Novastar CMS260

Novastar CMS260 LED Display Video Processor Instruction Manual

Model: CMS260

Brand: Novastar

1. Introduction

The CMS260 is an all-in-one controller that integrates video processing and video control into a single unit. It features 4 Ethernet ports and is designed to drive full-color LED panels and video walls.

A single CMS260 unit can drive up to 2.6 million pixels, with a maximum output width and height of 3840 pixels. It is capable of receiving various video signals and processing high-resolution images, offering stepless output scaling and chroma calibration for an excellent image display experience.

Thanks to its powerful video processing and sending capabilities, the CMS260 is suitable for a wide range of applications, including rental displays, stage control systems, and fine-pitch LED screens.

Front view of the CMS260 LED Video Processor
Front view of the CMS260 LED Video Processor, highlighting its full-color capability and 2.6 million pixel control range.

2. Features

  • Input Connectors: 1x HDMI 1.3 (IN & LOOP), 1x HDMI 1.3, 1x 3G-SDI (IN & LOOP).
  • Output Connectors: 4x Gigabit Ethernet ports.
  • Pixel Capacity: A single device drives up to 2.6 million pixels, with a maximum output width and height of 3840 pixels.
  • Audio Support: Audio input accompanied by an HDMI input source, audio output via a multifunction card, and adjustable output volume.
  • Layer Management: Supports 2 layers with adjustable size, position, and priority.
  • Output Synchronization: Internal input source can be used as the sync source for cascaded units.
  • Video Processing: Based on SuperView III image quality processing technologies, offering stepless output scaling and one-click full screen display.
  • Presets: Free input cropping and easy saving/loading of up to 10 user-defined presets.
  • Hot Backup: Multiple kinds of hot backup, including between devices, between Ethernet ports, and input source hot backup.
  • Ethernet Port Test: Function to test pre-stored images, backup Ethernet ports, and device effects without physical re-plugging.
  • Image Mosaic: Up to 4 units can be cascaded for image mosaic.
  • Image Quality Management: Brightness, saturation, contrast, and hue adjustment.
  • Calibration: Pixel-level brightness and chroma calibration, compatible with LCT and calibration software.
  • Operation Modes: Control via LCT software or the device's front panel knob and buttons.

3. Setup and Installation

3.1 Physical Connections

Refer to the application diagram below for connecting the CMS260 to your control PC, video sources, and LED screen.

CMS260 Application Diagram
Application diagram illustrating connections for the CMS260 video processor.

Connection Steps:

  1. Power: Connect the power cable to the CMS260 and a suitable power outlet.
  2. Control PC: Connect a USB cable from your Control PC to the USB (Type-B) port on the CMS260.
  3. Video Sources: Connect your HDMI sources to the HDMI IN ports and your SDI source to the 3G-SDI IN port.
  4. LED Screen: Connect RJ45 Ethernet cables from the CMS260's OUTPUT ports to your LED screen. Ensure proper cabling for audio if using Ethernet port 1 for audio output.

3.2 Connector Details

The following tables provide detailed information on the control, input, and output connectors.

CMS260 Control Connectors
Control Connectors and their descriptions.
Control Connectors
ConnectorQtyDescription
USB (Type-B)2Connect to the control PC. Input connector for device cascading.
USB (Type-A)Output connector for device cascading.
CMS260 Rear Panel Connectors
Rear Panel Input and Output Connectors.
Input Connectors
ConnectorQtyDescription
3G-SDI1
  • Supports ST-424 (3G), ST-292 (HD), and ST-259 (SD) standard video inputs.
  • Max. input resolution: 1920×1080@60Hz.
  • Deinterlacing processing supported.
  • 3G-SDI loop output supported.
  • Does not support input resolution and bit depth settings.
  • Does not support the signal source in Level B format.
HDMI 1.32
  • Max. input resolution: 2K×1K@60Hz.
  • HDCP 1.4 compliant.
  • Does not support deinterlacing processing.
  • Does not support interlaced signal inputs.
  • Custom resolutions supported: Max. width: 3840 (3840×600@60Hz), Max. height: 1920 (800×1920@60Hz).
  • Force inputs supported: 600×3840@60Hz.
  • Accompanied audio input supported.
  • Loop output supported on HDMI 1.3-1.
Output Connectors
ConnectorQtyDescription
Ethernet ports4
  • Gigabit Ethernet port.
  • Max. loading capacity: 2.6 million pixels.
  • Max. width: 3840 pixels.
  • Max. height: 3840 pixels.
  • Only Ethernet port 1 supports audio output. When you use a multifunction card to parse the audio, be sure to connect the card to Ethernet port 1.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Front Panel Controls

The CMS260 can be operated using the controls on its front panel. Refer to the diagram and table below for an overview of each control's function.

CMS260 Front Panel Controls
Front Panel Appearance and Function table.
Front Panel Functions
No.AreaFunction
1LCD screenDisplay the device status, menus, submenus and messages.
2Knob
  • Rotate the knob to select a menu item or adjust the parameter value.
  • Press the knob to confirm the setting or operation.
3ESC buttonExit the current menu or cancel an operation.
4Control area (MAIN/PIP)Open or close a layer, and show the layer status.
  • On (blue): The layer is opened.
  • Flashing (blue): The layer is being edited.
  • On (white): The layer is closed.
Control area (SCALE)A shortcut button for the full screen function. Press the button to make the layer of the lowest priority fill the entire screen.
  • On (blue): Full screen scaling is turned on.
  • On (white): Full screen scaling is turned off.
5Input source buttonsShow the input source status and switch the layer input source. Status LEDs:
  • On (blue): An input source is accessed.
  • Flashing (blue): The input source is not accessed but used by the layer.
  • On (white): The input source is not accessed or the input source is abnormal.
6Shortcut function buttons
  • PRESET: Access the preset settings menu.
  • TEST: Access the test pattern menu.
  • FREEZE: Freeze the output image.
  • FN: A customizable button.

Note: Hold the knob and ESC button simultaneously for 3 seconds or longer to lock or unlock the front panel buttons.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Novastar CMS260 video processor, follow these general maintenance guidelines:

  • Cleaning: Regularly clean the exterior of the device with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents. Ensure ventilation openings are free from dust and debris.
  • Ventilation: Ensure the device is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating. Do not block any ventilation slots.
  • Firmware Updates: Check the manufacturer's website periodically for firmware updates. Keeping the firmware up-to-date can improve performance and add new features.
  • Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and organized to prevent accidental disconnections or damage.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your CMS260, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

  • No Display Output:
    • Verify all power connections are secure and the device is powered on.
    • Check that input sources are correctly connected and active.
    • Ensure Ethernet cables to the LED screen are properly connected.
    • Confirm the input source is selected on the front panel (check input source LEDs). If an input source LED is white, it indicates the source is not accessed or abnormal.
  • Distorted or Incorrect Image:
    • Check the input source resolution and refresh rate to ensure compatibility with the CMS260 and LED screen.
    • Verify scaling settings. Use the 'SCALE' button on the front panel to toggle full screen scaling.
    • If using custom resolutions, ensure they are within the supported range (Max. width 3840, Max. height 1920).
    • Perform pixel-level brightness and chroma calibration if image quality issues persist.
  • No Audio Output:
    • Ensure the HDMI input source is providing audio.
    • If using a multifunction card for audio output, confirm it is connected to Ethernet port 1.
    • Check the output volume adjustment settings.
  • Front Panel Buttons Unresponsive:
    • The front panel buttons might be locked. Hold the knob and ESC button simultaneously for 3 seconds or longer to unlock them.

7. Specifications

General Specifications
AttributeValue
Model NumberCMS260
Display FunctionVIDEO
Tube Chip ColorFull Color
OriginMainland China
Control Range2.6 million pixels
Max Output Width3840 pixels
Max Output Height3840 pixels
Package Length60 cm
Package Width40 cm
Package Height40 cm
Package Weight20.0 kg

8. User Tips

No specific user tips were available from the provided data. For best results, always ensure your LED display's resolution and configuration match the output settings of the CMS260.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please contact your seller or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase records handy for any inquiries.

The product is generally covered by service commitments that include free returns within 90 days and provisions for refunds in cases of delayed delivery, lost packages, or damaged items.

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