Armacost Lighting RibbonFlex PRO Continuous LED Tape Light

Important Safety and Installation Guidelines

• Use only with low-voltage constant voltage DC power supplies. Never connect directly to 120-volt household power.
• Do not power LED tape while coiled on a reel, as LEDs can overheat. The mounting surface acts as a heat sink.
• Never connect more than one power supply to a single run of LED lighting.
• Do not install tape light where it can contact water or in high humidity environments.
• Use certified CL2 or better cabling for wire runs inside walls.
• Do not install low-voltage DC wiring in the same runs as 120-volt AC power.
• All wiring must comply with national and local electrical codes for low-voltage Class 2 circuits. Consult a qualified professional if unsure.

Planning Your Lighting

RibbonFlex LED lighting is designed for indirect lighting applications, meaning the LEDs themselves should not be directly visible. The final lighting appearance is influenced by installation location, wall colors, mounting angles, and light reflection. Subtle adjustments to positioning and angle can significantly impact the overall effect.

Choosing a Controller

A low-voltage controller is necessary for the Tunable White and RGB+W LED lights. Tunable White models are compatible with the Tunable White Controller, while RGB+W models work with 5C color controllers.

Choosing a Power Supply

RibbonFlex LED tape requires a power supply to convert 120-volt AC household power to low-voltage DC power. The choice of power supply depends on how you intend to control the lighting (on/off, dimming). Standard power supplies can be used with low-voltage dimmers or switches. AC dimmable power supplies are compatible with 120-volt AC dimmers like Lutron® switches.

Power Supply Size and Wattage Requirements

Determining the correct power supply wattage is crucial for optimal performance. The total wattage required is the sum of watts used by each leg of lighting at 100% brightness.

Typical Design Configurations:

• Straight Run: A single run of tape light.
• Center Feed / Loop Back: The power supply connects to the middle of the tape light, creating two equal runs.
• Array: Multiple runs of tape light connected to a single controller/power supply.

Diagram Description (Typical Connection Scenarios): Shows a wall switch connected to a switched AC outlet, which powers a "POWER SUPPLY". The "POWER SUPPLY" connects to a "CONTROLLER*" (marked as required), which then connects to the "TAPE LIGHT". For interior RV/boat applications, a "BATTERY" connects to a "FUSE PROTECTION SWITCH", which then connects to a "CONTROLLER*" and "TAPE LIGHT".

Maximum Recommended Tape Length

Approximate Watts Used at Full Brightness

Tunable White

RGB+W

Watts used refers to the power consumed by the LED lighting system, not the power supply's rating. Always choose a power supply rated at or greater than your needs.

Power Supply Location and Voltage Drop

Shorter wire leads between the power supply and the LED lighting result in brighter and more consistent light. For assistance with voltage drop calculations, visit armacostlighting.com/voltagedrop.

Cutting, Connecting, and Wiring

There are two primary methods for connecting power wires and splicing tape light: soldering or using Armacost Lighting connectors. Soldering provides reliable electrical connections. For soldering tips, visit armacostlighting.com/installation.

Soldered connections are recommended for marine and RV applications due to movement and vibrations.

Diagram Description (Cutting Tape Light): Shows tape light with copper pads. Scissors are indicated cutting at the center of copper pads (position A) or at solder joints (position B). Position A is for connectors; position B is for soldering only. Emphasizes using polarity indicators printed on the tape.

Diagram Description (Using Connectors): Illustrates installing connectors. For Tunable White (2 copper pads), place pads under connector teeth and close the door. For RGB+W (5 copper pads), the process is similar. Connectors with wire can be used for corners or cut to create power leads/jumper cables. Use 22-20 AWG wire for extending lengths. Ensure all connections are secure and sealed (soldering, electrical tape, crimp connectors, terminal blocks, wire nuts).

Diagram Description (Splice Connectors): Shows a push-button splice connector joining two pieces of LED tape light for a continuous run.

Surface Preparation and Installation

• Mounting surfaces must be smooth, clean, completely dry, and above 60°F (15°C) before installation.
• Clean all mounting surfaces thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid common rubbing alcohol or household cleaners, which may leave residues.
• For painted surfaces, ensure the paint is fully cured according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Carefully remove only the tan paper backing from the 3M adhesive on the LED strip, leaving the adhesive on the strip.
• Support power wire leads, especially when mounting under cabinets or shelves, using wire support clips.

Troubleshooting

• Tape light strip does not light: Ensure the LED power supply is receiving 120-volt power. Confirm correct polarity (+ to +, - to -) from power supply to controller and controller to tape light. Check all connections. A multimeter test may be useful.
• Only part of the LED tape light strip is lit: Check connections to the unlit section and confirm correct polarity and wire sequencing. If a segment is unlit, cut it out and splice in a new segment.
• LED tape lights blink on, then go off: The power supply may be inadequate for the length of LED tape. Install a higher wattage power supply or shorten the tape lengths.
• LEDs farthest from the power supply are dimmer or show a color shift: This is due to voltage drop. Decrease the length of power feed wires or use thicker gauge wires between the power supply, controller, and tape light.

For additional installation tips and FAQs, visit armacostlighting.com/installation.

Specifications

• Input voltage: 24-volt DC
• LED modules: 2216
• Beam angle: 120°
• Tape height/width: RGB+W: 2mm x 12mm, Tunable White: 2mm x 8mm

Refer to product packaging or visit armacostlighting.com for more product-specific information.

Three-Year Limited Warranty

Improper installation, abuse, or failure to use the product for its intended purpose will void the warranty. This warranty applies only when all components, including LED power supplies, are provided by or approved by Armacost Lighting. Replacing components with those from other manufacturers will void the warranty. The warranty does not cover labor or other costs associated with removing or installing defective, repaired, or replaced products.