WireGrip Connectors
WireGrip Connectors
PDF
WireGrip-Connectors WireGrip Connectors
IMPORTANT: These instructions cover wire and splice connector models for both single color and RGB color changing LED tape lighting.
WireGrip Connectors
Used to join 2-conductor wire to single color LED lighting or 4-conductor wire to RGB LED lighting.
WireGrip Splice Connectors
WireGrip Splice Connectors are used to join two strips, creating a continuous run of LED lighting. Skip to step 6 in these instructions.
For instructional purposes, photos and illustrations shown will relate to both single color and RGB connectors.
No soldering or special tools required. WireGrip Connectors allow you to easily add low voltage power wire leads to your LED tape lighting
Uses a clamp-down mechanism with insulation-piercing metal pins that make secure and reliable connections without soldering, no stripping of wires is needed
Works with 22, 20, and 18AWG gauge wire, however some wire types with thicker than standard insulation may not work properly always test a sample wire first
To view an online video tutorial visit armacostlighting.com/WireGrip
Tools you may need Scissors Small flat-head
screwdriver
1. Prep the Wires
Pliers (fine tip is recommended)
Heat shrink tubing (for outdoor installations)
If your wire has an outer jacket, remove a portion to expose individual wires as shown.
If your wire is the flat ribbon wire type separate the ends of wires with a flathead screwdriver or razor knife to about 1 inch. Do not strip wire bare.
2. Plan your wire layout, maintain polarity
Check the polarity of your tape. Use the + and (single color lighting) or +12V/G/R/B (RGB color-changing) markings printed on the tape light as a guide to maintain the same polarity with your power supply or color controller low voltage outputs.
+
+12V
G
R
B
3. Insert wires into the Wire Grip Connector
The wires go in the grooved side of the connector. Be sure the individual wires seat themselves in the receiving grooves.
4. Clamp the connector wire cover closed
Use pliers to apply gentle pressure evenly across the pressure door. Be sure that the small locks on both sides are fully engaged.
5. Prep your LED tape lighting
Cut your LED tape to length. Cut on bare copper, do not use factory solder joints.
Do not use
Cut tape at center connector at
of copper pads
solder joints
6. Insert the LED tape into the connector
First: open the short door on the connector 90 degrees. Remove 1 in. of 3M paper backing and insert LED tape face up. IMPORTANT! Position tape light copper pads on top of the connector's copper teeth as shown.
Locking tab
7. Close and lock down the tape light cover door
Using finger pressure only, close the tape pressure door. Do NOT use pliers on this side of the connector. Check mechanical and electrical connections on both sides by gently pulling up on the tape lighting and wiring, one at a time. The locks on either side of the connector should stay secure. Apply power before installation to make sure your lights turn on and RGB colors are correct.
Tab catch
Opens 90 degrees
Copper pads go over "teeth"
Follow the same basic instructions when using WireGrip Splice Connectors. Be sure to maintain polarity between LED strips.
(+12V) (+12V)
WireGrip Connectors can be reused if necessary. Use a small flathead screwdriver to open up the locking tabs on either side of the cover door. The cover door will break if flexed excessively. Avoid rough use.
IMPORTANT: If you are using WireGrip Connectors with outdoor rated LED tape lighting, all connectors must be sealed with adhesive lined heat-shrink tubing as shown.
(G/R/B) (G/R/B)
If the +12V/G/R/B marks do not line up, flip the tape strip and use the opposite end
for proper +12V/G/R/B alignment.
Allow at least 1 in. overage of heat shrink tubing to make a water tight seal with the cable and tape light.
Troubleshooting
Problem
Tape lighting does not power up
Cover door will not close
RGB color lighting is mismatched
Solution
Check your polarity and make sure each wire goes to the appropriate copper pad
Make sure both the wires and tape lighting are fully seated inside the connector and the pressure pad doors are fully closed and latched on both sides
Make sure wires are inserted in the correct side, are aligned with the grooves, and are sufficiently separated
Use even pressure to close the door in the center of the connector If the locks on the sides are broken, discard that connector
Check your polarity and RGB alignment
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