(Last Updated On: February 9, 2022)

Video wall controllers are the best way to transform an AV project from simplicity to a cinematic experience with a simple box. 

‘But what is a video wall controller, and why do I really need one?’ Don’t worry if you’re scratching your head; we won’t judge if you’re a mere mortal when it comes to tech knowledge; that’s where we come in!

We’re going to take you through a comprehensive guide to all things video walls, including five reasons why we need video display controllers for most AV projects and how to select the right technology for you!

So, whether you’re a tech know-it-all or you have no idea what we’re talking about, we’ve got you covered. 

Let’s go!

What is a video wall controller?

A video wall controller is the brains behind a video wall project and helps users create truly engaging displays with ease. In short, video wall controllers process input signals from multiple courses to control it and then display content on a video wall. 

Users can display multiple images on one screen, generating unique and informative displays. 

Most AV enthusiasts can benefit from incorporating a video wall controller into their project as it improves the overall performance of the video wall and can turn a simple presentation into a professional quality display without the fuss of complicated software and multiple systems. 

Why do we need a video wall controller?

Why we need video wall controllers is mostly subjective, as its functions vary from user to user; but there are some general benefits to using video wall controllers; let’s go through some: 

• Powerful and flexible 

Video wall controllers are powerful devices that can revolutionize how we conduct our AV projects. It seems like a bold statement, but it’s entirely true! Video wall controllers have the power to transform the limited quality of cheaper video walls into a professional presentation with high-speed performance and better picture quality. 

This means that you no longer have to splash the cash on a super high-performance video wall to get the whole experience! They’re also super versatile, meaning AV enthusiasts can use them in any kind of video wall project you can think of.

• Better quality 

Some video wall controllers come with a function that mitigates the impacts of harsh bezels. Bezels refer to the borders surrounding individual monitors on a video wall. These are problematic as they can interrupt videos and transitions between images, reducing the display’s overall quality. 

With a video wall controller, you can adjust the image to tackle this and turn your project into a professional standard presentation. 

• Simple to use 

One of the best parts of a video wall controller is that they’re super accessible and straightforward to use. Unlike a lot of modern equipment, a video wall controller is all hardware with no remote operation or reliance on external networks. This means that you don’t need to fiddle with complicated software to transform your video wall. 

100% hardware should also provide you with a bit of peace of mind too, as this means that your system isn’t susceptible to cyberattacks like hacking!

• Reliability 

Unless you spill your glass of water on your video wall controller, its hardware means that it’s pretty reliable when in operation. This is super important to several AV projects like surveillance or business settings where a constant function is critical. 

If you have a project that runs 24/7, you can benefit from a video wall controller. 

• Multi-screen technology 

Video wall controllers transform your video wall from a home cinema experience to a high functioning mission control center. They do this by enabling the user to isolate different screens and information, meaning that you can display so much more from one area. 

This dramatically improves your information flow and diminishes miscommunication in the workplace! 

What types of video walls do controllers work with?

Of course, we need to quickly discuss what kinds of wall controllers work with to fully understand why we need them. A great thing about this technology is that users have complete autonomy over the type of systems they choose, so it’s essential to understand them all so you can make the most informed decision possible. Here are some video wall options that controllers work with: 

LCD video walls 

LCD video walls are some of the most well known and widely used video walls out there because of their relatively low cost. These LCD panels come together to form one or multiple coherent images across any given size. Although they are the most popular, they use a ton of energy when in use, so over time, they aren’t the best option if you’re particularly eco-conscious. 

Rear projected cubes 

Rear projected cubes are great for those of us who want that concert experience. Multiple cubes form one large screen with little to no interruption in quality due to almost non-existent bezels. This option is excellent if you have a particularly demanding project that requires round-the-clock quality. 

LED video walls

Need a crisp quality production with no interruptions that produces a bright and eye-catching display? LED video walls are the best option for those wanting a display that illuminates streets and shop fronts for miles. LED video walls are perfect for museums, shop fronts, or city squares where billboards are the main attraction!

How to select the perfect video wall controller

Selecting the suitable video wall controller is down to the user’s project requirements. This is just a fancy way of saying that you define your selection process because no two projects are the same. There are some things you should consider when selecting your video wall controller; let’s go through them: 

• Project requirements: The beauty of video wall controllers is that you probably don’t need to splash the cash on expensive kit if your project is relatively simple. Your AV project and systems that operate it are entirely customisable, so your project requirements should dictate the type of systems you invest in. 
• User capability: If you’re not a tech whiz, don’t worry, there’s no shame in it; in fact, it’s super important to consider. You won’t want a controller that you have no idea how to operate or what it does, so when selecting your controller, consider your technical capabilities before committing. 
• Which technology you use: Are you planning to use a matrix alongside your video wall controller? Are you planning to connect your controller to multiple input sources like a surveillance system via a remote network? It’s essential to make sure your controller can work seamlessly with any other technology you’re planning to use. 
• The demand of your project: Project demand will vary from user to user, but some projects require demand 24/7, such as time-critical control rooms in transport settings or industry environments. In this case, you’ll want to make sure that you invest in the most reliable kit you can find so it can keep up with demand and continue to optimize your content around the clock. 

Well, there you have it, your comprehensive guide to video wall controllers. We hope you gathered some inspiration to go out and get your hands on a controller, or at least cleared up any confusion you previously had.