1. Introduction
The Novastar TB40 is a new generation multimedia player designed for full-color LED displays. It integrates both playback and sending capabilities, allowing users to publish content and control LED displays using a computer, mobile phone, or tablet. By leveraging cloud-based publishing and monitoring platforms, the TB40 enables remote management of LED displays from any Internet-connected device, anytime, anywhere.
Supporting both multi-screen synchronous and asynchronous playback modes, the TB40 is suitable for a wide range of applications, including commercial LED displays and smart city solutions such as fixed displays, lamp-post displays, chain store displays, advertisement players, mirror displays, and retail shelf displays. Its reliability, ease of use, and intelligent control make it a versatile choice for various display needs.
2. Specifications
2.1. General Features
- Model Number: TB40
- Display Function: Video
- Tube Chip Color: Full Color
- Origin: Mainland China
- Customization: Yes
2.2. Technical Specifications
| Category | Feature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Output | Loading Capacity | Up to 1,300,000 pixels (Max width: 4096 pixels, Max height: 4096 pixels) |
| Ethernet Ports | 2x Gigabit Ethernet outputs (primary/secondary) | |
| Audio Output | 1x Stereo audio connector (supports 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz sample rates) | |
| Input | HDMI Input | 1x HDMI 1.4 connector (for synchronous mode video sources) |
| Sensor Connectors | 2x for brightness, temperature, and humidity sensors | |
| Control | USB Ports | 1x USB 3.0 (Type A) for playback/firmware upgrade; 1x USB (Type B) for control computer connection |
| Ethernet Port | 1x Gigabit Ethernet port (for control computer, LAN, or public network) | |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi antenna connector (AP and STA modes); 4G antenna connector (COM1, 4G module sold separately) | |
| Performance | Processor | Quad-core ARM A55 @1.8 GHz |
| Video Decoding | H.264/H.265 4K@60Hz | |
| RAM | 1 GB onboard | |
| Internal Storage | 32 GB | |
| Playback Capability | Flawless playback; supports 2x 4K, 6x 1080p, 10x 720p, or 20x 360p video playback | |
| Power Input | 12V-2A |
Note: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official NovaStar documentation.
3. Product Overview
3.1. Front Panel
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| SWITCH | Toggles between synchronous and asynchronous modes. 'Staying on' indicates synchronous mode; 'Off' indicates asynchronous mode. |
| SIM CARD | SIM card slot, designed to prevent incorrect insertion. |
| RESET | Factory reset button. Press and hold for 5 seconds to restore factory settings. |
| USB | USB (Type B) port for connecting to a control computer for content publishing and screen control. |
3.2. Rear Panel
| Connector | Description |
|---|---|
| SENSOR | Connects to brightness, temperature, or humidity sensors. |
| HDMI OUT | HDMI 1.4 output connector, supports HDMI loop functionality. |
| HDMI IN | HDMI 1.4 input connector for video sources in synchronous mode. Supports full-screen scaling (down-scaling only) for sources between 64 and 2048 pixels wide. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi antenna connector, supports both AP and STA modes. |
| ETHERNET | Gigabit Ethernet port for connecting to a control computer, LAN, or public network. |
| COM2 | GPS antenna connector. |
| USB 3.0 | USB (Type A) port for USB playback and firmware upgrades. Supports Ext4 and FAT32 file systems. |
| COM1 | 4G antenna connector (requires separately purchased 4G module). |
| AUDIO OUT | Audio output connector. |
| 12V-2A | Power input connector. |
3.3. Indicator Lights
| Name | Color | Status | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| PWR | Red | Staying on | The power supply is working properly. |
| SYS | Green | Flashing once every 2s | The operating system is functioning normally. |
| Staying on/off | The operating system is malfunctioning. | ||
| CLOUD | Green | Staying on | The TB40 is connected to the Internet and the connection is available. |
| Flashing once every 2s | The TB40 is connected to VNNox and the connection is available. | ||
| Flashing once every second | The TB40 is upgrading the operating system. | ||
| Flashing once every 0.5s | The TB40 is copying the upgrade package. | ||
| RUN | Green | Flashing once every second | The FPGA has no video source. |
| Flashing once every 0.5s | The FPGA is functioning normally. | ||
| Staying on/off | The FPGA loading is abnormal. |
4. Setup Instructions
Follow these steps for initial setup of your Novastar TB40 Multimedia Player:
- Power Connection: Connect the provided 12V-2A power adapter to the '12V-2A' port on the rear panel and plug it into a power outlet. The red PWR indicator should light up.
- LED Display Connection: Connect the Gigabit Ethernet outputs (LED OUT 1, LED OUT 2) on the front panel to your LED display modules using Ethernet cables.
- Video Source (Synchronous Mode): If using synchronous playback, connect your video source (e.g., computer, media player) to the 'HDMI IN' port on the rear panel using an HDMI cable.
- Control Computer Connection: Connect the USB (Type B) port on the front panel to your control computer for initial configuration and content publishing. Alternatively, connect the 'ETHERNET' port on the rear panel to your local network or directly to your control computer.
- Network Connection: For remote management and cloud services, connect the 'ETHERNET' port to a LAN or public network. For Wi-Fi control, ensure the Wi-Fi antenna is connected to the 'WiFi' port on the rear panel.
- 4G Module (Optional): If you have purchased a 4G module, install it into the SIM CARD slot on the front panel and connect the 4G antenna to the 'COM1' port on the rear panel.
- Sensors (Optional): Connect any brightness, temperature, or humidity sensors to the 'SENSOR' ports on the rear panel as needed.
- GPS (Optional): If using GPS time synchronization, connect the GPS antenna to the 'COM2' port on the rear panel (requires specified 4G module).
Important Note: The setup and debugging of LED control cards often require professional technical knowledge. If you are unfamiliar with these processes, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from professional personnel to ensure proper functionality and optimal performance.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Playback Modes
- Synchronous Mode: The TB40 plays content directly from an external video source connected to the HDMI IN port. The 'SWITCH' button on the front panel should be 'Staying on'.
- Asynchronous Mode: The TB40 plays content stored in its internal memory or from a USB drive. The 'SWITCH' button on the front panel should be 'Off'.
To switch between modes, use the 'SWITCH' button on the front panel.
5.2. Content Publishing and Screen Control
The TB40 allows flexible content management and screen control:
- Via Control Computer: Connect the TB40 to a computer via the USB (Type B) port or Ethernet port. Use NovaStar's control software to publish content, configure screen parameters, and manage playback.
- Via Mobile Device/Tablet: Utilize NovaStar's cloud-based publishing and monitoring platforms or dedicated mobile applications to manage content and control your LED display remotely over Wi-Fi or 4G (if equipped).
- USB Playback: For quick content updates, load media files onto a USB drive (formatted with Ext4 or FAT32) and insert it into the USB 3.0 (Type A) port on the rear panel.
5.3. Network Connectivity
- Wi-Fi AP Mode: The TB40 can act as a Wi-Fi access point. The default SSID is "AP+Last 8 digits of SN" (where SN is the serial number of your device), and the default password is 'be current'.
- Wi-Fi STA Mode: The TB40 can connect to an existing Wi-Fi hotspot provided by a router.
- 4G Connectivity (Optional): If a 4G module is installed, the TB40 can connect to the internet via cellular data.
- Network Priority: When multiple network types are available, the TB40 automatically prioritizes connections in the following order: Wired network > Wi-Fi network > 4G network.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the exterior of the device with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow around the TB40 to prevent overheating. Do not block ventilation openings.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check for and install official firmware updates from NovaStar to ensure optimal performance and access to new features. Firmware can be updated via USB 3.0 port.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
7. Troubleshooting
Refer to the indicator lights (Section 3.3) for initial diagnosis. Here are some common issues and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device not powering on | No power supply or faulty adapter. | Check power cable connection and power outlet. Ensure the 12V-2A adapter is functioning. PWR indicator should be red and steady. |
| Operating system malfunctioning | OS error. | Check SYS indicator (Green, staying on/off). Try pressing and holding the RESET button for 5 seconds to restore factory settings. |
| No network connection | Ethernet cable disconnected, Wi-Fi issue, or 4G module problem. | Check CLOUD indicator. Ensure Ethernet cable is securely connected. Verify Wi-Fi settings or 4G module installation. Remember network priority: Wired > Wi-Fi > 4G. |
| No video source detected / Blank screen | Incorrect playback mode, no input signal, or FPGA issue. | Check RUN indicator. Ensure correct playback mode (synchronous/asynchronous) is selected via the SWITCH button. Verify HDMI IN connection for synchronous mode. Check content on USB for asynchronous mode. |
| Wi-Fi connection issues | Incorrect SSID/password, or Wi-Fi antenna not connected. | Ensure Wi-Fi antenna is connected. For AP mode, verify SSID "AP+Last 8 digits of SN" and password 'be current'. For STA mode, ensure correct router credentials. |
| USB playback not working | Unsupported file system or corrupted files. | Ensure USB drive is formatted to Ext4 or FAT32. Verify media files are compatible. |
8. User Tips
- Professional Installation Recommended: For optimal performance and to avoid potential issues, it is highly recommended that the installation and initial debugging of the TB40 and connected LED display modules be performed by professional technicians.
- HDMI Port Functionality: The HDMI IN port is for receiving video input in synchronous mode, while the HDMI OUT port is primarily for HDMI loop-through functionality to another device or display. They serve different purposes.
- Network Redundancy: The TB40 automatically prioritizes network connections (Wired > Wi-Fi > 4G). For critical applications, a wired Ethernet connection is generally the most stable.
- Internal Storage: The TB40 comes with 32 GB of internal storage, which is useful for storing content for asynchronous playback.
9. Certifications
The Novastar TB40 holds certifications such as CQC and SRRC. For specific certifications required in your country or region, please contact NovaStar directly to confirm compliance. Users are responsible for ensuring the product meets local regulatory requirements.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Novastar dealer or the official Novastar support channels. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy when requesting support.
