How to Use 12V White LED strip: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

A 12V White LED Strip is a flexible and versatile lighting solution that consists of many small LED emitters mounted on a strip, which can be cut to size and installed in a variety of settings. These strips are commonly used for accent lighting, backlighting, task lighting, and decorative lighting in both residential and commercial environments.

• Under-cabinet lighting in kitchens
• Backlighting for TVs or computer monitors
• Accent lighting for shelves or display cases
• Illumination for signage
• Decorative lighting for events or holidays

• Operating Voltage: 12V DC
• Light Color: White
• Color Temperature: Typically 3000K (Warm White) to 6500K (Cool White)
• Luminous Flux: Varies by model, often around 300-400 lumens per meter
• Power Consumption: Varies by model, approximately 4.8W to 14.4W per meter
• LED Density: Commonly 30 to 60 LEDs per meter
• Strip Length: Often sold in reels of 5 meters, cuttable every 3 LEDs
• Lifespan: Approximately 25,000 to 50,000 hours
• Waterproof Rating: Varies (e.g., IP20 for no waterproofing, IP65 for splash-proof, IP67 for waterproof)

Since LED strips typically come with only two connections, a pin configuration table is not applicable. However, the two connections are as follows:

1. Power Supply: Ensure you have a 12V DC power supply that can provide sufficient current for the length of the LED strip you intend to use.
2. Connecting: Connect the +12V line of the LED strip to the positive terminal of the power supply, and the GND line to the negative terminal.
3. Switching: To turn the LED strip on and off, a switch can be placed on the +12V line.
4. Dimming: For dimming capabilities, a 12V LED dimmer can be inserted between the power supply and the LED strip.

• Current Draw: Calculate the total current draw of your LED strip to ensure the power supply can handle the load.
• Heat Dissipation: LED strips can generate heat; ensure they are mounted on a surface that can help dissipate heat.
• Avoiding Voltage Drop: For long runs of LED strip, you may experience voltage drop. Use a higher gauge wire for power injection at various points along the strip.
• Cutting: Only cut the strip at the designated cut points to avoid damaging the LEDs or circuitry.
• Waterproofing: If the LED strip is not waterproof and you are using it in a moisture-prone area, additional waterproofing measures should be taken.

• LED Strip Not Lighting Up: Check all connections, ensure the power supply is working, and that the polarity is correct.
• Dim or Uneven Lighting: This could be due to voltage drop; try power injection at multiple points.
• Flickering Lights: This may be caused by a loose connection or an inadequate power supply.

• Ensure Polarity is Correct: The +12V and GND connections must be connected to the corresponding terminals on the power supply.
• Check Power Supply: Verify that the power supply is rated for the total current draw of the LED strip.
• Inspect Connections: Loose or poor connections can cause issues; ensure all connections are secure.

// Example code to control a 12V White LED Strip with an Arduino UNO
// and a MOSFET for switching/dimming.

const int ledPin = 9; // PWM pin connected to the gate of the MOSFET

void setup() {
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  // Fade the LED strip from off to full brightness
  for (int brightness = 0; brightness <= 255; brightness++) {
    analogWrite(ledPin, brightness);
    delay(10); // Short delay to see the dimming effect
  }

  // Fade the LED strip from full brightness to off
  for (int brightness = 255; brightness >= 0; brightness--) {
    analogWrite(ledPin, brightness);
    delay(10); // Short delay to see the dimming effect
  }
}

Note: When connecting a 12V LED strip to an Arduino, a MOSFET should be used to switch the higher voltage, as the Arduino operates at 5V. The above code assumes a MOSFET is being used to control the LED strip. Ensure the MOSFET can handle the current required by the LED strip.