Different types of RGB LED controllers

There are many types of RGB LED Controllers. We will introduce you some classification standards, the basic characteristics of each type of RGB controller, and the problems you need to pay attention to during installation and use. The knowledge can help you better understand the RGB controller, and make wise decision on buying controllers that suit your needs.

1. The RGB LED controllers are classified into inline RGB controllers and wireless RGB controllers depending on the connection method.

• Inline RGB LED controller. This method requires a hard wiring, and has high requirements on wire specifications, wiring planning, and wire current load calculation. Therefore, inline RGB LED controller is more suitable for small projects, such as installing one or two LED strips.




• Wireless RGB LED controller. Wireless RGB controller and RGB LED strips combine to form a multi color changing LED strip lights with remote lighting system. Users can use the remote controller to quickly and easily select colors, fine tune colors, adjust brightness, and turn on and off the light strips.
  
  You can also recall previously configured settings such as dynamic color gradient programs and scene memories. It is easy to install because it has fewer wires. At the same time, because of the good compatibility, it is easy to design the LED strip layout and install and control multiple strips.

2. Depending on the signal transmission method, RGB LED controllers are divided into several categories, such as IR, RF, WiFi, Bluetooh, DMX, DALI and so on.

• IR RGB controller. This controller is simple and economical. It requires line of sight, meaning that the control signal cannot pass through walls or other obstacles. Control distance is about 30ft.




• RF RGB LED controller. Convenient and reliable. RF LED controllers send signals that can go through obstacles such as walls. It can have multi-zone control function. The control distance is 100 ft.




• WiFi RGB LED controller. Using a mobile phone or other mobile device, WiFi RGB LED controllers are programmable controllers. Through the application software, it is easy to program and DIY many lighting effects, such as color sequence of the lights, the speed of change, and more. Many of these controllers are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Google Home, etc. So, they can be easily integrated into a smart light control system. It is the future direction of RGB controllers.




• Bluetooth RGB controller. It is unique in that it is suitable for places where no network is available. Bluetooth RGB controllers control RGB lights together with smart phones or other mobile devices. It is also a programmable RGB LED controller by programming via software.




• DMX or DALI RGB controller. They are an addressable led controller that is digitally controlled. They are more complicated control systems that give each controlled LED node an address. DMX or DALI control is precise and meticulous, and the light changing effects are endless. Programming is more complicated and requires advanced knowledge to use.
  
  Previously these systems were large and expensive, and were only used for commercial applications. With the advancement of technology, these devices are getting smaller and smaller, and the cost becomes lower and lower. More and more families are using them to achieve the perfect lighting control they like.