UCS2603 Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Shenzhen UCS
A single-wire, individually addressable 8-bit RGB pixel driver in an SOP8 package, with a redundant data line for run continuity.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP8 |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 28V |
| PWM Rate | 8000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 267fps |
| Redundant Data Line | Yes |
Strengths
- Single-wire, data-only chaining: each link needs only power plus one data conductor, which is simpler and cheaper to wire (and has fewer failure points) than a clocked two-wire chip.
- Redundant data line: a backup signal path keeps the string running past a single failed pixel, improving reliability on longer runs.
- 8kHz PWM is comfortably flicker-free for camera work, rated safe up to 267fps, which covers typical broadcast and most high-speed capture without visible banding rolls.
Limitations
- As a self-clocking single-wire protocol it is timing-sensitive: long or unbuffered data leads, marginal logic levels or reflections can corrupt the stream, so injection and signal-buffering discipline matters (the redundant line mitigates a dead pixel but does not remove this sensitivity).
- 8 bits per channel (24-bit RGB) is standard rather than high bit depth, so deep fades and very low dimming levels can show banding, and there is no dedicated white channel (RGB only).
Overview
The UCS2603 is a single-wire, individually addressable RGB pixel driver. Each SOP8 IC decodes 24-bit data (8 bits per channel), refreshes its outputs at 8kHz, and forwards the remaining stream down the chain. A redundant data line lets a run carry on past a failed node. It operates across a 5 to 28V pixel supply, spanning low-voltage strips and higher-voltage runs. ENTTEC pixel controllers (OCTO 71521, PIXELATOR MINI / MK2 70067/70068, DIN PIXIE 73539 and PLINK Injectors) drive a wide range of pixel protocols; contact ENTTEC about chips not listed. ENTTEC is not affiliated with Shenzhen UCS.
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.