With the proliferation of LED video products in the market today, how does a live event production company even begin the daunting task of finding the right product for their applications? …Note that a low-quality LED may initially appear brighter than a superior one if the low-quality device has a higher drive current. But that extra current causes the LED to heat up quickly and ultimately fade or burn-out well short of the typical 100,000-hour lifetime of quality displays…The safest approach is to find a vendor that focuses solely on high-quality LED displays that meet specific brightness, contrast, uniformity, resolution, weight and lifetime criteria. Look for companies that use state-of-the-art LEDs and displays that can withstand repeated mobile or modular use, especially if your event is subject to harsh outdoor conditions (like festivals and sporting events) or heavy travel (such as concert tours). Also, make sure the vendor and the LED manufacturer will be available 24×7 – including weekends – in the event of any unforeseen problems on-site.
Chris Curtis, Guest Editorial, PLSN, Oct. 2010.
