Overview
What is the VX series?
The Novastar VX series are all-in-one controllers: they combine video processing (scaling), sending card, and screen connection in a single device. A complete LED wall can be set up directly on the device – using only the rotary knob and ESC button; a PC is not strictly required for basic configuration.
- Models include VX400, VX600, VX1000 (plus the VX Pro range)
- They differ mainly in pixel capacity and number of Ethernet outputs
- Front-panel operation: rotary knob + ESC
- Fine configuration additionally via NovaLCT
In detail: What does “all-in-one” mean?
Traditionally, you need a video processor plus a separate sending card. The VX series combines both: it scales the input signal to the wall resolution and sends the data directly to the receiving cards in the cabinets. This saves devices and cabling and makes setting up small to medium-sized walls very easy.
Connectors
The most important connectors
- Video input: HDMI / DVI / DisplayPort (model-dependent)
- Ethernet outputs (gigabit): to the receiving cards of the cabinets
- HDMI loop / monitor output (model-dependent)
- USB / Ethernet to PC for NovaLCT
- Power and, where applicable, audio output
In detail: How many cabinets per Ethernet port?
Each gigabit Ethernet output carries a certain pixel load (roughly up to ~650,000 pixels per port, depending on frame rate and colour depth). The number of ports and the total pixel capacity determine how large a wall can be connected – hence the main difference between VX400, VX600, and VX1000. WALED will tell you the exact load value of your system.
Operation
Front-panel operation with knob & ESC
- Press the knob: open menu / confirm
- Turn the knob: select menu item / change value
- ESC: back / cancel
- Button lock: hold knob + ESC for approx. 3 s
In detail: Button lock & home screen
The home screen shows, among other things, the input source, resolution, and brightness. Pressing the knob opens the operating menu. The button lock (knob + ESC for 3 s) protects against accidental changes – e.g. for publicly accessible installations. To unlock, hold the same combination again.
Functions
The most important menu items
| Menu | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Brightness | Brightness of the entire wall in %. |
| Input | Select the video source (HDMI/DVI/DP) and input resolution. |
| Screen Settings | Screen connection / port assignment of the receiving cards. |
| Preset / scene | Save settings and load them quickly. |
| Display Control | Normal · Blackout (black) · Freeze (still image). |
| Factory Reset | Reset to factory settings (emergency). |
In detail: Setting input & scaling correctly
Under Input, select the active source and its resolution. The controller scales the input image to the physical wall resolution (scaling). Important: input resolution and wall resolution should match each other, otherwise scaling artefacts occur. Via Preset, different configurations (e.g. different sources) can be stored and switched quickly during operation.
In detail: Blackout, freeze & test patterns
Blackout switches the wall to black, Freeze freezes the current image – both useful when changing sources or during conversions. Many VX models additionally offer test patterns (e.g. solid colour, grid) for quickly checking module and cabinet faults.
Practice
Common pitfalls
- No image? Check the source and resolution in the Input menu.
- Front panel not responding? Button lock – hold knob + ESC for 3 s.
- Partial areas black/incorrect? Check the screen connection / port assignment in NovaLCT.
- Blurry image? The input resolution must match the wall.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Do I need a PC for the VX series?
Not for basic functions (brightness, input, preset) – these can be handled on the device with the knob and ESC. For the complete setup of multiple cabinets and calibration, use NovaLCT on a PC.
How do I unlock the front buttons?
Hold the rotary knob and ESC simultaneously for about 3 seconds.
What is the difference between VX400, VX600, and VX1000?
Mainly the maximum pixel capacity and the number of gigabit Ethernet outputs (i.e. how large a wall can be connected). Operation is virtually identical.
What do “Blackout” and “Freeze” mean?
Blackout switches the wall to black, Freeze freezes the current image – practical when changing sources or during conversions.