How To Use Flexible LED Filament Wire for Lighting Projects!

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How To Use Flexible LED Filament Wire for Lighting Projects!

Рет қаралды 190,693

2 жыл бұрын

We experiment with LED filament wire, a flexible form of LED lighting that is most commonly seen in LED edison bulbs. Norm walks through how to get these lights up and running and the different ways to string and power them to use in scale-model lighting projects, like this Blade Runner-inspired mini "neon" sign!
30cm Flexible LED Filaments: www.aliexpress...
USB power supply: amzn.to/3DmCvIy
Adjustable AC/DC Adapter 3.5V-24V: amzn.to/3oGaSWE
Walkman-style USB Battery: newwavetoys.co...
Boylei Hobby Time KZfaq channel: / boyleihobbytime
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Shot and edited by Norman Chan
Music by Jinglepunks
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Thanks for watching!

Пікірлер: 269

@tested 2 жыл бұрын

30cm Flexible LED Filaments: www.aliexpress.com/item/4000857781901.html USB power supply: amzn.to/3agwS20 Adjustable AC/DC Adapter 3.5V-24V: amzn.to/3oGaSWE Disclaimer: Tested may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through the links here

@maifantasia3650 2 жыл бұрын

@Ron Jerome - as per the video, no.

@jathalan 2 жыл бұрын

Am I the only one who gets a "cute ice cream shape fake eyelash holder" When I click on the aliexpress link?

@Mystic5523 2 жыл бұрын

I wanna know more about that Walkman looking battery

@blackbomb64 2 жыл бұрын

There's also wall warts that have regulated voltage supplies. I have one that goes up to 12V. That's another option if you're looking for something in a smaller form factor than the "laptop brick" style of supply.

@timsorensen4135 2 жыл бұрын

Link for the power supply is dead. Do you have another?

@Boylei 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the kind shoutout, Norm! I really appreciate it. Always so inspired by your work!

@MrSeanmcgall 2 жыл бұрын

Ur work is amazing man, inspired me to do a wartable with sfx and lighting, picking up my old Warhammer hobby once more haha

@chrishechtl8330 2 жыл бұрын

Inspiration to do a sign and casino for your western series?

@danialcompton3093 Жыл бұрын

@chrishechtl8330 I think inspired by thr methods used is more accurate. even if you don't work in the same genre you can appreciate the methods people use in a similar hobby.

@skrimper 2 жыл бұрын

Wow, LED light strips have come a long way. Almost looks like neon

@dsolosan 2 жыл бұрын

I'm thinking this may be a way to save old neon signs, like movie theatre marquees, which are hugely expensive to run--replace the glass tubes with LED wires. The energy savings would be immense.

@nick1austin 2 жыл бұрын

@@dsolosan Sign makers are way ahead of you. They already do this for small signs such as those in restraunts. Current LEDs aren't bright enough for larger signs but I'm sure they will be soon.

@BKMakes 2 жыл бұрын

Seconds into that opening sequence had me thinking about a Big Trouble in Little China diorama, with Lo Pan descending the stairs/escalator. Thanks for the inspiration Norm!!! P.S. love your dragon!

@MichelLinschoten 2 жыл бұрын

Hah indeed! The pork chop express, grew up on it , still watch it and got the sountrack on vinyl 😎

@JustWasted3HoursHere 2 жыл бұрын

Makes me think of how cool a stop motion animation remake of the original _Blade Runner_ could be...

@BKMakes 2 жыл бұрын

@@JustWasted3HoursHere its not stop motion, but have you seen "Slice of Life" on KZfaq? so cool..

@JustWasted3HoursHere 2 жыл бұрын

@@BKMakes Talking about the anime? The one I watched was the extremely limited version of anime where there's virtually no movement except the mouth for LARGE stretches of time, and it's only a few frames per second. That being said I have definitely seen anime that is fluid and awesome.

@kulmajaba 2 жыл бұрын

This is so cool and makes me want to make some neon signs for my home! I've always thought they are cool but the scale with most previous materials would be just way too big, this is the first time I've seen something that makes me interested in making scale signs. Thanks for the inspiration!

@LaserGadgets 2 жыл бұрын

You can't even just buy them in Germany it seems. Did not swap over yet. Awesome. Norm makes great tutorials though! Always fun to watch and informative.

@jeffreyhaines 2 жыл бұрын

Tested team is killing it lately with all these videos!

@whosle 2 жыл бұрын

All of these projects you are doing recently have been swimming around my head for months!

@jefffisher1552 2 жыл бұрын

The 1.2M filament I bought gets uncomfortably hot to hold, but not enough to burn you. I went down to 22.8V from the rated 24.0-24.5VDC Thanks for the video!

@TimmCosplay 2 жыл бұрын

This is incredible! Thank you for introducing this new lighting tool to me.

@BrodyLyon 2 жыл бұрын

10 times out of 10, I have no clue what Norm is saying when he talks about electricity, but I still find it cool.

@DarrellAyer 2 жыл бұрын

It’s interesting that you would have had to use fine metal wire to hold the filament in place. Isn’t that how glass neon tubes are traditionally held on their signs? The channels were a fantastic work around as well.

@ericblenner-hassett3945 2 жыл бұрын

I am suprised he did not also wire electrically like real NEON signs and ' color ' where wires would have been routed inside the backing to hide the tube going into the sign. I LOVE what he did, it could have looked more like an actual sign with alot more time and really mindknumbing detailing.

@bajasoobnut 2 жыл бұрын

I am definitely going to look into these for projects for my vehicle and elsewhere, one idea for holding it down is to basically add small bumps that protrude into the channel and so that way it holds into place without using wire and the like

@brettsalter3300 2 жыл бұрын

Wonderful, iconic work Norm.

@maifantasia3650 2 жыл бұрын

This looks ideal for an outdoor fishpond project I'm working on. The lighting, for the project, is hidden (indirect) is not submersed and is not exposed to the elements. The regular LED strips are not so good due to 'shadow effect' caused by the spaces between the individual LEDs. My initial solution was going to be to run two, overlapping LED strips. However, this seems like a much better idea. Thanks for the heads up on the flexible filament. Edit to add: ships to Thailand, excellent!

@Max.Mustermann. 2 жыл бұрын

why not just use some led strips with higher LED "Density" ?

@maifantasia3650 2 жыл бұрын

@@Max.Mustermann. - what I have sourced locally (remote northeastern Thailand) does not produce the desired result. Have tried domestic and automotive LED strips. With both, there are noticeable bright and dim points in the lighting scheme. Space is limited so double wrapping would have resulted in refabricating the light holder's. Thanks for your feedback. I've already placed an order for the featured strips. The entire system (lighting, water features, pumps, valves, filtration, aeration etc.) is 12Vdc, run from solar and deep cycle batteries. It's currently operating on timing switches (with manual overrides). However, I'm learning and experimenting with writing software (applications) to operate the system remotely via Android phone.

@janexu8307 2 жыл бұрын

cob led strip doesn't have shadow

@hansoverbeeke5442 7 ай бұрын

Maybe a micro lED like those in TV and monitors alltough , a so called high density filament exists. instead of a normal led filament when you see clearly the individual Led emitters these HD filament the emitters are so close you need a microscope to see it. ofcourse, not fully lit😅😅

@guitfidle 2 жыл бұрын

Wow Norm, that looks amazing!! I was working on a project at my last job where we had to secure a bunch on LEDs inside small sections of silicone tube. A dab of hot glue is the best thing to hold this kind of thing in place. It will conform to the round profile and lock it in place, but since it is silicone based it is easily removable.

@janetsbrick 6 ай бұрын

OMG, thank you! I am tinkering with a design for a light up “pedestrian safety” cane and was almost sold on filament LED for lighting but was wondering how to secure it. Hot glue, of course!

@anthonyp4209 2 жыл бұрын

Looks great. Snapped up one of those USB power supplies. No idea that even existed.

@voodoofx1946 2 жыл бұрын

Wow, Great video Norman!

@BeastlyJ123 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this. I was trying to learn more about this after watch Boylei Hobby Time

@C1Ansy 2 жыл бұрын

It is not that I don't like Adam - big fan - but it is nice too see other people hosting videos again

@RicardoPenders 2 жыл бұрын

what about current limiting? are there resistors built-in?

@robertmcclellan8046 2 жыл бұрын

Fishing line could be used as a fastener as well which wouldn’t be as visually obvious

@ericnicolaisen7284 11 ай бұрын

Way cool work!

@philiplathrop6929 2 жыл бұрын

Perfect for a Tron cosplay

@inlifeiamdeadindeath 2 жыл бұрын

That looks phenomenal 😍. I want to get into wiring so i can do stuff like this

@malachimusick6868 2 жыл бұрын

I have been waiting for a video JUST like this. Awesome share, thank you!

@Impatient_Ape 2 жыл бұрын

Does the manufacturer integrate the correct amount of resistance in this LED filament wire so that you only need to hook up 3 volts? That would probably explain the fixed-length of the wire. Normally, we add a current-limiting resistor in series to LEDs, even near the minimum driving voltage.

@Ricky_B4 2 жыл бұрын

The White Dragon looks just like the White Dragon from Blade Runner 1982. It just so happens I made the original White Dragon for Blade Runner. 😁

@gabiballetje 2 жыл бұрын

You could also make really small holes, like 1mm or smaller if you can, and use some fishing line, knot it at the back, it's mostly see through, you could also use the flexible stretchy wire sometimes use for bracelets, mostly on those semi-precious stone bracelets, also see through, is a bit thicker than fishing wire though. But it will not be as visible and thick and hard to work with compared to copper wire. Although the copper wire could also have a somewhat authentic look to it.

@southpacificwwiimuseum 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for showing this Norm, I just went and bought some to play around with 😀 To glue the silicon coated filament in place, use... silicon! Straight out of a caulking gun.

@benaycock1646 2 жыл бұрын

So cool! Thanks for sharing!

@damionchrist 2 жыл бұрын

That’s amazing Norm! I’m a huge Blade Runner fanboy and even built myself a live-firing Blade Runner Blaster, it really gets other shooters freaking out at the gun range. Very nice work and would love to see you do the “Origin” neon sign next? Thanks.

@ChaunceyPendicott Жыл бұрын

Dude, I thought you were making that up, and then I looked at your videos. That's really cool.

@Pandiosity Жыл бұрын

So many possibilities. Blade Runner Diorama.

@cccaaa9034 2 жыл бұрын

2021 winner for best cinematic, use of a vape or wax pen.

@miamijules2149 2 жыл бұрын

BOYLAI HOBBYTIME is a f***ing monster bro - his work is just stupid amazing. Made me start in the hobby…. and I’m a lazy ass Cuban so that says a lot! Lol

@ddtc.w.o.3055 2 ай бұрын

I know this video is a couple years already, but wanted to suggest something in case you see it still or others like myself that only recently view it may find useful. For anchoring the wire, what about a dab of silicone Caulk? It should bond to silicon tubing, and it is relatively strong for holding down objects. It's not completely permanent either if the need to relocate or replace. Any components Not certain if it works for sure, but my guess is that it twill indeed

@s_mores 2 жыл бұрын

it's insane, those are like micro neon, I love it.

@tested 2 жыл бұрын

Right? Even more vibrant in person!

@paprikalee 2 жыл бұрын

Wow. Looks like Neon 😻🌆💡🪄🎩

@romainvilleneuve 2 жыл бұрын

pretty cool

@lordsethos2000 2 жыл бұрын

what i really want is the design file for that dragon! :) 🍇

@retrorevivalprops 2 жыл бұрын

This is so cool Norm!!

@nicklebeezy 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks Norm!

@subifyonline2831 2 жыл бұрын

Many kudos! 👏👏👏

@CardboardCreationism 2 жыл бұрын

You should resin print some clear clips to take it to the next level.

@theleveretts4179 2 жыл бұрын

@BoyleiHobbyTime is one of the people who I saw use the lightbulb trick first if anyone was curious who he was referencing in the beginning...

@dezkarcy 2 жыл бұрын

Big Trouble and Little China vibes!

@raimee81 2 жыл бұрын

Holy cow how did I miss this video. Another great one Norm! I got started with lighting following your HT lightsaber video.

@cMONoutdoors 2 жыл бұрын

didn't know this existed and way better than EL wire

@RicardoPenders 2 жыл бұрын

Man that looks so good

@RichardBellII 2 жыл бұрын

love the subject, the content and the presentation! TY

@charlesjhemphilliii4792 2 жыл бұрын

I just saw your flying suit from your TV show takeoff from a helicopter deck of a ship in rough water to an inflatable and back. It was cool.

@RipperBlades 2 жыл бұрын

Wow. The heart strings.

@RobMR3 2 жыл бұрын

This is a fantastic find!!! I'm going to see what lengths I need to maybe light up my LEGO Technic models. I'm thinking DRL on the Raptor, tail/brake light bar on the Chiron, tail/brake on the Charger (F&F), let alone any old sets I'm not thinking of...

@samhowells86 2 жыл бұрын

EL Filament is great for custom lengths if the LED's fixed length are causing you issues; downer is it requires a driver circuit and is a bit more fragile.

@MiddKnightAlphaOmega 2 жыл бұрын

I was about to ask how LED wire compares to EL Wire and EL strip. I like the soft glow of EL strip for use as ground effect for some of my electronics. I have been wanting to play with EL sheets to see how they work as soft backlights for images. AKA, light up skins for PCs.

@nobirdsnomasters 2 жыл бұрын

Not to mention the terrible sound and poor brightness. These are better in every way.

@dorsk84 2 жыл бұрын

Looks like I just found a way to light up my R/C car and mini truck... and my Pontoon boat.

@channelvr1293 2 жыл бұрын

i actually made the Nürburgring Nordschleife like this .... first a 3D print in many parts and then a led strip inside. Against a wall it looks awesome.

@crumpred805 2 жыл бұрын

The opening scene in my mind. "Nice ... looks great. Ooh smoke! Wait alligator clip ... that's magical."

@drbelli 2 жыл бұрын

imagine a scuba diving suit lined with that, in a night coral sea adventure huhuhu

@ak11230 2 жыл бұрын

Don't tell me ? You must be computer Gig ? I love what You guys can come up with !

@KyleVeatch 2 жыл бұрын

Shout out to Boylei Hobby Time!

@abbywebster8343 2 жыл бұрын

This is wonderful! Love it!

@4legdfishman 2 жыл бұрын

Very cool! I've never made anything with the flexible LED filament. But, you mentioned that it's encased in silicone and cannot be glued. I was wondering, will 100% silicone caulk hold it in place? Since they're both silicone? Just a thought. Your piece looks amazing!

@norro21 2 жыл бұрын

Seems like EL wire would be more appropriate for a lot of situations

@ConfusedRaccoon 2 жыл бұрын

gives me so many ideas for my PC

@amishjim 2 жыл бұрын

Are these not pwm dimmable? That's how we handle that on film sets. This looks amazing, also.

@Flyingwigs 2 жыл бұрын

You should look into the USB C Power Delivery trigger boards, very convenient for up to 100 watts at 20v but they're selectable between 5,9,12,15 & 20 volts. I used one to power 12v leds for my helmet and run a power bank in my backpack.

@williamd1732 2 жыл бұрын

Brilliant use of these! I wonder if hot glue would work? I mean with your channels. Putting hot glue over the filament and down it's sides to encase the filament in the channel. Basically acting like a strap. The glue sticking to the acrylic.

@sickofthebs93 2 жыл бұрын

My gf uses EL wire for crafts. You can make some amazing stuff with it.

@SteveWalden73 2 жыл бұрын

A Voltron lit up with this stuff would look awesome!

@RCnerd74 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing these great LED tubes! Awesome stuff :o)

@marc6340 2 жыл бұрын

Great project, Norm. Looking at this from the point of view of a "real" neon sign, traditionally the neon tubes are held in place using thin wires that are twisted around the tubes. Maybe try that instead of those thick copper wires?

@bluegizmo1983 2 жыл бұрын

If the brightness was an issue when filming it, couldn't you just lower the voltage to dim it like normal LEDs?

@onemanshow4116 2 жыл бұрын

Exactly my thoughts. He has a voltage regulator right there lol

@SpuriousECG 2 жыл бұрын

That's cool!

@TheCatIsAMonster Жыл бұрын

I was thinking of doing a GOW Thor with lightning and this seems to be it

@prodeous 2 жыл бұрын

10 points for Robocop :)

@Mrjobe_ 2 жыл бұрын

Would be nice to see what happens when you start to ease the voltage down.. You should be able to crank it down a bit before it starts to flicker or shut of.

@tested 2 жыл бұрын

Unfortunately it starts flickering with any adjustments to voltage (at least at 3V) and doesn’t let you dim much

@suziscarborough9665 2 жыл бұрын

To dim it you need a PWM controller.

@light-sg1413 2 жыл бұрын

Good idea for ghostbusters proton pack and lots more

@xTimx2002 2 жыл бұрын

this is actually what I need for my car audio project! but I really wish they would come in RGB and Black Light LEDs

@Gvaiger88 2 жыл бұрын

It’s so cool!!!

@Bianchi77 2 жыл бұрын

Nice video, thanks :)

@BenRyherd 2 жыл бұрын

Could you use a PWM controller inline to do some dimming so you can tune your exposures more to your liking? Not sure if these "elements" allow dimming like that.

@franciscozamora649 2 жыл бұрын

Dude, i bought on ebay a 1m or 1.5m led wire easily 4 years ago and it runs on 3v... 😳... But great video, lots of ideas! 😎

@mozkitolife5437 2 жыл бұрын

So what you're suggesting is CNC channels into an acrylic sheet to press fit the LEDs into.

@tested 2 жыл бұрын

that would work with a tiny endmill!

@chris-hayes 2 жыл бұрын

At the beginning I was confused about the gigantic metal clips, and then I realized it was a minature.

@roadtrippin2781 2 жыл бұрын

I know I'm late to the party but I figured I'd remind you of uv cured "adhesive" since it's not actually adhesive yet a resin it would probably hold.

@jkalberer Жыл бұрын

Hot glue would also do it as long as it encapsulated the filament at the attachment point.

@eamonmccarthy93 2 жыл бұрын

That's really cool, just the last few days I've been looking at different ways to defuse RGB strips.this completely negates the need for that.

@DragonNinja83 11 ай бұрын

Does anyone know how to install a rotary dimmer on these filament strips, do I need a driver or just the knob? I'm very new to these things

@jamesbarisitz4794 2 жыл бұрын

Harvested? I always cannabilize! 😃

@peterkelley6344 2 жыл бұрын

When I first saw the video thumbnail I thought that Norm had done one that was like +2 feet in diameter for Halloween. Imagined smoke blowing from the mouth.

@yuimi2442 2 жыл бұрын

I love it ❤️❤️

@notflanders4967 Жыл бұрын

6:33 this is note-worthy

@Bassquake76 2 жыл бұрын

Tron suit next 😉

@AndrewBlack343 2 жыл бұрын

"Dead or Alive, you are illuminating with me"

@InkDropCustoms 2 жыл бұрын

Awesome

@markgarrett2971 2 жыл бұрын

Cool! Do the lights get hot? Could it be used in a wooden application?

@JeffHanke 2 жыл бұрын

I imagine there's some sort of rigid, heat-deformable clear acrylic/plastic/PVC/glass tubing that you could put this inside to shape it like people shape neon tubes.

@tested 2 жыл бұрын

best suggestion i've seen so far is heat-shrink tubing with a wire embedded inside along the LED strand to bend into place