1. Introduction
The Novastar DH418 is a cost-effective receiving card designed for LED screen applications. It offers high stability and reliability, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, including outdoor, indoor, rental, and fixed displays. The card's hardware and software are engineered for easy deployment, stable operation, and simplified maintenance.
This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your DH418 receiving card to ensure optimal performance of your LED display system.
2. Key Features
- Supports lighting chromaticity correction.
- Features fast bright and dark line adjustment.
- Includes 3D function capabilities.
- Offers mapping functionality.
- Allows pre-stored screen settings on the receiving card.
- Provides temperature and voltage monitoring.
- Supports LCD module display cabinet information.
- Enables firmware program readback.
- Allows configuration parameters readback.
- Supports loop backup for enhanced reliability.
- Features configuration parameters dual backup.
- Includes dual program backup.
3. Setup and Installation
The DH418 receiving card is designed for integration into LED display cabinets. Proper installation ensures stable operation and optimal display quality.
3.1 Unboxing and Inspection
Upon receiving your DH418 card, carefully unbox it and inspect for any visible damage. Ensure all components are present.
Video: Unboxing and initial handling of the Novastar DH418 receiving card.
3.2 Physical Connections
The DH418 features eight standard HUB75 interfaces for connecting to LED modules and two Ethernet ports for data input/output, along with power terminals.
- Power Connection: Connect a stable 5V DC power supply to the designated power input terminals on the card. Ensure correct polarity.
- Ethernet Connection: Connect the Ethernet cable from your Novastar sending card (or previous receiving card in a daisy chain) to one of the Ethernet input ports (typically labeled '1' or 'IN'). If daisy-chaining, connect the output port (typically '2' or 'OUT') to the next receiving card.
- HUB75 Connections: Connect the ribbon cables from the DH418's HUB75 output interfaces to the corresponding input interfaces on your LED modules. Refer to your LED module's documentation for correct pinout and connection order. The card supports up to 16 sets of RGB parallel data.
Image: Front view of the DH418 card, highlighting connection points.
Image: Back view of the DH418 card.
3.3 Software Configuration
After physical installation, use the appropriate Novastar control software (e.g., NovaLCT) to configure the receiving card. This involves:
- Detecting the receiving card.
- Loading the correct module configuration file.
- Setting up the display resolution and mapping.
- Adjusting display parameters such as brightness, contrast, and color.
4. Operation
Once configured, the DH418 receiving card operates automatically to display content sent from the sending card. Key operational aspects include:
- Display Control: All display content and basic parameters are managed through the Novastar control software connected to the sending card.
- Advanced Features: Utilize the software to enable and fine-tune features like 3D display, mapping, and lighting chromaticity correction as needed for your specific application.
- Monitoring: The card continuously monitors its temperature and voltage. This information can be accessed via the control software to ensure stable operation.
- Pre-stored Settings: The card can store screen settings, allowing for quick recovery or deployment in different scenarios without re-configuration from scratch.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps prolong the lifespan and ensure consistent performance of your DH418 receiving card.
- Cleaning: Keep the card free from dust and debris. Use a soft, dry brush or compressed air for cleaning. Avoid using liquids or harsh chemicals.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the operating environment is within specified temperature and humidity ranges to prevent damage. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- Connection Checks: Periodically inspect all cable connections (power, Ethernet, HUB75) to ensure they are secure and free from corrosion or damage.
- Firmware Updates: Check the Novastar official website for any available firmware updates for the DH418. Updating firmware can improve performance, add features, or fix bugs. Use the control software to perform updates.
- Configuration Backup: Regularly back up your display configuration parameters using the Novastar control software. The card also supports dual backup for configuration parameters and programs, providing an extra layer of safety.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with the DH418 receiving card.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No display on LED modules | No power, incorrect Ethernet connection, incorrect software configuration. | Check power supply to the card. Verify Ethernet cable connection from sending card. Ensure correct module configuration is loaded in software. |
| Partial display or incorrect colors | Loose HUB75 ribbon cables, incorrect module mapping, damaged LED modules. | Check all HUB75 ribbon cable connections. Verify module mapping and data flow direction in software. Test individual LED modules if possible. |
| Flickering or unstable display | Poor power supply, ground loop issues, signal interference, incorrect refresh rate. | Ensure stable power supply. Check grounding. Adjust refresh rate in software. Use shielded Ethernet cables. |
| Bright or dark lines on display | Module calibration issues, uneven brightness. | Utilize the 'Fast bright and dark line adjustment' feature in the control software. Perform module calibration if available. |
| Card not detected by software | Ethernet cable issue, network settings, card malfunction. | Verify Ethernet cable integrity. Check PC network settings. Ensure card is powered on. Try a different Ethernet port on the sending card. |
7. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | DH418 |
| Brand | Novastar |
| Maximum Load Capacity | 256 × 256 pixels (per single card) |
| Data Output | Up to 16 sets of RGB parallel data |
| Interfaces | 8 x Standard HUB75 interfaces, 2 x Ethernet ports |
| Compatible Audio & Video Equipment Style | Display Equipment |
| Battery Included | No |
| High-concerned chemical | None |
| Origin | Mainland China |
| Display Size (on card) | < 1" (Refers to potential small indicator display on the card itself) |
8. User Tips
- Always double-check all cable connections before powering on your LED display system to prevent damage or display issues.
- When configuring, ensure the correct module type and scan mode are selected in the Novastar software to avoid display anomalies.
9. Warranty and Support
The Novastar DH418 LED Screen Receiving Card is covered by the manufacturer's standard warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Novastar documentation or contact your vendor.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or inquiries about replacement parts, please contact Novastar customer service or your authorized distributor.
