Inline RGB LED strip toggle Switch

[marvinj920]

Short Version:

Is it possible to add a switch in between a run of 2 RGB LED strips. So that 1 section is always on but the other is only on when I want to?

 

Long Version:

I have a pretty sweet desk setup with a glass table top, and quad monitor display. (If I do say so myself

As a creative professional, I use my glass table top as a whiteboard to take notes on, However using a piece of paper taped behind the glass works but I feel it could be better. So I decided to go RGB as all the cool kids are doing. The concept is to frost the desktop with adhesive window frosting in a shape that allows me to still see my keyboard/mouse. Then add an RGB LED strip under the frosting on the edge of the desk so that I can read what I write. In addition I'll split the RGB strip and run it behind the monitors for a cool effect.

 

My question is can I install a switch between the sections so that I can switch one section off? Or better yet, switch off either section or have them both lit?

 

FYI, I have found examples of adding an LED switch to a simple single color LED strip, but not an RGB one, and not one that can control each section.

Thanks,

Marvin J

[unknownmiscreant]

2 minutes ago, marvinj920 said:

Short Version:

Is it possible to add a switch in between a run of 2 RGB LED strips. So that 1 section is always on but the other is only on when I want to?

 

Long Version:

I have a pretty sweet desk setup with a glass table top, and quad monitor display. (If I do say so myself

As a creative professional, I use my glass table top as a whiteboard to take notes on, However using a piece of paper taped behind the glass works but I feel it could be better. So I decided to go RGB as all the cool kids are doing. The concept is to frost the desktop with adhesive window frosting in a shape that allows me to still see my keyboard/mouse. Then add an RGB LED strip under the frosting on the edge of the desk so that I can read what I write. In addition I'll split the RGB strip and run it behind the monitors for a cool effect.

 

My question is can I install a switch between the sections so that I can switch one section off? Or better yet, switch off either section or have them both lit?

 

FYI, I have found examples of adding an LED switch to a simple single color LED strip, but not an RGB one, and not one that can control each section.

Thanks,

Marvin J

Should be entirely possible 

[W-L]

5 minutes ago, marvinj920 said:

Short Version:

Is it possible to add a switch in between a run of 2 RGB LED strips. So that 1 section is always on but the other is only on when I want to?

 

Long Version:

I have a pretty sweet desk setup with a glass table top, and quad monitor display. (If I do say so myself

As a creative professional, I use my glass table top as a whiteboard to take notes on, However using a piece of paper taped behind the glass works but I feel it could be better. So I decided to go RGB as all the cool kids are doing. The concept is to frost the desktop with adhesive window frosting in a shape that allows me to still see my keyboard/mouse. Then add an RGB LED strip under the frosting on the edge of the desk so that I can read what I write. In addition I'll split the RGB strip and run it behind the monitors for a cool effect.

 

My question is can I install a switch between the sections so that I can switch one section off? Or better yet, switch off either section or have them both lit?

 

FYI, I have found examples of adding an LED switch to a simple single color LED strip, but not an RGB one, and not one that can control each section.

Thanks,

Marvin J

Yes as long as you don't mind it being a physical switch to cut power to the second section, there are options if you want it all on a remote with dual channel RGB controllers. 

 

http://www.supernight.cc/supernight-2-port-44-key-ir-remote-controller-for-5050-3528-rgb-led-strip-light-2-4-pin-output-controller-for-controling-2pcs-rgb-led-light-tape.html

[Kukielka]

sure that is possible, thats actually what I have done but with 4 rgb strips. 1 behind the monitors, 1 under my desk, and 2 in my rig

 

[marvinj920]

Any guidance on a type /amp rating of switch I should be looking for?

 

Thanks!

[haft2doit]

you wont be dealing with that much current here.  Are the strips 12v or 5v?  Either way just get any automotive toggle switch and there is no worry.  I think most leds operate in milliamps.  I would say 2amps would be enough. most 12v toggle switches in a quick search were in the 10s of amps.  You should only need to find the +12v or +5v wire on the strip and splice the switch in.  The other 3 will be ground.  The should be labeled on the strip at the end.  If not it is advisable to use a meter to be sure.  Interestingly if you wanted you could splice switches to all of the wires and change the colors that way, although not to as many most likely.

 

Try looking at something like this