How to hack an LED strip?

[StuckPI]

My pi's run headless, and i think im headless right behind them lol because my pi knowledge is incredibly basic.
I've ordered a powered usb with switches, and an led RGB switch controlled strip.
I decided now i got my first project completed (many thanks to those who helped and were patient with me) that i should start my next one. So i intend to hack the LED and turn it into a pi controlled LED.
I know ZERO about electronics, so my first priority will be to protect the pi.
My plan is run something into the usb switch so the pi can control that which powers on / off the lights.
Then replace the 3 buttons on the light with pi buttons, so the flash/color/speed can be pi controlled.

[scotty101]

Can you be more specific?

What type of LED string?

[BMS Doug]

Can you be more specific?

What type of LED string?

+1

There are many types of LED strip, each would need a different method of control.

[StuckPI]

As soon as the strip arrives ill let you know, at the moment all i know is its usb powered, has a control unit built into its own cable with 3 buttons... I know thats not much help, when it arrives ill take tons of pics see if i can work it out.

[liudr]

Any link to the LED strip you purchased?