Tutorial · updated 2026-05-28 · 1 min read
Repair a damaged TV gradient strip before adding automation
If a Hue gradient strip is cut, kinked, or damaged during mounting, solve the hardware issue before treating it as a reliable ambient light.
A TV gradient strip is less forgiving than a generic single-color LED tape. If a corner bend, cut, or mounting mistake damages a segment, pause the automation work and confirm whether the strip is actually designed to be cut or reconnected at that point.
Before trying a connector
- Check the manufacturer’s cut marks and support docs for the exact strip model.
- Look for visible copper pads, torn traces, or crushed diffusion material.
- Avoid powering the strip while damaged conductors may be shorted.
- If the strip is under warranty, contact support before cutting out a section.
Return it to normal room control
After the strip works reliably in Hue, decide how it should behave when the TV is off. A repaired ambient strip can be part of the room’s ordinary Rhythm state for gentle evening light, while Hue Sync or another entertainment tool handles the temporary screen effect.