How to choose a high-quality LED display

If you're considering purchasing LED panels or investing in an LED studio for your business, it's crucial to understand key aspects before placing an order. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through essential LED display information

LED Screen Brand

The quality and reputation of the LED screen brand are crucial. Brands range from Chinese to global ones, and the choice should align with the specific requirements of your end customers.

Chinese manufacturers dominate the global market for main display suppliers. Many international display manufacturers have established production bases in China to meet market demand and reduce production costs. For instance, Daktronics has production bases in the United States and Shanghai, China; #Lighthouse Technologies' production base is in Huizhou, Guangdong; #Samsung has bases in Zhongshan, Guangdong, and Vietnam. #BARCO, Christie, and #NEC primarily focus on projectors, and to expand their customer base, they subcontract LED display manufacturing to Chinese display manufacturers such as Leyard-LG, Samsung-CreateLED, and Unilumin-Bacro. Overall, Chinese production accounts for up to 90% of global capacity.

There are more than 4,000 led factory in Shenzhen.

LED Lamp Brand

When it comes to the core components of LED displays, LED lamp play a crucial role in determining performance. Here, I'll introduce some common Chinese brands:

Nationstar LEDs

Nationstar is a national key high-tech enterprise specializing in the R&D, production, and sales of led and led application products. The RGB device division (Nationstar smd led display screen) has been dedicated to R&D, production, and sales of full-color SMD led devices since 2002 and is the largest division in Nationstar’s turnover.

Full-color SMD LEDs cover all kinds of led full-color display devices, from 0606 to 3535, with dot pitch covering P0.x-P10 or more, mainly in 4 series: high-end outdoor RS series, FM series for indoor and outdoor display, small pitch CHIP series, NH series for outdoor display.

Advantage:

• Quality and stability:?Since the establishment of the company, Nationstar LEDs have never had major problems, and there are multiple quality levels of lamp beads available, such as high-brightness gold wire and copper wire
• Color reproduction:?Nationstar LEDs can provide more realistic colors and are suitable for scenes with high color requirements, such as cinemas, high-end conference rooms, TV stations, etc.
• Applicable scenarios:?Nationstar LED screens are suitable for occasions that require more sophisticated and beautiful video or image advertising, such as CBD, high-end shopping malls and pedestrian streets.
• Lifespan and stability:?Long service life, high brightness stability, and low failure pixel rate.

Kinglight LEDs

Shenzhen Kinglight Co., Ltd., established in 2008, is a national high-tech enterprise focusing on the research, development, production and sales of semiconductor devices, LED display devices and LED lighting fixtures and systems. The company is engaged in optoelectronic device packaging, LED lighting and large-screen display technology to maintain its leading position in China.

Advantage:

• Price:?Affordable for projects on a limited budget.
• Application scenarios: Kinglight LED screens are suitable for scenes that do not require high-fidelity color reproduction, such as shopping malls, airports and other places where ordinary videos or image advertisements are played.
• Repair and After-Sales:?Despite a low failure rate, Kinglight LED Maintenance and after-sales service are good and problems can be solved in time.

Application suggestions:

• Kinglight LEDs: LED Scenes for limited budget and which do not require highly realistic color reproduction, such as indoor shopping malls, airports, etc. to play ordinary advertisements.
• Nationstar LEDs: LED Scenes that require high true color reproduction, such as movie theaters, high-end conference rooms, TV stations, etc., with sufficient budget.

Mulinsen/Hongsheng. These brands are not as well known as the above brands, please check their lamp brands when comparing supplier quotations.

Check out lamp bead models .

• https://en.kinglight.com/products_category/mled-display
• https://www.nationstar.com/en/product/72.html

Series/Type of Encapsulation

Series/Type of Encapsulation

The encapsulation method significantly influences contrast. Darker encapsulation tends to offer higher contrast.

Chip-type SMD encapsulation involves bonding a single LED pixel on the BT board and then encapsulating it with optical resin to achieve a single-chip encapsulation. This type of encapsulation uses SMD technology to attach the Chip-type encapsulation to the PCB, forming the LED display module. Chip-type SMD encapsulation involves individual pixel encapsulation with a small size, small solder joint area, and numerous solder joints, which increases the risks of water vapor erosion, inadequate mechanical protection, and short circuits. Based on this analysis, Chip-type SMD encapsulation is not suitable for Micro LED displays.

N-in-one IMD encapsulation involves bonding N pixel units (often 2 or 4) on the BT board and encapsulating them as a whole using optical resin. Compared to Chip-type SMD encapsulation, IMD encapsulation offers higher integration, effectively reducing the risks of water vapor erosion and poor mechanical protection. Additionally, IMD encapsulation inherits the advantages of a mature process, low technical complexity, and cost-effectiveness of single SMD devices. However, the integration of N-in-one IMD encapsulation remains low, leading to process issues, display effects, and reliability concerns for micro-pitch displays below 0.6mm.

COB encapsulation involves bonding naked chips of multiple pixel units (often hundreds) directly on the PCB and encapsulating them as a whole with optical resin. Compared to Chip-type SMD and N-in-one IMD encapsulations, COB encapsulation enhances resistance to water vapor and provides excellent mechanical protection performance. Moreover, the COB method omits the BT board, directly attaching naked LED chips to the PCB, resulting in a shorter heat conduction path and improved heat dissipation performance. Based on the above analysis, COB encapsulation proves to be the optimal choice for Micro LED displays with high pixel density.

COB technology allows for a much higher packing density of the LED array. So with COB LED technology, more LED beads can be mounted in a limited area, the color of the picture is richer, and the visual effect of the screen is more beautiful. Take an instance, on a 10mm x 10mm square array, COB technology will result in 38 times more LEDs compared to DIP LED technology and 8.5 times more LEDs compared to SMD LED technology (see diagram below).?

Color Gamut

The color gamut refers to the range of colors within a spectrum or color space that a display device can accurately reproduce. The breadth of this gamut determines the variety of colors visible on the screen. For instance, while most monitors can display up to 16.7 million colors, some can render a much broader spectrum.

Premium display products designed for high-level virtual shooting demand specific attributes: high brightness levels exceeding 1,500 nits, resolutions ranging from P1.2 to P1.6, a wide grayscale range of 16 bits, and high refresh rates like 3,840/7,680 Hz. They must also adhere to the DCI-P3 standard for wide color gamut, ensuring accurate reproduction of up to 95% of the Rec. 2020 color space.

• Virtual Production Field Guide
• Megapixel Color in Film Production

https://cdn2.unrealengine.com/VP-Field-Guide-Vol-1-and-2.pdf

https://megapixelvr.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Megapixel-Color-in-Film-Production.pdf

Sending Card/Processor

Sending cards vary in resolution capacity, with some supporting up to 4K resolution. Brands include Brompton, Megapixel VR, and Novastar A10s pro

Wire Connection:

Golden wire offers better transmission and stability but at a higher cost. Copper wire is cheaper but may increase the failure rate and dead pixels.

Michael has authored an insightful article that provides a clear explanation on the topic. It comes highly recommended for those seeking a deeper understanding.

https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/gold-vs-copper-wire-bonding-michael-warner/

IC Driver

Driving IC is an integrated electronic component, which is mounted in the surface of PCB (back side of module), the driving IC receives and sends data signal and power signal to LED lamp through integrated circuit on PCB. Computer of each PCB dictates the performances of each LED screen. Including refresh rate/scan rate /grayscale which I mentioned below are all affected by IC .

Here I only recommend 2 IC brands: #Macroblock and #Chipone

MOSFET:

These transistors are used for switching and amplifying electronic signals, crucial for the performance of the LED display

Refresh Rate:

Higher refresh rates provide more stable and clearer images, reducing eye strain.

Brightness:

LED screen brightness is measured in nit. A nit equals a candela per square meter (cd/m2). higher brightness levels are better for brightly lit environments but consume more power. I personally don't recommend chasing higher brightness, choosing the right brightness saves you money.

Grayscale:

Indicates the number of intensity levels from dark to bright. Higher grayscale levels provide better image detail.

Grayscale technology plays a vital role in improving LED display performance in several ways:

Improve LED wall Contrast: By leveraging grayscale technology, LED displays can achieve a wider range of contrast, accurately rendering dark and light shades. This improvement enhances the overall visual experience and brings out finer details in the displayed content.

Finer color transitions: LED displays equipped with grayscale technology excel at producing smooth and refined color transitions. By accurately rendering grayscale levels, these displays ensure visually appealing images that are free from distracting color banding or artifacts.

Reduced Artifacts: Grayscale technology effectively minimizes unwanted visual artifacts such as pixelation or contouring. By ensuring seamless transitions between shades of gray, LED displays can present cleaner and more natural-looking images, free from noticeable imperfections.

Accurate Image Reproduction: Grayscale technology plays a crucial role in ensuring precise grayscale levels, leading to accurate representation of textures, shading, and subtle details in displayed images. This level of accuracy proves especially vital in applications where faithful grayscale reproduction is essential, such as medical imaging or professional photography.

Scan Rate

Refers to time multiplexing. Lower scan rates (1-35) offer better performance but are more expensive. Higher scan rates (36-64) are more economical but less performant

Choosing the appropriate scan mode for an LED display involves considering several factors such as brightness, refresh rate, and power consumption. Here’s a breakdown of how different scan modes affect these aspects:

1. Brightness:

- Static Drive: All LEDs are driven simultaneously, resulting in the highest perceived brightness because all LEDs are lit at once.

- 1/12 Scan Mode: Only 1/12 of the LEDs are driven at any given time. This means fewer LEDs are lit simultaneously compared to static drive, resulting in lower brightness per LED but potentially lower overall brightness.

- 1/6 Scan Mode: Similarly, only 1/6 of the LEDs are lit at one time, offering higher brightness per LED compared to 1/12 scan but still lower than static drive.

Impact: Higher scan modes (like static) generally provide higher brightness since more LEDs are lit concurrently. Lower scan modes reduce brightness per LED but can save on driving ICs and cost.

2. Refresh Rate:

- Static Drive: Typically associated with a lower refresh rate because all LEDs are on simultaneously.

- 1/12 Scan Mode: Higher refresh rate compared to static drive since LEDs are updated more frequently (every 1/12 of a frame).

- 1/6 Scan Mode: Even higher refresh rate than 1/12 scan due to more frequent updates (every 1/6 of a frame).

Impact: Higher scan modes generally offer a lower refresh rate, which can affect smoothness of motion on the display. Lower scan modes provide a higher refresh rate but might sacrifice brightness.

3. Power Consumption:

- Static Drive: Typically consumes more power because all LEDs are driven simultaneously.

- 1/12 Scan Mode: Consumes less power than static drive since fewer LEDs are lit at any given moment.

- 1/6 Scan Mode: Consumes even less power than 1/12 scan due to fewer LEDs being driven simultaneously.

Impact: Higher scan modes consume more power because more LEDs are lit concurrently. Lower scan modes can reduce power consumption but might affect brightness.

4. Cost:

- Static Drive: Requires more driving ICs and potentially more complex circuitry, increasing cost.

- 1/12 Scan Mode: Requires fewer driving ICs compared to static drive, reducing cost.

- 1/6 Scan Mode: Further reduces the number of driving ICs compared to 1/12 scan, thus lowering cost.

Impact: Lower scan modes can significantly reduce the cost of the LED display due to fewer driving ICs needed.

Conclusion:

- Brightness: Choose a scan mode based on desired brightness level. Static drive offers the highest brightness, while lower scan modes provide cost savings but may reduce brightness.

- Refresh Rate: Consider the required smoothness of motion. Higher scan modes might have lower refresh rates, affecting motion clarity.

- Power Consumption: Higher scan modes consume more power; choose based on energy efficiency requirements.

- Cost: Lower scan modes reduce cost due to fewer driving ICs.

Ultimately, the choice of scan mode depends on balancing these factors according to the specific requirements of the LED display application, such as brightness needs, refresh rate, power efficiency, and budget constraints.

.

LED Protection:

Using resin or epoxy layers to protect the LEDs from damage and dead pixels.

Cabling /Connectors

High-quality cabling ensures stable screen performance and prevents blackouts during events.

Neutrik and Seetronic are both prominent players in the connector industry, each with its own unique strengths. Neutrik's rich history, emphasis on innovation, and reputation for uncompromising quality have solidified their position as an industry leader. Their connectors are highly regarded for their robust construction, signal integrity, and suitability for demanding professional applications. Neutrik is the go-to brand for professionals who prioritize reliability and performance.

On the other hand, Seetronic has carved out its own niche by offering affordable connectors that deliver reliable performance. Their connectors strike a balance between affordability and quality, making them an appealing choice for price-sensitive customers. Seetronic's customization options and responsive customer support further enhance their appeal, allowing them to meet the specific needs of their clients.

Both companies have made significant contributions to the connector industry and have earned reputations for their products. The choice between Neutrik and Seetronic ultimately depends on your project's specific requirements and your personal preferences as a customer.

Power Supply

Converts high voltage to low voltage. A reliable power supply ensures consistent performance. Please check whether your supplier power supply provides protection: short circuit/overload/overvoltage/overtemperature

Cabinet design

When you receive a quotation from a supplier you should also make sure to talk on the same level from the following convenience. Here are the function that need to be prioritized: (rental product)

Maintenance ways：Front or Rear Maintenance.

Curved Lock Design ： 0° or flexible Angle

Wind Resistance Frame Design ：Safe hanging or stacking installation, resist wind speeds of up to 20 m/s when hanged 10m high User-friendly climbing steps.

Connection ways ： Hub or cable connection

Receiving Card

The receiving card processes data from the sending card to the LED screen. Each LED cabinet has its receiving card.

HDR

High Dynamic Range increases contrast and luminance, providing a wider and finer color spectrum and a more immersive viewing experience.

Some manufacturers will claim that their panels can support hdr functionality, but true hdr requires the following conditions to achieve good performance

• Peak brightness of the display ≥1000 nits
• The minimum brightness of the display is ≤0.05 nits
• Covers more than 90% of the DCI-P3 color gamut space panel
• Receiving card and controller with HDR function.

Brompton offers a comprehensive explanation of HDR technology.

https://www.bromptontech.com/features/hdr/

This article aims to deepen your understanding of LED components and empower you to evaluate the quality of products offered by your suppliers.

When choosing LED screens, it's important to consider that high-end components and the latest driver ICs aren't always essential. The crucial factor is selecting components based on your project's budget and specific requirements. I typically offer clients three distinct quotes: economical, standard, and high-end options. Whether you need screens for regular rentals or advanced virtual production. It is advisable to choose an experienced manufacturer to meet your needs.

Author's statement: While writing this article, I extensively reviewed numerous industry sources, most of which are quoted at the bottom. If you have any questions about this article, please feel free to contact me.（?? [email protected])