Understanding What LED Control Systems Do
Basic Components of LED Control and Management
Key Features of Control Systems for LED Installations
Tips For Choosing LED Control Systems
Unilumin Integrated Control Systems and Warranties
In classic science fiction films such as "Blade Runner" and the cult anime "Ghost in the Shell," futuristic neon-drenched cityscapes provide a highly aesthetic backdrop to the plot. Those films were inspired by the bustling Shibuya City districts of the Tokyo metropolitan region, where neon lighting technology developed at a staggering pace in the 1980s. These days, the impressive displays of Shibuya look better than ever; they are now retro-futuristic, but light-emitting diode (LED) technology and their advanced control systems have completely replaced neon.
There was a time when visual artists doubted that LED technology would be able to faithfully replicate the distinctive soft glow produced by neon gas, but that was almost two decades ago. These days, LED displays can produce a wide range of colors and effects that simulate neon; control systems allow you to set flashing, pulsing, dimming, and color grading for your displays. This LED versatility enables more creative and dynamic displays such as full-size screens that deliver digital content.
With the right control system, you can inject classic and current Shibuya-like aesthetics into your professional displays. Let's go over the various aspects of these systems so that you can select the right one for your project or application:
The control system is the brain behind LED installations; it is the component that manages and controls various functions of the lighting display. These systems can range from simple standalone controllers to complex networked systems capable of managing multiple displays simultaneously. Modern systems are designed to control more than just lighting; they also manage large LED screen displays that deliver digital video content.
To get an idea of what modern control systems can do, you can look beyond Shibuya to Nevada, where hospitality giants MGM and MSG developed the Las Vegas Sphere, the most impressive LED installation in the world. The incredible "Postcard From Earth" visual experiences, holographic artwork, and blockbuster concerts by U2 and Billie Eilish are all managed with ultra-advanced control systems. Another notable example is the new Statue of Liberty Museum in New York City, where you can appreciate an interactive Unilumin LED wall measuring 430 square feet.
Everything from power management to efficient heat dissipation and from synchronization to brightness is controlled through smart LED systems. The most basic allows you to adjust the intensity and contrast of the display to achieve desired visual effects. The most sophisticated allows you to configure and program color reproduction and calibration, coordinate between panels to extend their longevity, store and manage digital content, and launch interactive features.
The most simple systems are often integrated; for example, some LED desktop lamps feature buttons or dials to change colors or adjust intensity. The most sophisticated systems are essentially computing devices that communicate through wired, wireless, or network connections. Whether the control system is operated with a few buttons, a laptop, or an entire LED control center with dedicated workstations, the basic components include:
These devices supply power to individual LED strings, clusters, panels, or screens, thus ensuring optimal performance.
These components provide a central hub for controlling and managing multiple LEDs; they receive input signals from sources such as computers, software applications, sensors, or other control modules. The controllers translate signals into instructions that the drivers can execute.
Except for a few LED industrial applications, control systems are equipped with user interfaces (UIs) for interacting with the LED control system. The input components for a tactical LED flashlight are typically buttons and sliders, but they may also include sensors. When LED systems are connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) or private WiFi networks, the input may be provided through smartphone applications or remote control panels.
These are the devices that display the visual output generated by the LED system. They can be screens, billboards, lighting installations, signage panels, and others.
The components of LED systems are connected through digital protocols coded for efficient data transfer and synchronization. LED communication networks can support standards such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
Depending on the type of LED installation, other components may include receiver cards for redundancy, security monitoring devices, and cabinets.
Some systems are standalone and integrated; they are ideal for small or individual LED installations such as the Unilumin UPanelS display series, which puts everything from power supplies to input instruments and modular spaces in the front for easy access. Standalone controllers do not usually connect to networks unless they feature modular inputs for upgrades and enhancements
Integrated control systems can also connect to data networks. If you are working with multiple LED installations, you will need a connected system for control, management, and synchronization. These systems have advanced features to support more complex functions such as synchronized displays, content scheduling, and remote monitoring. Many connected systems can be easily expanded to accommodate larger LED systems and diverse applications.
You also have cloud-based control systems that connect to the IoT or private cloud networks. Remote access and real-time monitoring are the primary functions of these systems, but they can also store and manage data such as content, settings, performance metrics, and others. The scale and complexity of your LED installation or project will determine the type of control system you need.
The essentials of control systems for professional LED installations for signage, education, entertainment, information, and monitoring include:
* Brightness and color control for visual effects.
* Pattern and animation customization to create dynamic effects for engaging displays.
* Synchronization between multiple LED displays for seamless video wall performance.
* Content management for the efficient storage, management, and scheduling of digital playback.
* Remote access and monitoring were advanced features of LED systems until a few years ago, but they are becoming essential.
* User-friendly interfaces can range from buttons and dials to Android apps that promote intuitive operation and management.
* Compatibility with smart home and building automation, audio systems, security systems, or other technologies.
* Scalability is the flexibility to expand the control system to accommodate larger installations so that you can go from a single panel to a video wall.
* Energy efficiency is implied with LED technology, but it can be improved with modern control systems that optimize power consumption and reduce energy costs.
* Security is a must, particularly with LED installations with cloud-based control systems that connect to the IoT.
The key features of the control system you select will ensure optimal performance, flexibility, and management.
Start with your needs before looking at systems. You must consider the size, complexity, desired features, and integration needs as you determine the goals of your project or installation. Don't focus exclusively on the output; think about factors such as brightness and color control, pattern creation, synchronization, content management, and integration with other systems if you need them.
Scalability is a more important aspect to consider. Some of our clients wisely inquire about rental solutions such as the Unano, UpadIV, and URMII LED systems; doing this allows them to get a feel not only for the output but also the control system functionality. It is important to think about scalability if you think the installation will need to be expanded.
The user-friendliness of the control system should extend beyond the UI. Beyond intuitive controls and application workflows that are easy to navigate, you also want features such as easy front access for service or to install modular inputs. Then you have to think about the physical installation method; for example, some of our panels can be rigged for suspension over stages while others can be ground-stacked or wall-mounted. Finally, you want to assess technical support, return on investment (ROI), and product warranty.
Since 2004, Unilumin has been a market leader in advanced LED installations. Our displays have augmented the experience of major sports tournaments such as EuroBasket and the UEFA Nations League. The sleek lobby of the Comcast headquarters office in Philadelphia features an impressive LED installation that has become a tourist attraction.
When it comes to LED installations and their control systems, Unilumin is a brand you can fully trust. Our design philosophy of integration streamlines LED installations from micro panels to smart screens and from video walls to control centers. Our LED solutions come with warranties that include remote technical support, return-to-factory repairs, and onsite services for quality issues. For your convenience, we manage technical service offices in the Americas, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
