2. Resolution
Sharpness, clarity, and image quality: these key differentiators all begin with your video board’s resolution. For large video boards, resolution is measured in pixel pitch, or the distance between the centers of adjacent pixels—typically anywhere from 4mm to 10mm for indoor screens and 16mm to 20mm for outdoor ones. The smaller the pitch, the sharper the image.
Although LED part numbers often contain the pixel pitch designations in their makeup—for example, PV16xxx typically is a 16mm pixel pitch product—don’t assume it’s true in every case! HD can mean “High Density” instead of “High Definition,” which are two very different things. Also, 15 can mean “version 15,” rather than 15mm pixel pitch. Don’t assume: ask your vendors to fully explain their product specifications.
Some vendors use staggered vertical pixels to create “virtual pixels” with fewer LEDs. While this format can lower the cost, it also means a reduced lamp count per square foot, a difference that can result in a million fewer pixels for a large LED board.
Because fewer pixels can compromise image quality, ask vendors whether they measure true or “virtual” pixels; if you’re still not sure, request a side-by- side video board shootout to compare the boards in person.
3. LED Lamps
Many buyers don’t realize that the tiny LED lamps—perhaps the most critical part of the video display—are almost always manufactured by a different brand than the board itself. Not all lamps and SMDs are equal. The most well known are made by a few reputable brands—including Cree, Nichia, and Multi-Color.
Cheaper alternatives are available, which can significantly reduce the video board’s total cost. They aren’t always a good investment, however. A lower-cost, lower-quality LED may be less efficient and will likely degrade faster—resulting in a splotchy image—before potentially failing altogether.
4. Custom Engineering & Size
Once upon a time, venues could only choose from flat, square video boards in a few sizes. These days, you can rely on a wide variety of shapes and dimensions to create an engaging experience that makes a splash.
Your video board vendor should have the engineering know-how to develop custom boards—from curved screens to ribbons to record-breaking goliaths—to meet the needs of your specific venue.