When LED strip lights are controlled using a LED receiver (such as as DMX receiver), they are programmed to dim from maximum to minimum levels of brightness/colour/etc in 255 steps. This the standard for what is called 8-bit control.
16-bit LED receivers provide not only the standard 255 steps of control, but also another 255 steps in between those. This gives a total of 512 steps (0-511) of control. The extra precision and granularity gives smoother dimming and colour mixing effects, due to the higher amount of steps.
Which is the best for my project?
For most LED products, 8-bit dimming is the standard, and to the untrained eye this is totally acceptable and looks more than satisfactory. You won’t need 16-bit control unless specifically requested by a professional, such as a theatre manager.
In theatres, for example, when low-level dimming is often required, the final brightness level can appear too much of a ‘step’ to an audience. So it is common for the theatrical industry to require 16-bit dimming, in order to provide the smoothest dimming / mixing possible and obtain the lowest dimming levels before switching off completely.
What do InStyle LED offer?
We offer both standard (8-bit) and 16-bit options. Unless 16-bit control has been specifically requested, then we recommend sticking with the standard as 8-bit control is fantastic.
If 16-bit is required, then we offer the following 16-bit DMX receivers:
Why InStyle LED?
We stock all of our LED tapes for next day delivery.
You can provide us with any sketches / plans and we can advise on the most cost effective way for wiring / control.
We can speak to installers, before, during and after your project to answer any questions.
Please call us today on 0116 2799083 or email sales@instyleled.co.uk