In the realm of LED video walls, particularly within virtual production and live broadcast environments, the scan rate—or scan ratio—is a critical specification that significantly influences on-camera performance. A lower scan ratio often translates to superior visual quality when captured by cameras.
What Is Scan Ratio?
The scan ratio refers to the number of LED rows that a driver IC (Integrated Circuit) controls simultaneously. For instance, a 1:16 scan ratio means the driver IC sequentially activates 1 out of every 16 rows at a time. Conversely, a lower scan ratio like 1:8 indicates that fewer rows are activated simultaneously, allowing for more precise control and faster refresh cycles.
Why Lower Scan Ratios Matter On Camera
When filming LED walls, especially in virtual production settings, cameras can capture artifacts such as flickering or banding if the LED refresh rate isn't sufficiently high. Lower scan ratios enable higher refresh rates and more consistent Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), reducing these visual artifacts. This results in cleaner, more seamless footage, crucial for maintaining the illusion of immersive environments.
The Trade-Offs
While lower scan ratios offer enhanced on-camera performance, they can come with increased costs and complexity. More driver ICs are needed, and power consumption may rise. However, for applications where visual fidelity is paramount—such as film, television, and high-end live events—the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks.
Impress LED's Commitment
At ImpressLED, we prioritize delivering LED solutions that meet the rigorous demands of modern production environments. Our products are designed with optimal scan ratios to ensure exceptional on-camera performance, providing our clients with the tools they need to create stunning visual experiences.
Conclusion
Understanding and selecting the appropriate scan ratio is vital for achieving the best on-camera results with LED walls. By focusing on lower scan ratios, professionals can minimize visual artifacts and deliver high-quality content that meets today's production standards.