Cheap led light strip

[1Ktrailrider]

I have had good success with the cheap pre-wired led light strips. The ones that are maybe 12" or so and come in a pack of 4 for about $5. This time I got the long 16' strips. It has a wire on each side and you can trim them to length. I want to make my own shorter, custom lengths but I want to solder wire on. Im wondering if anybody has done that with good results. I have a good amount of experience soldering. I just don't want it to be a ridiculous task..

 

[Admin]

 

[Neohio]

Make sure you cut them to length at their designated cut points. Removing the silicon covering can be a pita. Once removed, it is standard soldering.
Much easier than soldering strain gages!

 

[swsebek]

Make sure you have a small pointed pen style gun.
And it helps to pre soldier or tinning it's called.
You get a little soldier on all the points then connect them and push down the tip on top of wire that's placed on to strip. It's called tinning.
Doesn't burn the cheap strips. I have been using these cheap strips for a while now.with the right prep and added silicone and shrink tubing they will hold up.

 

[pFive]

I used some of those LED TV backlights from walmart ($5) and made a LED whip for the P5. Wrapped em around a driveway marker rod, and then used clear heat shrink tube to protect and seal. It actually works well and is just as stupid and annoying as the really expensive lighted whips....