More Pixel Protocols

LED Pixel Protocol WS2813

Overview

This pixel protocol was designed by World Semi in China. WS2813 offers many of the benefits the WS28xx series is famous for, as well as being the first in the series to offer both a redundant data line and a much higher PWM rate, making it one of the most common protocols for pixel lighting displays. There are multiple variants of WS2813, including A, B, C and D. These variants offer different brightness levels so that all budgets are met. The control circuit and LEDs are integrated in a 5050 SMD package, which provides a small physical footprint for each pixel.

WS2813 pixel protocol - Advatek Lighting

WS2813 pixel protocol

Note: Advatek Lighting is in no way affiliated with World Semi.

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

5 - 12V

PWM Rate

2000Hz

Suitable Camera

Up to 67fps

Data Transfer Rate

800kbps

Redundant Data Line

Colors

Color

Brightness (A)

Brightness (B)

Brightness (C)

Brightness (D)

Wavelength

Red

480 mcd

360 mcd

120 mcd

100 mcd

620 622 nm

Green

1500 mcd

1150 mcd

540 mcd

420 mcd

522 525 nm

Blue

320 mcd

220 mcd

130 mcd

110 mcd

467 470 nm

Considerations for Use

Advantages

  • Up to 12V, allowing for long cable lengths
  • High PWM rate allows for filming these pixels with cameras up to 67fps
  • Redundant data line reduces chance of entire strip failure

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

Need Help with Your Next Project?

Talk to the Experts

PixLite Support

Are you looking for WS2813 pixel drivers that work with Art-Net or sACN?

All PixLite Mk2 and Mk3 products support WS2813 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.

A4-S Mk3

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?

E4-S Mk3

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.

E16-S Mk3

PixLite® E16-S Mk3

The most cost-efficient 16-output commercial grade pixel controller in the world, the E16-S Mk3 drives up to 96 universes of LED pixel control.

T8-S Mk3

PixLite® T8-S Mk3

With a data transmission range of 300 meters, this user-friendly long range pixel controller system is the high-impact solution for professional installations.