LED video processors can display content seamlessly and scale to any size or shape. They enhance the quality and appeal of video walls, keeping viewers engaged and entertained.
By Potshangbam July
LED video processors are also known as picture processors, video controllers, image converters, independent video sources, etc. They play a crucial role in converting images from outside sources, such as computers, HD broadcast boxes, Blu-ray DVDs, etc, into an acceptable signal for an LED screen. LED video processors are exclusively designed for LED displays as they enhance the image quality. They are effective in changing the resolution, format, colour space and the image scaling of displays. The processors incorporate video image processing and high-definition signal processing technologies. They are capable of receiving and processing various video graphics signals and displaying them on full-colour LED screens at the same time. LED video processors are mainly used for large display applications, such as big stages and theatres, TV broadcast centres, meetings, conferences, exhibitions, etc.
The importance of LED video processors
LED video processors are specially designed for the LED display, and directly impact display walls. They are equipped with image processing and enhancement technologies that deliver clearer images and colours on large screen LED display systems. They play flawlessly on screens, eliminating any visible lines, gaps or mixed batch issues in the panels.
Without LED video processing, it is nearly impossible to manage all the signals and content in an organised way. LED display walls release significant noise that can distract audiences. This is mainly because of the compression noise of the video signal and the random sounds from the system itself. However, this noise can be suppressed or minimised if a superior quality video processor is used.
LED displays are known to be the most flexible display products among all flat panel display media. They are easy to use, and adaptable in modular designs and for splicing. LED displays have their flipside too. They tend to lose flexibility slightly, which impacts the display resolution. This can be addressed by the video processor that provides a zoom function. LED video processors ensure a clear image on screens, without the distraction of a bad screen resolution. Currently, LED transparent screen points are getting smaller, though the shape tends to be large, which results in the physical resolution of the LED transparent screen not being high. In such cases, LED video processors can increase the resolution of LED screens using their mosaic function/feature.
With LED video processing, the content on the screen can be made more visually impressive to draw the attention of the viewers. Video processors deliver the visuals in precise colours seamlessly with uniform brightness.
The main functions of LED video processors are:
- They help to manage various signals that come at the same time, from multiple signal connections. They are flexible and allow you to switch seamlessly between signals. They ensure fast signal transmission and high bit rates.
- A qood quality LED video processor enables the contents to play perfectly on the LED wall. This is possible with features like scaling and precise colour adjustments for the content. They also have a feature that corrects visible seams or mixed batch issues in the panel itself.
- They are required for the image enlargement process to deliver clear and crisp images. As the application areas are increasing rapidly, LED displays are no longer relying on widely accepted resolutions. Therefore, video processors are needed to amplify the image processing.
- One of the main functions of LED video processors is image zoom processing. The image has to be scaled during the resolution specification conversion process. LED video processors are able to scale the image effectively and output images of any size.
Safety precautions
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is known to be one of the common causes that damage electronic components. ESD can happen when handling the devices or hardware, and often occurs without users being aware of the damage or feeling the shock. Therefore, it is advised not to touch the processor port directly, which could harm the components. The high voltage in processors can potentially lead to massive hazards. The cover of the device should be opened only by professional technicians. Another important thing to check regularly is the leakage current of the device, which can easily burn the port chip and affect its normal functioning. If the device acts in a strange way by releasing unusual noise, smoke or unpleasant odours, the user should unplug the power cord from the receptacle, instantly.
Users should never keep the device in damp areas, near radiators or metal objects, all of which can damage it. The processors should not be used in high temperatures. They should be used in a well-ventilated place, and the ventilation opening of the device should be monitored to ensure it’s never blocked. The device must be connected with a ground wire to safely release excess electrical charges.
Unique features of LED video processors
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Checklist for buyers
LED video processors are available with various capabilities and features, in a wide range of price points. It is important to check out certain aspects before purchasing the device. The following points may help in choosing the right device.
- It is important to gauge the image processing capabilities of the LED video processors. Consumers should check the high-quality upscaling and downscaling of images, which ensures the content is displayed correctly on the video wall. Next, find out the accuracy of the colour reproduction, which depends on the depth processing capabilities of the processor.
- Look for video processors that seamlessly bind together multiple screens. Good processors do not show the distance between the screens when delivering a comfortable experience for viewers. Otherwise, it can be quite a distraction for viewers. Consumers should also check if the processor can easily accommodate displays with any screen width—that will make it possible for accurate display of all content.
- Ensure the processors can fade in/out naturally for perfect switching with zero delay. This avoids picture loss and enables proper synchronisation during the transition. Also, check their quality—good processors reduce the noise caused during image processing. Check if the model supports offline scheduled tasks, and the key lock function comes handy to prevent misoperation after debugging.
- Avoid processors that have a complex setup and operating method. The latest processors come with improved graphical user interfaces, which makes it easier to handle them. Look for a product that includes a remote control, so that the user can have easy control over small changes that need to be done.
- Find out the number of content sources you need to display at a particular time, and accordingly choose a device with a proper number of inputs and outputs, specified. This will help to output perfectly integrated content in a number of configurations.
- Apart from considering the initial price of the processor, it will be practical to look at maintenance costs over the long term. While the products seem affordable initially, the cost of regular maintenance, consumables and high energy consumption can be more expensive in the long term.
The demand for LED video processors
There has been a significant growth in the display market every year. Displays are now available in improved versions, both in terms of size and resolution, which is ideal for advanced video wall solutions. In comparison with LCD displays, there is higher demand for LED displays because of the latter’s high resolution, high contrast ratio, wide viewing angle and high brightness. This has accelerated the growth of the video wall market, which in turn has given a boost to the demand for LED video processors. A good LED video processor provides more power and flexibility to deploy video walls. Overall, the growing technological advances have increased the demand for video processors.
Current video processor models have considerably expanded the number of visual sources that can be displayed on a video wall simultaneously. Processors provide support for new standards such as display port, providing 4K signals at 60 frames per second. They also support IP capture, which allows a seamless display of digital video over the Internet. They are reliable for fast signal transmission while ensuring high bit rates.
According to a report by Fortune Business Insight, the global LED video wall market is projected to reach US$ 36.16 billion by 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.9 per cent during the forecast period. This is likely to have a positive impact on the growth of the LED video processor market.
