WS2808 Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Worldsemi
A 12V single-wire addressable RGB pixel with 8-bit colour, a self-regenerating data stream, and a redundant backup data line for reliable long runs.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SMD5050 with integrated LEDs |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 12V |
| PWM Rate | 2000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 67fps |
| Redundant Data Line | Yes |
Strengths
- Single-wire, self-clocking data needs only one signal conductor per run, and each pixel regenerates the stream to preserve signal integrity over longer chains.
- A redundant data line keeps the string running past a failed pixel instead of losing every node downstream, valuable for permanent or hard-to-service installs.
- PWM at 2000Hz is comfortably flicker-free for cameras up to the rated 67fps, covering typical broadcast and event capture while delivering 24-bit RGB at 12V.
Limitations
- As a data-only single-wire protocol the timing is tolerance-sensitive: reliable operation depends on cable length, connector quality, and adequate power injection, and the redundant data line mitigates but does not eliminate this.
- 8-bit-per-channel colour (24-bit RGB) is the industry norm but limits very smooth low-level fades, and the 2000Hz PWM, while camera-safe to the rated 67fps, leaves limited headroom for higher-speed cinema capture.
Overview
The WS2808 is a single-wire, individually addressable RGB pixel in an SMD5050 package with integrated LEDs. Each node latches 24-bit colour (8 bits per channel), regenerates the data stream, and passes it down the chain, so longer runs stay clean without a separate clock line. It runs at 12V, drives PWM at 2000Hz for flicker-free capture up to 67fps, and carries a redundant data line so one failed pixel does not break the whole string. The WS2808 is commonly attributed to Worldsemi. ENTTEC is not affiliated with Worldsemi.
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.