WS2812 LED strip
What is WS2812 LED strip
The WS2812 LED strip is a type of addressable LED rope light that has become popular for use in DIY electronics projects, stage lighting, and decorative lighting applications. It consists of a flexible circuit board with surface-mount LEDs that can be individually controlled using a single data wire. With individually addressable LEDs, this strip allows for precise control over the color and brightness of each light, making it perfect for decorative lighting, stage lighting, and a wide range of other applications.
What sets the WS2812 LED strip apart from other LED strips is its built-in microcontroller, which enables seamless communication between the LEDs and the controller. This technology allows for complex lighting effects and animations, making it a popular choice for artists, designers, and hobbyists.
How to Connect WS2812 LED Strip
The left video is a guidance about WS2812 LED strip connection and controlling.
Step 1: Prepare an adjustable voltage power supply, K-1000C controller, and a roll of WS2812 RGB LED strip
Step 2: Connect the power cable and LED strip connector to the controller.
Step 3: Connect the controller to the power source.
Step 4: Connect WS2812B LED strip to K-1000C.
To view more details about connecting and controlling addressable LED strips, please click connect and control different LED strips.
Types of Digital WS2812 LED Strip
WS2812 LED Strip Specification Download
| File Name | Download |
|---|---|
| WS2812B Addressable RGB LED Strip Specification |
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| WS2812C Addressable RGB LED Strip Specification |
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FAQ about WS2812 LED Strip
Q1: What is the main difference between WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813 LED pixel strips?
The main difference lies in their signal transmission and fault tolerance. WS2811 and WS2812 LED strips use a voltage-based communication protocol and have no backup signal line. WS2813, however, uses a backup signal line to ensure fault tolerance.
Q2: Which LED pixel strip is the most energy-efficient?
WS2812 and WS2813 LED pixel strips are more energy-efficient than WS2811 because they require a lower voltage to function correctly.
Q3: Which LED pixel strip offers the highest color depth?
WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813 have the same color depth, the color depth is 256.
Q4: Can different types of LED pixel strips be connected together?
Different types of LED pixel strips can be connected together as long as they use the same communication protocol and have compatible voltage and power requirements.
Q5: Which LED pixel strip is best for outdoor applications?
IP67 WS2813 is the best option for outdoor applications because of its better fault tolerance and reliability.
WS2812 LED Strip vs. Other Digital LED Strips
- WS2812B vs WS2813
WS2812B is the upgraded version of WS2812, which has integrated the drive chip and circuit into an SMD LED. WS2813 is the upgraded version of WS2812B. Like WS2812, it supports individual control and has the same 256 grayscales. The critical difference between WS2812B and WS2813 is that the WS2813 LED strip has dual data transmission, while WS2812B has single data transmission. Click WS2812B WS2813 comparison to see their differences and similarities.
- WS2815 vs WS2812B
WS2815 is a 12V, 6-pin IC, RGB+White LED color, 4 output channels, break continues, relatively expensive addressable LED strip.
WS2812B is a 5V, 4-pin IC, RGB LED color, 3 output channels, no break continue, relatively cheap addressable LED strip.
Please click Compare WS2815 and WS2812B to know more differences in parameters and function.
- WS2812 vs WS2812B
The key distinction between WS2812B and WS2812 is that the WS2812 LED strip has a 5050 LED type, a PAD number of 6, and a reverse polarity protection circuit.
However, the LED type of the WS2812B LED strip is 2020 or 5050, the PAD Number is 4, and there is no reverse polarity protection circuit.
Read more: Comparing WS2812 vs WS2812B LED Strip
- WS2811 vs WS2812
As you may have noticed, WS2811 and WS2812 are the ICs to look out for when purchasing LED strips. WS2811 typically consumes a lot of power at 12V, however, WS2812 requires just 5V and consumes a lot less power.
These are not the only distinctions between WS2811 and WS2812. Please read more in this blog: differences between WS2811 and WS2812.
- SK6812 vs WS2812B
Both the SK6812 and WS2812B deliver data over a single wire, which is then read by a tiny microcontroller chip to create pulse width modulation (PWM) signals that regulate the brightness and color of each LED channel.
One big difference between them is that SK6812 has more color selectivity than WS2812B. And they have other differences in color depth, power consumption, price and so on, please read the article SK6812 vs WS2812B to have a comprehensive understanding.
- APA102 vs WS2812B
APA102 pixel strip uses dual standard SPI protocols, a clock wire, and a data wire, but the WS2812B strip light only has one data wire.
The PWM Frequency of APA102 is 20KHz, and WS2812B is 400Hz, so the APA102 digital strip lights can provide smoother and finer control.
They also differ in LED type, data rate, heat sinking, and price. Go to the APA102 vs WS2812B LED strip page to view more details.
WS2812 LED Strip Features
Individually Addressable: Each LED on the strip can be controlled independently, allowing for a wide range of color and brightness effects.
Programmable: The WS2812 LED strip can be programmed using various software and controllers, allowing for complex lighting effects and animations.
High Brightness: The WS2812 LED strip is capable of producing bright and vibrant lighting, even in low-light environments.
Flexible Circuit Board: The strip is made of a flexible circuit board that can be bent and shaped to fit any application.
Easy to Install: The strip can be easily cut to size and comes with adhesive backing for easy installation.
WS2812 LED Strip Applications
• Hotel room lighting
• Restaurant lighting
• Stage lighting
• Car interior lighting
• Under-cabinet lighting
• Accent lighting
• Mood lighting
• Nightclubs and bars lighting
• Custom signage lighting
Why Choose SunTechLite
Located in Shenzhen, SunTechLite is one of the leading LED strip manufacturers in China. After 15 years of development, we have developed into a company integrating production and trade, and have won the trust and support of customers from all over the world with high-quality products and high-quality services.
Our Addressable LED light strips have the following main advantages:
- PCB thickness: SuntechLite uses 0.25mm and 0.35mm PCB for our regular strip lights. (The thickness of the general PCB on the market is 0.2mm.) The thicker the PCB board, the greater the current flowing, and the higher the efficiency of the light strip.
- High-quality Resistors: Authentic Guarantee, Antioxidant. DC12v LED strip generally uses 0.8mm*0.5mm resistors, DC24v LED strip generally uses 1.2mm*0.6mm resistors. This makes the strips have good heat dissipation, high temperature resistance, and very stable.
- Dual capacitor design: Dual capacitor design can protect the IC, and the signal transmission is stable.
- Firm light strip connection: Tin is added to the connection of the light strip, which is convenient for welding after cutting. The solder joints are full, and there will be no false welding.
Besides, we have a specialized engineering team to offer technical support and assistance with the installation and programming of the LED strips. And you can feel free to contact us if any questions in the using process.
To know more about our PCB design advantages, please click unique PCB design by Sunlite. This article has described our PCB design with detailed products and pictures in detail. And we have made a PDF profile to describe the advantages of the LED strip light, please click Suntechlite LED Strip Advantages to view details.
WS2812 LED Strip Accessories
Cable Connectors
Controllers
WS2811 vs WS2812 vs WS2813
Table of Contents
Introduction
With the rapid advancement of LED pixel lighting technology, we have seen several different LED pixel products emerge in the market. Among them, WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813 are three popular options, each with its unique features and applications. But how do you choose which is best for your project? In this article, we will dive deep into the WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813, comparing their features, capabilities, and applications to help you make an informed decision.
WS2811 vs WS2812 vs and WS2813, which one to choose?
WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813 differ in their strip structure and design. WS2811 and WS2812 LED strips are both one-wire LED strip products, while WS2813 is a two-wire LED strip product. The different strip structures can affect the signal transmission, color control, power consumption, fault tolerance, and price of the LED strip.
The following table compares the key differences between these three LED pixel strips:
Parameter | WS2811 | WS2812 | WS2813 |
Control IC | 3-channel | 3-channel | 4-channel |
Voltage | DC12V/DC24V | DC5V | DC5V |
Color | RGB | RGB | RGB |
Power Consumption | 14.4W/M | 18W/M | 18W/M |
Control Mode | 3 LEDs group control | Individual control | Individual control |
Price | Cheap and widely available | More expensive | More expensive |
(1) Signal Transmission
The WS2811 requires an external LED driver chip, while the WS2812 and WS2813 have integrated driver circuits. The WS2813, with its dual-signal transmission design, offers better signal transmission than the WS2811 and WS2812 LED strip.
(2) Color Control
All three LED pixel products support 256 gray levels and 16.7 million colors, providing users with a wide range of color options and smooth color transitions.
(3) Power Consumption
Power consumption for all three LED pixel products is similar, with minor variations depending on the specific LED package used.
(4) Fault Tolerance
The WS2813 stands out in terms of fault tolerance, thanks to its dual-signal transmission design. This feature allows the WS2813 to continue functioning even if one LED fails, a significant advantage over the WS2811 and WS2812 LED strips.
(5) Price and Availability
The WS2811 is typically the most affordable option, followed by the WS2812 and WS2813. However, prices may vary depending on the specific product configuration and supplier. WS2811 is the cheapest and most widely available LED pixel product, while WS2812 and WS2813 are more expensive. This is because WS2812 and WS2813 offer more advanced features than WS2811, making them suitable for more demanding applications.
Here is a video introduced the differences between WS2811, WS2812, WS2813 and other pixel LED strips:
Overview of WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813
WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813 are three popular LED pixel products used in various lighting applications. They differ in their strip structure, design, and IC parameter specifications, making them suitable for different types of lighting needs. By understanding their key features and applications, you can choose the right LED pixel product for your specific lighting requirements.
WS2811 is a one-wire LED pixel product that uses a voltage-based communication protocol. It requires a higher voltage of 12V DC to function correctly and has a lower color depth of 256. It is the cheapest and most widely available LED pixel product, making it a good option for simple and cost-effective lighting solutions. There are voltages of DC12v and DC24v, 30led/m and 60led/m available.
WS2812 LED strip is also a one-wire LED pixel product that uses a voltage-based communication protocol. It has a color depth of 256 and requires a lower 5V DC voltage. This makes it a better option for more advanced lighting applications that require better color accuracy and more vivid colors. We have 60led/m and 144led/m for your choice, and can also customize the LED quantity according to your requirements.
WS2813, on the other hand, is a two-wire LED pixel product that uses a backup signal line to ensure fault tolerance. It has a color depth of 256 and requires a voltage of 5V DC. It is more expensive than WS2811 but offers better fault tolerance and reliability, making it a good option for critical lighting applications. We have 60led/m and 144led/m for your choice, and can also customize the LED quantity according to your requirements.
Choosing the Right LED Pixel Strip
When it comes to choosing the right LED pixel LED strip for your lighting needs, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
(1) Strip Structure: LED pixel LED strips come in different strip structures, such as one-wire and two-wire designs. One-wire LED strips have a simpler structure and are easier to install but are less fault-tolerant than two-wire LED strips. Two-wire LED strips have a backup signal line, which ensures that the strip continues to function even if one LED pixel fails.
(2) Signal Transmission: LED pixel LED strips use different communication protocols to transmit signals, such as voltage-based, timing-based, and backup signal lines. It’s important to choose a strip that uses a communication protocol that is compatible with your lighting application and offers the required level of fault tolerance.
(3) Color Control: LED pixel LED strips offer different levels of color control, such as 256 and 512 colors. If your lighting application requires high color accuracy and vivid colors, choose a strip with a higher color depth.
(4) Power Consumption: LED pixel LED strips vary in their power consumption, with some requiring higher voltages than others. It’s important to choose a strip that operates at a voltage that is compatible with your power supply and doesn’t generate too much heat. Generally, DC5v, DC12v and DC24v are available, and you can choose according to the voltage you need.
(5) Fault Tolerance: Fault tolerance is an important consideration for critical lighting applications. LED pixel LED strips with backup signal lines offer better fault tolerance than those without.
(6) Price: LED pixel LED strips vary in price, with some being more expensive than others. It’s important to choose a strip that offers the required level of features and specifications within your budget.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right LED pixel LED strip for your specific lighting requirements. Whether you need a simple and cost-effective lighting solution or a more advanced and fault-tolerant option, there is an LED pixel LED strip that can meet your needs.
Conclusion
WS2811 LED strip is a simple and cost-effective LED pixel strip with a voltage-based communication protocol, making it suitable for simple lighting applications. WS2812 LED strip offers low-voltage DC5v more advanced features, making it ideal for more demanding lighting applications. WS2813, on the other hand, offers better fault tolerance and reliability, making it suitable for critical lighting applications.
In summary, by understanding the key features and common applications of WS2811, WS2812, and WS2813 LED pixel strips, you can choose the right LED pixel strip for your lighting needs. Consider factors such as signal transmission, color control, power consumption, fault tolerance, and price to find the LED pixel strip that meets your specific requirements.