Receiving Card

Understanding LED Receiving Cards

Receiving cards serve as the critical interface between video processing systems and actual LED display pixels. Every LED panel contains one or more receiving cards that translate video data into precise LED driver commands.

Core Functions

Data Reception: Receives serial data stream from processor/sending card

Pixel Mapping: Assigns incoming data to correct physical pixel locations

PWM Generation: Creates pulse-width modulation signals for brightness control

Color Processing: Applies gamma curves and color calibration

Refresh Control: Manages LED scanning and refresh timing

Key Specifications

Pixel Capacity: Maximum pixels one receiving card can drive (256K to 2M+)

Refresh Rate: Maximum achievable refresh rate (1920Hz to 7680Hz)

Bit Depth: Color processing depth (10-bit to 16-bit grayscale)

Data Inputs: Typically 1-2 Ethernet ports for data and redundancy

Cascade Output: Ability to pass data to next panel in chain

Receiving Card Brands

The major ecosystems are:

Brompton Technology: Tessera R2, R2+ receiving cards

• Premium performance, Dynamic Calibration support
• 7680Hz refresh, 16-bit processing
• Per-pixel calibration data storage

NovaStar: A-series, MRV-series receiving cards

• Wide range of price/performance options
• Good availability and support
• Compatible with NovaStar sending cards/processors

Colorlight: 5A, i-series receiving cards

• Cost-effective solutions
• Growing feature set
• Popular in price-sensitive markets

Data Connectivity

Receiving cards connect via:

Gigabit Ethernet: Standard Cat5e/Cat6 cable to sending card

Fiber SFP: Optional fiber input for long runs

Cascade/Loop: Output port to next panel's receiving card

Redundancy Features

Professional receiving cards support:

Dual Input: Two data ports with automatic failover

Hot Backup: Seamless switching if primary data fails

Diagnostic Output: Status information for monitoring systems

Calibration Data Storage

Advanced receiving cards store calibration data locally:

Factory Calibration: Color and brightness correction per pixel

Dynamic Calibration: Brompton-specific per-pixel measurements

Field Adjustments: User calibration modifications

This data travels with the panel, ensuring consistent appearance when panels are rearranged or replaced.

Matching Components

For reliable operation, ensure compatibility:

• Receiving card matches sending card brand/protocol
• Processor supports the receiving card capabilities
• Configuration software matches receiving card version
• Firmware is updated across all cards consistently