More Pixel Protocols

LED Pixel Protocol WS2816C

Overview

This pixel protocol was designed by World Semi in China. WS2816C 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.

WS2816C in particular offers a reduced intensity of light output, making it ideal for low-light applications.

The control circuit and LEDs are integrated in a 5050 SMD package, which provides a small physical footprint for each pixel.

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

Enhanced to 20 Bits (+4 Bits) 

Current Control

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 

125 mcd 

620 – 625 nm 

Green 

270 mcd 

522 – 527 nm 

Blue 

40 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
  • Additional 4 bits of built-in gamma correction enhances LED output to 20 bits, making colors more accurate and dimming curves more smooth

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 WS2816C pixel drivers that work with Art-Net or sACN?

All PixLite Mk3 products support WS2816C 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.

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