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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