2026-07-07

APA102C

active

ActiveClocked50502020

Overview

type: APA102
clocked: Yes
bitrate: 30MHz
pixel size bits: 32
backup line: No
max per string: 250
max per string notes: Clock pulse gets shorter by a few ns every pixel. After ~250 pixels, the clock signal can no longer be reliably retrieved.
pixel rate max: 937.5 kpx/s

order: BGR
brightness bits: 8+5
brightness method: pwm
brightness method notes: Extra 5-bit brightness control by overlaying 400Hz PWM on LEDs
pwm frequency: 19.2kHz

led voltage

led voltage notes

Datasheet claims "26V Vds, Max" but LEDs are built-in and share power with 5V VDD

vcc voltage

gpio

channel current

22mA

channel current notes

19-22mA in 5050 package, 10mA for 2020 package; extra 5 bits control PWM, not current

quiescent current

1.0mA

wattage

110mW

Very similar to its previous version, APA102, APA102C provides a larger metallic area for better heat dissipation.

Improved thermal design over APA102
Clock signal degrades with each pixel - see https://www.pjrc.com/why-apa102-leds-have-trouble-at-24-mhz/
Extra 5-bit brightness control is PWM-based, not current control