How to connect LED strips to TV?

Connecting LED strips to your TV is a great way to enhance your viewing experience, whether you're adding ambient lighting or creating an immersive atmosphere for gaming or movie nights. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to connect LED strips to your TV:


What You Need

  1. LED Strip Lights: Ensure that the LED strip you purchase is compatible with your TV. Many LED strips designed for TVs come with features like USB power and remote control.

  2. USB Power Cable: Most LED strips designed for TV use are powered by the TV’s USB port. If your LED strips don’t come with a USB power cable, you may need to buy one separately.

  3. Controller (optional): If your LED strip has color-changing features, music sync, or other advanced functionalities, you may need a controller to operate it.

  4. Double-sided Tape or Mounting Brackets: To secure the LED strip behind the TV.


Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting LED Strips to Your TV

1. Choose the Right LED Strip

Before you begin, make sure the LED strip is designed for TV use. Popular TV LED strips often feature:

  • USB power input: Most modern TVs have a USB port that provides 5V power, which is what LED strips typically need.
  • Flexible and adhesive backing: This allows for easy installation along the edges of your TV.

2. Clean the Surface of the TV

  • Clean the back of your TV (or the edges where you want to mount the LED strip) to ensure that the adhesive on the LED strip will stick securely.
  • Use a clean cloth and rubbing alcohol to wipe the area free of dust and dirt.

3. Cut the LED Strip (If Necessary)

  • If the LED strip is too long for your TV, cut it along the designated cut lines (usually marked with scissors) to match the size of the TV.
  • Be careful not to cut too close to the LED bulbs or the connector ends. Make sure the cut is made exactly at the marked cutting points.

4. Attach the LED Strip to the TV

  • Peel the adhesive backing from the LED strip.
  • Stick the LED strip along the edges of the TV. Start from one corner and work your way around, making sure the strip is straight and aligned with the edges of the screen.
  • Optional: Use mounting clips if the adhesive backing is not strong enough or if you want extra security.

5. Connect the Power Cable

  • USB-powered LED strips: Plug the USB end of the LED strip’s power cable into one of your TV’s USB ports. Most modern TVs have at least one USB port located on the back or side.
    • If the TV’s USB port doesn’t provide enough power (some older models might not), you may need to use an external USB power adapter (you can plug this into a wall socket).
  • For LED strips with a separate controller: If the LED strip requires an external controller, connect the controller to the LED strip and then connect the controller’s USB cable to the TV’s USB port.

6. Turn On the TV and Test the LED Strips

  • Power on your TV, and your LED strip should light up as soon as the TV is powered on.
  • If your LED strip has a remote or app functionality, you may need to pair the remote or app with the strip.

7. Adjust Settings and Enjoy!

  • Depending on the model of your LED strip, you can adjust settings such as brightness, color, or effects using the remote control, app, or buttons on the strip itself.
  • If your LED strip supports music syncing, you can enjoy the lights changing with the sound output from your TV.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • No Power?: If your LED strip isn’t lighting up after connecting the USB to the TV, check if the TV's USB port is enabled for power when the TV is off. Some TVs don’t supply power to USB ports when turned off, so you may need to use an external power adapter.
  • Flickering Lights: If your LED strip flickers or doesn’t work properly, ensure the USB port is supplying enough power or try using a different USB port on the TV.
  • No Color Changing?: If the colors aren’t changing as expected, ensure that the controller (if you have one) is connected and functioning properly.

Where to Buy LED Strips for Your TV

Here are a few places where you can buy LED strips designed for TVs:

  1. Amazon

  2. eBay

    • LED TV Strips on eBay
    • You can find a variety of affordable options with different features (RGB, music sync, etc.).
  3. B&Q (UK)

  4. Currys PC World


Conclusion

Connecting LED strips to your TV is a simple and effective way to enhance your home entertainment setup. Whether you want subtle ambient lighting or dynamic color effects to match your content, these strips can make a noticeable difference. Just ensure the correct power supply, secure mounting, and proper connections to get the best performance. With the right setup, you’ll be ready to enjoy your enhanced TV viewing experience in no time!

Back to blog