WS2815B Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Worldsemi
A 12V single-wire addressable RGB pixel protocol with an integrated per-LED controller and a backup data line for chain resilience.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SMD5050 with integrated LEDs |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | Yes |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 12V |
| PWM Rate | 2000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 67fps |
| Redundant Data Line | Yes |
Strengths
- 12V operation cuts voltage drop compared with 5V single-wire chips, supporting longer, more even runs before injection is needed.
- A redundant (backup) data line carries the signal past a dead pixel, so one failure no longer blanks the rest of the chain.
- 2000Hz PWM is comfortably flicker-free for typical camera use, holding steady up to the row's rated 67fps.
Limitations
- As a data-only single-wire protocol it is timing-sensitive: signal integrity, cable length between pixels, and level shifting matter, and long runs still need data re-clocking or power injection.
- 8-bit-per-channel colour is standard but can show visible banding in slow, very low-level fades where more bit depth would help.
Overview
The WS2815B is a single-wire (data-only, self-clocking) addressable pixel protocol running at 12V, with an integrated controller IC inside each SMD5050 package handling 8-bit-per-channel colour. Unlike 5V WS2812-class parts, the 12V supply reduces voltage drop across a string, and a redundant backup data line lets the chain keep running past a single failed pixel. Its 2000Hz PWM is comfortably flicker-free for camera work up to 67fps. The row also marks RGBW as supported alongside standard RGB. 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.