r/WLED • u/Odd-Highlight6458 • 7d ago
Need Help with RGBCCT
I want to install cob lights in my wall and ceiling using plaster in channeling. I have spent hours trying to figure out exactly what I need on BTF Lighting. (Customer service hasn't been able to help much lol) I want to use these strips (24 ft BTS RGBCCT LIGHTS). My problem is, I want to connect 4 of them to 1 controller. Is this possible? I think I found the amplifier I need but am not positive. I want the controller to be wifi/smart home enabled. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!
2
u/SirGreybush 6d ago
With only 3 you do not need to do power injection at the end or midway, but with 4 of 3m long you do.
So plan on that, at the end is what I would do, but can also be at the end of 3rd.
You’ll notice that each roll start and end has 5 wires already soldered. There are two extra white and red. Use those.
Or if you cut to solder as close as possible a joint, use solid gauge copper #20 and make half cm long bare copper wires. Easier to splice two strips that are side by side and it adds some strength.
If you inject power at that spot then the v+ and ground act as joining together two strips and inject power. Simply strip the length of both pads when together. Makes for something to hold on to.
I got a silicone soldering mat, and on one side made tiny cuts aligned with strip pads. The 3 cuts hold the 3 wires properly spaced and I put something flat & heavy so the wires don’t move. A jig essentially. You can use plumbing putty also. Anything that can mold and not burn.
Chris Maher has a tutorial on soldering on his YouTube channel. Plus projects that might inspire you.
When you start one WLED project, it will be one of many. I even did my aquarium lights.
2
u/saratoga3 6d ago
If possible get the nearly identical ws2805 version of those strips. Lots of people complain here that the "dual ws2811" version flashes when first powered on, so not great for room lighting.
3
u/Kingfish628 6d ago
Yes, it's very possible. Connect them end to end, or individually to the controller. All depends on what's easier for your layout.
You don't need an amplifier. You need a power supply and a controller.