LED Pixels Light Sheet ≠ Individually Addressable LEDs: Understanding the True Function of Pixel Light Sheets
GL Admin
In lighting design and product selection, many customers assume that a product labeled “Pixels Light Sheet” means that each LED can be individually controlled and programmed. However, this is not always the case.
This article will explain the real control principle behind GL LED’s Pixels Light Sheet, and help you distinguish between individually addressable (pixel control) and whole-sheet dimmable systems.
1. What Are Individually Addressable LEDs?
“Individually addressable” or “pixel control” LEDs refer to systems where each LED (or small group of LEDs) has its own control chip. These chips receive data signals that define brightness, color, and timing, allowing complex dynamic effects.
Key Features:
• Each LED or group can be independently programmed.
• Usually RGB or RGBW color changing.
• Controlled via SPI, DMX512, UART, or similar protocols.
• Commonly used in stage lighting, digital displays, media façades, and dynamic architectural lighting.
2. The True Working Principle of GL LED Pixels Light Sheet
GL LED’s Pixels Light Sheet (Single Color) is a constant-voltage dimmable light source, designed for uniform illumination and simple installation rather than addressable pixel effects.
Main Features:
• High brightness and uniform light output.
• Compatible with PWM, 0-10V, Triac, ELV, and MLV dimming systems.
• Operates on 24V DC constant voltage, with LEDs connected in parallel.
• The entire sheet dims simultaneously, maintaining consistent brightness across the board.
In other words, this is not an addressable pixel system, but a uniformly dimmable light sheet.
The term “Pixels” in this product name refers to the series name or panel format, not to per-LED digital control capability.
3. How to Tell If a Light Sheet Supports Individual Pixel Control
Here’s a simple comparison guide:
Feature |
Addressable Pixel Light |
GL LED Pixels Light Sheet |
|
Control |
Each LED is independently addressable |
All LEDs dim together |
|
Wiring |
Includes data/clock signal lines |
Only power lines (V+, GND) |
|
Color Type |
RGB / RGBW (multicolor) |
Single color (fixed CCT) |
|
Dimming Method |
DMX / SPI / Digital Controller |
PWM / 0–10V / Triac |
|
Typical Application |
Animated displays, pixel mapping |
Backlighting, decorative lighting, architectural lighting |
If the specification sheet does not mention “Addressable,” “IC Type,” or “Data Line,” the product is not individually controllable.
4. Industry Example: WAC Lighting’s Pixels Light Sheet
For reference, take the WAC Lighting Pixels Light Sheet (e.g., model LED-P10-1224-2750) — a well-known example in the market.
This product also:
• Runs on 24V constant voltage.
• Offers multiple CCT options (2700K–5000K);
• It is designed for architectural and backlighting applications.
• And it is not individually addressable.
Even leading brands like WAC Lighting use the term “Pixels Light Sheet” to describe uniformly dimmable light panels, not addressable pixel modules.
5. Conclusion
GL LED’s Pixels Light Sheet series is designed for applications requiring high-quality, uniform, shadow-free illumination, including:
• Backlit panels and signage
• Hotel and retail ambient lighting.
• Architectural and decorative illumination.
It offers seamless brightness control, wide dimming compatibility, and flexible installation — perfect for static or softly dimmable lighting designs.
If your project requires individually programmable, dynamic light effects (such as media walls, animations, or pixel displays), please contact our sales team — we can recommend the right Addressable Pixel LED System for your needs.