Scaler

Understanding Scalers

Scalers are essential components in LED wall systems, handling the critical task of matching input signals to display resolution while maintaining image quality.

Scaling Fundamentals

**Resolution Matching:** Convert input resolution to display native resolution:

• 1920x1080 input → 1920x1080 display: No scaling
• 3840x2160 input → 1920x1080 display: Downscale
• 1280x720 input → 1920x1080 display: Upscale

**Aspect Ratio:** Handle mismatched aspect ratios:

• 16:9 source to 16:9 display: Direct fit
• 4:3 source to 16:9 display: Pillarbox or stretch
• 21:9 source to 16:9 display: Letterbox or crop

Scaler Types

**Built-In Processor Scaling:**

• Integrated in LED processor
• Convenient single-box solution
• Quality varies by processor
• May have limitations

**Dedicated Scalers:**

• External devices
• Higher quality scaling
• Advanced features
• Multi-window support
• Examples: Barco E2, Analog Way Aquilon

**Media Server Scaling:**

• Rendered at exact resolution
• Avoids scaling artifacts
• Requires resolution knowledge
• Best quality approach

Scaling Algorithms

**Nearest Neighbor:**

• Fastest, lowest quality
• Good for pixel art/graphics
• Visible pixelation

**Bilinear:**

• Faster, acceptable quality
• Smooth but soft
• Better for photos

**Bicubic:**

• Good balance
• Sharper than bilinear
• Common default

**Lanczos:**

• High quality
• Sharp results
• Computational overhead

Configuration

**Scaling Modes:**

• Fill: Scales to fill screen (may crop)
• Fit: Scales to fit (may letterbox)
• Stretch: Stretches to fill (may distort)
• Native/1:1: No scaling applied

**Edge Handling:** Quality scalers address:

• Edge sharpening
• Ringing artifacts
• Motion blur

Best Practices

**Native Resolution:** When possible, create content at exact LED wall resolution to avoid scaling entirely.

**Quality Settings:** Use highest quality scaling available when scaling is required.

**Test Content:** Verify scaling with actual content—different content types reveal different issues.