LiteGear is a technique of professional lighting design.
Technical Details
LiteGear systems are based on flexible printed circuit boards (Flex-PCB) with a width of 10-50mm and thicknesses under 2mm. LED density varies between 60 and 180 LEDs per meter, with modern systems offering color temperatures from 2700K to 6500K. CRI (Color Rendering Index) values are consistently above 95, with TLCI values reaching 98+. Dimming is stepless from 0-100% via DMX512 protocol or manual controllers. The systems are cuttable in 2.5cm segments and reconnectable via copper pads. Protection ratings range from IP20 for studio environments to IP67 for outdoor shoots.
History & Development
LiteGear Inc. introduced the first film-ready flexible LED strips in 2012, after founder Charlie Wiser recognized the limitations of conventional LED panels in unconventional mounting locations. In 2014, the LiteMat system established itself as the standard for automotive scenes due to its ability to integrate into vehicle interiors. In 2017, LiteGear expanded its portfolio to include RGB and RGBW variants. The acquisition by Vitec Group in 2019 accelerated global distribution and led to the integration of Wireless DMX technology from 2020 onwards.
Practical Use in Film
"Blade Runner 2049" (2017) utilized LiteGear strips for characteristic neon lighting in vehicle interiors and architectural integration. In "Ford v Ferrari" (2019), the flexible LEDs were hidden under dashboards to create natural-looking instrument illumination. Typical workflow: Gaffers place LiteGear strips in cavities, gaps, or curved surfaces where conventional fixtures don't fit. Dimmer racks remain compact due to low operating voltage. Disadvantage: limited light output requires close positioning to the subject; heat development at full load can cause adhesive mounts to detach.
Comparison & Alternatives
Compared to rigid LED panels, LiteGear offers form flexibility but achieves only 30-50% of their light output per unit area. Astera Titan Tubes provide higher lumen output but are not bendable and are 20 times more expensive per meter. ARRI SkyPanels dominate for high light output, while LiteGear excels in confined spaces and for hidden installations. Quasar Science Rainbow develops similar tube systems with higher point load capacity. Modern alternatives like Creamsource Vortex8 combine flexibility with higher output power but cost three times as much per setup.