Overview
This pixel protocol was designed by World Semi in China. WS2816A offers many of the benefits the WS28xx series is famous for. It features a 16-bit color resolution, allowing for more precise control and smoother dimming, as well as an impressive 10kHz PWM rate.
The control circuit and LEDs are integrated in a 5050 SMD package, which provides a small physical footprint for each pixel.
Current Control
WS2816A has the ability to digitally control the current of the connected LEDs. Use the 4-bit current control per color to lower the brightness without sacrificing resolution, and tune the current of individual colors, allowing for more accurate color mixing. This individual current control can be set when configuring your PixLite Mk3 controller.
Choosing between WS2816A vs B vs C?
All three variants offer 16 bits of color resolution, 10kHz PWM rate, and a backup data line. There are differences in brightness and available form factors.
WS2816B and WS2816C both feature built-in 4-bit gamma correction, allowing the 16-bit input data to be mapped to a gamma corrected 20 bit curve, increasing the visual aesthetic and accuracy of colors.
WS2816A offers 4 bits per color of individual current control, allowing for colors to be tuned as desired.
Specifications
PixLite Mk1 | |
PixLite Mk2 | |
PixLite Mk3 | |
Clock Type | Data-Only |
Color Resolution | 16 Bits |
Built-in Gamma Correction | |
Current Control | Per Color: 4 Bits |
Physical Package | SMD5050 with integrated LEDs |
RGB | |
RBGW | |
Input Voltage | 5V |
Output Pixel Voltage | 5V |
PWM Rate | 10,000Hz |
Suitable Camera | Up to 333fps |
Data Transfer Rate | 800kbps |
Redundant Data Line |
Colors
Color | Brightness | Wavelength |
|---|---|---|
Red | 285 mcd | 620 – 625 nm |
Green | 530 mcd | 522 – 527 nm |
Blue | 90 mcd | 470 – 475 nm |
Considerations for Use
Advantages
- 16 bits of data for each color makes dimming curves very smooth
- High PWM rate allows for filming these pixels with cameras up to 333fps
- Redundant data line reduces chance of entire strip failure
Disadvantages
- Limited to 5V, causing short cable lengths
- Data-only restricts refresh rates to be limited by the speed of the protocol, which can be slow
PixLite Support
Are you looking for WS2816A pixel drivers that work with Art-Net or sACN?
All PixLite Mk3 products support WS2816A as an available Pixel IC type, so get in touch with us to find out how the lighting specialists at Advatek can support you in your pixel lighting project.
PixLite® A4-S Mk3
Driving up to 24 universes of data, and offering easy mounting, sleek design and electrical fault protection — what’s not to love?
PixLite® E4-S Mk3
The E-series LED pixel controller is made for tighter budgets thanks to its ability to drive up to 24 universes of LED pixel control and route power directly to LEDs.
to find out how the lighting specialists at Advatek can support you in your pixel lighting project.
PixLite® A4-S Mk3
Driving up to 24 universes of data, and offering easy mounting, sleek design and electrical fault protection — what’s not to love?
PixLite® E4-S Mk3
The E-series LED pixel controller is made for tighter budgets thanks to its ability to drive up to 24 universes of LED pixel control and route power directly to LEDs.