Quick answer: The NovaStar VX400 is an all-in-one LED video controller and processor for professional indoor or outdoor LED displays. It combines video switching, scaling and sending-card control in one compact unit, drives up to 2.6 million pixels, and supports low-latency output for live events, rental stages, broadcast and fixed installations.
Comparing it with its successor? Read our side-by-side breakdown of the key differences between the NovaStar VX400 and VX400 Pro before you specify either controller.
Why choose the NovaStar VX400?
Choose the VX400 when you need a reliable LED display controller with flexible inputs, synchronized outputs and simple on-site setup. Its two adjustable layers let operators position and prioritize content quickly, while the self-adaptive optical port can work as a video input or as a sending-card output. For LED wall designers and AV integrators, this reduces extra converters, cabling and rack space.
Inputs and outputs
- Video inputs: 1× HDMI 1.3 (IN/LOOP), 1× HDMI 1.3, 1× DVI (IN/LOOP), 1× 3G-SDI (IN/LOOP) and 1× optical fiber port (OPT1).
- LED outputs: 4× Gigabit Ethernet ports for direct connection to receiving cards.
- Fiber outputs: 2× optical outputs. OPT1 mirrors the four Ethernet outputs; OPT2 can mirror or back up those outputs for system redundancy.
- Monitor output: 1× HDMI 1.3 for preview or monitoring.
Key performance features
- 2.6M-pixel capacity: One VX400 drives up to 2.6 million pixels, with a maximum canvas of 10,240 pixels wide × 8,192 pixels high.
- Low latency: With Low Latency and Bypass enabled, the input-to-receiving-card delay is reduced to about 20 lines for responsive live video.
- Two-layer composition: Adjust layer size, position and priority to combine presentations, cameras, graphics or signage sources.
- Audio I/O: HDMI carries embedded audio input; audio can be sent through a multi-function card with adjustable volume.
- Output synchronization: Use an internal input as the sync source so cascaded VX400 units keep their LED images aligned.
Typical applications
The NovaStar VX400 fits rental LED screens, conference rooms, worship venues, retail displays, broadcast studios, control rooms and fixed-installation video walls. HDMI and DVI cover computers and media servers, while 3G-SDI supports cameras and broadcast workflows. Fiber outputs are useful when the processor is located far from the LED wall or when a redundant signal path is required.
Setup and compatibility notes
Connect the selected source, configure the canvas and layer layout, then route the Ethernet or fiber outputs to NovaStar receiving cards. Confirm the total pixel load, cabinet scan settings and refresh requirements before commissioning. For detailed electrical and operating specifications, consult the NovaStar official website and download the VX400 specification PDF below.
NovaStar VX400 specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum load | 2.6 million pixels |
| Maximum width / height | 10,240 × 8,192 pixels |
| Layers | 2 adjustable layers |
| Low-latency mode | Approx. 20 lines with Bypass |
| Ethernet outputs | 4 × Gigabit Ethernet |
| Fiber outputs | 2 (mirror / backup) |
Frequently asked questions
What is the NovaStar VX400 used for?
It is used to process, scale and send video to LED receiving cards in professional LED display systems.
How many pixels can one VX400 control?
One unit supports up to 2.6 million pixels, up to 10,240 pixels in width or 8,192 pixels in height.
Does the VX400 support SDI cameras?
Yes. The 3G-SDI input supports camera and broadcast sources, with loop-through for downstream equipment.
Can OPT1 be used as an output?
Yes. OPT1 is self-adaptive and can function as a video input or as a sending-card output, depending on the connected device.
Product media: The original VX400 product images are retained below for visual reference.
Download specification: NovaStar VX400 All-in-One LED Video Controller Specification (PDF)
