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In an addressable LED strip, the LED driver chip is a crucial component that can control the lighting changes of each individual pixel. If you plan to use addressable LED strips for lighting and decorative projects, It is critical to choose an LED strip with the appropriate IC chip. In this blog, we’ll compare WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834 three chips. Since FW1935 and TM1934 have essentially the same characteristics, they are considered as one. The differences between these chips are minimal, even smaller than the differences between the WS2811 vs WS2818B. By exploring their features and specifications, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these ICs and highlighting their differences and advantages, to help you make an informed decision for your project.
WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834, What’s the difference?
First, let’s take a quick look at the comparison chart to understand their differences and similarities.
Type | |||
Application Circuit Voltage | 5V/12V/24V | 5V/12V/24V | 5V/12V/24V |
Data Transfer Rate | 800K/S | 800K/S | 800K/S |
Channel | 3(RGB) | 3(RGB) | 4(RGBW） |
Constant Current | 16.5mA | 15mA | R/G/B:14mA W:16mA |
Current Range | non-tunable | non-tunable | non-tunable |
Data Bit | 8 | 8 | 8 |
Grayscale | 256 | 256 | 256 |
Port Refresh Rate | 2KHZ | 2KHZ | 2KHZ |
Port Withstand Voltage | 20V | 24V | 24V |
Two-point Transmission Distance | 5m | 10m | 5m |
Featured Function | Break-Continue | Break-Continue | Break-Continue |
Package Size | SOP8 | SOP8 | SOP10 |
Signal Protocol | TTL/SPI（two-wire serial） | TTL/SPI（two-wire serial） | TTL/SPI（two-wire serial） |
Difference Comparison | / | / | / |
From the table above we can see that there are some differences and similarities between these addressable LED light strips. Next, we will delve into the specific details and characteristics of each LED Strip.
Deep Dive into WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834 LED Strips
After conducting a rough comparison between these chips, we now dive into the specifics of each kind of chip.
WS2818B LED Pixel Light
What is WS2818B LED Strip
WS2818B pixel protocol is designed by China World-Semi. WS2818B is an external IC that is directly soldered onto the PCB. WS2818B LED strips are available in DC5V, DC12V and DC24V. Commonly used for LED decorative lighting and Indoor/outdoor LED video or irregular screen.
Features of WS2818B LED Strip
The WS2818B uses a dual-wire serial TTL/SPI signal protocol, which adopts dual signal transmission that allows these signals to operate together without interference. This enables the system to continue functioning even if one pixel is damaged, a feature known as break-continue. Additionally, the refresh rate of the WS2818B is 2 kHz, and its package size is available in several options, including SOP8, CPC8, and FSOP8.
FW1935/TM1934 LED Pixel Light
What is FW1935/TM1934 LED Strip
FW1935 pixel protocol is designed by China Fuwei Electronics, TM1934 pixel protocol is designed by China Titan Micro Electronics. Since FW1935 and TM1934 have essentially the same characteristics, the difference between them is smaller than the difference between WS2812 and WS2812B. We now only dive into the specifics of FW1935. FW1935 LED strips are available in DC5V, DC12V and DC24V. FW1935 applies to LED light strip, guardrail tube, point light source and other LED decoration products.
Features of FW1935/TM1934 LED Strip
FW1935 is a dedicated circuit for single-wire 3-channel LED constant current drive. Its input can be achieved through the mutual switching of the two-channel digital interfaces (DIN, FDIN) which are cascaded with DO port. This means that FW1935 also has the Break-continue functionality.Many parameters of the FW1935 are the same as those of the WS2818B, except that the two-point transmission distance is 10m, the constant current is 15mA, and the port withstand voltage is 24V.
FW1834 LED Pixel Light
What is FW1834 LED Strip
FW1834 pixel protocol is designed by China Fuwei Electronics, FW1834 LED strips are available in DC5V, DC12V and DC24V. FW1834 supports RGBW.
Features of FW1834 LED Strip
The FW1834 is a dedicated integrated circuit for driving RGBW four-channel LED constant current control, equipped with a backup signal line.The PWM grayscale level of the four RGBW OUT drive ports can be individually configured via commands, with 256 levels of grayscale adjustment available. The FW1834 also features a break-continue function. Its most significant difference from the WS2818B and FW1935/TM1934 is that it has four channels, allowing it to support RGBW, whereas the WS2818B and FW1935/TM1934 can support a maximum of RGB only.
Choosing Between WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834
When choosing between WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834 LED strips, it’s essential to consider their specific features and your project requirements. Although the differences between them are minimal, the distinctions between WS2818b and FW1935/TM1934 are quite similar to those between WS2811 vs UCS1903, primarily concerning the two-point transmission distance and port withstand voltage. When choosing among these three options, consider the three important differences:
- Color：FW1834 supports RGBW, while others can only support RGB. Although RGB can also produce white light, it is generated by the combination of red, green, and blue light, which is not as pure as direct white light.
- Two-point Transmission Distance：The FW1935/TM1934 has the longest two-point transmission distance in these types, measuring 10 meters.
- Package Size: The package size of WS2818B and FW1935/TM1934 is SOP8, but in FW1834, the package size is SOP10
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific project requirements, such as color, two-point transmission distance, package size. Review the specifications and features of each LED strip type, and select the one that best aligns with your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, through the comparison of WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834, we know that the WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834 LED strips each offer unique features, making them suitable for different applications. While they share some similarities, their differences in terms of color, two-point transmission distance, package size. When you really understand the nuances between them, you can choose the LED Strip that suits you.
FAQs
1、Can WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834 be cut to custom lengths?
Yes, WS2818B vs FW1935/TM1934 vs FW1834 LED strips can be cut to custom lengths. They all have cuttable sections, usually marked along the strip, allowing you to adjust the length to your specific requirements.
2、What is break-continue, and why is it important?
Break-continue allows the system to keep communication even there is interruption or damage in the transmission path.