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LED Sending Cards | Working Principle, Function, and Structural Types

  • Writer: Tse Cherie
    Tse Cherie
  • Apr 1
  • 4 min read

Updated: Apr 3

Overview of Sending Card Functions and Working Principles

The sending card is a core component of the LED display control system and is often regarded as the signal bridge of the display. It is responsible for converting video signals from front-end devices into data that LED screens can recognize and display.

Below is a professional overview of the sending card’s functional positioning, working principles, and structural classification, suitable for technical documentation, product manuals, and training materials.

LED sending card
LED sending card

1. Functional Positioning of the Sending Card

The sending card plays a vital role in the LED display system, with its main functions including:

  • Data Input

Receiving video signals from computers, video processors, or media servers via HDMI, DVI, or other interfaces

  • Signal Processing

Decoding, scaling, and converting video signals into formats compatible with LED display systems

  • Data Transmission

Sending processed data to receiving cards through Gigabit Ethernet ports

  • Display Synchronization

Ensuring stable and real-time synchronization between video sources and LED displays

Sending card
Sending card

2. Product Classification of Sending Cards

Each Gigabit Ethernet port supports approximately 650,000 pixels

  •  Basic Sending Card 2 Ports

Supports up to 1.3 million pixels, suitable for small LED displays

  • Advanced Sending Card 4 Ports

Supports up to 2.3 million pixels, ideal for medium-sized displays

  • 4K or High-End Sending Card 16 Ports

Supports up to 8.3 million pixels, designed for large-scale or ultra-HD LED screens


3. Working Principle of the Sending Card

The sending card operates through the following process:

  •  Signal Input

Video signals are received through HDMI, DVI, or DisplayPort interfaces

  •  FPGA Processing

The FPGA chip performs decoding, color processing such as RGB and YUV conversion, and scaling

  • Data Buffering

Processed data is temporarily stored in memory to ensure stable output

  • Signal Output

Data is packaged and transmitted via Gigabit Ethernet ports to receiving cards

Supported Color Formats include RGB444, YUV444, and YUV420

  •  Gamma Correction

When input signals use 10-bit or 12-bit depth, Gamma correction converts them to 16-bit depth to improve grayscale performance and image smoothness


4. Applications of Sending Cards

Stadium and arena LED displays

Stage background video walls

Outdoor advertising billboards

Shopping mall LED screens

Broadcast control rooms

Traffic management systems

Corporate conference displays


5. Advantages of Sending Cards

  • Stable Transmission with FPGA

The built-in FPGA enables high-speed data processing and real-time signal transmission, ensuring smooth playback without latency for live events and dynamic content

  • High Compatibility with Multiple Systems

Supports HDMI, DVI, DisplayPort and works with various LED modules, receiving cards, and configurations for flexible integration

  • Support for 4K and Large-Scale Displays

Capable of driving ultra-high-definition resolutions such as 3840×2160, suitable for large video walls and high-end applications

  • Advanced Color Processing and Gamma Correction

Supports multiple color formats and enhances grayscale performance, delivering smoother gradients and accurate color reproduction

  • Remote Configuration and Monitoring Capabilities

Allows real-time system monitoring, brightness adjustment, and remote troubleshooting through software platforms

  • Flexible System Expansion

Supports system scaling by adding more ports or controllers to meet growing project requirements

  • High Reliability for Continuous Operation

Maintains stable performance during long-term operation, suitable for mission-critical environments


6. Limitations of Sending Cards

  • Port-Based Pixel Load Limitation

Each port supports a limited number of pixels, requiring multiple ports or controllers for large displays

  • Requires Professional Configuration

Setup involves resolution configuration, mapping, and system integration, which requires technical expertise

  • Not Plug-and-Play Equipment

Must be properly installed and configured within a complete LED control system before use

  • Limited Scalability in Entry-Level Models

Basic models may not support future expansion or higher resolution upgrades

  • Dependency on Brand Ecosystem

Some devices only work within specific brand systems, limiting compatibility

  • Environmental and Installation Constraints

Long-distance transmission and outdoor use require proper cabling and protective design

  • Higher System Integration Complexity

Large systems with multiple controllers require careful planning and management


Importance of Sending Cards and Selection Recommendations

1. Importance of Sending Cards

Sending cards directly impact the signal quality, synchronization, and overall performance of LED displays. A high-quality sending card can support high-resolution output, ensure accurate color reproduction, maintain stable operation, and enable advanced system features.


2. Recommendations for Selecting Sending Cards

  • Project Requirements

Select based on screen size, resolution, and application scenario

  • Load Capacity

Ensure the controller supports the total pixel count

  • Interface Compatibility

Confirm compatibility with HDMI, DVI, or other input formats

  • System Compatibility

Ensure proper matching with receiving cards and control systems

  • Scalability

Choose models that support future upgrades

  • Environmental Adaptability

Select suitable designs for indoor or outdoor environments


The sending card is the core bridge of the LED display control system, with clear functional positioning and working principles. By selecting the appropriate model and configuration, users can achieve stable performance, high-quality visuals, and efficient operation across various applications.


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