WS2811 V1.4 Pixel Protocol
Manufacturer: Worldsemi
A single-wire, self-clocking RGB pixel protocol driven by an external 3-channel constant-current IC in an SOP8 package, operating across a 5V to 12V supply range.
Specifications
| Clock Type | Data-Only |
| Color Resolution | 8 Bits |
| Physical Package | SOP8 |
| RGB | Yes |
| RGBW | No |
| Output Pixel Voltage | 5 - 12V |
| PWM Rate | 2000Hz |
| Suitable Camera | Up to 67fps |
| Redundant Data Line | No |
Strengths
- Being a single-wire protocol, it needs only one data conductor plus power and ground, keeping cabling simple and cutting the wiring, cost and failure points that a separate clock line would add.
- As an external SOP8 driver rated for 5V to 12V operation, it suits both low-voltage nodes and 12V strings, where the higher voltage allows longer runs between power injection points.
- Its 2000Hz PWM is comfortably flicker-free for the rated cameras (up to 67fps), so it is safe for typical broadcast and video capture at standard frame rates.
Limitations
- As a self-clocking, timing-sensitive single-wire protocol, it depends on tight pulse-width tolerances: long or noisy data runs, marginal level shifting, or the wrong first-pixel distance can corrupt data, and with no redundant data line one failed node blacks out every pixel downstream.
- It is 8-bit-per-channel RGB with no white channel, and its 2000Hz PWM, while adequate and camera-safe at up to 67fps, leaves limited headroom for very high-speed capture or extreme slow-motion; it is a modest refresh figure rather than a high-end one.
Overview
The WS2811 V1.4 is a single-wire, data-only pixel protocol: one self-clocking data line carries 24-bit RGB frames (8 bits per channel) and each IC latches its slot before regenerating the signal for the next node. Unlike the LED-integrated WS2812, the WS2811 is an external SOP8 driver with three constant-current outputs and works across a 5V to 12V supply range to suit the LED string, with the higher end of that range giving longer runs between injection points. It is RGB only, with no white channel and no redundant data line. 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.