NovaStar VX400 is a versatile video processor designed to meet the demands of modern LED display systems. As part of NovaStar’s acclaimed VX Series, it bridges the gap between entry-level and high-end solutions, delivering powerful performance for mid-sized projects.
This post dives into the VX400’s features, technical details, practical applications, pricing options, and how it stacks up against other models in the VX Series. We hope this information helps you better understand the NovaStar VX400 and its place within the series!
1. Overview of NovaStar VX400
NovaStar VX400 is a video processing controller tailored for LED video walls requiring high-quality image rendering, seamless synchronization, and flexible connectivity. Built for commercial and professional installations, it supports resolutions up to 4K and integrates advanced color calibration tools. Its compact design and user-friendly interface make it ideal for applications ranging from retail advertising to live event staging.
NovaStar, a leader in LED display control technology, engineered the VX400 NovaStar to balance performance and affordability. It acts as a central hub for managing input sources, optimizing video signals, and distributing outputs across LED panels. Whether for static installations or dynamic content, the VX400 ensures reliability and precision.
2. Key Features of NovaStar VX400
NovaStar VX400 is a multifunctional all-in-one LED display controller that integrates video processing and control functions. Designed for mid to high-end rental applications, stage control systems, and small-pitch LED screens, VX400 provides a range of features to ensure high-quality image display and flexible operation. Key features of NovaStar VX400 include:
● 4K Ultra HD Support: Processes 3840×2160 resolution at 60Hz, delivering crisp visuals for high-definition displays.
● Multi-Source Input: Accepts HDMI, DVI, DP, and SDI inputs, enabling compatibility with cameras, PCs, and media players.
● Advanced Image Processing: Features 3D noise reduction, HDR compatibility, and dynamic contrast adjustment.
● Scalable Outputs: Supports up to 16 million pixels across multiple LED cabinets, with pixel-by-pixel calibration.
● Intuitive Software: NovaStar Smart LCT software simplifies configuration, monitoring, and firmware updates.
● Low Latency: <5ms processing delay ensures real-time performance for live broadcasts and interactive setups.
● Redundancy Support: Dual-link backup ensures uninterrupted operation in critical environments.
3. Technical Specifications
Video Inputs
① HDMI 1.3: 2 inputs supporting up to 1920×1080@60Hz, compatible with HDCP 1.4, and supporting interlaced signals and custom EDID settings.
② DVI: 1 input supporting up to 1920×1200@60Hz, compatible with HDCP 1.4, and supporting interlaced signals and custom EDID settings.
③ 3G-SDI: 1 input supporting up to 1920×1080@60Hz, compatible with ST-424 (3G), ST-292 (HD), and ST-259 (SD) standards, and supporting de-interlacing.
④ OPT1: 1 optical fiber port that is self-adaptive for either video input or sending card output, depending on the connected device.
Video Outputs
① LED Outputs: 4x Gigabit Ethernet ports (RJ45), each capable of handling up to 650,000 pixels, totaling a maximum loading capacity of 2.6 million pixels.
② HDMI 1.3: 1 output for monitoring or video output.
③ HDMI 1.3 Loop: 1 loop output.
④ DVI Loop: 1 loop output.
⑤ OPT Outputs: 2x 10G optical fiber ports (OPT1 & OPT2), where OPT1 can be used as either an input or output, and OPT2 is for output only.
Control Interfaces
① USB Type-B: For PC connection or input connector for cascading devices.
② USB Type-A: Output connector for cascading devices (up to 4 devices).
③ Ethernet (RJ45): For PC or router connection, allowing for control via LAN.
④ Light Sensor Interface: Allows for automatic screen brightness adjustment based on ambient light conditions.
Video Processing Features
① Stepless Output Scaling: Ensures smooth and precise scaling of video content.
② Low Latency: Reduces the delay from input to receiving card to 20 lines when the low latency function and Bypass mode are both enabled.
③ Pixel-Level Brightness and Chroma Calibration: Ensures uniformity across the display for consistent and vibrant image quality.
④ Layer Management: Supports two layers (Main and PIP), with adjustable size, position, and priority, providing flexibility in content display.
⑤ Preset Management: Allows users to save and load up to 10 user-defined presets, facilitating quick configuration changes.
General Specifications
① Loading Capacity: Up to 2.6 million pixels, with a maximum width of 10,240 pixels and a maximum height of 8,192 pixels.
② Power Supply: AC 100- 240V, 50/60Hz.
③ Power Consumption: Approximately 28 watts.
④ Dimensions: Approximately 482.6 mm × 301.5 mm × 43.6 mm (WxDxH).
⑤ Weight: Approximately 4 kg.
Additional Features
① Working Modes: Supports three working modes—Video Controller, Fiber Converter, and Bypass—allowing users to adapt the device to various application scenarios.
② Software Control: Compatible with NovaLCT and V-Can software for in-field operations such as screen configuration, Ethernet port backup settings, layer management, and firmware updates.
③ Cascading: Supports cascading via USB, allowing up to 4 devices to be connected for synchronized operation.
④ Display Configuration Without Computer: Allows for basic configuration directly from the device without the need for a connected computer.
4. 3 Working Modes & Applications
NovaStar VX400 supports three distinct working modes — Video Controller, Fiber Converter, and Bypass, each designed to cater to specific application scenarios. Below is an overview of these modes and their typical applications:
Mode 1. Video Controller Mode
In this default mode, the NovaStar VX400 functions as a comprehensive video controller, handling both video processing and LED display control. Key features include:
Video Processing: Supports input sources like HDMI, DVI, and 3G-SDI, with capabilities for scaling, cropping, and layer management.
Layer Support: Offers two layers (Main and PIP), allowing for flexible content display.
Monitoring: Provides an HDMI 1.3 output for real-time monitoring at a fixed resolution of 1920×1080@60Hz.
OPT1 Port Functionality: The OPT1 port is self-adaptive, functioning as either an input or output based on the connected device.
Applications:
① Live Events and Stage Productions: Ideal for concerts, theater performances, and other live events requiring dynamic video content management.
② Broadcast Studios: Suitable for managing multiple video feeds and ensuring seamless transitions during live broadcasts.
③ Corporate Presentations: Enhances visual presentations in conferences and corporate events.
Mode 2. Fiber Converter Mode
In Fiber Converter mode, the NovaStar VX400 acts as a fiber converter, facilitating long-distance transmission of video signals over optical fiber. Key aspects include:
OPT1 and OPT2 Ports: Both ports serve as input connectors. The device prioritizes data from OPT1; if OPT1 data is lost, it seamlessly switches to OPT2.
Ethernet Output: All Ethernet ports output the data received from the optical inputs.
Limited Menu Access: Only essential menus like Working Mode, Communication Settings, and Language are available in this mode.
Applications:
① Large Venues: Ideal for stadiums, arenas, and large conference halls where video signals need to be transmitted over long distances without degradation.
② Outdoor Events: Suitable for outdoor concerts and festivals requiring reliable long-distance video signal transmission.
Mode 3. Bypass Mode
Bypass mode allows the VX400 NovaStar to function as an independent controller without engaging its video processing capabilities. Characteristics of this mode include:
Main Layer Only: Supports only the main layer; the PIP layer is unavailable.
No Video Processing: The device does not perform any scaling, cropping, or other video processing functions.
Applications:
① Simple Display Setups: Ideal for installations where video processing is handled by another device, and NovaStar VX400 is used solely for signal distribution.
② Backup Systems: Can serve as a backup controller in systems requiring redundancy without additional processing.
By offering these three working modes, the NovaStar VX400 provides flexibility to adapt to various operational requirements, making it a valuable asset for diverse LED display applications.
5. Novastar VX400 Price
What is the price of Novastar VX400? The price of the NovaStar VX400 varies across different retailers. The VX400 is priced between $900 and $2,000, depending on regional distributors and bundled accessories. Factors influencing cost include:
- Region: Prices vary in North America, Europe, and Asia due to tariffs and logistics.
- Software Licenses: Advanced features like 4K mapping may require additional licenses.
- Support Packages: Extended warranties or on-site service agreements add to the total.
While not the cheapest in NovaStar’s lineup, the VX400 offers strong ROI for mid-scale projects.
6. Comparison with NovaStar VX1000 and NovaStar VX600
Here’s a detailed comparison of the NovaStar VX400, VX1000, and VX600 LED video processors, highlighting their key differences in performance, features, and applications:
| Feature | NovaStar VX400 | NovaStar VX600 | NovaStar VX1000 |
| Loading Capacity | 2.6 million pixels | 3.9 million pixels | 6.5 million pixels |
| Max Width | 10,240 pixels | 10,240 pixels | 10,240 pixels |
| Max Height | 8,192 pixels | 8,192 pixels | 8,192 pixels |
| Layers | 1×MAIN + 1×PIP | 1×MAIN + 2×PIP | 1×MAIN + 2×PIP |
| Input Connectors | 1×3G-SDI, 2×HDMI 1.3, 1×DVI, 1×OPT | 1×3G-SDI, 2×HDMI 1.3, 1×DVI, 1×OPT | 1×3G-SDI, 2×HDMI 1.4, 2×DVI (HDMI 1.4), 1×OPT |
| Output Connectors | 4×Ethernet Ports, 1×HDMI1.3, 1×HDMI1.3 LOOP, 1×DVI LOOP, 1×3G-SDI LOOP, 2×OPT | 6×Ethernet Ports, 1×HDMI1.3, 1×HDMI1.3 LOOP, 1×DVI LOOP, 1×3G-SDI LOOP, 2×OPT | 10×Ethernet Ports, 1×HDMI1.3, 1×HDMI1.4 LOOP, 1×DVI LOOP, 1×3G-SDI LOOP, 2×OPT |
| Presets | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Control Connectors | 1×Ethernet Port, 2×USB (input & output) | 1×Ethernet Port, 2×USB (input & output) | 1×Ethernet Port, 2×USB (input & output) |
Choosing the Right Model
● NovaStar VX400: Best suited for smaller installations where budget and simplicity are priorities.
● NovaStar VX600: Offers a balance between performance and cost, suitable for medium-sized projects requiring more layering capabilities.
● NovaStar VX1000: Designed for large-scale applications demanding higher pixel capacity and more extensive input/output options.
7. Specification & Manual & Software Download
NovaStar VX400 Specs:
NovaStar VX400 Manual:
NovaStar VX400 Software:
8. Conclusion
NovaStar VX400 stands out as a versatile and powerful all-in-one LED display controller. Its combination of high pixel capacity, advanced video processing, flexible operation modes, and user-friendly control options makes it an excellent choice for various professional applications. Whether for rental events, fixed installations, or fine-pitch displays, the Nova VX400 delivers reliable performance and exceptional image quality.
