Video walls are becoming an essential cornerstone of any visual presentation. Not only are they striking to look at, but they are excellent at conveying a business’s range of content and key messaging in a versatile manner.
However, video walls can only work with video wall controllers. And making sure that you have the right one in place is a key business consideration you’ll need to make to avoid costly headaches further down the line.
DEXON Systems offers powerful, sophisticated video wall solutions that will help to take your business to the next level.
What is a Video Wall Controller?
A video wall controller is the key piece of hardware that allows an LED video wall to function. It takes data from input sources, such as laptops and media players, and translates this data into a visual medium ready to be displayed on the video wall.
There are two types of video wall controllers – hardware- and software-driven. Hardware-driven controllers are designed specifically for a particular make or series of LED displays. The benefit of this is that there is no operating system to keep updated, making uptime more reliable. It does mean that the user is locked to a single manufacturer.
Conversely, a software-driven video wall controller takes its instructions from an external laptop or PC, and they are compatible with any series of LED displays. They are more versatile in terms of scalability and generally have a lower upfront cost.
Whichever version you choose depends on the specific needs of your business or project.
What to Look Out for When Choosing Your Video Wall Controller
Regardless of whether you opt for a hardware- or software-driven video controller, there are several fundamental considerations that you will need to think about when selecting the one for you.
Your project
Different processors are more or less suited to different jobs. And what you require of your video wall will largely dictate which type of processor is best for you.
Hardware-driven controllers are generally more effective for the following jobs:
● Security centres – the sensitive and critical nature of these centres makes highly reliable uptime a vital function.
● Live broadcasts – these will usually have multiple camera setups, so the ability to switch smoothly between these is essential
● Control rooms – these will usually involve high-volume, constant processing, making the more powerful hardware-driven controllers the better option.
On the other hand, software-driven controllers excel in the following situations:
● Digital signage displays – external media players that link with your video wall controller.
● Hospitality venues – the ability to use remote access and layout management is another great advantage of software-driven controllers.
● Presentations – plug in your laptop and load up your interactive presentations
With the right configuration, you can use software-driven controllers for purposes listed under hardware. Though there may be limitations on performance and power.
Your level of expertise
Most business owners are not tech experts. So if you own a business and you’re in need of a video wall controller, look for one that has a simple user interface (UI). The last thing you want is to constantly be on the phone to support, asking how to do things.
Your performance needs
You’re going to want your video wall to show the best of what you offer. So your video wall controller needs to be able to translate data from external sources without losing resolution and frame rate. Customisation when it comes to the configuration of your video wall is also essential; you’ll want it to be as flexible as possible.
Ideally, you’ll also want your video wall controller to decode streams using a variety of protocols, including HTTP and RTSP, as well as H.264 codecs.
Conclusion
With the right video wall in place, you’ll have something eye-catching on display. With the perfect video wall controller to go with it, you’ll have a truly powerful and versatile tool that will benefit your business in a multitude of ways.
Be sure to check out our range of DEXON video wall controller systems, and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries.
Belayet Hossain is a Senior Tech Expert and Certified AI Marketing Strategist. Holding an MSc in CSE (Russia) and over a decade of experience since 2011, he combines traditional systems engineering with modern AI insights. Specializing in Vibe Coding and Intelligent Marketing, Belayet provides forward-thinking analysis on software, digital trends, and SEO, helping readers navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Connect with Belayet Hossain on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin or read my complete biography.