UCS512B Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Shenzhen Ucs
The UCS512B is a single-wire, DMX512-style RGB pixel driver IC in an SOP8 package, running a 5 to 24V pixel supply with 8-bit per-channel colour.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Serial DMX (Single Wire) |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP8 |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 24V |
| PWM Rate | 3000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 100fps |
| Redundant Data Line | No |
Strengths
- Single-wire wiring carries data and power only, with no dedicated clock conductor, so cabling is simpler and there is one fewer point of failure than a two-wire clocked chip.
- The DMX512-style asynchronous serial format uses a defined bit timing that gives usable noise tolerance over practical cable runs without needing a separate clock line.
- The 3kHz PWM output is comfortably flicker-free for camera work up to 100fps, and the wide 5 to 24V pixel supply allows higher-voltage strings that reduce voltage drop versus 5V-only parts.
Limitations
- Colour depth is 8 bits per channel (256 levels, 24-bit RGB) and the part is RGB only with no dedicated white channel, so very low-end dimming can show visible steps compared with higher-bit-depth or RGBW drivers.
- There is no redundant data line, so a single cable break or failed IC halts everything downstream: plan injection points and consider this for any critical install.
Overview
The UCS512B is a single-wire, self-clocking RGB pixel driver that decodes a DMX512-style asynchronous serial stream, so data and timing travel on one conductor with no separate clock line. Each IC provides 8-bit per-channel colour (24-bit RGB), a 3kHz PWM output, and operates across a 5 to 24V pixel supply in an SOP8 package. Its defined async timing makes it well suited to smooth gradients and medium-length runs, and its refresh is comfortably flicker-free for camera work up to 100fps. It is commonly attributed to Shenzhen Ucs. ENTTEC is not affiliated with Shenzhen Ucs.
Compatible ENTTEC controllers
Sku: 71521
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Sku: 73-545
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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.