DMX512 Pixel Protocol
An open-standard, single-wire addressable pixel protocol using asynchronous serial data with defined timing, available in both 8-bit RGB and RGBW.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Serial DMX (Single Wire) |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | Yes |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 24V |
| PWM Rate | 3000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 100fps |
| Redundant Data Line | No |
Strengths
- Built on a mature, openly documented standard, which favours interoperability across controllers, fixtures and IC vendors rather than locking an install to one proprietary chip family.
- Wide 5 to 24V operating range suits both low-voltage and higher-voltage runs, easing voltage-drop management and reducing how often power must be re-injected along a chain.
- 3000Hz PWM at 8 bits per channel (24-bit RGB, or RGBW) is comfortably flicker-free for cameras up to 100fps, so it is safe for typical on-camera and broadcast use without chasing higher refresh figures.
Limitations
- Redundant Data Line is No: there is a single data path, so a broken node or severed line stops every pixel downstream, with no backup route to keep the run alive.
- 8 bits per channel gives 256 steps per colour, which can show visible banding on slow, deep RGB fades; the fixed resolution is adequate for most work but offers no high-bit-depth dimming headroom.
- As a single-wire serial protocol, long runs depend on sound cabling, addressing and termination practice, and per-pixel addressing adds setup overhead compared with the simplest clockless strips.
Overview
DMX512 is an open, industry-standard lighting-control protocol used here as an individually addressable pixel format. It carries data on a single serial line (no separate clock), with each node holding an address and passing frames down the chain. Pixels operate across a wide 5 to 24V range, use 8 bits per channel (24-bit RGB, and RGBW variants), and refresh at 3000Hz, comfortably flicker-free for cameras up to 100fps. ENTTEC pixel controllers such as the OCTO (71521), PIXELATOR MINI / MK2 (70067/70068), DIN PIXIE (73539) and the PLINK Injectors drive a wide range of pixel protocols; contact ENTTEC about chips not listed here.
Compatible ENTTEC controllers
Sku: 71521
Sku: 73539
Sku: 70067
Sku: 70068
Sku: 73-545
Sku: 73924
Sku: 71031
ENTTEC has been engineering lighting control in Australia since 1999, and shipping LED pixel controllers since the original Pixelator in 2014.