Different Styles of Pixels

Intro

Pixels are RGB Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that allow a rainbow of individual colors to be created independently on each Pixel node. Pixels are Intelligent LEDs and have both power and control signals fed to each individual Pixel node. Using various communications protocols they are connected to Pixel Controllers that sends a specially formatted signal to the Pixel string that passes the control information to all of the Pixels connected in series. Each Pixel uses 3 data channels to control it, one each for Red, Green and Blue. A string of 50 Pixels would use 150 channels in your sequencing software.

There are several main properties that define each Pixel, and they include:

• Form Factor (String, Strip, Module, Etc.)
• LEDs per meter (the spacing of the LEDs on the wire or strip)
• ICs per Meter (Relates to how many LEDs are lit together for each Pixel, commonly 1 or 3 LEDs per IC)
• Power Supply Voltage (typically 5VDC vs. 12 VDC)
• Color Depth (The number of bits of data used to control each color such as 4,6,8 12, etc. bits)
• LED Type (Size and Shape of LED which impacts overall brightness)
• Waterproofing Technique (Injection molding, Cast Epoxy, Sleeve, Etc.)
• Wire Size (The size of the wire connecting the Pixels together 18 AWG vs. 20AWG)
• Pixel (IC)Control chips (WS2801, WS2811, TM1809, TM1824, GECE, Etc.)
• Number of Wires Required (3 vs 4)

It is critical that you select a Pixel Controller and Power Supply that is compatible and capable of driving the specific Pixel you select. It is also important to consider how you will be connecting the Pixels and if you need Power Injection to make them function.

There are many options and configurations and each has it's advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

Some of the most popular Pixels are ones driven by the WS2811 IC and use 12VDC power and use some form of cast epoxy waterproofing. They are a good balance of new technology and reliable designs.

Disclaimers

The standard disclaimers pertaining to the information contained on this wiki page are listed here.

Pixel Properties

Pixels come in many different shapes and properties. The most common properties are:

Form Factor

Pixels come in many shapes and sizes. The Form Factor of the Pixels impacts how you will mount them and what look you are trying to accomplish.

• Strings - Can be any purchased in any custom length, but more then 50 pixels will require Power Injection. It important to remember that Pixel strings should never be strung using their wire to support them like you would with regular light stings. This will damage the Pixels and their waterproofing. Since they are generally custom made, you can request your vendor to make the spacing between units to custom lengths. Common methods to support Pixel strings include using cable ties or electric tape to attach them to PVC pipe, EMT electric conduit or Plastic Strapping. Strings are commonly used to make Megatrees, Minitrees and Leaping Arches.
  1. 12mm pixel - This is the most common Pixel type. They are often referred to as Bullet Shaped. It actually contains a 8mm LED inside the housing. The 12mm refers to the outer diameter of the package. These were orginally designed to mount inside of enclosures and are used for large advertising display screens.
     
  2. 12mm pixel (square) - These pixels can come with the wire coming either out of the back of the Pixel or the side of the Pixel. There has been some issues with the silicone injection molded units that have the wires coming out of the side not sealing and allowing water into the pixels.
     
  3. Pixels with Lens - There are a variety of Pixels available with Plastic Lens mounted on the RGB LED to make them look closer to a traditional C7 or C9 incandescent light. Common models include the Ge Color Effects (GECE), the Pixabulb by diyledexpress.com, the Cosmic Color Bulbs by Lightorama.com and the Technicolor Pixel by Ray Wu. Vendors like Ray Wu also sell Plastic lens that can be glued onto regular 12mm Pixel strings to achieve a similar look.
  4. Other Shapes - There are an assortment of other shapes including spheres, domes, boxes, etc. available from various vendors.

• Strips - Are long flat flexible PCBs that have the RGB LEDs and the IC mounted directly on them and there is no wire between the Pixels other than the PCB. They generally come in 5M lengths. Depending on the Pixel IC used, from 1-3 RGB LEDs will light for each Pixel, so they can end up looking more like Dashes (- - - -) when there are 3 RGB LEDs per Pixel vs. Dots (.. . .) when there is 1 RGB LED per Pixel. Many strips can be cut shorter, but you must only cut at the marks on the strip identifying where they are cutable. You may have to solder wires to the PCB if you are doing Power Injection or cutting the strips. It is very helpful to use flux and a smaller soldering iron so you do not damage the delicate pads on the flexible PCB. Strips are commonly used to make Pixel Matrix on Flat Surfaces or as outlines around doors and windows.
  1. Bare board -These are uncoated and have no waterproofing and can not be used outdoors.
  2. Hollow Tube - This is the most common Pixel Strip. They are basically the uncoated Bare Board Pixel Strip pulled into a hollow Silicone Tube. You must use some form of Waterproofing like neutral cure GE Silicone II to seal the ends where the wires attach to the PCBs.
     
  3. Coated Strips - The bare PCBs are also available with a variety of waterproofing compounds. You need to scrape away the waterproofing compound to solder the wires to the PCB to power them or to cut them.
     • Silicone Coating - These strips are a little more flexible then the Epoxy Coated strips.
     • Epoxy Resin Coating
  4. Solid Tube - The bare PCBs are also available in hollow tubes that have been filled with various waterproofing compoounds.
     • Solid Silicone
     • Solid Epoxy Resin

• Modules - Are very similar to strings, but are designed to be mounted to some surface and often have mounting tabs. They commonly have multiple RGB LEDs per pixels, so they are brighter then regular strings. Most are designed to run on 12VDC. Since they are generally custom made, you can request your vendor to make the spacing between units to custom lengths. They are frequently waterproofed by filling then with epoxy. They can come in metal or plastic housings. Modules are frequently used for lighting tune to signs, outline large objects and backlight Coro designs.
  1. Square With 4 RGB LEDs
     
  2. Rectangular - With 3 RGB LEDs
     
  3. Other Shapes - Many vendors also have a variety of other shapes available.

RGB LEDs per meter

Pixels all come with different standard spacing between each LED. The Higher the densitty of the LEDs, the higher the power requirements will be for that section of lights. By dividing the LEDs per meter by the ICs per meter listed in the tables below, you can calculate how many RGB LEDs are associated with each Pixel.

• Strips - Many 12VDC strips have 3 LEDs wired together as one pixel and the individual LEDs are not controllable, just the group of three.
  1. 30 LED/m - This is a common spacing and generally will result in a 5M strip with 50 individually controlable pixels and a total of 150 RGB LEDs.
  2. 60 LED/m - When you move up to higher density spacing, you often end up with shorter (4M) strips due to the power requirements. It is common to have to use Power Injection on strips with higher density.
• Strings - Strings come in all different shapes and sizes of Pixel nodes. On common 12mm Pixel nodes there is only one RGB LED in each node, while some of the other shapes and modules often have multiple RGB LEDs inside.
  1. 10 LED/m - The most common spacing for 12mm Pixel strings is 100mm ( ~4") between the individual Pixel nodes. Since most Pixel strings are custom made, it is possible for a small change in price to change the Pixel spacing as a custom order from many vendors.

Power Supply Voltage

All Pixels run on DC voltage and therefore you need to have a Power Supply to convert the AC wall voltage down to the DC voltages needed by the Pixels. One of the most common questions is often: What Pixel Voltage should I use 5VDC or 12VDC? The answer depends very much upon your layout, Pixel controller and power supply The short answer is that most folks choose 12VDC due to the fact they are more tolerant of voltage drop and require less Power Injection then 5VDC Pixels. The downside is that 12VDC Power Supplies are more costly per Amp. On a side note, many RGB Pixels draw approximately 20ma per color, or 60ma (0.06A)per Pixel. Some of the 12VDC Pixels draw less current.

• 1. 5VDC - The most common voltage for Pixel strings.
  2. 12VDC - The most common voltage for Pixel Strips and Pixel Modules. Many of the newer Pixel Control IC types like the WS 2811 and the WS2812 are now commonly found in 12VDC Pixel Strings as well.
  3. Other Voltages - Some Pixels are also available in 24VDC and 48VDC, but there are only a few models sold. These are typically Pixel Modules.

LED Type

In addition to a Control IC, all Pixels have RGB LEDs in them. The three colors: Red, Green, and Blue can be adjusted to create a rainbow of possible colors. Depending on the physical size and Form Factor of the Pixel, there are different LED sizes.

• 1. 3528 - These are surface mount LEDs that are each 3.5mm x 2.8mm. These are the smaller of the two surface mount LEDs and are noticeably dimmer then the larger 5050 LED. These are frequently found in strips and modules and some strings like the GECE.
     
  2. 5050 - These are surface mount LEDs that are each 5.0mm x 5.0mm This is the most common LED used in strips and modules and some strings like the Pixabulb (which has two LED per bulb!). They are quite a bit brighter than 3528 LEDs. Some of the newer IC types like the WS2812 have the 5050 mounted directly on top of the Control IC.
     
  3. 8mm - This is the type of LED typically used in 12mm and Square Pixel strings. Due to the plastic diffusion lens on the LED, they do a good job in dispersing the light in all directions.
     

Waterproofing

One of the largest issues facing early users of Pixels was the relatively poor waterproofing that many Pixels had. Most Pixels were originally designed to be mounted inside of large advertising signs with the majority of the Pixel inside of a box and only the end of the LED outside in the harsh weather. This has led to the failure of many Pixels due to water getting inside of the Pixel and shorting them out. Since Pixels are all wired in series, if one Pixel fails, it often stops all of the Pixels down the string from working also. Many manufacturers make all sorts of claims about the waterproofing of their Pixels. Since the majority of the strings are made by hand and are not tested individually, you should not trust the IP ratings that are claimed. The usual measure of waterproofing is the IP scale, with the higher the IP rating reflecting a tighter sealed unit. For more information about the IP scale, look here. Since the vendors generally do not use the true test setup, their claimed ratings for similar designs vary quite a bit! Many people have added additional waterproofing to their Pixel strings, especially the early Silicone injection molded units.

• 1. Injection Molded Silicone - These units have the wires coming out of the back or side and the biggest issue has been the failure of the silicone used to seal to the wires. Many early pixels had obvious areas where water could easily get into the Pixels. While many of the newer unts have better sealing, there is always the potential for the water to wick in along the wires if there is any stress on the wires due to wind pulling on the wires.
     
  2. Cast Epoxy Resin in Sleeve - The most recent Pixels now come with the Pixels located in a plastic sleeve that is filled with a solid epoxy material. The hard epoxy seals well to the wires and many believe that results in a more waterproof pixel compared to Silicone Injection Molded Pixel strings.
     
  3. Cast Epoxy Resin coated PCB - This is the most common method of sealing Pixel Modules and many of the newer Pixel strings with Lens on them like the Pixabulb. These units have had good success in not failing in the weather.
     
  4. Silicone Tube - Most Pixel strips come with some form of Silicone Tube on them.
     1. Hollow Tube - These tubes must be sealed on the ends with a neutral cure sealant like GE Silicone II to prevent water from leaking in from the ends. They are also vulnerable to cuts and tears from items bumping into them and cutting thru the walls of the tubing.
     2. Silicone Filled Tube - These strips are made using the same silicone tube, but are filled with silicone at the factory to make a solid unit. The solid silicone provides a better light dispersion, acting sort of like a lens. You must cut and scrape thru the silicone to solder wires on to the PCB inside.
  5. Coated Strip - There are a number of cast coatings that can be applied directly tot he bare PCB at the factory. There has not been a lot discussed about how these strips hold up under weatehr either good or bad. They are just not as common as Pixels, but there are quite a few Dumb RGB strips that use this approach to weatherproofing.
     1. Silicone Coated Strip - This is the easier of the two to bend and shape due to the softer silicone coating.
     2. Epoxy Coated Strip - These strips tend to be stiffer and a little harder to remove the epoxy coating to access the PCB when soldering wires to cut lengths.

Wire Size

This is the one factor that most folks overlook how important it is to their layout. The size of the wires connecting each of the Pixels in a string plays a very large role in the performance of the Pixel. Thinner wires (like 20 AWG) can cause issues due to voltage drop in the thinner wire. It is often necessary to add additional wire to provide Power Injection to deal with the voltage drop in strings. The larger wire (18AWG) allows longer strings of pixels to be built and not have the voltage drop issues. The usual result of thinner wires is poor color mixing and white colors looking pinkish.

• 1. 18 Gauge wire - This is the trend in many newer Pixels. The thicker wire allows for either longer distances or more pixels to be connected in a row. Most vendors will make any Pixel with the larger wire for a small fee. You should always use 18AWG wire.
  2. 20 Gauge wire - This is common on older Pixels and many low cost Pixels. The thinner wire is lower cost and can drop the cost of the Pixel strings slightly. It is common to have to add Power Injection on Pixels with 20 AWG wire.

Pixel (IC)Control chips and number of wires

The second most common question is What Pixel Chip should I use? The type of IC located in each Pixel plays a very big role in the performance and capabilities of the Pixel. The most popular IC types currently used are the WS2811, The older WS2801 was popular earlier, but the better performance of the WS2811 has resulted in it's current popularity.

The type of IC in the Pixel determines a few factors:

• Number of Wires Between Pixels
  • 3 wire - The three wires are: V+,GND,Data. Three wire Pixels can generally go longer distances between the first Pixel and the Pixel Controller. Most of the newer IC Types use 3 wires.
  • 4 wire - The four wires are: V+,GND,Data,Clock. Due to the Clock signal fading, you are often limited to only a few feet (<20ft) from the Pixel Controller to the first Pixel in a string without having to use Null Pixels. The cost of the extra wire makes 4 wire Pixels slightly more expensive. Many of the older IC Types use 4 wires.
• Color Depth - The number of bits of color information used by the IC Type determines the Number of discrete colors you can make with the Pixel. Higher bit counts allow smoother fades and allows more colors to be generated.
  • 4 bit - Allows 16 shades of each primary color, or a total of 4,096 discrete colors. This is mainly the GE Color Effect (GECE) Pixels
  • 5 bit - Allows 32 shades of each primary color, or a total of 32,768 discrete colors. These are mainly older early pixels like the 6803.
  • 7 bit - Allows 128 shades of each primary color, or a total of 2,097,152 discrete colors. This is mainly the older 8806 Pixels.
  • 8 bit - Allows 256 shades of each primary color, or a total of 16,777,216 discrete colors. These are the most popular and common Pixel types. This includes the popular WS2811 Pixels.
  • >8 bit - There are specialized ICs that allow even higher bits per color, They are frequently used for video display screens. However, the common Controllers and the E1.31 communications protocol only support 8 bit data streams. Some controllers can make use of the additional data bits by using a function called Gamma Correction. This allows the controller to generate a more linear color signal near the bottom end of the dimming curve.
• Number of Channels - Most IC types can only control 3 channels, so you need 1 IC for each RGB Pixel if you want individual control. Other ICs like the TM1809 can control 9 cannels, or 3 RGB Pixels. ICs like the TM1809 are popular in Pixel Strips where you want individual control of all of the RGB LEDs. To use other 3 channel ICs you either have to have 1 IC per RGB LED or you light up multiple RGB LEDs per IC, as is common on 12VDC Pixel Strips.
• The Controller - Not all Controllers can drive all IC types. Many low cost controllers only support a limited subset of Pixels.
• Maximum # of Pixels - Some Pixels like the GE Color Effects (GECE) are limited to maximum number of Pixels you can string in a row due to their unique communications protocol.

• Refresh Rate - Some Pixel types can change color more rapidly than other types. This is a function of what your Pixel Controller supports. Common Refresh rates include 400 and 800kHz.

The easiest way to sort out the various ICs is by their color depth:

• 1. 4 bits per color, 16 dimming levels per color. (Total Colors = 16x16x16 = 4,096 colors)
     • GE Color Effects (GECE)- 3 wire Wiring Diagram Protocol Bulb Orientation
  2. 5 bits per color, 32 dimming levels per color. (Total Colors = 32x32x32 = 32,768 colors)
     • LPD6803 - 4 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • D705 - 4 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (Chinese)
     • LPD1101
     • UCS5903 - 4 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (Chinese)
     • UCS6909
     • UCS6912
  3. 7 bits per color, 128 dimming levels per color. (Total Colors = 128x128x128 = 2,097,152colors)
     • LPD8809  ?
  4. 8 bits per color, 256 dimming levels per color. (Total Colors = 256x256x256 = 16,777,216 colors)
     • WS2801 - 4 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED)Datasheet (English)
     • WS2803 - 4 wire (can drive 18 channels, or 6 RGB LED)Datasheet (English)
     • WS2811 - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • WS2811-5050-RGB - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels on 1 integrated RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • WS2812 - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels on 1 integrated RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • INK1002 - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels, on 1 integrated RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • INK1003 - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • TM1803 - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (English)
     • TM1804 - 3 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (Chinese)
     • TM1809 - 3 wire (can drive 9 channels, or 3 RGB LEDs) Datasheet (English)
     • TM1812 - 3 wire (can drive 12 channels, or 4 RGB LEDs)Datasheet (Chinese)
     • LPD8803 - 4 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LEDs) Datasheet (English)
     • LPD8806 - 4 wire (can drive 6 channels, or 2 RGB LEDs) Datasheet (English)
     • SM16715
     • SM16716 - 4 wire (can drive 3 channels, or 1 RGB LED) Datasheet (Chinese)
     • P9813 - 4 wire
     • P9816 - 4 wire
     • HX512A (Native DMX) Datasheet (Chinese)
  5. 12 bits per color, 4,096 dimming levels per color. (Total Colors = 4096x4096x4096 = 68,719,476,736 colors) (Note: E1.31 and DMX only support 8 bit data, so the extra bits are used for gamma color correction)
     • TLS3001 - 3 wire Datasheet (Chinese)
     • TLS3002
     • CYT3001
     • CYT3005 - 3 wire
  6. 14 bits per color, 16,834 dimming levels per color. (Total Colors = 16834*16834*16834 = 4,642,956,181,504 colors) (Note: E1.31 and DMX only support 8 bit data, so the extra bits are used for gamma color correction)
     • MY9941 - 4 wire (can drive 4 channels via Native DMX) Datasheet (English)
     • MY9942 (Native DMX)
     • MY9943 (Native DMX)

Examples of Pixels available from different vendors

These are selected Pixels from the various vendors with a mix of properties. Visit their sites for the latest information and to see their entire product catalog.

PLEASE CONFIRM ALL DETAILS WITH VENDOR BEFORE ORDERING!! ALL OF THIS DATA IS SUBJECT TO CONSTANT CHANGE AND MAY BE WRONG!!!

Pricing is in US $. Pricing is as of 1-26-13.

PRICING DOES NOT INCLUDE SHIPPING, TAXES OR IMPORT DUTIES!

Shipping from overseas can be expensive, check with your vendor.

DIYLEDEXPRESS

(USA Based run by DIYC user tjetzer)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Pixel	Note
String	WS2801	50 pixels (6m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$26.00	$0.52	IP68, cast epoxy in sleeve
String	WS2811	50 pixels (6m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$24.25	$0.49	IP68, cast epoxy in sleeve
String (C9)	WS2811	50 pixels (*m)	12vdc	3-10	3-10	link		$45.00	$0.90	IP68, C9 lens with 2x5050LEDs, available with 4",6",8",10",12" spacing PIXABULB
String (Square)	WS2811	50 pixels (6m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$25.75	$0.52	IP68, back wire, cast epoxy
Module (Rectangular)	WS2811	20 pixels (2m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$16.75	$0.84	3 LEDs, cast epoxy
Strip	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	30	10	link		$42.50	$0.85	silicone tube
Strip	WS2811	100 pixels (5m)	5vdc	60	20	link		$65.00	$0.65	silicone tube
Strip	TM1809	150 Pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$60.00	$0.40	silicone tube

HolidayCoro.com

(USA Based run by DIYC user dmoore)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per foot	Link	Image	Note
String/Node/8mm/Bullet	WS2811	50 Pixels (12'-6")	12 vdc	4	4	Product Page		IP68/Cast Epoxy+Silicone Sleeve, 8mm LED/12mm Base
String/Node/8mm/Bullet	WS2811	50 Pixels (12'-6")	5 vdc	4	4	Product Page		IP68/Cast Epoxy+Silicone Sleeve, 8mm LED/12mm Base
String/Node/8mm/Flat Base	WS2811	50 Pixels (12'-6")	12 vdc	4	4	Product Page	File:HolidayCoro-673.jpg	IP68/Cast Epoxy+Silicone Sleeve, 8mm LED/12mm Base
String/Node/8mm/Flat Base	WS2811	50 Pixels (12'-6")	5 vdc	4	4	Product Page		IP68/Cast Epoxy+Silicone Sleeve, 8mm LED/12mm Base
Module / Rectangle	WS2811	1 Pixel	12 vdc	4	4	Product Page		IP68, 3 of 5050 RGB LEDs, 6" Wire Spacing,IP68/Epoxy Sealed
Module / Square	WS2811	1 Pixel	12 vdc	4	4	Product Page		IP68, 3 of 5050 RGB LEDs, IP68/Epoxy Sealed, Stamped Steel Base
Strip	WS2811	50 pixels (5m/16.5 ft)	12 vdc	30	10	Product Page		IP68/Silicone Tube, Black or White PCB Colors, EpiStar LEDs
Strip	WS2811	80 pixels (5m/16.5 ft)	12 vdc	48	16	Product Page		IP68/Silicone Tube, Black or White PCB Colors, EpiStar LEDs
Strip	WS2811	100 pixels (5m/16.5 ft)	12 vdc	60	20	Product Page		IP68/Silicone Tube, Black or White PCB Colors, EpiStar LEDs

Light-O-Rama (LOR)

(USA Based)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Pixel	Note
String	LPD6803	100 pixels (15.25m)	5vdc	6.5	6.5	link		$239.95	$2.40	Cosmic Color Pixels (with controller and Power Supply)
Bulbs	LPD6803	100 pixels (15.25m)	5vdc	6.5	6.5	link		$289.95	$2.90	Cosmic Color Bulbs (with controller and Power Supply)
Strip	LPD6803	50 pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$249.95	$2.50	Cosmic Color Ribbon (with controller and Power Supply)

Ray Wu

(China Based) Spreadsheet List of Ray Wu Pixels

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Pixel	Note
String	WS2801	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$19.00	$0.38	IP68
String	WS2801	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$25.00	$0.50	IP68, with faceted C9 cover
String	WS2801	100 pixels (10m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$40.00	$0.40	IP68
String (square)	WS2801	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$19.00	$0.38	IP68, back wire
String (square)	WS2801	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$19.00	$0.38	IP66, side wire
String (square)	WS2801	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$27.50	$0.55	IP68, with faceted C9 cover
Strip	WS2801	160 pixels (5m)	5vdc	32	32	link		$72.00	$0.45	IP65, silicone tube
Strip	WS2801	60 pixels (5m)	12vdc	36	12	link		$66.32	$1.10	IP65, silicone tube
Module (square)	WS2801	20 pixels	12vdc	40	10	link		$20.08	$1.00	epoxy coated
String	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$14.00	$0.28	IP68/66? with Black Wire (Injection Molded Silicone)
String	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$17.00	$0.34	IP68
String	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$21.50	$0.43	IP66, with 4 pin waterproof connectors
String	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$30.00	$0.60	IP68, with 3 pin waterproof connectors, "Technicolor", lens covers are extra, 20ga wire
String (square)	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$18.00	$0.36	IP68, back wire
String (square)	WS2811	100 pixels (10m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$40.00	$0.40	IP66, side wire
Strip	WS2811	150 pixels (5m)	5vdc	30	30	link		$38.00	$0.25	silicone tube
Strip	WS2811	50 pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$30.00	$0.60	silicone tube
Module (rectangular)	WS2811	20 pixels	12vdc	30	10	link		$18.00	$0.90
Strip	WS2812	240 pixels (4m)	5vdc	60	60	link		$48.00	$0.20	silicone tube, WS2811 with integrated 5050 LED
Strip	WS2812	320 pixels (5m)	5vdc	64	64	link		$77.00	$0.24	silicone tube, WS2811 with integrated 5050 LED
Matrix	WS2812	256 pixels (17cm2)	5vdc	**	**	link		$65.00	$0.25	NOT WATERPROOF, WS2811 with integrated 5050 LED attached to flexible panel
String	LPD6803	50 Pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$23.00	$0.46	IP68
String (square)	LPD6803	50 Pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$23.16	$0.46	IP68, side wire
Strip	LPD6803	50 Pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$65.26	$1.31	IP68, similar to LOR CCR
Module (square)	LPD6803	20 pixels (2m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$21.00	$1.05	3 LEDs
Module (rectangular)	LPD6803	20 pixels (2m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$20.50	$1.03	3 LEDs
String	TLS3001	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$22.50	$0.45	IP68
String	TLS3001	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$26.00	$0.52	IP68, with 4 pin waterproof connectors
String (square)	TLS3001	50 pixels (5m)	5vdc	10	10	link		$23.00	$0.46	IP68, back wire
String	TM1804	50 pixels (5m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$20.00	$0.40	IP68, DIYLA Smart Strings
String	TM1804	100 pixels (10m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$40.00	$0.40	IP68, DIYLA Smart Strings
Module (square)	TM1804	20 pixels (2m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$22.00	$1.10	silicone coating, 3 LEDs, DIYLA Smart Modules
Module (rectangular)	TM1804	20 pixels (2m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$14.00	$0.70	silicone coating, 3 LEDs, DIYLA Smart Modules
Strip	TM1809	150 pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$52.00	$0.35	IP67, silicone tube
Strip	TM1809	150 pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$52.00	$0.35	IP65, silicone coating
Strip	TM1809	240 pixels (5m)	12vdc	48	16	link		$67.00	$0.28	IP68, silicone tube
Strip	DMX	50 pixels (5m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$66.32	$1.33	IP65, silicone tube

Retail Store (i.e. Lowes)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Pixel	Note
String	GECE	25,36,50 pixels (20,29,41ft)	5vdc	4	4	link			~$2	G35 Cover, General Electric Color Effects (with controller and Power Supply)

Seasonal Entertainment

(USA Based run by DIYC user Ponddude)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Pixel	Note
String	WS2801	42 pixels (4.2m)	12vdc	10	10	link		$32.00	$0.76	IP68, Rainbow Mini Pixels
String (C7)	WS2801	42 pixels (8.4m)	12vdc	5	5	link		$43.00	$1.02	IP68, Rainbow C7 Pixels
String (C9)	WS2801	42 pixels (8.4m)	12vdc	5	5	link		$45.00	$1.07	IP68, Rainbow C9 Pixels
Strip	WS2801	42 pixels (4.2m)	12vdc	30	10	link		$73.99	$1.76	IP68, Silicone filled, Rainbow Ribbon
Matrix	WS2801	42 pixels (0.15x0.18m)	12vdc	xx	xx	link		$35.00	$0.83	Not Waterproof, Rainbow Matrix

Stellascapes

(New Zealand Based run by DIYC user mrpackethead)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Pixel	Note
String (Stella-green)	SS-1	85 pixels	5vdc	10	10	link		$168	$1.98	bullet or flat packages
String (Stella-black)	SS-1	85 pixels	5vdc	10	10	link		$240	$2.82	bullet or flat packages
Strip (Stella-black)	SS-1	85 pixels	5vdc			link				45 or 90mm pitch

Examples of DUMB RGB (not Pixels) available from different vendors

These RGB LEDs are NOT Pixels. They are similar in that they can generate a wide range of colors, but they differ in that they do not have individually addressable RGB LEDs. Dumb RGBs have the entire string or strip change the same color at once and do not allow individually addressable LEDs. They do not include a control IC and they need special RGB Controllers, not Pixel Controllers.

PLEASE CONFIRM ALL DETAILS WITH VENDOR BEFORE ORDERING!! ALL OF THIS DATA IS SUBJECT TO CONSTANT CHANGE AND MAY BE WRONG!!!

These are selected DUMB RGB from the various vendors with a mix of properties. Visit their sites for the latest information and to see their entire product catalog.

Pricing is in US $. Pricing is as of 1-26-13.

PRICING DOES NOT INCLUDE SHIPPING, TAXES OR IMPORT DUTIES!

Shipping from overseas can be expensive, check with your vendor.

DIYLEDEXPRESS

(USA Based run by DIYC user tjetzer)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Node	Note
String	None	50 nodes (5m)	5vdc	10	0	link		$18.75	$0.38	IP68
String	None	50 nodes (5m)	12vdc	10	0	link		$19.75	$0.40	IP68
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$19.25	$3.85/m	IP65, can be cut every 3 LEDs
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	60	0	link		$26.35	$5.25/m	IP65, can be cut every 3 LEDs
Module (rectangular)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	30	0	link		$13.50	$0.68	IP66

HolidayCoro

(USA Based run by DIYC user dmoore)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Node	Note
String	None	50 nodes (5m)	12vdc	10	0	link		$32.50	$0.65
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$49.99	$10.00/m	silicone tube and coating
Module (rectangular)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	10	0	link		$25.80	$1.29	3 LEDs
Module (square)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	10	0	link		$27.80	$1.39	3 LEDs

Ray Wu

(China Based)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Node	Note
String	None	50 nodes (5m)	5vdc	10	0	link		$12.00	$0.24	IP68
String	None	100 nodes (10m)	12vdc	10	0	link		$24.00	$0.24	IP68
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$16.00	$3.20/m	silicone tube
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$16.00	$3.20/m	IP68,silicone coating
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$24.00	$4.80/m	IP68,silicone tube and coating
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$20.53	$4.11/m	epoxy coating
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	60	0	link		$22.00	$4.40/m	silicone tube
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	60	0	link		$32.00	$6.40/m	IP68,silicone tube and coating
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	60	0	link		$41.05	$8.21/m	epoxy coating
Module (rectangular)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	10	0	link		$8.00	$0.40	IP65, 2 LEDs
Module (rectangular)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	10	0	link		$9.00	$0.45	IP66, 3 LEDs
Module (square)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	10	0	link		$14.74	$0.74	IP68, 3 LEDs
Module (square)	None	20 nodes	12vdc	10	0	link		$9.50	$0.48	IP67, 4 LEDs

Seasonal Entertainment

(USA Based run by DIYC user Ponddude)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Node	Note
String	None	50 nodes (5m)	12vdc	10	0	link		$19.00	$0.38	IP68
String (square)	None	50 nodes (10m)	12vdc	5	0	link		$38.99	$0.78	IP68, RGB C7 lens
String (square)	None	50 nodes (10m)	12vdc	5	0	link		$39.99	$0.80	IP68, RGB C9 lens
Strip	None	5m	12vdc	30	0	link		$38.50	$7.70/m	IP68, Silicone filled

Examples of DUMB WHITE LEDs (not Pixels) available from different vendors

PLEASE CONFIRM ALL DETAILS WITH VENDOR BEFORE ORDERING!! ALL OF THIS DATA IS SUBJECT TO CONSTANT CHANGE AND MAY BE WRONG!!!

These are selected DUMB RGB from the various vendors with a mix of properties. Visit their sites for the latest information and to see their entire product catalog.

Pricing is in US $. Pricing is as of 4-9-13.

PRICING DOES NOT INCLUDE SHIPPING, TAXES OR IMPORT DUTIES!

Shipping from overseas can be expensive, check with your vendor.

Ray Wu

(China Based)

Form Factor	IC	Length	Voltage	LEDs per Meter	ICs per meter	Link	Image	Price	Price per Node	Note
String	None	50 nodes (5m)	5vdc	10	0	link		$0.15	$0.15	IP68 WHITE ONLY NOT RGB

Related Links

Pixel Wiring Colors
Controllers
Dumb RGB or Intelligent Pixels??
Things You Will Need To Get Started With Pixels
Power Supplies
Pixel Connectors
Choosing a Pixel Voltage: 5V vs 12V
Power Injection
Waterproofing Pixels
Null Pixels
E1.31 Network Setup and Configuration