SM16803 Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Sunmoon Microelectronics
A single-wire, individually addressable RGB pixel driver IC in an SOP8 package, running on a wide 5 to 30V supply for longer, higher-voltage runs.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP8 |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 30V |
| PWM Rate | 4000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 133fps |
| Redundant Data Line | No |
Strengths
- Wide 5 to 30V supply range: unlike fixed-5V pixels, it can run 12V or 24V strings, cutting voltage drop and allowing longer runs between injection points.
- Single-wire, self-clocking interface needs only one DATA conductor plus power and ground, keeping cabling and connectors simple with no separate clock line to route.
- 4000Hz PWM is comfortably flicker-free for the rated 133fps, giving a sensible margin for broadcast and on-camera use without chasing needlessly higher refresh figures.
Limitations
- 8-bit per channel (256 levels each, 24-bit RGB total) is standard but can show visible banding on slow, low-level fades where more bit depth would help.
- No redundant data line and a timing-sensitive single-wire signal: one broken joint or pixel drops all downstream pixels, and long runs demand clean signal integrity.
Overview
The SM16803 is a data-only, single-wire addressable RGB pixel driver: one self-clocking DATA line carries 24-bit colour (8 bits per channel) and each device latches its slot before passing the rest downstream. Housed in an SOP8 package and operating across a wide 5 to 30V supply, it suits 12V and 24V strings where a higher rail reduces voltage drop over long runs. Its 4000Hz PWM is comfortably flicker-free for camera work up to 133fps. It carries no redundant data line, so a single break blacks out everything downstream. It is commonly attributed to Sunmoon Microelectronics. ENTTEC is not affiliated with Sunmoon Microelectronics.
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.