UCS1904 Pixel Protocol

Manufacturer: Shenzhen Ucs

UCS1904 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

Clock TypeData-Only
Color Resolution8 Bits
Physical PackageSOP8
RGBYes
RGBWNo
Output Pixel Voltage5 - 24V
PWM Rate1500Hz
Suitable CameraUp to 50fps
Redundant Data LineNo

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.

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ENTTEC has been engineering lighting control in Australia since 1999, and shipping LED pixel controllers since the original Pixelator in 2014.