More Pixel Protocols

LED Pixel Protocol WS2815B

Overview

This pixel protocol was designed by World Semi in China. WS2815B offers all the same features as WS2815, but with slightly different timing, and at a constant current of 12mA, instead of 15mA. This means that this protocol is more suited to low-intensity applications. It uses 12V as its main power input for each chip, VDD, which is then dropped down to 5V inside each pixel for its logic requirements. This allows longer chains of pixels to driven in series, making it 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.

WS2815B can come as an RGB or an RGBW pixel IC. Although both physical chips exist, the RGB chip is generally more commonly available.

WS2815B pixel protocol - Advatek Lighting

WS2815B pixel protocol

Specifications

PixLite Mk1

PixLite Mk2

PixLite Mk3

Clock Type

Data-Only 

Color Resolution

Bits 

Current Control

Physical Package

SMD5050 with integrated LEDs 

RGB

RBGW

Input Voltage

12V 

Output Pixel Voltage

12V 

PWM Rate

2000Hz 

Suitable Camera

Up to 67fps 

Data Transfer Rate

800kbps 

Redundant Data Line

Colors

Color 

Brightness 

Wavelength 

Red 

310 mcd 

620 – 630 nm 

Green 

800 mcd 

510 – 520 nm 

Blue 

190 mcd 

465 – 475 nm 

White 

1500 2500 mcd 

2800 – 7000 

Considerations for Use

Advantages

  • 12V operation, allows for long cable lengths and long chains of pixels
  • High PWM rate allows for filming these pixels with cameras up to 67fps
  • Redundant data line reduces chance of entire strip failure
  • Option for white LED allows for 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

Operational Behavior

WS2815 and WS2815B have been known to induce defects during manufacturing which cause the pixels to display erratic behavior for a brief moment after power up. If this is a concern, then SK6813 could be considered as an alternative. While many of the features of SK6813 are adopted from WS2815, the design of SK6813 reduces the chance of these same defects during manufacturing. This design sets it apart, making it a more reliable and stable choice.

PixLite Support

Are you looking for WS2815B pixel drivers that work with Art-Net or sACN?

All PixLite Mk3 products support WS2815B 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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