Shenzhen, China – September 2026
We recently had the pleasure of working with Nathan, a client who needed a high-performance, custom LED strip for a stage lighting project controlled by Madrix software.
Nathan’s requirements were precise:
96 LEDs/m or higher density for smooth, high-resolution effects
WS2815 ICs with break‑point continuation for reliability
RGBW (with dedicated white channel) for pure color mixing
4‑pin XLR4 male input for secure, professional connection
No power cable and no output terminal wire for a clean installation
Here is how we turned his vision into reality.
Understanding the Client’s Needs
Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
96 LEDs/m density | Higher density = smoother animations and better resolution for stage effects |
WS2815 IC | Break‑point continuation ensures the show goes on even if one LED fails |
RGBW with 4000K white | Dedicated neutral white for accurate color rendering alongside vibrant RGB |
XLR4 connector | Locking, professional connector preferred in stage/audio environments |
No power cable, no output terminal | Clean, clutter‑free installation — ideal for stage setups |
Madrix compatibility | Required for advanced pixel mapping and real‑time control |
Our Solution: A Custom WS2815 RGBW Strip
We designed a strip that met every requirement, with one key enhancement: we recommended 4OZ copper thickness to minimize voltage drop when powering from one end.
Final Product Specifications:
Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
Model | XXA-96D5050RGBW-WS2815-12V |
LED Type | SMD5050 RGBW (4000K neutral white) |
LED Density | 96 LEDs/m |
IC Type | WS2815 (break‑point continuation) |
IC Density | 96 ICs/m (1:1 ratio) |
Voltage | DC12V |
Power | 28.8W/m |
PCB Width | 10mm |
PCB Color | Black (sleek, professional) |
Copper Thickness | 4OZ (reduces voltage drop, improves heat dissipation) |
Waterproof | IP20 (indoor use) |
Connector | 4‑pin XLR4 Male (locking) |
Pinout | 1: +12V, 2: BLANK, 3: Data, 4: GND |
Lead Length | 150mm from XLR to strip |
Length | 5m per roll |
Test Tails | None (clean, professional finish) |
Why 4OZ Copper Matters for Long Runs
Nathan’s stage installation required powering the strip from one end. Standard 2OZ or 3OZ copper can cause voltage drop over longer distances, leading to dimmer LEDs at the far end.
Copper Thickness | Voltage Drop (5m run) | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
2OZ | Higher | Short runs (<3m) |
3OZ | Moderate | Medium runs (3‑5m) |
4OZ (our recommendation) | Lower | Long runs (>5m), single‑end power |
The 4OZ copper ensures consistent brightness across the entire 5m strip, even with a single power feed — critical for stage applications where uniformity is essential.
Pinout and Connection Details
Pin | Function | Note |
|---|---|---|
1 | +12V | Power input |
2 | BLANK | Reserved / unused |
3 | Data | Signal from controller |
4 | GND | Ground |
The XLR4 male connector provides a secure, locking connection — preventing accidental disconnection during live performances.
Applications
This strip is ideal for:
Application | Why It Fits |
|---|---|
Stage and theatre lighting | XLR4 connector, black PCB, high density, Madrix‑ready |
Architectural cove lighting | Discreet black appearance, pure white 4000K option |
Event and exhibition displays | High resolution, vibrant colors |
Television and film sets | Flicker‑free, smooth dimming |
Installation Overview
Step | Action |
|---|---|
1 | Connect the XLR4 male connector to the controller or power supply |
2 | Ensure pinout matches (1: +12V, 3: Data, 4: GND) |
3 | Power on and test with Madrix software |
4 | Secure the strip using appropriate mounting clips |
Note: Due to the high power consumption (28.8W/m), ensure your power supply can handle the total load. The 4OZ copper helps, but for runs longer than 5m, consider power injection.
Summary
Advantage | Benefit |
|---|---|
96 LEDs/m, RGBW | High resolution, pure 4000K white |
WS2815 1:1 pixel control | Full individual addressability, break‑point continuation |
4OZ copper PCB | Lower voltage drop, better heat dissipation |
Black PCB | Sleek, professional, discreet |
XLR4 male connector | Secure, locking, professional connection |
No test tails | Clean, professional finish |
Madrix‑ready | Advanced pixel mapping and real‑time control |
Looking for Custom Stage Lighting Solutions?
This project is a perfect example of how we collaborate with clients to deliver high‑quality, precisely matched custom LED strips for demanding professional applications.
👉 Contact Us Today to discuss your custom lighting or PCB project. Tell us your requirements, and we will provide a tailored solution.