED. The driver provides the necessary power and voltage regulation for the LED's to operate efficiently.
2. Addressing Each Pixel: Unlike conventional LED's, which are all controlled together as a single unit, pixel LED's can be individually addressed. Each LED in the strip or matrix has its unique address, allowing the controller to command specific LED's to turn on, off, or change colours independently.
3. Communication Protocols: Pixel LED's use various communication protocols to receive data from the controller. Flexible Neon mainly uses the SMD5050 but other common ones include WS2812, APA102, SK6812, and WS2813. These protocols enable data transmission through a single data wire, making it easy to control large numbers of LED's in long chains or grids.
4. Colour Mixing: By varying the intensity of the red, green, and blue LED's in each pixel, pixel LED's can produce a wide range of colours. This colour mixing capability enables the creation of intricate and dynamic lighting effects, from smooth gradients to animated patterns.
5. Control Methods: We employ a custom controller system for all our pixel needs at Flexible Neon. If you require assistance with setup, feel free to reach out to us. Pixel LED's can be controlled using microcontrollers or a dedicated LED controller. The microcontroller processes the desired lighting patterns and sends data to the LED strip or matrix using the appropriate communication protocol.
6. Power Requirements: Since each LED in a pixel LED strip requires power, it's essential to ensure that the power supply can handle the total power consumption of all LED's simultaneously displaying their brightest colours. Power injection might be necessary for longer strips or matrices to prevent voltage drop and maintain consistent brightness across all pixels.
7. Programming and Effects: To achieve stunning lighting effects, programming plays a crucial role. Users can code their own patterns or take advantage of Flexible Neon's pixel controller which has, intricate animations, colour-changing effects, and even responsive lighting that reacts to sound or environmental changes.
8. Applications: Pixel LED's have a wide range of applications, including stage lighting, art installations, architectural lighting, signage, home automation, and digital art. Their ability to create captivating visuals and easily adapt to various designs makes them a popular choice in the lighting industry.
Conclusion: Pixel LED's have transformed lighting possibilities, enabling intricate, dynamic, and mesmerising effects that were once unimaginable. With individual addressability and a wide range of colour options, these smart LED's provide endless creative opportunities for designers, artists, and enthusiasts alike. Whether for artistic expression, commercial displays, or home projects, pixel LED's continue to redefine the way we illuminate our surroundings and captivate our senses.
Colour temperature is a measure of the colour appearance of light, which is expressed in Kelvin (K). The colour temperature of white light refers to the warmth or coolness of the light emitted by a source. Lower colour temperatures (1800K-2700K) are considered warm white, while higher colour temperatures (3500K-6500K) are considered cool white.
1800K-2000K: These colour temperatures emit a very warm, yellowish light that is similar to the light emitted by candle flames. This type of light is often used for decorative purposes or to create a cosy and intimate atmosphere in a room. Examples include restaurants, bars, and hotel lobbies that aim to create a relaxed and comfortable ambience. These colour temperatures can also be used in outdoor lighting, such as string lights, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
2400K-2700K: These colour temperatures emit a warm white light that resembles the colour of traditional incandescent bulbs. They are often used in residential lighting, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms. These environments typically require a warm, comfortable atmosphere. These colour temperatures are also used in restaurants and bars to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
3000K: This colour temperature emits a slightly yellowish, warm white light that is commonly used in both residential and commercial lighting. It is often used in kitchens, bathrooms, and offices where a comfortable and relaxing environment is desired. This type of light is also suitable for retail environments, such as clothing stores, where warm lighting can make customers feel comfortable and encourage them to stay longer.
3500K: This colour temperature emits a neutral white light that is often used in commercial settings. It has a slightly yellowish tint, but it is not as intense as lower colour temperatures. Examples of applications include retail stores, hospitals, and schools where a bright, clean environment is desired. This type of light is also used in office environments where workers need to stay alert and focused.
4000K: This colour temperature emits a cool white light with a slight bluish tint. It is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings, such as factories, warehouses, and workshops, where a bright and efficient workspace is desired. This type of light is also suitable for hospitals, laboratories, and other environments where a clean, bright light is needed to perform tasks accurately.
5000K: This colour temperature emits a cool white light that simulates natural daylight. It is often used in offices, hospitals, and schools where a bright and energetic atmosphere is needed. This type of light is also commonly used for outdoor lighting, such as streetlights and parking lots. The high level of brightness provided by this colour temperature makes it an excellent choice for sports facilities.
6500K: This colour temperature emits a very cool, bluish light and is commonly used in applications that require high levels of illumination, such as sports arenas and outdoor lighting. It is also commonly used in industrial and commercial settings where precise work is required, such as in medical labs and clean rooms. This type of light is not suitable for residential settings as it can create a harsh and unwelcoming atmosphere.
In general, the appropriate colour temperature for a given application depends on the specific needs of the user and the environment in which the light will be used. For example, in a residential setting, warmer colour temperatures (2400K-2700K) create a warm and comfortable atmosphere, while cooler colour temperatures (4000K-5000K) are often used in commercial and industrial settings where a bright and efficient workspace is needed. In addition, the choice of colour temperature should also take into account the colour rendering index (CRI), which measures how accurately a light source reproduces colours compared to natural light. A higher CRI is desirable in applications where colour accuracy is important, such as art galleries, clothing stores, and makeup studios.
It is worth noting that the same colour temperature can appear differently depending on the context and surrounding colours. For example, a warm white light (2700K) can appear yellowish in a room with yellow walls, but it may appear more neutral in a room with white walls. Therefore, it is important to consider the overall colour scheme of a space when selecting the appropriate colour temperature.
In conclusion, understanding the different colour temperatures of white light and their characteristics can help users select the appropriate lighting for their needs. Whether it is for creating a cosy and intimate atmosphere in a home or providing bright and efficient lighting in a commercial or industrial setting, choosing the right colour temperature is essential for achieving the desired effect.
Step 1: Choose the Location and Plan the Layout
The first step in hanging commercial festoon cable is to determine the location and plan the layout. Start by deciding where you want to hang the cable and how many lights you need. Then, measure the distance between the anchor points and calculate the length of cable required.
Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools
Before you start, gather all the necessary materials and tools. You will need the following:
Festoon cable
Light bulbs
Cable ties or clips
Screw hooks or eye bolts
Pliers or wire cutters
Ladder or scaffolding (depending on the height of the installation)
2 Core Lead Wire
Cable connectors (depending on the type of cable you are using)
Step 3: Attach the Screw Hooks or Eye Bolts
Using a ladder or scaffolding, attach the screw hooks or eye bolts to the anchor points. Make sure they are securely fastened and can support the weight of the cable and lights.
Step 4: Install the Festoon Cable
Once the screw hooks or eye bolts are in place, it's time to install the festoon cable. Start at one end and work your way to the other, securing the cable to each anchor point with cable ties or clips. Make sure the cable is taut and doesn't sag in the middle.
Step 5: Attach the Light Bulbs
Now that the cable is in place, it's time to attach the light bulbs. Screw each bulb into the socket and make sure it's secure.
Step 6: Connect the Cable to Power via 24V Transformer.
Once all the light bulbs are in place, it's time to connect the cable to power via a 24V transformer. Before connecting the cable, make sure the transformer is rated for the wattage of the festoon lights you're using (See the relevant guide).
To connect the cable to the transformer, you may need to use WAGO’s or ask us to put an easy plug system to join the cable to the transformer. Make sure the connection is secure and safe, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the transformer.
Note that it's important to use a transformer when connecting festoon lights to power, as the lights are typically designed to run on low voltage (24V) for safety reasons. Without a transformer, you risk electrical shock or damage to the lights.
Step 7: Test the Lights
Before you finish, test the lights to make sure they are working properly. Turn on the power and check each light bulb to make sure it's working.
Step 8: Secure the Cable and Clean Up
Finally, secure the cable and clean up any mess you made during the installation. Use cable ties or clips to make sure the cable is secure and won't come loose over time. Dispose of any packaging or debris and enjoy your new festoon lights!
Overall, hanging commercial festoon cable can be a great way to add ambience and lighting to any outdoor or indoor space. With the right tools and a little planning, it's a straightforward process that can be completed by anyone.
Because most of our LED strips work at low voltage 12Vdc or 24Vdc, We can’t directly connect the LED strip to the mains 110Vac or 220Vac, which will damage the LED strip. Therefore, we need an LED power supply, also called an LED transformer, to convert the commercial power into the corresponding voltage required by the LED strip, 12Vdc or 24Vdc.
Finding the correct LED power supply for LED strips is not an easy task. There are many factors to consider when picking the most suitable LED power supply, and you need to know some basic LED power supply knowledge.
Constant voltage LED drivers typically have a fixed voltage rating of 5 V, 12 V, 24 V, or some other voltage rating with a range of current or maximum current.
All our LED strips must be used with a constant voltage power supply.
Constant current LED drivers will have similar ratings but be given a fixed amp (A) or milliamp (mA) value with a range of voltages or maximum voltage.
Constant current power supplies generally cannot be used with LED strips. Because the current of the constant current power supply is fixed, the current will change after the LED strip is cut or connected.
You need to find out how many watts the LED light will consume. If you wish to run more than one light with one power supply, you must add the wattages to find the total wattage used. Ensure you have a big enough power supply by giving yourself a 20% buffer of the total wattage calculated from the LEDs. This can quickly be done by multiplying the total wattage by 1.2 and then finding a power supply rated for that wattage.
For example, if you have two rolls of LED strips, each roll is 5 meters, and the power is 14.4W/m, then the total power is 14.4*5*2=144W.
Then the minimum wattage of the power supply you need is 144*1.2=172.8W.
You need to ensure that your LED power supply’s input and output voltage are correct.
The input voltage is related to which country the power supply is used.
The mains voltage in Australia is 240V.
But some LED power supplies are full voltage range input, which means this power supply can be used in any country worldwide.
The output voltage needs to be the same as your LED strip voltage.
If the output voltage exceeds the LED strip power supply, it will damage the LED strip and may cause a fire.
All of our LED strips are PWM dimmable, and if you need to adjust their brightness, you must ensure your power supply has the dimming capability. The data sheet for the power supply will state whether it can be dimmed and what type of dimming control is used.
Common dimming methods are as follows:
An essential factor that cannot be ignored when choosing a power supply is the use area and use environment. The power supply operates most efficiently if used within its temperature parameters. Power supply specifications should include a safe operating temperature range. It’s best to work within this range and ensure you don’t plug it in where heat can build up and exceed the maximum operating temperature. It’s usually a bad idea to plug a power supply in a cubicle that doesn’t have a ventilation system. This will allow even the smallest heat source to build up over time, ultimately cooking power. So ensure the area isn’t too hot or too cold, and the heat doesn’t build up to damaging levels.
Each LED power supply is marked with an IP rating.
An IP rating, or Ingress Protection Rating, is a number assigned to an LED driver to indicate the level of protection it offers against solid foreign objects and liquids. The rating is typically represented by two numbers, the first showing the protection against solid objects and the second against liquids. For example, an IP68 rating means the equipment is completely protected against dust ingress and can be submerged in water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes.
If you need to use the LED power supply outdoors where it is exposed to rain, please select an LED power supply with an appropriate IP rating.
Another critical characteristic in choosing an LED driver is efficiency. Efficiency, expressed as a percentage, tells you how much input power the driver can use to power the LEDs. Typical efficiencies range from 80-85%, but UL Class 1 drivers that can operate more LEDs are typically more efficient.
The power factor rating is the ratio of real power (Watts) used by the load compared to apparent power (Voltage x Current drawn) into the circuit: Power factor = Watts / (Volts x Amps). The power factor value is calculated by dividing real power and apparent value.
The range for power factor is between -1 and 1. The closer to 1 the power factor is, the more efficient the driver is.
When choosing a power supply for your LED project, it’s essential to know where it needs to be installed. If you want to put it inside the product you are making, it has to be small enough to fit in the space provided. If it’s outside the app, there should be a way to mount it nearby. A wide variety of power supplies are available in different sizes and shapes to suit your needs.
Class I LED drivers have basic insulation and must include a protective ground connection to reduce the risk of electric shock. Their safety is achieved through the use of basic insulation. It also provides a means of connecting to a protective grounding conductor in the building and connecting these conductive parts to the earth if the basic insulation fails, which would otherwise generate a dangerous voltage.
Class II LED drivers not only rely on basic insulation to prevent electric shock but must also provide additional safety measures, such as double insulation or reinforced insulation. It does not depend on either the protective ground or the installation conditions.
For safety reasons, LED power supplies should have protection features such as over-current, over-temperature, short-circuit, and open-circuit. These safety measures lead to a faulty power supply shutdown. These protection features are not mandatory. However, if you want to use it safely in case of problems, you should only install power supplies with these protection features.
LED power supply with UL certification means better safety and better quality.
Also, some projects require the LED power supply to have UL certification.
After choosing the right LED strip power supply, we connect the red and black wires of the LED strip to the corresponding terminals or leads of the power supply, respectively. Here we need to pay attention to the positive and negative terminals of the strip. They must correspond to the positive and negative poles of the power supply output. (The symbol + or +V indicates the red wire; the mark – or -V or COM indicates the black wire).
Yes, you can. But make sure that the wattage of the LED power supply is sufficient, and make sure that the LED strips are connected to the LED power supply in parallel to reduce the voltage drop.
The further away your LED strip is from the power source, the more noticeable the voltage drop will be. If you’re using long cables from the power supply to the LED strips, make sure those cables are made of thick copper and use as large-gauge cables as possible to help minimize voltage loss.
LED drivers, like most electronics, are susceptible to moisture and temperature. You need to install the LED driver in a dry location with plenty of air and good ventilation to maintain its reliability. Proper mounting is critical for air circulation and heat transfer. This will ensure optimal performance and long life.
Make sure you do not consume the entire capacity of the power supply. Leave some room to use only 80% of your driver’s maximum power rating. Doing so ensures that it will not always run at full power and avoids premature heating.
Ensure that the LED power supply is installed in a ventilated environment. This is beneficial to the air to help the power supply to dissipate heat and ensure that the power supply works to a suitable ambient temperature.
Install a switch at the mains input end of the LED power supply. When lighting is not required, disconnect the switch to ensure that the LED power supply is truly off.
Before applying power, the wiring needs to be checked in detail. Incorrect wiring may cause permanent damage to the LED power supply and LED strip.
You must ensure the LED power supply’s input and output voltages are correct. Otherwise, the incorrect input voltage may damage the LED power supply. And the wrong output voltage will damage the LED strip.
When the LED power supply wattage is insufficient, the LED power supply may be damaged. Some LED power supplies with overload protection will automatically turn off and on. You may see the LED strip constantly turn on and off (flicking).
Light is made up of tiny particles known as “photons,” when these photons are emitted, they have a certain trajectory. The angle that this trajectory makes is called the “Beam Angle.” The mechanism by which photons are produced varies in different light sources. Hence, the beam angle of the different lights also varies.
The beam angles are divided into several categories. They range from very narrow to very wide. Lights with broader beam angles spread wide. In contrast, the narrower beams have a lesser spread. Furthermore, the beam angle also impacts light intensity because it depends on the overall spread. A light that spreads more will be less intensive than that that has a narrower spread.
The light required to light up a space depends on its area and the preferred light source. It is expressed in the lumen and describes the intensity of the light. The point is a larger size would require more lumens than a narrower one. Hence, the light source should have a beam angle that spreads narrowly to brighten the entire space.
The following tables tell the light spread based on its beam angle based on NEMA. National Electrical Manufacturer Association, or NEMA, is one of the most credible associations of electrical equipment manufacturing companies. And the classification of beam angle by NEMA is widely used in the industry.
Most reputed light manufacturers provide information on the beam angle of their products. You can check for it and compare it with the provided table to know the kind of spread it will have.
Beam angle affects the lighting conditions of space by impacting the spread of the light. For instance, two LED lights produce 600 lumens but have different beam spreads. The one with a broader beam angle would brighten up more area than the narrower one.
However, while the wider beam angle would provide more spread, the light would not have a high intensity. It is because photons spread over a larger area, dividing the intensity in a large area. In contrast, the narrower beam angle would not produce as much spread, but it will be more intense. Again, a narrower beam would concentrate the photons in a more limited region.
Different spaces in homes and offices have varying lighting requirements. For example, some areas require intense light to enhance the utility, while others need a better spread. Therefore, you should select a beam angle based on the utility and the lighting requirement of a particular space.
Each area has different lighting requirements, divided into three main categories. These include basic lighting, accent lighting, and decorative lighting.
Basic lighting is the most common and widely used in all spaces. You often see such lighting in living rooms, bedrooms, garages, and bathrooms. It strikes a balance between intensity and spread. Typically, the basic lighting covers the entire space with enough intensity to provide decent utility. The beam angle for such lights ranges from 120 to 90 degrees, depending on the size of the area.
Accent lighting highlight a particular area in a space. For example, you can use it to brighten up the living room’s seating area or highlight the walls’ colour. Because it does not require a wider spread, you can use light with narrower beam angles. Lights with such a beam angle light up only a selected area and provide profound intensity. Typically, you use Medium Narrow or Narrow beam angles for accent lighting.
Decorative lighting, as the name suggests, is used for decoration. For example, you can use them to highlight a decoration piece or install different coloured lights in some parts of the homes. Typically, narrow and very narrow light beams are used for this purpose. These lights do not have to brighten up a large space but a narrow region. And the narrower angles provide exactly that while offering more intensity.
Since different beam angles produce different light styles, their applications also vary. So let’s take a look at them.
A narrow beam angle covers a smaller area but provides more intense light. Such light angles work best for case closets and small kitchens and highlight certain houses’ areas. In commercial spaces, you should prefer it for warehouses and accent lighting tables in restaurants. However, while using these lights in the warehouse, remember that you will get little coverage. Hence, you would need multiple lights to get proper lighting.
A medium angle strikes a balance between intensity and coverage. Hence, these lights work best in living areas in domestic spaces. However, you can prefer them for ambient lighting in clothing stores in commercial spaces.
Wide angle has a broader spread and is used to light outdoor spaces. For example, you can use it in a home patio space to provide ambient light to a large commercial store.
Such a beam angle aims to spread the light as far as possible. Hence, these are typically used outdoors in floodlights and street lamps.
Now that you know the impact of beam angle on the lighting conditions, you must also know that several factors determine the right beam angles. You must consider the following factor to select the right beam angle for a particular space. Let’s take a look at them:
The first thing that you should take into account is the type of building. You have to be aware of the space’s size, the ceiling’s height, and the required number of fixtures. If a room has a high ceiling and a shorter area, it would need a lesser number of fixtures. Furthermore, the narrower beam for such spaces would work better because not much spread is required.
In contrast, a building with a wider area and a lower ceiling would be better off with a broader beam angle. Selecting a narrow beam angle for such spaces creates less spread which would not be enough to light up the entire area.
Most buildings have ceiling heights of about 7.9 to 8.9 feet. Lights with a wider angle of 60 degrees will work for such structures. However, if the ceiling is higher than 8.9 feet, you would need multiple lights. And it would help if you chose a narrower beam angle to provide adequate lumens.
The area of different spaces varies, thus the number of lights required to brighten it up. It is also an essential factor that you should consider when selecting a beam angle. If space requires two or more lights, the beam angle for each one would have to be estimated separately.
You would have to devise a lighting plan and assign a portion of the area to each light source. That particular light source should have a beam angle that covers the entire area and provides adequate lumens.
Not all portions of the space need to have the same area. Hence, the requirement for each part can vary. The point is you cannot select an optimal beam angle based on the calculation of a single portion.
Another critical point is that all the light beams in a single space must overlap. Otherwise, there will be areas that receive no light and will be darker.
Once you have noted down the lighting requirements of the space, you would have to pick between several LED types. Each of these types offers a different beam angle which you should consider before purchasing them. The beam angle of a LED might vary within its category, but the following table shows general beam angles of different categories.
Now that we have covered the basics of beam lights, let’s move on to the lighting requirements of different spaces. Generally, we can divide light styles into two categories, domestic and commercial. The two types have different applications; hence, the appropriate beam angles also vary. So, let’s take a look at them.
Residential buildings have lower ceilings and square areas than commercial properties. Furthermore, the lighting requirements mostly stay the same for the houses and apartments. Hence, you can use the same beam angle in both spaces. For most domestic spaces, the beam angle of 40-60 degrees would work the best. This angle will cover the entire space area, including a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.
However, the living rooms generally have a larger area, so it needs more spread than the other spaces in a house. Hence, it would be best if you chose anything above 60 degrees to light up the living room. The calculation might vary based on the factors discussed in the earlier section.
In addition to covering the significant spaces, specific components such as staircases, closets, and kitchen cabinets also have lighting requirements. Because the light in such areas has to cover a narrower region, a narrower angle of about 25 degrees is ideal for them.
Commercial buildings have several types, and the lighting requirements for each class vary significantly. Hence, we have divided them into the following sub-categories.
Workspaces like offices need intense lighting in all of their areas to ensure that the space of every employee is well-lit. It is imperative in workplaces where employees spend most of their time on laptops and desktops. Poor lighting conditions around the desk can cause strain on the eyes, which can decrease productivity. Such spaces benefit the best from lights with narrower beam angles to provide more intensity. However, you must install more lights to cover the entire area.
Warehouses typically have higher ceilings than other Commercial spaces. A wider beam angle would not help because light would not reach down because of low intensity. You should use a narrower beam and install multiple lights to brighten a warehouse. However, the wider beam can also be opted for only when you install the lights into walls instead of ceilings.
The purpose of lighting in retail stores is not just to provide adequate brightness in the space but also to showcase products. Hence, it requires brighter and more intense light, which narrower beams can achieve. You can use a combination of light beams to provide optimal light in the entire store.
For example, the wider beam can be used in ceilings to cover the whole store. In contrast, you can use very narrow beams, such as 10 degrees in racks, to highlight the products.
Most restaurants open up in the evening, and the purpose of lighting in such spaces is to highlight the aesthetics. You should use narrower beam light in these spaces but be mindful that they should be somewhat light. A daylight environment within a restaurant would not work well. Furthermore, very narrow beams, such as 10 to 25, can be used to highlight the restaurant’s decor.
At Flexible Neon, we believe in delivering the highest quality products to our valued customers, which is why we exclusively use Meanwell LED drivers in our lighting solutions. Meanwell is renowned for its exceptional reliability, efficiency, and performance, making it a trusted brand in the industry. By using Meanwell LED drivers, we ensure that our lighting systems operate with maximum efficiency and longevity. These drivers are designed to provide stable and precise voltage regulation, ensuring consistent and flicker-free illumination. Additionally, Meanwell LED drivers are known for their advanced safety features, protecting both the LED lights and the overall electrical system. With Meanwell's proven track record of excellence, we can confidently offer lighting solutions that meet the highest standards of quality, durability, and safety to our valued clients.
As energy laws have gotten stricter, most people know that LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, last a long time and save energy. Few people understand that these high-tech light sources can’t work without an LED driver. A LED driver also known as a transformer or LED power supplies, are like ballasts for fluorescent lights or transformers for low-voltage products such as Bulbs or Flexible Neon. They give LEDs the electricity they need to run and work at their best, although not all products seen are low voltage.
An LED driver controls how much power an LED or a group of LEDs needs. Since light-emitting diodes are low-energy lighting devices with long life and low energy uses, they need a specialised power source.
The main jobs of LED drivers are to provide low voltage and protect LEDs. Each LED can use up to 30mA of current and work at voltages of about 1.5V to 3.5V. Multiple LEDs can be used in series or groups to make home lighting, which may need a total voltage of 12 to 24 V DC. The LED driver turns the AC around to meet the needs and lowers the voltage. This means that the high AC mains voltage, which ranges from 120V to 230V, must be changed into the low DC voltage that is needed.
The LED drivers also protect the LEDs from changes in voltage and current. Even if the mains supply changes, the circuits ensure that the voltage and current going to the LEDs stay in the suitable range for them to work. The protection stops the LEDs from getting too much voltage and current, which would hurt them, or have insufficient current, making them less bright.
When the temperature of an LED changes, so does the forward voltage needs. As it gets hotter, less voltage is needed to move current through the LED, so it uses more power. Thermal runaway is when the temperature goes up out of control and burns out an LED. The power output levels on LED drivers are made to meet the needs of LEDs. The driver’s constant current keeps the temperature stable by responding to changes in the forward voltage.
Transformers for low-voltage lighting products do the same thing that LED drivers do for LEDs. LED lights are low-voltage devices that usually run on 4V, 12V, or 24V (note Flexible Neon only uses 12V and 24V). To work, they need a source of direct current power But because the wall sockets power supplies typically have a much higher Voltage (220V in Australia) and produce alternating current, they are not directly compatible. Since the average voltage of an LED is too low for a regular transformer, special LED drivers are used to convert high-voltage alternating current to low-voltage direct current.
LED drivers also protect against power surges, and changes, which can make temperatures rise and light output go down. LEDs are made to only work within a specific range of amps.
Differences between external and internal LED drivers can be built into lamps (interior), put on the surfaces of light fixtures, or even be paced outside of them (External). Most low-power indoor lights, especially bulbs, have LED drivers built in. This makes the lights cheaper and more attractive. On the other hand, downlights and panel lights usually have LED drivers on the outside.
When using a lot of power, like streetlights, floodlights, stadium lights, and grow lights, external LED drivers are used more and more. This is because the heat inside the lights gets worse as the power goes up.
All of Flexible Neon’s product range are Meanwell drivers which are all exterior to work with all of our products and allow different products to run off the same transformer. This method also allows easier access for maintenance.
Because linear LED drivers are so simple, a resistor, a controlled MOSFET, or an IC may be all needed to make an LED’s constant current. A lot of AC LED, sign, and strip applications use them. Because of this, power supplies can change very easily, and there are now a considerable number of constant voltage power sources, such as 12V and 24V LED drivers. A linear regulator wastes a lot of power, so the light can’t be as bright as it could be with a switching power supply.
High efficiency switching supplies naturally lead to high light efficacy, which is the most important thing for most light applications. Also, switching power supplies flicker less, have a higher power factor, and can handle surges better than AC LEDs.
When we compare these two things, we call each of them a switching power supply. According to UL and CE regulations, the isolated design usually works at 4Vin+2000V and 3750Vac, and the input and output voltages are well separated. Using a highly insulated transformer instead of an inductor as the part that transfers human power makes the system safer. Still, it also makes it less efficient (by 5%) and more expensive (by 50%). Insulation keeps the high voltage from going from the input to the output. On the other hand, low-power built-in designs usually use non-isolated designs.
Because LEDs have unique V-I characteristics, it goes without saying that a constant current source should power them. However, a constant voltage LED driver can be used if a linear regulator or resistor is connected in series with the LED to limit the current. Signs and strip lighting usually use constant voltage LED drivers with 12V, 24V, or even 48V because they are much more efficient than constant current LED drivers, which is the norm for general lighting like bulbs, linear lights, downlights, streetlights, etc. If the total wattage doesn’t exceed the power supply’s limit, the constant voltage solution makes it easier for users to change the amount of light, giving it much flexibility for installation in the field.
In this new time, every light is made to be dim. This is a big subject because there are many ways to dim lights. Let’s talk about each one in turn.
1) 0-10V/1-10V dimming LED Driver
2) PWM dimming LED Driver
3) Triac dimming LED Driver
4) DALI dimming LED Driver
5) DMX dimming LED Driver
6) Other Protocols of LED Driver
Flexible Neon recognises the IP (ingress protection) certification as the only way to classify the degree to which LED drivers are waterproof. The IP code is made up of two numbers. The first number rates the protection against solid objects on a scale from 0 (no protection) to 6 (no entry of dust), and the second number rates the protection against liquids on a scale from 0 (no protection) to 7. (8 and 9) don’t come up very often in the lighting business. LED drivers with IP20 ratings or lower are used inside, while waterproof drivers are used outside. But this doesn’t always happen. For example, some indoor applications use waterproof LED drivers because they can put out much more power than low IP ones without needing an active cooling system, making them last less than IP-rated LED drivers.
Instructions for setting up LED drivers
Would you like LEDs to be less bright? Or do you plan to change how bright it is? Then choose a dimmable driver or power supply. Why? The power sources are easy to tell apart because of how they work. The specifications table also has extra information, like what kinds of dimmer controls can be used with the drivers.
One of the first things to consider is how much voltage your lamp needs. So, if your LED needs 20 volts to work, you should buy a 20-volt driver.
In short, the goal is to ensure that your driver gets the right amount of power. The general rule is that you should do your job within the range of the light.
For a constant-voltage driver, you can also think about the voltage range. But you can measure both voltage and current ranges with a constant-current driver.
Pay attention to how much voltage the proposed LED light will use. So, ensure the LED driver can handle the voltage from the LED. In this way, it is easy to step down to the needed output voltage.
Also, you should think about watts. During this process, make sure to buy a driver with a higher maximum wattage than the light.
The power factor helps determine how much power the driver uses from the electrical network. And the range is usually from -1 to 1. Since this is the case, a power factor of 0.9 or more is the norm. In other words, as the number gets closer to one, the driver works better.
Your LED drivers should meet several different standards. For example, we have UL classes 1 and 2. Use the UL Class 1 for drivers that put out a lot of voltage. The fixture needs to be set up safely for drivers in this group. It can also hold more LEDs, which makes it work more efficiently.
At the level of LEDs, the UL Class 2 drivers don’t need a lot of safety features. It also meets the standards set by UL1310. Even though this class is safer, it can only run a certain number of LEDs at a time.
The IP rating is another way to measure how safe a driver’s cage is and what it can do. If you see IP67, for example, it means that the driver is safe from dust and brief immersion in water.
This part is crucial because it shows how much power the LED driver needs. The value is shown in terms of percentages. So, you could expect it to work between 80% and 85% of the time.
Low voltages of 12 to 24 volts power LEDs with direct current. So, even if your AC voltage is high, between 120 and 277 volts, an LED driver will change the direction of the current. In other words, stepping down from alternating to direct current is helpful. You can even find the right amount of high and low voltage.
LED drivers keep LEDs safe from changes in voltage or current. If the voltage of an LED changes, the current supply may change. Because of this, LED lights’ output is inversely related to how many they have. LEDs are also only supposed to work within a specific range. So, too little or too much current will change how much light comes out or cause the LED to break quickly because it gets too hot.
Overall, LED drivers have two main benefits:
This LED driver only needs a fixed amount of output current and a range of output voltages. Constant current is a specific output current measured in milliamps or amps and has a range of voltages that change depending on how much the LED is being used (its wattage or load).
Constant-voltage LED drivers have a constant output voltage and a maximum output current. The LED module also has a regulated current system that a simple resistor or an internal constant-current driver can power.
They only need a single steady voltage, usually 12 or 24 volts DC.
Theoretically, this LED driver could run halogen or incandescent lights with low voltage. But standard transformers can’t be used with AC LED drivers because they can’t tell when the voltage is low. So, they have transformers that don’t have a minimum load.
With these LED drivers, you can dim your LED lights. It also lets you control the brightness of LEDs with a constant voltage. And it does this by reducing the amount of current that goes to the LED light before it turns on.
With high-quality automotive LED drivers, you can tell the difference between your car’s inside and outside lighting systems in many ways:
LCD backlight LED drivers often use a specific dimming scheme to control the backlight’s brightness.
You can set up your devices with LED drivers to have infrared lighting. It can also be done with the help of a multi-topology constant-current controller.
With RGB LED drivers, you can add an animation or an indicator to your LED arrays with more than one colour. Also, they often work with many standard interfaces.
With the help of LED display drivers, you can control which LED strings use the least and most power. So, these drivers can be used with either a large narrow pixel or a matrix solution for small or mini LED digital signage applications.
To figure out what size LED driver will meet your needs, you need to know the following:
If there are any other technical factors, like the need for precise colour control or the possibility of water exposure, that can affect how the LED drivers work. The LED’s IP rating shows how resistant it is to water; a higher rating means it is more resistant. With an IP rating of 44, the product can be used in kitchens and other places where water might occasionally splash on it. A driver with a high IP rating, like 67, can be used outside. Drivers with an IP rating of 20 should only be used inside, where it’s dry.