Video walls are an essential component of creating an impressive and dynamic display, but how do they operate? Unfortunately, it’s not by magic, but video walls use a sophisticated technology known as video wall controllers to create engaging visuals.
Video wall controllers are critical to any successful setup, but how much do we know about them, and what are their key benefits? If you’re not an AV enthusiast or don’t happen to know the ins and outs of video wall technology, then you’re in the right place.
We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand the true value of video wall controllers. In this blog, we’ll discuss what video walls are, where we use them, and five benefits you should know about before investing in video wall technology.
So whether you’re an AV know-it-all or just starting out, we’ve got you covered!
What is a video wall controller?
Before we get into the specifics, let’s discuss what a video wall controller is. A video wall controller is a piece of hardware that works in collaboration with other video wall technology to operate a multi-screen video wall display. A video wall controller processes all input signals used to display visual content on a screen. In other words, a video wall is the brains behind the operation.
Without a video wall controller, users wouldn’t be able to process sources that allow seamless switching between sources on a single wall. Processors work by splitting an image up and scaling it to the size of the video wall or a Windows desktop.
Controllers process signals from HDMI, SDI, DVI, and video sources, so users have the choice to be as flexible as they wish.
Video wall controllers are a must-have for all video wall projects, helping users transform a standard multi-screen display into a high production value experience.
Why not have a look at our collection of video wall control systems on the DEXON website in case you need a visual guide?
Where do we use video walls?
As we’ve mentioned, we use video wall controllers in conjunction with video wall technology, but there’s much more at play than just a few screens. Video walls vary in size and scale from 4×4 all the way to 172×44. Within this, three different kinds of video walls are also at play. Here’s a guide:
LCD: LCD is one of the most widely recognisable video walls on the market. These are the most cost-efficient displays and offer users a relatively high-quality experience. With the help of a high-quality video controller from Dexon, users can mitigate the effects of cheaper screens, such as harsh bezels.
Rear-projected cubes: Rear-projected cube walls integrate projection and display, giving users a high-quality, music festival-like experience with high-quality color, saturation, and no shadows. These walls are best suited to critical control rooms that demand reliability and great quality.
LED: LED video walls are very common in advertising settings, such as iconic locations like Times Square in New York, USA, or Picadilly Circus in London, UK. These walls offer a bright, high-quality display using many tiny LED lights!
There are also some other types of hardware working in partnership with video wall controllers to create great graphics and seamless display! Video wall matrix switchers and video processors also allow users to transform their display into a high-production value experience for their audience.
5 Benefits of video wall controllers
Now you know the basics, let’s discuss the five benefits of video wall controllers. It’s worth remembering that the benefits and functions will vary from user to user, meaning that your video wall experience is subjective.
However, you are likely to experience some great benefits by incorporating this technology into your video wall setup. Here’s five benefits of video wall controllers:
1.Reliability
As with most hardware, video wall controllers are pretty hard to break. Of course, if you spill your cup of coffee on it, that’s on you, but in every other scenario, you can rely on video wall controllers to perform at a high level.
This is especially important to consider if you plan on integrating a video wall controller in a mission-critical control room. So, if you’re looking for 24/7 reliability, look no further than a video wall controller!
2.Simplicity
In the AV industry, accessibility is everything. It ensures that all users of all abilities can easily navigate powerful technology and use it at its full capacity from the very beginning. Video wall controllers don’t rely on external networks or remote operation, so you don’t need to worry about complicated software to start creating an impressive display.
Video wall controllers are also very simple to transport from location to location. This means you can take your sophisticated video wall setup with you wherever you go, allowing you to put on dynamic displays anywhere you want!
3.Power and flexibility
With the help of a powerful video wall controller, you are no longer limited by cheaper displays that could be harming your video quality. Video wall controllers come with technology that mitigates things like harsh bezels, meaning you can get a much more seamless display for a lot less.
This means that video walls can now flex to your exact needs, no longer keeping you in a box of limited-quality displays. With high-speed performance and better picture quality, you can create presentations that wow your audience!
4.Information distribution
One of the key selling points of video walls is its multi-screen nature. With multi-screen technology, you can split screens and use them to display several snippets of information to communicate a high volume of information from a single source.
Isolating screens in this way wouldn’t be possible without the help of video wall controllers. This makes information distribution much simpler and stops users from relying on several devices to gather all critical information.
This is particularly useful in an office environment where miscommunication can be a major productivity inhibitor.
5.Better image quality
As we’ve mentioned, video wall controllers can improve harsh bezels’ effects and overall picture quality. But what is the real value of this? Well, improving picture quality is a key factor in your audience retention, and poor-quality pictures are bound to have your audience reaching for their phones for a worthy distraction.
With a video wall controller, you can offer high-quality graphics that capture your audience and keep their eyes on you and what you have to offer. This is a key weapon in conferences, trade shows, and office presentations!
Final thoughts
In summary, incorporating video wall technology into your video wall setup is one of the best ways to get the most out of your video wall experience. With the help of a video wall, you can create higher quality and more reliable video displays for your office, control room or conference.
