An LED Video Wall consists of a series of closely installed LED panels, meticulously configured and synchronized to broadcast audiovisual images in the desired format. It serves as a platform for showcasing extensive multimedia material.
These panels, driven by their technological components, have revolutionized the way we perceive the world. The first LED (Light Emitting Diode) is attributed to the American engineer and university professor Nick Holonyak Jr. (1928-2022), who worked as an Optoelectronics researcher at the General Electric Laboratory (GE) in New York.
In 1962 he achieved a significant milestone by creating the first visible light diode: the red LED. This pioneering feat involved the generation of gallium arsenide phosphide crystals, marking the first successful crystallization of three elements together. Today, these luminous structures have evolved significantly from their initial iteration, finding widespread use and becoming invaluable in various industries.
Operating System for LED Displays
An LED Wall comprises a series of LED Video panels that simulate a large screen. They are organized consecutively and synchronized to fulfill the function of sharing high-impact digital content. Each LED panel possesses the capability to emit RGB (Red, Green, Blue) light, essentially comprising three diodes that collectively form a pixel.These diodes operate within a vibrant color system capable of generating up to 216 color combinations.
LED screens offer flexibility in design. Modular screens, also known as cabinets, can be assembled on surfaces of varying sizes and resolutions. They find applications both indoors and outdoors and are commonly seen in restaurants, shopping centers, and other venues.
These screens are known for their wide viewing angles, and their shape can be easily altered or expanded by adding new modules or panels. In addition, maintenance is hassle-free, and in the event that a pixel stops working, only the damaged module needs replacement, not the entire screen.
Depending on their installation, these screens can have front or rear maintenance requirements. Front maintenance screens are typically mounted on facades and feature various closing mechanisms because once installed, they cannot be accessed from within. Rear maintenance screens are designed to be repairable from the rear side through structures resembling doors that grant access to the screen’s interior.
A video wall can be assembled with a series of interconnected modules, with or without symmetry, forming shapes like squares, rectangles, or other configurations depending on specific needs.
They are ideal for large outdoor events or indoor gatherings in establishments, often supporting multi-touch interactive content and integrating technological devices that expand their communication capabilities..
Understanding Pixel Pitch and Its Significance
The pixel is the smallest unit in an image, measured in millimeters (mm), and comprises three red, blue, and green LED diodes, allowing for the display of infinite images on a screen.
In an LED Video Wall, each bulb represents one pixel. These pixels are typically evenly distributed across the display surface, which, in this case, is a video panel. The distance between the centers of adjacent pixels is referred to as Pixel Pitch. This measurement is indicated by the number of millimeters in the nomenclature, along with the viewing distance. For example, P1.99mm suggests that the panel has a 1.99 mm spacing between pixel centers.
Below you can see a relationship between the ideal LED panels corresponding to different optimal viewing distances.
Viewing Distance | Led Panel | Pixel Density |
|---|---|---|
5+ ft. 6+ ft 6+ft 8+ ft 16+ ft | P1.99mm P2.6mm P2.97mm P3.91mm P5mm | 320×240 192.192 168×168 128×128 192×192 |
Choosing the appropriate pixel pitch for the viewer’s distance is crucial. Smaller pixel pitch results in higher resolution and pixel density, ensuring optimal image display. However, a smaller pixel pitch also means a greater concentration of diodes, leading to increased costs. Therefore, careful consideration of the available space is essential when selecting LED panels.
Equipment Required for Operating an LED Display
The operation of a VideoWall depends largely on the video processor, a device that establishes the connection with the primary multimedia source, typically a PC. Video processors are equipped with interfaces for managing communication, including DVI (Digital Visual Interface) for digital video, HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) for digital video and audio, and DP (DisplayPort). Among these, DP is considered the best choice for achieving higher data transfer rates and utilizing high-resolution screens. The selection between these interfaces depends on the electronic components being used and their compatibility
An essential consideration when choosing an LED video processor is the control system responsible for managing the LED lights’ operation. An asynchronous system operates without synchronization between the screen and the PC monitor and often relies on flash drives, Wi-Fi, 4G, network cables and more content storage. This system is suitable for non-real time applications, such advertisements.
In contrast, a synchronous LED system allows direct connection to the PC monitor, relying on the monitor’s operation. The connection is made through the network cable, but it has limitations primarily related to reproduction time.This processing mechanism is ideal for real-time playback, such as concerts and conferences.
Mapping, the design of the Video Wall, is an essential step in configuring the screen through software. Typically, HDMI’s scaling option is employed to adapt content for display across the entire screen. Initially, each panel receives the same signal from the PC, ensuring uniform and seamless image presentation.
It’s advisable to research the different brands available in the market for this equipment, carefully evaluating their technical information available to ensure that the best decision is made:
- NovaStar currently leads the LED processor market, offering controllers that work with both synchronous and asynchronous systems, operated through specialized software.
- ColorLight also supports both systems and provides a 3 to 5-year warranty, making it a popular choice with a lower price point than NovaStar.
- Linsn, while smaller in the market, offers controllers for synchronous systems with a 3-year warranty, occupying an intermediate price range.
Energy Consumption of LED Screens
LED screens are known for their energy efficiency, generally consuming about 100 milliwatts Their lower power demands result in reduced heat dissipation, enhancing energy efficiency. LEDs typically operate on 24 V direct current and offer quicker response times.
Lifespan of LED Panels
LED panels boast a lifespan ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 hours when operated at maximum power for approximately 8 hours a day. This longevity significantly outperforms conventional lighting systems, which typically last around 8,000 hours. It is important to note that as LEDs age, their capacity may decrease. For example, at 50,000 hours, they might still operate at 70% of their original performance.
It is important to know that the actual lifespan of LED panels can vary depending on certain climatic factors such as humidity, prolonged exposure to UV rays, materials used in manufacturing, installation location, and voltage fluctuations. To ensure extended lifespan, regular reviews of electrical installations, preventive protection mechanisms, and monitoring of environmental conditions become necessary.
Choosing the Right LED Screen
LedMarket offers a wide range of LED walls for both indoors and outdoors applications, featuring top-quality suppliers such as Mirackle and Novastar, renowned brands in the national market. These LED VideoWall packages are turnkey systems that come with efficient front-end service.
For each utility and space, there is one or more LED Screens; Whether it is LED Walls for services and sermons in churches and places of worship, meetings in conference rooms and shopping malls. Depending on your needs, you can choose from options like Screen Panels 8.2’x5′ P2.66mm, 8.2’x5′ P3.91 mm from the interior series with a turnkey system, or VideoWall 25.2’x9.5′ P5mm with a plug & play system and video processor featuring HDMI, DVI, and VGA inputs.
For outdoor use, on-air cinema, or advertising, LedMarket provides modular screens with a pixel pitch of 3.91mm, measuring 9.8’x6.6′. For fair stands, the 9.8-foot LED VideoWall is an excellent choice.. Furthermore, the P5mm outdoor series LED walls, designed with waterproof features and a high refresh rate of 3940Hz, are perfect businesses, places of worship, and other applications.
Different Installation Methods:
Ground support is the simplest method, using instruments like bases, connecting bars, and truss ladders for stability. Rigging installations are suitable for suspended VideoWalls, employing truss systems, ceilings, grids, and cranes. Wall mounts involve drilling the panels directly into the wall for secure attachment..
Enhancing your knowledge of LED technology and its operation is crucial for making informed decisions for your business LedMarket, a leading U.S.-based company in the LED wall market, is here to assist you. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing effective solutions and excellent technical support
