Your LED video processor is the heart of your display system. It manages inputs, processes video signals, and ensures that the visuals on screen look as sharp and smooth as possible. But like all technology, processors eventually hit their limits. As screens get larger, resolutions climb higher, and audiences expect flawless visual experiences, an outdated processor can hold you back.
If you’re experiencing any of the following problems, it may be time to consider upgrading to a new processor from modern series like the Colorlight AX, VX, Z, U, or CS lines.
1. Your Screen Outgrows Your Processor’s Pixel Load Capacity
As LED displays increase in size and pixel density, they demand more processing power. Entry-level processors often max out at just a few million pixels. If your video wall requires more than your processor can handle, you’ll see incomplete images, poor scaling, or you may need to chain multiple processors together just to make it work.
Modern processors like the VX20 or Z Series can handle 10+ million pixels per unit, ensuring crisp, seamless visuals on massive displays.
2. Limited Input and Output Options
Older processors may only support DVI or early HDMI standards. Today’s productions often require HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2/1.4, 12G-SDI, or even IP-based inputs like ST 2110. On the output side, bandwidth matters too—1G Ethernet alone may not be enough for ultra-high-resolution walls.
Upgrading to newer systems gives you access to 5G/10G fiber outputs, multiple HDMI ports, and hot-swappable cards, so you’re ready for any source or screen.
3. Missing HDR and High Color Depth
If your visuals look flat or washed out, your processor may not support HDR (High Dynamic Range) or 10-bit/12-bit color depth. These features are now standard in high-end video production and make a huge difference in realism, brightness, and contrast.
Advanced processors like the Z6 PRO-G2 or CS16K include 3D LUTs, Color Magic, and wide color gamut (WCG) to deliver cinematic-grade image quality.
4. Latency Is Too High
In live events, concerts, or XR studios, even a small delay between action and display can ruin the experience. Older processors often introduce noticeable latency.
Next-generation systems are built for low latency and frame multiplexing, ensuring instant responsiveness and smooth synchronization between video and live performance.
5. Complex Multi-Screen Management
Do you need to combine multiple screens, work with unusual aspect ratios, or run spliced video walls? Basic processors can struggle with these tasks.
Systems like the U Series video splicers or CS Series media servers offer multi-layer, multi-scene, and multi-device cascading. They make it easy to manage multi-screen projects with seamless switching, irregular splicing, and ultra-wide formats.
6. No Redundancy or Backup Features
When you’re running a mission-critical event, downtime is not an option. Many older processors lack redundancy in inputs, outputs, or power supplies.
Modern processors integrate hot backup for inputs, dual-redundant fiber/Ethernet connections, and redundant power supplies. This gives peace of mind that even if one path fails, the show will go on.
7. Outdated Control and Connectivity
If you’re still tethered to on-site control via RS232 or outdated software, you’re missing out on today’s powerful remote management tools.
The AX Series, for example, comes with a modern LED OS with Android 13, supporting cloud management, mobile apps, web-based control, and multi-user collaboration. This makes it far easier to configure, monitor, and manage displays from anywhere.
Final Thoughts
An upgraded LED video processor isn’t just about keeping up with technology—it’s about unlocking new creative possibilities, ensuring reliability, and delivering the best visual experience to your audience.
If you’ve noticed any of these seven signs, it may be time to explore solutions like the VX, Z, U, or CS Series processors. Whether you’re managing a small corporate display or a massive stadium installation, today’s processors give you the tools to stay ahead.