UCS9812 Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Shenzhen UcsThe UCS9812 is a single-wire, self-clocking RGB pixel IC offering 16-bit per-channel colour depth and a wide 5 to 24V supply range.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 16 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP16 |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 24V |
| PWM Rate | 1024Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 35fps |
| Redundant Data Line | No |
Strengths
- 16-bit per-channel colour resolution (65,536 levels) supports smooth gradients and clean low-intensity dimming without the visible stepping seen on 8-bit chips.
- Wide 5 to 24V pixel voltage lets integrators run higher-voltage strings to reduce voltage drop and cut the number of power-injection points on long runs.
- Single-wire, self-clocking design keeps cabling to power plus one data conductor, with no separate clock line to route or terminate.
Limitations
- As a data-only, self-clocking protocol the timing is tight and sensitive to cable length, connector quality and correct 5V level-shifting; with no redundant data line, a single failed IC blanks every pixel downstream of it.
- The 1024Hz PWM rate is comfortably flicker-free at the rated 35fps but leaves limited headroom for higher-speed or slow-motion cinematography, and the usable colour depth at full refresh depends on the driver's real behaviour rather than the nominal 16-bit figure.
Overview
The UCS9812 is a single-wire, self-clocking RGB pixel driver in the WS2812 addressing family: one data line carries 24-bit colour down the chain, each IC latching its own slot and forwarding the remainder. It stands out for 16-bit per-channel resolution (65,536 levels), which supports smooth gradients and clean low-end dimming, and for a wide 5 to 24V supply that eases voltage drop on longer runs. PWM runs at 1024Hz and the part is rated camera-safe up to 35fps. The prefix is 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.
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