CS8812 Pixel Protocol
The CS8812 is a 12V single-wire addressable RGB pixel IC with 8-bit colour, a redundant backup data line, and an 8kHz refresh rate.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP8 or SMD5050 with integrated LEDs |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 12V |
| PWM Rate | 8000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 267fps |
| Redundant Data Line | Yes |
Strengths
- 12V operation lowers cumulative voltage drop across a run compared with 5V single-wire chips, allowing longer spans between power injection points.
- The redundant data line provides a failover path: if one pixel's data output fails, downstream pixels can keep receiving signal, improving string reliability on long installs.
- The 8kHz PWM rate is comfortably flicker-free on camera up to the rated 267fps, covering broadcast and high-speed capture without a need to chase ever-higher refresh figures.
Limitations
- As a data-only single-wire protocol it is timing-sensitive: signal integrity depends on cable length, connector quality, and proper level-shifting, so long runs still need clean buffering or reclocking despite the redundant line.
- Colour depth is 8 bits per channel (24-bit RGB), so very smooth low-level dimming and deep fades can show visible stepping, and it is RGB only with no dedicated white channel.
- The manufacturer is not firmly established, which can complicate long-term sourcing and second-source qualification for large projects.
Overview
The CS8812 is a single-wire, individually addressable RGB pixel driver in the WS2812 lineage: one self-clocking data line carries 24-bit colour (8 bits per channel) along the chain, with each IC latching its own slot and forwarding the remainder. It operates at 12V, which reduces cumulative voltage drop over longer runs than 5V parts, and it adds a redundant data line so a single failed pixel need not break the whole string. Its 8kHz PWM keeps output comfortably flicker-free for cameras up to 267fps. Packaging is SOP8 or an integrated SMD5050. ENTTEC pixel controllers (OCTO 71521, PIXELATOR MINI and MK2 70067/70068, DIN PIXIE 73539, and the PLINK Injectors) drive a wide range of pixel protocols; contact ENTTEC about any chip not listed.
Compatible ENTTEC controllers
Sku: 71521
Sku: 73539
Sku: 70067
Sku: 70068
Sku: 73-545
Sku: 73924
ENTTEC has been engineering lighting control in Australia since 1999, and shipping LED pixel controllers since the original Pixelator in 2014.