UCS1904 Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Shenzhen UcsUCS1904 is a single-wire, 8-bit-per-channel RGB pixel chip in an SOP8 package, self-clocking like the WS2812 but with steadier timing.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP8 |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 24V |
| PWM Rate | 1500Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 50fps |
| Redundant Data Line | No |
Strengths
- Single data wire: being self-clocking (data-only), it needs only power, ground and one data line, avoiding the extra clock conductor that two-wire clocked chips require.
- 1500Hz PWM sits well above the 50fps camera-safe target, giving comfortably flicker-free results on film and broadcast shoots without chasing needlessly high refresh figures.
- Improved timing stability over baseline WS2812-style parts helps hold reliable data over longer pixel runs while keeping standard 24-bit RGB control.
Limitations
- No redundant/backup data line: a single failed pixel or broken data joint blanks every node downstream, so long runs need planned data re-injection points.
- 8-bit-per-channel resolution (256 levels) can show visible stepping in deep fades and low-level dimming, and as a tightly timed single-wire protocol it is sensitive to cable length, connector quality and controller timing accuracy.
Overview
UCS1904 is a data-only, single-wire addressable RGB pixel driver that self-clocks its 24-bit data stream, closely resembling the WS2812 family but with improved timing stability that eases longer daisy-chained runs. Housed in an SOP8 package, each IC drives one RGB node at 8 bits per channel and refreshes at 1500Hz, which is comfortably flicker-free for capture at frame rates up to 50fps. It operates across a 5V to 24V supply range and carries no redundant data line. UCS1904 parts are commonly attributed to Shenzhen Ucs. ENTTEC is not affiliated with Shenzhen Ucs.
Mapping an installation? ELM, ENTTEC's free LED pixel mapping software, drives the controllers above over Art-Net and sACN, from a single fixture to building-scale maps.
ENTTEC has been engineering lighting control in Australia since 1999, and shipping LED pixel controllers since the original Pixelator in 2014.