Core principle: Let the light strip understand the instructions
The silicone light strip itself is a low-voltage light source. To connect to the smart home, it needs to be equipped with an intelligent controller (similar to a translator):
Controller type
WiFi controller
Directly connect to the home WiFi, and use the mobile phone APP for remote control (such as color adjustment, timer switch).
Bluetooth/Zigbee controller
Need to be matched with the corresponding "gateway" (similar to a signal transfer station), suitable for multi-device networking, and better stability.
Key functions:
The controller allows the light strip to support dimming (brightness 0-100%), color adjustment (monochrome/colorful changes), dynamic mode (flash, gradient), and even synchronize with music rhythm or automatically adjust according to ambient light.
3 steps to achieve intelligent linkage
1. Hardware connection: Let the light strip go online
Connect the power supply
Silicone light strips usually use 12V/24V DC power supply. First plug in the power adapter, and then connect the light strip to the input end of the controller.
Connect to the network:
- WiFi model: Open the mobile phone APP (such as the universal "Tuya Smart"), and follow the prompts to let the controller connect to the home WiFi.
- Bluetooth/Zigbee model: First plug in the gateway and connect to the Internet, and then "add" the controller to the gateway through the APP (similar to "pairing" a device).
2. Software settings: Use the APP to "command" the light strip
Basic control
Name the light strip in the APP (such as "Living Room Background Light"), slide the screen to adjust the color and brightness, or click on the preset mode (such as "Romantic Red" and "Calm Blue").
Timing and automation
- Set "wake-up alarm": At 7 o'clock every morning, the light strip automatically turns on warm white light to simulate sunrise (the brightness gradually increases from 10% to 80%).
- Do "away mode": Click the "away" button on the APP before going out, the light strip will turn off immediately, and the smart socket will be linked to turn off other appliances.
3. Scene linkage: Make the light strip "cooperative"
Partner with sensors:
- Install a human body sensor in the corridor. When someone passes by at night, the light strip will automatically light up (to avoid groping in the dark) and turn off after 3 minutes without anyone moving.
- Put a light sensor by the window. When the light is strong during the day, the light strip will automatically dim; when the light is dim in the evening, it will automatically brighten.
Voice control
If you have a smart speaker at home (such as Xiao Ai, Tmall Genie), say "turn the light strip to green" to it, and the light strip will change color (need to bind the speaker account in the APP).
Common application scenarios
Creating atmosphere
When watching a movie, the light strip turns dark blue + low brightness, and creates a cinematic feeling with projection; when celebrating a birthday, it is adjusted to pink + flashing mode.
Smart reminder
Linked with the doorbell, when someone rings the doorbell, the light strip flashes red to remind (suitable for families with poor hearing); linked with the air conditioner, when the room temperature is too high, the light strip turns blue to "visually cool down".
Energy saving and worry-free
Set the "late night mode", the light strip automatically adjusts to 5% brightness after 1 am (the night lighting is not dazzling), and returns to normal at 6 am.
Precautions
Choose the right controller: First confirm whether the light strip is monochrome or color. Colored light strips require RGB controllers, and monochrome light strips can use dimming controllers.
Safety first: The light strip has low voltage (usually ≤24V), but the controller must be connected to 220V AC power. Ensure that the line is hidden and not exposed during installation.
