99 Terms Defined

LED Video Wall Glossary

Comprehensive definitions of LED display terminology. From pixel pitch to processing, master the language of video walls.

Basics

9 terms

Aspect Ratio

Aspect ratio is the proportional relationship between display width and height, expressed as width:height (e.g., 16:9). Standard video content uses 16:9, while LED walls can be any aspect ratio from ultra-wide (32:9 or wider) to vertical (9:16) or even square (1:1), depending on panel arrangement.

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Dead Pixel / Hot Pixel

A dead pixel is an LED that has failed and remains permanently dark, while a hot pixel (or stuck pixel) remains lit at full brightness regardless of the intended image. Both are common defects in LED displays. Industry standards typically allow 1-3 dead pixels per panel; higher quantities indicate quality issues or damage.

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LED Cabinet (Panel)

An LED cabinet (also called a panel) is the primary structural unit of an LED video wall, containing multiple LED modules, power supplies, receiving cards, and the frame/housing. Cabinets connect together using quick-lock mechanisms to form larger displays. Standard cabinet sizes include 500x500mm, 500x1000mm, and 600x337.5mm.

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LED Module

An LED module is the smallest replaceable unit on an LED panel, containing a printed circuit board (PCB) with LED pixels, driver ICs, and mounting hardware. Modules attach to cabinets with screws or magnets and can be individually replaced if damaged, making field repairs possible without replacing entire panels.

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LED Video Wall

An LED video wall is a large-format display created by tiling multiple LED panels together to form a seamless viewing surface. Unlike projection or LCD video walls, LED walls emit their own light, offering superior brightness (1,000-10,000+ nits), wider viewing angles, and no visible bezels between panels.

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Pixel Density (PPI/PPM)

Pixel density measures how many pixels exist within a given area, expressed as pixels per inch (PPI) or pixels per square meter (PPM). Higher pixel density means sharper images at close viewing distances. A 1.5mm pitch LED wall has approximately 444,444 pixels per square meter, while a 4mm pitch has only 62,500 pixels per square meter.

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Pixel Pitch

Pixel pitch is the distance in millimeters between the center of one LED pixel and the center of an adjacent pixel. Common pixel pitches for indoor LED walls range from 0.9mm (fine pitch for close viewing) to 4mm+ (standard pitch for larger venues), with 2.9mm being the most popular rental specification.

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Resolution

Resolution describes the total number of pixels in an LED display, expressed as width times height (e.g., 1920x1080). Unlike fixed-resolution monitors, LED walls can be any resolution based on the panels used and their arrangement. Common configurations match standard video resolutions like 1080p or 4K, but custom resolutions are equally valid.

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Viewing Distance

Viewing distance is the space between the LED display and the audience, and it directly determines the appropriate pixel pitch. The industry rule of thumb states minimum viewing distance in meters equals pixel pitch in millimeters (e.g., 2.5mm pitch requires minimum 2.5 meter viewing distance). Closer viewers need finer pitch; distant viewers can use coarser pitch.

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Power

9 terms

Amperage (Amps)

Amperage (measured in amps or A) is the measure of electrical current flow and determines wire gauge and circuit breaker requirements for LED walls. Calculate amps by dividing watts by voltage. A 5,000W LED wall on 208V single-phase draws approximately 24 amps, requiring a 30A circuit with appropriate wire gauge.

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BTU

BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures heat output, relevant to LED displays for calculating cooling requirements. LED panels convert approximately 60-70% of consumed power into heat. A display consuming 10,000 watts generates roughly 23,000-27,000 BTUs per hour of heat that venue HVAC systems must remove.

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Cam-Lok / Powerlock

Cam-Lok (and Powerlock/Powersafe) are heavy-duty, single-pole electrical connectors designed for temporary high-current power distribution in entertainment and industrial applications. Color-coded by function (black, red, blue for phases; white for neutral; green for ground), these connectors safely deliver 200-400+ amps for large LED wall installations.

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Electrical Circuit

An electrical circuit for LED walls is a dedicated power path from a breaker panel to LED panels, sized for the load amperage plus safety margin. LED installations typically require multiple circuits distributed across the wall. Circuit planning must account for maximum power draw, wire gauge for distance, and balanced loading across available phases.

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Power Consumption

Power consumption for LED walls is measured in watts per square meter (W/m²) and varies by brightness level. Indoor LED panels typically draw 150-400W/m² at maximum brightness but average 100-200W/m² for typical content. Always calculate for maximum power draw when sizing electrical infrastructure, even though average consumption is lower.

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Power Distribution Unit (PDU)

A Power Distribution Unit distributes electrical power from a single high-amperage input to multiple lower-amperage outputs for LED panels. LED-specific PDUs include features like sequential power-up to prevent inrush current spikes, individual circuit breakers, and power monitoring for each output circuit.

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Power Factor

Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (watts) to apparent power (volt-amps), expressed as a decimal from 0 to 1.0. LED power supplies typically have power factors of 0.9-0.95, meaning they draw more current than simple watt/volt calculations suggest. Low power factor wastes electrical capacity and may incur utility penalties.

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Three-Phase Power

Three-phase power is an electrical distribution method using three alternating currents offset by 120 degrees, providing more efficient power delivery for large LED installations. Three-phase circuits deliver approximately 1.73 times the power of single-phase at the same amperage, making them essential for LED walls over 50m² or approximately 15kW.

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Voltage

Voltage (measured in volts or V) is the electrical potential difference that drives current through LED wall systems. LED panels internally operate on low voltage DC (typically 4.2-5V) but accept AC power input at venue voltage (120V, 208V, 230V, or 480V depending on region and installation). Higher input voltage enables more efficient power distribution for large installations.

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Processing

12 terms

Bit Depth

Bit depth determines how many brightness levels each color channel can display. LED walls commonly support 10-16 bit depth, with higher values enabling smoother gradients and more colors. An 8-bit system shows 256 levels per channel (16.7 million colors), while 10-bit shows 1,024 levels (1.07 billion colors).

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Data Cable

Data cables carry the video signal from LED processors to display panels, using either copper Ethernet (Cat5e/Cat6) or fiber optic connections. Cat6 cables support runs up to 100 meters at standard data rates, while fiber optic cables extend this to 300+ meters and provide immunity to electrical interference.

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EDID (Extended Display Identification Data)

EDID is a data structure that displays send to source devices to communicate supported resolutions, refresh rates, and audio formats. LED processors use EDID to tell connected computers and media servers what resolutions to output. EDID management is critical when complex signal chains cause handshaking issues.

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Genlock

Genlock (generator lock) synchronizes LED display refresh timing to an external reference signal, typically from a broadcast video system. By matching the LED refresh cycle to camera shutter timing, genlock eliminates the horizontal banding or flickering artifacts that appear when filming LED walls with unsynchronized refresh rates, making it essential for broadcast and film production.

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HDR (High Dynamic Range)

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a video standard that captures and displays a wider range of brightness levels and colors than standard dynamic range (SDR). LED walls with HDR capability can display deeper blacks and brighter highlights simultaneously, creating more lifelike images with greater detail in shadows and highlights.

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Input Lag

Input lag (or latency) is the delay between when a video signal enters the LED system and when it appears on screen. Measured in milliseconds, typical LED walls have 1-4 frames of latency (approximately 17-67ms at 60fps). Low input lag is critical for gaming, interactive content, and live IMAG applications.

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LED Processor

An LED processor is the video processing device that receives input signals (HDMI, SDI, DisplayPort), scales content to the exact pixel dimensions of the LED wall, and outputs data to panels via sending cards. Processors handle critical functions including scaling, color correction, PIP layouts, and source switching.

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PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)

PWM is the technique used to control LED brightness by rapidly switching LEDs on and off. The ratio of on-time to off-time (duty cycle) determines apparent brightness. Higher PWM frequencies (tens of thousands of Hz) prevent visible flicker, especially at low brightness levels.

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Receiving Card

A receiving card is the electronic circuit board inside each LED panel that receives video data from the processor/sending card and drives the individual LED pixels. Each receiving card has a maximum pixel capacity (typically 256,000 to 1,000,000+ pixels) and controls multiple LED modules within a single cabinet, managing refresh rate, color processing, and brightness control.

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Scaler

A scaler is processing hardware or software that resizes video signals to match the LED wall resolution. Scalers convert input resolutions (1920x1080, 3840x2160, etc.) to the exact pixel dimensions of the LED display, handling aspect ratio differences and multiple input sources.

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Scan Ratio

Scan ratio describes the LED driving method that determines how many pixel rows illuminate simultaneously. A 1/16 scan means 1 row lights at a time out of every 16 rows, while 1/2 scan illuminates half of all rows simultaneously. Lower scan ratios (1/2, 1/4) provide higher brightness and better camera performance but cost more.

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Sending Card

A sending card converts processed video output into the data format required by LED receiving cards, typically outputting via Ethernet or fiber to drive one or more display sections. Installed in LED processors or as standalone units, sending cards have maximum pixel capacity limits (typically 1-4 million pixels per output port) that determine how many panels each can drive.

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Physical

10 terms

Bezel / Seam

The bezel or seam is the gap or edge visible between LED panels where cabinets meet. High-quality LED walls have minimal bezels (0.5mm or less), achieved through precision manufacturing and careful alignment. Visible seams distract from content and indicate either poor panel quality or improper installation. Zero-bezel designs eliminate visible gaps entirely.

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Cabinet Weight

Cabinet weight is a critical specification for LED panels, typically ranging from 7-12 kg for indoor 500x500mm rental panels, 10-15 kg for fine-pitch panels, and 20-40 kg for outdoor weatherproof panels. Accurate weight data is essential for rigging calculations, truss capacity, ground support design, and transportation logistics.

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Curved LED Display

Curved LED displays are video walls assembled with angled connections between panels to create concave, convex, or complex curved surfaces. Most rental LED panels support adjustable angles of ±5° to ±15° between cabinets, enabling curves, corners, cylinders, and creative shapes. Tighter curves require smaller panels or specialized curved cabinet designs.

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Flight Case

A flight case (or road case) is a protective container with reinforced corners, handles, and latches designed to safely transport LED panels and production equipment. Quality flight cases protect panels from impact, vibration, and environmental hazards during trucking and handling.

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Front Service

Front service LED panels allow modules and components to be accessed and replaced from the front (audience-facing) side of the display. This design is essential for installations where rear access is limited or impossible, such as wall-mounted displays, recessed installations, and space-constrained venues.

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IP Rating

IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates a device resistance to dust and water infiltration, using a two-digit code. The first digit (0-6) rates solid particle protection, and the second (0-9) rates liquid protection. IP65 panels are dust-tight and protected against water jets; IP67 panels can withstand temporary immersion in water.

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Quick Lock

Quick lock is a panel connection system that allows LED panels to be joined together rapidly without tools. Panels feature integrated mechanical connectors that lock together with a simple push or lever action, enabling fast assembly and disassembly for rental and touring applications.

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Rear Service

Rear service LED panels provide access to modules and components from behind the display. This is the most common design for rental and staging applications where panels are free-standing or on structures with full rear access. Rear service panels are typically lighter, thinner, and less expensive than front service alternatives.

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Serviceability

Serviceability refers to how easily LED panels can be maintained and repaired, including module replacement, power supply access, and component diagnostics. Key factors include front vs. rear service access, magnetic vs. screw-mounted modules, tool requirements, and spare part availability. Good serviceability reduces downtime and total cost of ownership.

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Viewing Angle

Viewing angle specifies the maximum horizontal and vertical angles from which a display maintains acceptable image quality, measured in degrees. Most indoor LED panels offer 140 degrees horizontal and 70-120 degrees vertical viewing angles, beyond which brightness drops below 50% and colors may shift.

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Performance

7 terms

Brightness

Brightness measures the light output of an LED display, typically specified in nits (candelas per square meter). Indoor LED panels produce 800-1,500 nits, suitable for controlled lighting environments. Outdoor displays require 5,000-10,000+ nits to remain visible in direct sunlight.

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Contrast Ratio

Contrast ratio measures the difference between the brightest white and darkest black a display can produce, expressed as a ratio (e.g., 5000:1). LED panels with black-face LEDs achieve higher contrast ratios than white-face LEDs by minimizing light reflection when pixels are off.

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Flicker

Flicker in LED displays is visible pulsing or blinking that occurs when refresh rate is too low or interacts poorly with ambient lighting or camera sensors. Professional LED walls use high refresh rates (3840Hz+) and PWM frequencies to eliminate perceptible flicker for both human viewers and cameras.

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Gray Scale

Gray scale refers to the number of brightness levels each LED pixel can display, determined by the bit depth of the driving electronics. 14-bit gray scale provides 16,384 brightness steps per color channel, while 16-bit provides 65,536 steps. Higher bit depth enables smoother gradients and more accurate color reproduction.

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Moiré Pattern

Moiré patterns are wavy, rainbow-colored interference patterns that appear when cameras capture LED displays. This artifact occurs when the camera sensor pixel grid interacts with the LED pixel grid or scan pattern. Higher refresh rates (3840Hz+) and proper camera settings minimize moiré.

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Nit

A nit is the standard unit of luminance used to measure LED display brightness, equal to one candela per square meter (cd/m2). Indoor LED displays typically produce 800-1,500 nits, while outdoor displays require 5,000-10,000+ nits to remain visible in direct sunlight.

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Refresh Rate

Refresh rate measures how many times per second an LED display updates its image, expressed in Hertz (Hz). Broadcast and film applications require 3,840Hz or higher to eliminate visible flicker in camera recordings, while 1,920Hz is acceptable for live-only events without video capture.

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Rigging

10 terms

Bridle

A bridle is a rigging configuration using two or more cables, chains, or spansets connected from multiple points on the load to a single suspension point above. For LED walls, bridles allow fewer motors than pick points by combining loads. Bridle angles must be calculated to ensure safe working loads at each connection.

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Bumper (LED Rigging)

A bumper is a structural hardware component that attaches to the top of an LED wall stack to provide rigging points for flying. Bumpers distribute the load across multiple panels and connect to shackles, steel, or motors. Most LED manufacturers offer product-specific bumpers rated for the wall weight they support.

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Chain Hoist

A chain hoist (or motor) is an electric or manual lifting device used to raise and lower LED walls and support structures. Electric chain hoists for entertainment typically lift 1/2-ton to 2-ton loads at speeds of 4-16 feet per minute. Hoists connect to venue rigging points and support truss or directly suspend LED panels.

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Flying

Flying refers to LED walls suspended from overhead rigging points using chain hoists, motors, and rigging hardware. Flown LED installations maximize floor space, position displays at optimal viewing heights, and can be raised/lowered during events. Flying requires adequate ceiling structure, proper rigging calculations, and qualified riggers.

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Ground Support

Ground support refers to LED wall installations supported from the floor rather than hung from overhead rigging. Ground support frames use truss or custom structures with base plates and outriggers to stabilize free-standing LED walls. This method eliminates rigging point requirements but needs adequate floor space and weight capacity to safely support the display.

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Motor Controller

A motor controller is an electronic device that manages chain hoist operation for flying LED walls and other production equipment. Controllers provide synchronized lifting, variable speeds, load monitoring, and emergency stop functions. Modern controllers range from simple pendant remotes to networked systems managing dozens of motors.

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Point Load

Point load refers to the concentrated weight applied at a single rigging point when supporting an LED wall or truss. Calculating accurate point loads is essential for venue approval—a 5,000 lb wall hung from 4 points creates 1,250 lb point loads before accounting for bridle angles, which increase actual loads on attachment points.

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Trim Height

Trim height is the vertical distance from the floor to the bottom of a flown LED wall (or other rigged element) at its final show position. Trim heights are specified in production documentation and set during rigging to ensure proper sightlines, content visibility, and safe clearance. Common trims range from 8-30 feet depending on venue and application.

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Truss

Truss is aluminum or steel structural framework used to support, hang, or ground-mount LED video walls. Available in various profiles (box/square, triangular, ladder), truss provides the rigging points and structural support needed for safe LED wall installations. Standard truss spans can support 3,000-10,000+ pounds depending on type and configuration.

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Working Load Limit

Working Load Limit (WLL) is the maximum recommended load that rigging hardware should support during normal use, incorporating a safety factor. A shackle with 5-ton WLL has been tested to handle 5 times that weight before failure. Never exceed WLL, and always verify WLL markings on all rigging components before use.

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Connectivity

5 terms

Daisy Chain

Daisy chain refers to connecting LED panels in sequence, where power and/or data pass from one panel to the next in a chain. This reduces total cable count compared to home-run wiring but introduces dependencies—if one connection fails, all downstream panels lose signal. Most LED systems support data daisy-chaining with limits of 10-20+ panels per chain.

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DisplayPort

DisplayPort is a high-bandwidth digital display interface developed by VESA, supporting resolutions up to 16K and refresh rates up to 240Hz with DisplayPort 2.1. Common on computers and professional equipment, DisplayPort offers daisy-chaining capability and higher bandwidth than HDMI, making it valuable for driving high-resolution LED walls from media servers and workstations.

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Fiber Optic

Fiber optic cables use light pulses through glass or plastic fibers to transmit data over long distances without signal degradation. For LED displays, fiber carries video signals up to several kilometers, provides immunity to electromagnetic interference, and eliminates ground loop issues. Fiber is essential for outdoor installations, stadium displays, and any run exceeding 100 meters.

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HDMI

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a common video/audio connection standard for LED displays, supporting resolutions up to 8K at 60Hz (HDMI 2.1). While convenient for consumer and corporate sources, HDMI has distance limitations (typically 15 meters maximum without active cables) and may require adapters or scalers when connecting to professional LED processors.

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SDI

SDI (Serial Digital Interface) is the professional broadcast standard for video transmission, using 75-ohm coaxial cable to carry uncompressed digital video over distances up to 100+ meters. Available in HD-SDI (1.5 Gbps), 3G-SDI (3 Gbps for 1080p60), and 12G-SDI (12 Gbps for 4K60), SDI provides the reliable, latency-free signal transport required for broadcast and live event production.

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Production

9 terms

Confidence Monitor

A confidence monitor is a display placed where presenters or performers can see it, showing them what is currently displayed on the main LED wall, their notes, a countdown timer, or other helpful information. Confidence monitors ensure speakers know their content is showing correctly.

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IMAG (Image Magnification)

IMAG (Image Magnification) is the live video technique of displaying close-up camera shots on large screens so audiences in large venues can see performers clearly. Standard practice for concerts, conferences, and houses of worship with seating beyond 50-75 feet from the stage.

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Load-In / Load-Out

Load-in and load-out refer to the setup and teardown phases of event production when equipment arrives at a venue and is installed (load-in), then disassembled and removed (load-out). These phases directly impact labor costs and venue rental time requirements.

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Media Server

A media server is specialized hardware or software that stores, manages, and plays back video content for LED walls and projection systems. Professional media servers like Disguise, Resolume, and Watchout offer features beyond basic playback including real-time effects, mapping, and multi-output control.

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Show Control

Show control is the integration of multiple production systems—video, lighting, audio, automation—under centralized or coordinated command. For LED walls, show control enables synchronized cues where video content, lighting states, and other elements change together automatically.

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Stage Plot

A stage plot is a technical diagram showing the layout of a performance area including positions of all equipment, performers, and technical elements. For LED wall installations, stage plots indicate screen dimensions, placement, rigging points, power locations, and sightlines.

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Strike

Strike is the entertainment industry term for disassembling and removing all production equipment after an event concludes. For LED walls, strike includes powering down, disconnecting cables, removing panels, disassembling structure, and packing equipment into flight cases for transport.

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Tech Rehearsal

Tech rehearsal (or "tech") is the production phase where all technical elements—video, lighting, audio, and automation—are tested and synchronized before an event. For LED walls, tech rehearsal confirms content playback, timing cues, brightness levels, and integration with other production elements.

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Timecode

Timecode is a standardized time reference (typically SMPTE format: HH:MM:SS:FF) used to synchronize video, audio, lighting, and automation in live productions. For LED walls, timecode enables frame-accurate content triggering that stays locked to music, video playback, or other show elements.

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Manufacturing

10 terms

Black Mask

Black mask (or black face) refers to the dark coating applied to LED module surfaces and around individual LEDs to absorb ambient light and improve contrast ratio. Displays with black mask technology achieve 3,000:1 to 8,000:1 contrast compared to 1,500:1 to 3,000:1 for white-face alternatives, making black mask essential for broadcast and premium viewing experiences.

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COB LED

COB (Chip on Board) LED technology mounts bare LED chips directly onto the PCB substrate without individual packaging, enabling ultra-fine pixel pitches below 1mm. COB offers superior thermal management, higher contrast ratios, and better protection against physical damage compared to SMD, making it ideal for premium fine-pitch displays.

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Common Anode

Common anode is the traditional LED driving architecture where all LED positive (anode) terminals share a common high-voltage connection, with the driver IC sinking current through independent cathode connections. While simpler and less expensive to manufacture than common cathode, this design wastes energy as heat since all colors operate at the highest required voltage.

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Common Cathode

Common cathode is an LED driving architecture where all LED negative (cathode) terminals share a common connection, with independent positive (anode) connections controlling each color. This design reduces power consumption by 25-40% compared to common anode, as LEDs operate at lower voltages with less resistive loss, generating less heat and enabling higher brightness at equivalent power.

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DIP LED

DIP (Dual In-line Package) LEDs use separate through-hole mounted components for red, green, and blue diodes, each in its own cylindrical lens housing. While largely replaced by SMD for indoor applications, DIP remains popular for outdoor displays where its superior brightness (up to 10,000+ nits) and rugged construction withstand harsh conditions.

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GOB LED

GOB (Glue on Board) is a protective coating technology that covers SMD LED modules with a layer of transparent epoxy or optical resin. This coating shields LEDs from moisture, dust, and physical impact, effectively converting standard indoor panels to IP65+ protection levels while also improving contrast ratio through reduced surface reflections.

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LED Binning

LED binning is the manufacturing process of sorting individual LEDs into groups (bins) based on measured characteristics including brightness, color wavelength, and forward voltage. Proper binning ensures consistent color and brightness across an LED display by using LEDs from compatible bins, while loose binning can cause visible panel-to-panel variation.

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MicroLED

MicroLED technology uses microscopic individual LEDs (typically under 100 micrometers) to create self-emitting displays with perfect blacks, unlimited contrast, exceptional brightness, and no burn-in risk. As a premium emerging technology, MicroLED enables pixel pitches under 0.5mm and is positioned as the future of high-end display technology.

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MiniLED

MiniLED refers to small LEDs (100-200 micrometers) used primarily as backlighting for LCD displays, enabling hundreds to thousands of local dimming zones for improved contrast. Unlike MicroLED which creates the actual image pixels, MiniLED enhances LCD technology by providing finer control over backlight brightness across the screen.

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SMD LED

SMD (Surface Mount Device) LEDs are the most common LED package type for indoor video walls, featuring red, green, and blue diodes combined in a single surface-mounted component. SMD packages like 1515, 2020, and 2727 refer to their size in tenths of millimeters, with smaller packages enabling finer pixel pitches.

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Calibration

9 terms

Color Gamut

Color gamut describes the range of colors an LED display can reproduce. A wider gamut means the display can show more saturated and vivid colors. LED displays typically exceed the Rec. 709 HD video standard and approach or exceed DCI-P3 cinema standards, making them suitable for wide-color-gamut content.

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Color Matching

Color matching is the process of adjusting LED panels to produce identical colors when displaying the same content. This involves matching panels of different ages, batches, or manufacturers so seamless images appear across mixed inventory without visible panel boundaries.

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Color Temperature

Color temperature measures the hue of white light, expressed in Kelvin (K). Lower values (3000K) appear warm/yellow-orange, while higher values (6500K+) appear cool/blue. LED walls are typically calibrated to 6500K (D65) for video standards, or 5600K for matching daylight in film production.

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DCI-P3

DCI-P3 is the color space standard used in digital cinema projection, offering approximately 25% more colors than Rec. 709. For LED walls used in virtual production, film work, or displaying HDR content, DCI-P3 calibration ensures accurate reproduction of the wider color range used in cinema.

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Delta E

Delta E (ΔE) is a metric that quantifies the difference between two colors in a way that corresponds to human perception. In LED calibration, Delta E values indicate how accurately the display reproduces target colors—values under 3 are typically imperceptible to most viewers, while values under 1 are indistinguishable.

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LED Calibration

LED calibration is the process of measuring and adjusting individual LEDs within a display to achieve uniform brightness and color across all panels. Factory calibration data is stored on each panel, while field calibration addresses drift over time. Proper calibration is essential for professional applications.

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Rec. 709

Rec. 709 (ITU-R BT.709) is the international standard defining the color space for high-definition television. It specifies the color primaries, white point, and transfer function (gamma) used for HD video production and display. LED walls should be calibrated to Rec. 709 for accurate HD video reproduction.

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Uniformity

Uniformity in LED displays refers to how consistently brightness and color appear across the entire screen surface. High uniformity means no visible brightness variations, panel seams, or color shifts. Uniformity is measured as a percentage, with values above 95% considered professional grade.

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White Balance

White balance in LED displays is the adjustment that ensures neutral whites appear correctly without color tints. Proper white balance sets the ratio of red, green, and blue LEDs so that a gray scale from black to white appears neutral. White balance is typically specified by color temperature (e.g., 6500K).

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Virtual Production

9 terms

Brain Bar

A brain bar is the technical control area for virtual production where operators manage LED processing, real-time graphics engines, camera tracking, and content playback. The brain bar coordinates all the systems that make in-camera VFX possible, typically staffed by LED technicians, graphics operators, and virtual production supervisors.

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Camera Tracking

Camera tracking in virtual production captures the real-time position, rotation, and lens data of the physical camera, sending this information to the render engine so virtual content can adjust perspective and parallax correctly. Accurate tracking makes virtual backgrounds appear three-dimensional and realistic.

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ICVFX (In-Camera Visual Effects)

ICVFX (In-Camera Visual Effects) refers to visual effects captured directly by the camera during filming rather than added in post-production. When using LED walls for virtual production, the background appears on screen in real-time, capturing final VFX shots without green screen compositing.

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Inner Frustum

The inner frustum is the portion of an LED volume that appears directly in the camera's field of view and is captured on film. This zone requires the highest quality content rendering because it will be seen as the final background in the footage, with full resolution and perspective correction.

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LED Volume

An LED volume is a three-dimensional LED wall configuration—typically a curved rear wall with ceiling panels—that surrounds performers for virtual production filming. Volumes create immersive environments where actors can interact with real-time virtual backgrounds while maintaining proper lighting and reflections.

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Outer Frustum

The outer frustum is the portion of an LED volume outside the camera's direct field of view. While not captured on camera, this zone provides essential ambient lighting and reflections on subjects, creating realistic environmental interaction that makes in-camera VFX believable.

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Parallax

Parallax in virtual production refers to the apparent movement of background elements relative to foreground objects as the camera moves. Proper parallax—where distant objects move slowly and near objects move quickly—is what makes LED volume backgrounds appear three-dimensional rather than flat backdrops.

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Virtual Production

Virtual production (VP) is a filmmaking technique that uses LED walls to display real-time computer-generated environments instead of green screens, allowing actors and directors to see the virtual world on set. Productions like The Mandalorian popularized this approach using massive LED volumes.

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XR Stage

An XR (Extended Reality) stage is a production facility combining LED walls with real-time graphics engines to create immersive virtual environments for live events, broadcasts, and virtual production. XR stages extend beyond film production to include live streaming, corporate events, and hybrid experiences.

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A-Z Index

B

Bezel / Seam

Physical

The bezel or seam is the gap or edge visible between LED panels where cabinets meet. High-quality LED walls have minimal bezels (0.5mm or less), achieved through precision manufacturing and careful alignment. Visible seams distract from content and indicate either poor panel quality or improper installation. Zero-bezel designs eliminate visible gaps entirely.

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Bit Depth

Processing

Bit depth determines how many brightness levels each color channel can display. LED walls commonly support 10-16 bit depth, with higher values enabling smoother gradients and more colors. An 8-bit system shows 256 levels per channel (16.7 million colors), while 10-bit shows 1,024 levels (1.07 billion colors).

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Black Mask

Manufacturing

Black mask (or black face) refers to the dark coating applied to LED module surfaces and around individual LEDs to absorb ambient light and improve contrast ratio. Displays with black mask technology achieve 3,000:1 to 8,000:1 contrast compared to 1,500:1 to 3,000:1 for white-face alternatives, making black mask essential for broadcast and premium viewing experiences.

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Brain Bar

Virtual Production

A brain bar is the technical control area for virtual production where operators manage LED processing, real-time graphics engines, camera tracking, and content playback. The brain bar coordinates all the systems that make in-camera VFX possible, typically staffed by LED technicians, graphics operators, and virtual production supervisors.

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Bridle

Rigging

A bridle is a rigging configuration using two or more cables, chains, or spansets connected from multiple points on the load to a single suspension point above. For LED walls, bridles allow fewer motors than pick points by combining loads. Bridle angles must be calculated to ensure safe working loads at each connection.

Learn more

Brightness

Performance

Brightness measures the light output of an LED display, typically specified in nits (candelas per square meter). Indoor LED panels produce 800-1,500 nits, suitable for controlled lighting environments. Outdoor displays require 5,000-10,000+ nits to remain visible in direct sunlight.

Learn more

BTU

Power

BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures heat output, relevant to LED displays for calculating cooling requirements. LED panels convert approximately 60-70% of consumed power into heat. A display consuming 10,000 watts generates roughly 23,000-27,000 BTUs per hour of heat that venue HVAC systems must remove.

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Bumper (LED Rigging)

Rigging

A bumper is a structural hardware component that attaches to the top of an LED wall stack to provide rigging points for flying. Bumpers distribute the load across multiple panels and connect to shackles, steel, or motors. Most LED manufacturers offer product-specific bumpers rated for the wall weight they support.

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C

Cabinet Weight

Physical

Cabinet weight is a critical specification for LED panels, typically ranging from 7-12 kg for indoor 500x500mm rental panels, 10-15 kg for fine-pitch panels, and 20-40 kg for outdoor weatherproof panels. Accurate weight data is essential for rigging calculations, truss capacity, ground support design, and transportation logistics.

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Cam-Lok / Powerlock

Power

Cam-Lok (and Powerlock/Powersafe) are heavy-duty, single-pole electrical connectors designed for temporary high-current power distribution in entertainment and industrial applications. Color-coded by function (black, red, blue for phases; white for neutral; green for ground), these connectors safely deliver 200-400+ amps for large LED wall installations.

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Camera Tracking

Virtual Production

Camera tracking in virtual production captures the real-time position, rotation, and lens data of the physical camera, sending this information to the render engine so virtual content can adjust perspective and parallax correctly. Accurate tracking makes virtual backgrounds appear three-dimensional and realistic.

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Chain Hoist

Rigging

A chain hoist (or motor) is an electric or manual lifting device used to raise and lower LED walls and support structures. Electric chain hoists for entertainment typically lift 1/2-ton to 2-ton loads at speeds of 4-16 feet per minute. Hoists connect to venue rigging points and support truss or directly suspend LED panels.

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COB LED

Manufacturing

COB (Chip on Board) LED technology mounts bare LED chips directly onto the PCB substrate without individual packaging, enabling ultra-fine pixel pitches below 1mm. COB offers superior thermal management, higher contrast ratios, and better protection against physical damage compared to SMD, making it ideal for premium fine-pitch displays.

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Color Gamut

Calibration

Color gamut describes the range of colors an LED display can reproduce. A wider gamut means the display can show more saturated and vivid colors. LED displays typically exceed the Rec. 709 HD video standard and approach or exceed DCI-P3 cinema standards, making them suitable for wide-color-gamut content.

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Color Matching

Calibration

Color matching is the process of adjusting LED panels to produce identical colors when displaying the same content. This involves matching panels of different ages, batches, or manufacturers so seamless images appear across mixed inventory without visible panel boundaries.

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Color Temperature

Calibration

Color temperature measures the hue of white light, expressed in Kelvin (K). Lower values (3000K) appear warm/yellow-orange, while higher values (6500K+) appear cool/blue. LED walls are typically calibrated to 6500K (D65) for video standards, or 5600K for matching daylight in film production.

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Common Anode

Manufacturing

Common anode is the traditional LED driving architecture where all LED positive (anode) terminals share a common high-voltage connection, with the driver IC sinking current through independent cathode connections. While simpler and less expensive to manufacture than common cathode, this design wastes energy as heat since all colors operate at the highest required voltage.

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Common Cathode

Manufacturing

Common cathode is an LED driving architecture where all LED negative (cathode) terminals share a common connection, with independent positive (anode) connections controlling each color. This design reduces power consumption by 25-40% compared to common anode, as LEDs operate at lower voltages with less resistive loss, generating less heat and enabling higher brightness at equivalent power.

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Confidence Monitor

Production

A confidence monitor is a display placed where presenters or performers can see it, showing them what is currently displayed on the main LED wall, their notes, a countdown timer, or other helpful information. Confidence monitors ensure speakers know their content is showing correctly.

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Contrast Ratio

Performance

Contrast ratio measures the difference between the brightest white and darkest black a display can produce, expressed as a ratio (e.g., 5000:1). LED panels with black-face LEDs achieve higher contrast ratios than white-face LEDs by minimizing light reflection when pixels are off.

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Curved LED Display

Physical

Curved LED displays are video walls assembled with angled connections between panels to create concave, convex, or complex curved surfaces. Most rental LED panels support adjustable angles of ±5° to ±15° between cabinets, enabling curves, corners, cylinders, and creative shapes. Tighter curves require smaller panels or specialized curved cabinet designs.

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D

Daisy Chain

Connectivity

Daisy chain refers to connecting LED panels in sequence, where power and/or data pass from one panel to the next in a chain. This reduces total cable count compared to home-run wiring but introduces dependencies—if one connection fails, all downstream panels lose signal. Most LED systems support data daisy-chaining with limits of 10-20+ panels per chain.

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Data Cable

Processing

Data cables carry the video signal from LED processors to display panels, using either copper Ethernet (Cat5e/Cat6) or fiber optic connections. Cat6 cables support runs up to 100 meters at standard data rates, while fiber optic cables extend this to 300+ meters and provide immunity to electrical interference.

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DCI-P3

Calibration

DCI-P3 is the color space standard used in digital cinema projection, offering approximately 25% more colors than Rec. 709. For LED walls used in virtual production, film work, or displaying HDR content, DCI-P3 calibration ensures accurate reproduction of the wider color range used in cinema.

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Dead Pixel / Hot Pixel

Basics

A dead pixel is an LED that has failed and remains permanently dark, while a hot pixel (or stuck pixel) remains lit at full brightness regardless of the intended image. Both are common defects in LED displays. Industry standards typically allow 1-3 dead pixels per panel; higher quantities indicate quality issues or damage.

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Delta E

Calibration

Delta E (ΔE) is a metric that quantifies the difference between two colors in a way that corresponds to human perception. In LED calibration, Delta E values indicate how accurately the display reproduces target colors—values under 3 are typically imperceptible to most viewers, while values under 1 are indistinguishable.

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DIP LED

Manufacturing

DIP (Dual In-line Package) LEDs use separate through-hole mounted components for red, green, and blue diodes, each in its own cylindrical lens housing. While largely replaced by SMD for indoor applications, DIP remains popular for outdoor displays where its superior brightness (up to 10,000+ nits) and rugged construction withstand harsh conditions.

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DisplayPort

Connectivity

DisplayPort is a high-bandwidth digital display interface developed by VESA, supporting resolutions up to 16K and refresh rates up to 240Hz with DisplayPort 2.1. Common on computers and professional equipment, DisplayPort offers daisy-chaining capability and higher bandwidth than HDMI, making it valuable for driving high-resolution LED walls from media servers and workstations.

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F

Fiber Optic

Connectivity

Fiber optic cables use light pulses through glass or plastic fibers to transmit data over long distances without signal degradation. For LED displays, fiber carries video signals up to several kilometers, provides immunity to electromagnetic interference, and eliminates ground loop issues. Fiber is essential for outdoor installations, stadium displays, and any run exceeding 100 meters.

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Flicker

Performance

Flicker in LED displays is visible pulsing or blinking that occurs when refresh rate is too low or interacts poorly with ambient lighting or camera sensors. Professional LED walls use high refresh rates (3840Hz+) and PWM frequencies to eliminate perceptible flicker for both human viewers and cameras.

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Flight Case

Physical

A flight case (or road case) is a protective container with reinforced corners, handles, and latches designed to safely transport LED panels and production equipment. Quality flight cases protect panels from impact, vibration, and environmental hazards during trucking and handling.

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Flying

Rigging

Flying refers to LED walls suspended from overhead rigging points using chain hoists, motors, and rigging hardware. Flown LED installations maximize floor space, position displays at optimal viewing heights, and can be raised/lowered during events. Flying requires adequate ceiling structure, proper rigging calculations, and qualified riggers.

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Front Service

Physical

Front service LED panels allow modules and components to be accessed and replaced from the front (audience-facing) side of the display. This design is essential for installations where rear access is limited or impossible, such as wall-mounted displays, recessed installations, and space-constrained venues.

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G

Genlock

Processing

Genlock (generator lock) synchronizes LED display refresh timing to an external reference signal, typically from a broadcast video system. By matching the LED refresh cycle to camera shutter timing, genlock eliminates the horizontal banding or flickering artifacts that appear when filming LED walls with unsynchronized refresh rates, making it essential for broadcast and film production.

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GOB LED

Manufacturing

GOB (Glue on Board) is a protective coating technology that covers SMD LED modules with a layer of transparent epoxy or optical resin. This coating shields LEDs from moisture, dust, and physical impact, effectively converting standard indoor panels to IP65+ protection levels while also improving contrast ratio through reduced surface reflections.

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Gray Scale

Performance

Gray scale refers to the number of brightness levels each LED pixel can display, determined by the bit depth of the driving electronics. 14-bit gray scale provides 16,384 brightness steps per color channel, while 16-bit provides 65,536 steps. Higher bit depth enables smoother gradients and more accurate color reproduction.

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Ground Support

Rigging

Ground support refers to LED wall installations supported from the floor rather than hung from overhead rigging. Ground support frames use truss or custom structures with base plates and outriggers to stabilize free-standing LED walls. This method eliminates rigging point requirements but needs adequate floor space and weight capacity to safely support the display.

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I

ICVFX (In-Camera Visual Effects)

Virtual Production

ICVFX (In-Camera Visual Effects) refers to visual effects captured directly by the camera during filming rather than added in post-production. When using LED walls for virtual production, the background appears on screen in real-time, capturing final VFX shots without green screen compositing.

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IMAG (Image Magnification)

Production

IMAG (Image Magnification) is the live video technique of displaying close-up camera shots on large screens so audiences in large venues can see performers clearly. Standard practice for concerts, conferences, and houses of worship with seating beyond 50-75 feet from the stage.

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Inner Frustum

Virtual Production

The inner frustum is the portion of an LED volume that appears directly in the camera's field of view and is captured on film. This zone requires the highest quality content rendering because it will be seen as the final background in the footage, with full resolution and perspective correction.

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Input Lag

Processing

Input lag (or latency) is the delay between when a video signal enters the LED system and when it appears on screen. Measured in milliseconds, typical LED walls have 1-4 frames of latency (approximately 17-67ms at 60fps). Low input lag is critical for gaming, interactive content, and live IMAG applications.

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IP Rating

Physical

IP (Ingress Protection) rating indicates a device resistance to dust and water infiltration, using a two-digit code. The first digit (0-6) rates solid particle protection, and the second (0-9) rates liquid protection. IP65 panels are dust-tight and protected against water jets; IP67 panels can withstand temporary immersion in water.

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L

LED Binning

Manufacturing

LED binning is the manufacturing process of sorting individual LEDs into groups (bins) based on measured characteristics including brightness, color wavelength, and forward voltage. Proper binning ensures consistent color and brightness across an LED display by using LEDs from compatible bins, while loose binning can cause visible panel-to-panel variation.

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LED Cabinet (Panel)

Basics

An LED cabinet (also called a panel) is the primary structural unit of an LED video wall, containing multiple LED modules, power supplies, receiving cards, and the frame/housing. Cabinets connect together using quick-lock mechanisms to form larger displays. Standard cabinet sizes include 500x500mm, 500x1000mm, and 600x337.5mm.

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LED Calibration

Calibration

LED calibration is the process of measuring and adjusting individual LEDs within a display to achieve uniform brightness and color across all panels. Factory calibration data is stored on each panel, while field calibration addresses drift over time. Proper calibration is essential for professional applications.

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LED Module

Basics

An LED module is the smallest replaceable unit on an LED panel, containing a printed circuit board (PCB) with LED pixels, driver ICs, and mounting hardware. Modules attach to cabinets with screws or magnets and can be individually replaced if damaged, making field repairs possible without replacing entire panels.

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LED Processor

Processing

An LED processor is the video processing device that receives input signals (HDMI, SDI, DisplayPort), scales content to the exact pixel dimensions of the LED wall, and outputs data to panels via sending cards. Processors handle critical functions including scaling, color correction, PIP layouts, and source switching.

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LED Video Wall

Basics

An LED video wall is a large-format display created by tiling multiple LED panels together to form a seamless viewing surface. Unlike projection or LCD video walls, LED walls emit their own light, offering superior brightness (1,000-10,000+ nits), wider viewing angles, and no visible bezels between panels.

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LED Volume

Virtual Production

An LED volume is a three-dimensional LED wall configuration—typically a curved rear wall with ceiling panels—that surrounds performers for virtual production filming. Volumes create immersive environments where actors can interact with real-time virtual backgrounds while maintaining proper lighting and reflections.

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Load-In / Load-Out

Production

Load-in and load-out refer to the setup and teardown phases of event production when equipment arrives at a venue and is installed (load-in), then disassembled and removed (load-out). These phases directly impact labor costs and venue rental time requirements.

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M

Media Server

Production

A media server is specialized hardware or software that stores, manages, and plays back video content for LED walls and projection systems. Professional media servers like Disguise, Resolume, and Watchout offer features beyond basic playback including real-time effects, mapping, and multi-output control.

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MicroLED

Manufacturing

MicroLED technology uses microscopic individual LEDs (typically under 100 micrometers) to create self-emitting displays with perfect blacks, unlimited contrast, exceptional brightness, and no burn-in risk. As a premium emerging technology, MicroLED enables pixel pitches under 0.5mm and is positioned as the future of high-end display technology.

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MiniLED

Manufacturing

MiniLED refers to small LEDs (100-200 micrometers) used primarily as backlighting for LCD displays, enabling hundreds to thousands of local dimming zones for improved contrast. Unlike MicroLED which creates the actual image pixels, MiniLED enhances LCD technology by providing finer control over backlight brightness across the screen.

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Moiré Pattern

Performance

Moiré patterns are wavy, rainbow-colored interference patterns that appear when cameras capture LED displays. This artifact occurs when the camera sensor pixel grid interacts with the LED pixel grid or scan pattern. Higher refresh rates (3840Hz+) and proper camera settings minimize moiré.

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Motor Controller

Rigging

A motor controller is an electronic device that manages chain hoist operation for flying LED walls and other production equipment. Controllers provide synchronized lifting, variable speeds, load monitoring, and emergency stop functions. Modern controllers range from simple pendant remotes to networked systems managing dozens of motors.

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P

Parallax

Virtual Production

Parallax in virtual production refers to the apparent movement of background elements relative to foreground objects as the camera moves. Proper parallax—where distant objects move slowly and near objects move quickly—is what makes LED volume backgrounds appear three-dimensional rather than flat backdrops.

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Pixel Density (PPI/PPM)

Basics

Pixel density measures how many pixels exist within a given area, expressed as pixels per inch (PPI) or pixels per square meter (PPM). Higher pixel density means sharper images at close viewing distances. A 1.5mm pitch LED wall has approximately 444,444 pixels per square meter, while a 4mm pitch has only 62,500 pixels per square meter.

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Pixel Pitch

Basics

Pixel pitch is the distance in millimeters between the center of one LED pixel and the center of an adjacent pixel. Common pixel pitches for indoor LED walls range from 0.9mm (fine pitch for close viewing) to 4mm+ (standard pitch for larger venues), with 2.9mm being the most popular rental specification.

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Point Load

Rigging

Point load refers to the concentrated weight applied at a single rigging point when supporting an LED wall or truss. Calculating accurate point loads is essential for venue approval—a 5,000 lb wall hung from 4 points creates 1,250 lb point loads before accounting for bridle angles, which increase actual loads on attachment points.

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Power Consumption

Power

Power consumption for LED walls is measured in watts per square meter (W/m²) and varies by brightness level. Indoor LED panels typically draw 150-400W/m² at maximum brightness but average 100-200W/m² for typical content. Always calculate for maximum power draw when sizing electrical infrastructure, even though average consumption is lower.

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Power Distribution Unit (PDU)

Power

A Power Distribution Unit distributes electrical power from a single high-amperage input to multiple lower-amperage outputs for LED panels. LED-specific PDUs include features like sequential power-up to prevent inrush current spikes, individual circuit breakers, and power monitoring for each output circuit.

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Power Factor

Power

Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (watts) to apparent power (volt-amps), expressed as a decimal from 0 to 1.0. LED power supplies typically have power factors of 0.9-0.95, meaning they draw more current than simple watt/volt calculations suggest. Low power factor wastes electrical capacity and may incur utility penalties.

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PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)

Processing

PWM is the technique used to control LED brightness by rapidly switching LEDs on and off. The ratio of on-time to off-time (duty cycle) determines apparent brightness. Higher PWM frequencies (tens of thousands of Hz) prevent visible flicker, especially at low brightness levels.

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R

Rear Service

Physical

Rear service LED panels provide access to modules and components from behind the display. This is the most common design for rental and staging applications where panels are free-standing or on structures with full rear access. Rear service panels are typically lighter, thinner, and less expensive than front service alternatives.

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Rec. 709

Calibration

Rec. 709 (ITU-R BT.709) is the international standard defining the color space for high-definition television. It specifies the color primaries, white point, and transfer function (gamma) used for HD video production and display. LED walls should be calibrated to Rec. 709 for accurate HD video reproduction.

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Receiving Card

Processing

A receiving card is the electronic circuit board inside each LED panel that receives video data from the processor/sending card and drives the individual LED pixels. Each receiving card has a maximum pixel capacity (typically 256,000 to 1,000,000+ pixels) and controls multiple LED modules within a single cabinet, managing refresh rate, color processing, and brightness control.

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Refresh Rate

Performance

Refresh rate measures how many times per second an LED display updates its image, expressed in Hertz (Hz). Broadcast and film applications require 3,840Hz or higher to eliminate visible flicker in camera recordings, while 1,920Hz is acceptable for live-only events without video capture.

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Resolution

Basics

Resolution describes the total number of pixels in an LED display, expressed as width times height (e.g., 1920x1080). Unlike fixed-resolution monitors, LED walls can be any resolution based on the panels used and their arrangement. Common configurations match standard video resolutions like 1080p or 4K, but custom resolutions are equally valid.

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S

Scaler

Processing

A scaler is processing hardware or software that resizes video signals to match the LED wall resolution. Scalers convert input resolutions (1920x1080, 3840x2160, etc.) to the exact pixel dimensions of the LED display, handling aspect ratio differences and multiple input sources.

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Scan Ratio

Processing

Scan ratio describes the LED driving method that determines how many pixel rows illuminate simultaneously. A 1/16 scan means 1 row lights at a time out of every 16 rows, while 1/2 scan illuminates half of all rows simultaneously. Lower scan ratios (1/2, 1/4) provide higher brightness and better camera performance but cost more.

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SDI

Connectivity

SDI (Serial Digital Interface) is the professional broadcast standard for video transmission, using 75-ohm coaxial cable to carry uncompressed digital video over distances up to 100+ meters. Available in HD-SDI (1.5 Gbps), 3G-SDI (3 Gbps for 1080p60), and 12G-SDI (12 Gbps for 4K60), SDI provides the reliable, latency-free signal transport required for broadcast and live event production.

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Sending Card

Processing

A sending card converts processed video output into the data format required by LED receiving cards, typically outputting via Ethernet or fiber to drive one or more display sections. Installed in LED processors or as standalone units, sending cards have maximum pixel capacity limits (typically 1-4 million pixels per output port) that determine how many panels each can drive.

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Serviceability

Physical

Serviceability refers to how easily LED panels can be maintained and repaired, including module replacement, power supply access, and component diagnostics. Key factors include front vs. rear service access, magnetic vs. screw-mounted modules, tool requirements, and spare part availability. Good serviceability reduces downtime and total cost of ownership.

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Show Control

Production

Show control is the integration of multiple production systems—video, lighting, audio, automation—under centralized or coordinated command. For LED walls, show control enables synchronized cues where video content, lighting states, and other elements change together automatically.

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SMD LED

Manufacturing

SMD (Surface Mount Device) LEDs are the most common LED package type for indoor video walls, featuring red, green, and blue diodes combined in a single surface-mounted component. SMD packages like 1515, 2020, and 2727 refer to their size in tenths of millimeters, with smaller packages enabling finer pixel pitches.

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Stage Plot

Production

A stage plot is a technical diagram showing the layout of a performance area including positions of all equipment, performers, and technical elements. For LED wall installations, stage plots indicate screen dimensions, placement, rigging points, power locations, and sightlines.

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Strike

Production

Strike is the entertainment industry term for disassembling and removing all production equipment after an event concludes. For LED walls, strike includes powering down, disconnecting cables, removing panels, disassembling structure, and packing equipment into flight cases for transport.

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T

Tech Rehearsal

Production

Tech rehearsal (or "tech") is the production phase where all technical elements—video, lighting, audio, and automation—are tested and synchronized before an event. For LED walls, tech rehearsal confirms content playback, timing cues, brightness levels, and integration with other production elements.

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Three-Phase Power

Power

Three-phase power is an electrical distribution method using three alternating currents offset by 120 degrees, providing more efficient power delivery for large LED installations. Three-phase circuits deliver approximately 1.73 times the power of single-phase at the same amperage, making them essential for LED walls over 50m² or approximately 15kW.

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Timecode

Production

Timecode is a standardized time reference (typically SMPTE format: HH:MM:SS:FF) used to synchronize video, audio, lighting, and automation in live productions. For LED walls, timecode enables frame-accurate content triggering that stays locked to music, video playback, or other show elements.

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Trim Height

Rigging

Trim height is the vertical distance from the floor to the bottom of a flown LED wall (or other rigged element) at its final show position. Trim heights are specified in production documentation and set during rigging to ensure proper sightlines, content visibility, and safe clearance. Common trims range from 8-30 feet depending on venue and application.

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Truss

Rigging

Truss is aluminum or steel structural framework used to support, hang, or ground-mount LED video walls. Available in various profiles (box/square, triangular, ladder), truss provides the rigging points and structural support needed for safe LED wall installations. Standard truss spans can support 3,000-10,000+ pounds depending on type and configuration.

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