PixLite devices offer a unique ability to a adjust the clock speed of pixels that utilize an external clock line. Pixel protocols that use an external clock line, such as APA102, SK9822, MBI6020, and more, can use this feature to maximize the distance between the pixel output and the first pixel (and also between pixels), or to maximise refresh rates, depending on the adjustment.
What Do Slower Clock Speeds Mean?
A slower clock speed typically means the data and clock signals are more immune to noise and can travel further before they become degraded, so this feature can be very helpful in overcoming distance limitations in certain cases. If major distance limitations need to be overcome (e.g. 15m or more), a long range pixel control system may be the best choice for your installation.
What Do Faster Clock Speeds Mean?
Increasing the clock speed allows for a potential increase to the overall pixel refresh rate, which may be desirable in certain installations such as a video matrix wall. There are limits on how fast the clock line can be driven, which is mostly a function of the CPU data processing efficiency combined with the total number of physical pixels connected to a controller and the maximum number of pixels connected to any one single output. For more information, see the Refresh Rate article
Conclusion
In conclusion, higher clock speeds can improve the overall pixel refresh rate of an installation, and slower clock speeds can improve signal integrity to allow for longer data distances. Therefore, the specific application requirements will determine the best use of this feature.