ROPE LIGHT ASSEMBLY

Attaching Connectors and Mounting Rope Light

What will I need to connect the rope light to a power source?

The power source connector kit contains all the materials you need to connect a rope light to a standard electrical outlet including a two-prong electrical plug, a connector unit, and an end-cap.

How do I attach the connector kit to the rope light?

What do I cut rope light with?

Be sure to disconnect it from all power sources before cutting. You can cut it with sharp scissors, a PVC pipe cutter or a sharp utility knife. The cut needs to be straight and clean. If you plan on making lots of cuts, we suggest using the PVC pipe cutter, pictured at the left.  This will simplify your task greatly and can be purchased at any hardware or home depot store.  If you use scissors, it is best to use a variety with a pipe cutting slot in order to get a clean cut.

 
Don't forget to trim the copper wires from the cut ends.

After you have cut the rope light, you will see two (three for chasing rope) wires inside. These wires must be trimmed in order for the connectors to correctly insert and set into the rope light. The connectors have two pointed prongs that need space inside the rope to make a good connection.

Cutting a small amount of the wire makes that possible. To do this, bend the tube sharply to the side about 2 inches from the end. This will cause one of the wires to be exposed. Trim off the protruding wire with scissors or a wire cutter. Bend the rope the other way and repeat the process to cut off the other wire. After cutting the rope light, you are ready to attach a connector kit.

Attaching a connector kit

1. Place the plastic end-cap on the end of the rope farthest from where the power source will be. The end cap is necessary to prevent water from getting into the rope light wiring and creating an electrical short circuit. Place the end-cap on firmly

2. Next, place the retaining ring on the rope light.  Then insert the sharp connector pins into the end of the rope light until they make contact with the wires inside. Use pliers to push the pins inside. Note that 1-2mm of the pins will not fit inside the rope. This is normal. FYI: This connector pin should have 3 pins for chasing rope light and 2 pins for 2 wire rope light.

3. Slide the housing over the connector pin unit and onto the rope light until pins are no longer visible  The split end should cover the rope light.

4. Slide the power cord onto the blunt connector pins that are inside the housing.  Push together firmly to ensure a good connection.

5. Tighten down both retainer rings, starting with the ring on the rope light first.  Once you have begun tightening this retainer ring, twist both at the same time until snug

6. Rope light is water tight, but if it will be placed outdoors or come in contact with moisture, seal the joints with silicon glue.

How do I mount rope light?

You can use mounting clips or a mounting track. When using clips, simply use small screws to attach the clips in the desired location. Then push the rope light into the clips. Attach a mounting track with good adhesive or screws in the desired location and then insert the rope light. Do not use adhesive directly on the rope light as it may cause damage to the tubing.  Do not place rope lighting in a covered area, or place in a groove.  Rope lights must be able to dissipate heat.

How do I determine how many mounting clips to buy?

These are very inexpensive. We generally recommend one per 300mm (1 foot) of rope light, or more in sections that have a sharper bend.