MCTRL500 Independent LED Controller
The NovaStar MCTRL500 sends DVI video to LED receiving cards for rental and fixed installations. It provides audio input, DVI input and output, Ethernet and optical signal connections, and RS232 cascading for uniform control of multiple units.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Video input / output | 1 × single-link DVI input / 1 × single-link DVI output |
| Video format | 8-bit RGB 4:4:4; up to 1920 × 1200 @ 60 Hz |
| Custom resolution examples | 3840 × 600 @ 60 Hz maximum-width example; 800 × 2560 @ 60 Hz maximum-height example |
| Ethernet outputs | 4 × Gigabit Ethernet; up to 650,000 pixels per port |
| Optical outputs | 4 × 1.25G; OPT1–4 correspond to Ethernet OUT1–4 |
| Audio / control | Audio input; RS232 IN and OUT for cascading |
| Power input / rated consumption | AC 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz / 10 W |
| Dimensions / rack space / weight | 482.0 × 268.5 × 44.4 mm / 1U / 2.9 kg |
| Operating environment | −20°C to +60°C; 0–90% RH, non-condensing |
| Storage temperature | −20°C to +70°C |
Ethernet, Optical and Cascade Connections
The four optical ports correspond one-to-one with the four Ethernet ports. They are not eight independent channels of screen capacity. The PDF lists LC connections with 1310 nm single-mode twin-core fiber for 10 km using OS1/OS2, and an 850 nm, 300 m OM3/OM4 configuration. Match the optical hardware and fiber type to the installed unit.
The original listing describes Ethernet or optical output interfaces as optional. The V2.3.1 document depicts both groups, so verify the supplied unit’s port configuration before choosing cables. RS232 cascading provides uniform controller management; it is separate from the DVI video connection.
Input Limits and Status Indicators
The original listing names 1920 × 1200 and 2048 × 1152. The retained V2.3.1 video-format table specifies 1920 × 1200 @ 60 Hz for 8-bit RGB 4:4:4; it does not verify the older 2048 × 1152 claim. Use the documented custom timings or confirm another timing for the actual unit.
The DVI indicator stays on when input is available and turns off when input is absent or abnormal. RUN flashes slowly with no video input, normally when video is available and rapidly while showing the startup image. A breathing RUN pattern indicates Ethernet-port redundancy. The controller also supports input monitoring and NovaStar calibration technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does MCTRL500 play media from a USB drive?
The retained specification describes a DVI-based independent controller. It does not list USB storage playback or standalone media scheduling; provide the video through DVI IN.
What is the supported DVI input format?
V2.3.1 lists 8-bit RGB 4:4:4 at up to 1920 × 1200 @ 60 Hz. Its connector section also lists custom 3840 × 600 and 800 × 2560 timings at 60 Hz.
Do four optical ports double the Ethernet output capacity?
No. OPT1, OPT2, OPT3 and OPT4 correspond to Ethernet OUT1, OUT2, OUT3 and OUT4 respectively.
What fiber connections are listed for MCTRL500?
The PDF specifies LC connections with a 1310 nm, 10 km OS1/OS2 configuration and an 850 nm, 300 m OM3/OM4 configuration. Verify which optical hardware is fitted before selecting fiber.
Why is the MCTRL500 DVI indicator off?
The specification states that DVI input is unavailable or abnormal when this indicator is off. Check the DVI source, connection and supported timing; slow RUN flashing also indicates unavailable video.
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