Single Colour COB Strip 48V

Run 48V single colour COB LED strip up to 30 metres from one feed point — no visible dots, no voltage drop issues, and no compromise on light quality. If you are fitting long kitchen runs, cove lighting across open-plan living spaces, or commercial display lighting in 2026, 48V is the practical choice over 24V for any run exceeding 10 metres.

ATOM LED 48V COB strip delivers CRI90+ colour accuracy, FreeCut technology (cut at any point without voiding the 5-year warranty), and dot-free light output across warm white, natural white, and cool white options. Every reel ships from UK stock with free delivery.

48V COB · CRI90+ · 30m single feed · 50m dual feed · FreeCut · 5-year warranty · dot-free · IP20 indoor · free UK delivery

On this page:

1. Why choose 48V over 24V COB strip?
2. Which colour temperature suits your project?
3. How far can you run 48V COB strip from a single feed?
4. How do you install 48V single colour COB LED strip?
5. What driver do you need for 48V COB strip?
6. Can you dim 48V single colour COB strip?
7. What mistakes should you avoid with 48V COB strip?
8. Why buy 48V COB strip from ATOM LED?
9. Frequently asked questions — 48V single colour COB strip

Quick decision: Runs over 10 metres? Choose 48V. Under 10 metres on a budget? 24V COB strip works well. Need colour changing? See RGBW COB strip.

This strip is for: Electricians, kitchen designers, architects, and shopfitters working on runs over 10 metres — cove lighting, retail display, hospitality fit-outs, and corridor installations across the UK in 2026.

This strip is NOT for: Colour-changing projects (use RGBW strip with a dedicated controller). Not for outdoor use — this collection is IP20 indoor rated. Not for 12V systems.

Why choose 48V COB strip over 24V for long runs?

48V COB LED strip carries current at half the voltage drop rate of 24V strip over the same distance and wattage. This means you can run 30 metres from a single feed point on 48V compared to approximately 20 metres on 24V, maintaining consistent brightness from start to finish without supplementary injection points.

Every metre of cable and strip introduces resistance that reduces voltage at the far end. At 24V, this becomes visible as dimming beyond approximately 10–12 metres. At 48V, the higher voltage means the proportional loss is halved, keeping brightness consistent over much longer distances.

• Reduced cable cost: Higher voltage means lower current for the same wattage — thinner cable on longer runs without exceeding safe ratings.
• Fewer drivers: One 48V driver powers 30 metres that would need two feed points on 24V.
• Cleaner install: Fewer connection points means fewer failure points and a faster fit for electricians on site in 2026.

Which colour temperature suits your project?

ATOM LED 48V COB strip is available in warm white (2700K–3000K), natural white (4000K), and cool white (6500K). Warm white suits residential and hospitality environments. Natural white works for kitchens, retail, and offices. Cool white is used in commercial, industrial, and task-heavy applications where maximum visual clarity matters.

• CRI90+ across all options: Colours render accurately — reds, skin tones, and food look natural under warm or natural white.
• Common mistake: Selecting cool white for residential kitchens. At close range, 6500K creates a harsh clinical feel most homeowners find uncomfortable within weeks. For UK kitchens in 2026, 3000K or 4000K is the practical choice.
• No colour shift over length: 48V maintains stable current delivery, so the colour temperature at 25 metres matches the output at 1 metre.
• Dot-free output: COB construction produces a continuous ribbon of light with no visible LED points — particularly effective in cove and shelf applications.

Call 01952 370028 if you are unsure which colour temperature suits your space — the ATOM LED technical team can advise based on your room dimensions and finish colours.

How far can you run 48V COB strip from a single feed?

ATOM LED 48V single colour COB strip supports runs of up to 30 metres from a single feed point and up to 50 metres with dual feeding (power injected from both ends). These are tested maximum distances with consistent brightness maintained to within approximately 5% of the starting output at the driver end.

• Under 15 metres: Single feed from one end is sufficient for virtually all 48V installations at standard wattages.
• 15–30 metres: Single feed remains viable — verify your specific strip wattage against ATOM LED datasheets or call 01952 370028 for confirmation.
• 30–50 metres: Dual feed required — connect power to both ends of the strip from the same driver output.
• Over 50 metres: Split into separate circuits with individual drivers, wired in parallel back to the mains supply. Series wiring multiplies voltage drop and must be avoided.

For commercial projects requiring 50+ metres of continuous lit length, email operations@atomled.co.uk with your floor plan and the ATOM LED team will specify the correct driver configuration.

How do you install 48V single colour COB LED strip?

Installing 48V single colour COB strip follows the same core process as any DC LED strip, but requires a 48V constant voltage driver connected to a suitable fused spur or dedicated circuit. The strip mounts onto a clean, dry surface — ideally within an aluminium profile for heat management — and connects to the driver via soldered or push-fit connectors.

1. Step 1 — Measure and calculate: Measure total strip length. Calculate wattage (W/m multiplied by metres) and add 20% headroom to size your driver. A dedicated fused spur is recommended for permanent installations in the UK in 2026.
2. Step 2 — Mount the profile: Fix the aluminium profile to the surface using screws or clips. The profile acts as a heatsink. Never mount strip directly onto bare metal — this causes short circuits.
3. Step 3 — Apply the strip: Peel the 3M backing and press firmly into the channel. Use FreeCut to terminate at any point. Never power strip while coiled — heat builds rapidly, destroys adhesive, and creates a fire risk.
4. Step 4 — Connect to driver: Use soldered or push-fit COB strip connectors to link strip to the 48V driver. Match polarity and verify with a multimeter before powering on.
5. Step 5 — Wire driver to mains: Connect via fused spur. Must be carried out by a qualified electrician under Part P. Ensure the driver is suitably isolated so the 48V DC output falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum).
6. Step 6 — Test: Power on and check brightness along the full run. Verify voltage at the far end reads within approximately 5% of 48V. If brightness drops, check connections and consider dual feeding for runs approaching 30 metres.

What driver do you need for 48V COB strip?

48V single colour COB strip requires a 48V constant voltage LED driver. The driver wattage must exceed the total strip wattage by at least 20% to prevent overloading and ensure long-term reliability. For dimmable installations, pair with a trailing-edge dimmer or a compatible PWM dimming system — never use a leading-edge dimmer, which causes flicker.

• Sizing example: 15 metres at 10W/m = 150W. Add 20% headroom = minimum 180W driver. Browse 48V drivers or all LED drivers for options.
• Non-dimmable: Standard 48V constant voltage driver — most cost-effective where dimming is not needed.
• Dimmable: Use a TRIAC dimmable driver with a trailing-edge dimmer. Leading-edge dimmers cause flicker — the trailing-edge fix costs approximately £15.
• SELV compliance: 48V DC falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum), provided the driver is suitably isolated. This significantly reduces shock risk under dry conditions but does not eliminate it — wet conditions change the risk profile.

Can you dim 48V single colour COB strip?

Yes. 48V single colour COB strip dims smoothly when paired with a compatible driver and dimming method. For wall-mounted dimmer control, use a TRIAC dimmable 48V driver with a trailing-edge dimmer. For wireless or zone control, use a PWM dimmer connected between the driver output and the strip input.

• TRIAC wall dimming: The dimmer sits on the mains side (before the driver). The driver must be TRIAC-compatible. Trailing-edge dimmers are the correct type — leading-edge causes flicker in most LED driver combinations.
• PWM (pulse width modulation): The dimmer sits on the 48V DC side (after the driver), providing smoother dimming to very low levels. Preferred for commercial installations, home automation, and multi-zone setups. Browse ATOM LED controllers for compatible options.
• Smart home integration: For Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit control in 2026, PWM dimming via a compatible controller is the most flexible approach. Contact operations@atomled.co.uk for controller pairing guidance.

What mistakes should you avoid with 48V COB strip?

The most common 48V COB strip installation mistakes are powering strip while coiled, mounting on bare metal, using the wrong driver voltage, and oversizing runs without checking voltage drop. Each of these causes either immediate failure or premature degradation that shows up weeks after installation — all are avoidable with basic preparation.

• Powering while coiled: Strip coiled on the reel concentrates heat in a tight space. The adhesive breaks down, the LEDs overheat, and you create a real fire risk. Always uncoil and mount before connecting power.
• Mounting on bare metal: Exposed copper traces on the strip PCB cause short circuits on uninsulated metal. Always use an aluminium profile or insulating tape between strip and metal.
• Wrong driver voltage: A 24V driver on 48V strip produces no light. A 48V driver on 24V strip destroys it instantly. Always match driver voltage to strip voltage.
• No driver headroom: Running a driver at 100% load shortens its lifespan. Size at least 20% above total strip wattage.
• Series wiring: Multiplies voltage drop across each run. Always wire multiple strips in parallel back to the driver output.

Why buy 48V COB strip from ATOM LED?

ATOM LED is a UK LED specialist stocking 48V single colour COB strip in Telford, Shropshire. Every order ships from UK stock with free delivery, backed by a 5-year warranty, CRI90+ colour accuracy, and FreeCut technology — cut at any point without voiding the warranty, a feature most competitors do not offer in 2026.

• FreeCut technology: Cut at any point — not just marked intervals. Your strip fits the exact length you need.
• CRI90+ on every COB strip: Reds, skin tones, and food displays look natural, not washed out.
• 30m single feed / 50m dual feed: Among the longest tested run lengths from any UK supplier in 2026.
• UK stock, free delivery: Orders before 2pm on weekdays typically dispatch same day from Telford.
• 5-year warranty: All COB strip on DC voltage. A 7-year premium warranty is upcoming.
• Technical support: Call 01952 370028 Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, or email operations@atomled.co.uk for driver sizing, dimming, and project advice.

Ready to order? Browse the full 48V single colour COB strip range, or call 01952 370028 to discuss your project with the ATOM LED technical team. Free UK delivery on every order.

Frequently asked questions — 48V single colour COB strip

What is the maximum run length for 48V COB strip?

• Single feed: Up to 30 metres from one connection point with consistent brightness.
• Dual feed: Up to 50 metres when power is injected from both ends of the strip.
• Beyond 50 metres: Split into separate circuits, each with its own 48V driver, wired in parallel to the mains supply.

Is 48V COB strip safe to install in a home?

• SELV threshold: 48V DC falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum), provided it is supplied from a suitably isolated, safety-rated driver.
• Reduced risk: Significantly reduced shock risk under dry conditions — not zero risk. Wet environments change the profile.
• Part P: Permanent hardwiring must be carried out by a qualified electrician under UK Building Regulations.

Can I cut 48V COB strip to any length?

• FreeCut: ATOM LED 48V COB strip uses FreeCut technology — cut at any point along the strip, not just at marked intervals.
• Warranty: Cutting does not void the 5-year warranty.
• Tools: Use sharp scissors or a craft knife for a clean cut through the flexible PCB.

What driver wattage do I need for 48V COB strip?

• Calculate total load: Multiply the strip wattage per metre by total metres required.
• Add headroom: Select a driver rated at least 20% above the total strip load for long-term reliability.
• Example: 15 metres of 10W/m strip = 150W total. Minimum driver size: 180W.

Does 48V COB strip work with smart home systems?

• Compatibility: Yes, when paired with a PWM controller that supports Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Z-Wave protocols.
• Setup: The controller sits between the 48V driver output and the strip input, providing dimming and on/off control via your smart home platform.
• Supported platforms: Contact operations@atomled.co.uk for specific controller recommendations for Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit integration in 2026.

What is the difference between COB strip and traditional SMD strip?

• Light output: COB places LEDs directly onto the PCB with no lens, producing a continuous dot-free line. SMD uses individually encapsulated diodes that create visible bright spots.
• Diffusion: COB produces smooth light without a diffuser. SMD typically needs a frosted profile cover to reduce dotting.
• Best fit: COB is preferred for exposed installations — glass shelves, floating cove details, and display cases — where visible dots would look unfinished.

Can I use 48V COB strip outdoors?

• This collection is IP20: Rated for dry indoor environments only. Not suitable for any outdoor exposure.
• Outdoor alternative: For outdoor installations, use outdoor-rated COB strip with IP67 or IP68 protection. IP65 provides surface-splash protection only and is not suitable for typical UK outdoor conditions under BS7671.
• Bathroom zones: For bathroom installations within wet zones, IP67 minimum is required under BS7671 2026 guidance.

How does 48V COB strip compare to mains-voltage LED strip?

• Safety: 48V DC with an isolated driver falls within the SELV threshold, offering significantly reduced shock risk versus 220V/240V AC mains strip.
• Hardwiring: 48V DC can be permanently hardwired residentially. Mains-voltage AC strip should not be hardwired in most homes.
• Light quality: ATOM LED 48V COB delivers CRI90+. Most mains-voltage strips in the UK in 2026 offer CRI80 or below.

What warranty covers 48V COB strip from ATOM LED?

• 5-year warranty: All ATOM LED COB strip on DC voltage is covered by a 5-year manufacturer warranty.
• FreeCut covered: Cutting the strip at any point does not void the warranty.
• Support: For warranty claims or technical questions, call 01952 370028 or email operations@atomled.co.uk, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

Why choose ATOM LED for your LED lighting project?

ATOM LED is a UK-based LED lighting specialist stocking every product in our Telford warehouse. We do not dropship from overseas suppliers. Every order ships free within the UK with typical delivery in 1 to 3 working days, backed by a 5-year warranty on all COB DC voltage strip lights.

• FreeCut technology: Cut ATOM LED strip at any point without voiding the warranty — no need to find cut marks in tight spaces.
• CRI90+ on all COB strip: Colours render naturally under ATOM LED strip, making it suitable for kitchens, retail displays, and any application where colour accuracy matters.
• Technical team available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm: Call 01952 370028 or email operations@atomled.co.uk for help with voltage selection, driver sizing, IP ratings, and installation planning.
• UK stock, not dropshipped: Every product ships from our Telford warehouse. No overseas lead times, no customs delays, no uncertainty on delivery dates.
• 20m single feed on 24V, 30m on 48V: Longer single-feed runs than most UK competitors, reducing the number of drivers and feed points required in large installations.

Related Collections

• full LED strip collection
• 24V COB strip
• 48V LED drivers
• extra-long COB strip reels
• heat-dissipation aluminium profiles
• 48V-compatible connectors
• installation guide for long LED strip runs

Last reviewed: March 2026 — ATOM LED technical team, Telford, Shropshire. Specifications current as of 2026.

🏭 UK LED specialist, Telford, Shropshire  ·  ☎️ 01952 370028  ·  🚚 Free UK delivery