Overview
This pixel protocol was designed by APA Electronic Co. in Taiwan. Also known as “Superled”, APA109 is the RGBW version of APA104 and is one of the most common protocols for pixel lighting displays. The control circuit and LEDs are integrated in a 5050 SMD package, which provides a small physical footprint for each pixel.
APA109 pixel protocol
Specifications
PixLite Mk1 | |
PixLite Mk2 | |
PixLite Mk3 | |
Clock Type | Data-Only |
Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
Current Control | |
Physical Package | SMD5050 with integrated LEDs |
RGB | |
RBGW | |
Input Voltage | 5V |
Output Pixel Voltage | 5V |
PWM Rate | 1200Hz |
Suitable Camera | Up to 40fps |
Data Transfer Rate | 800kbps |
Redundant Data Line |
Colors
Color | Brightness | Wavelength |
|---|---|---|
Red | 700 – 1000 mcd | 620 – 630 nm |
Green | 1500 – 2200 mcd | 515 – 530 nm |
Blue | 200 – 400 mcd | 460 – 475 nm |
White | 3300 – 5000 mcd | 2700 – 7000 K |
Considerations for Use
Advantages
- High PWM rate allows for filming these pixels with cameras up to 40fps
- Presence of white LED allows for higher brightness and more color mixing options
Disadvantages
- Data-only restricts refresh rates to be limited by the speed of the protocol, which can be slow
- Only 8 bits of data for each color makes dimming curves less smooth
- Limited to 5V, causing short cable lengths
- No redundancy in data
PixLite Support
Are you looking for APA109 pixel drivers that work with Art-Net or sACN?
All PixLite Mk2 and Mk3 products support APA109 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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