Novastar MCTRL300

NovaStar MCTRL300 — the entry price, and it is enough more often than people think

The MCTRL300 is the entry point of NovaStar sending controllers: 1.3 million pixels over two Gigabit ports, one DVI input, a light sensor connector, in a compact 204 × 160 × 48 mm box weighing 1 kg. It draws 3 W.

Specifications

Capacity: 1,300,000 pixels (2 x 650,000), 1920 x 1200 @ 60 Hz input, 8-bit
Outputs: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet, port redundancy
Inputs: 1 x SL-DVI, 1 x audio
Extras: light sensor connector, cascade up to 20 units, UART IN/OUT, 1 x USB 2.0 type-B
Format: 204.0 x 160.0 x 48.0 mm, 1.04 kg — not 19-inch rackable
Power: AC 100–240 V, 3.0 W
Temperature: −20 °C to +60 °C

NovaStar MCTRL300 — technical analysis

1.3 million pixels is a 1.3 m² wall at P1.0, 8 m² at P2.5 or 20 m² at P3.9. In other words: the vast majority of signs, shop windows, totems and price panels an integrator sells. On those jobs, a higher-end controller changes nothing on screen and consumes budget better spent on the panel.

Two practical strengths the datasheet does not push. The light sensor connector allows automatic day/night regulation without a multifunction card — on a sign or shop window, exactly what is needed. And its 3 W draw makes it eligible for a small UPS. On the other hand it has only a DVI input: no HDMI, no VGA, no DisplayPort. Check the source before validating the chain.

• Signs and shop windows — the most common configuration, on budget.
• Totems and price panels — small area, automatic regulation.
• Small indoor screens — lobbies, shops, branches.
• Service spares — a compact, inexpensive replacement controller.
• Power-constrained installations — only 3 W.

• DVI input only — no HDMI or DisplayPort: check the source or plan a converter.
• 1.3 million pixels — roughly 8 m² at P2.5 or 20 m² at P3.9: enough for most signs.
• Light sensor — day/night regulation without a multifunction card.
• Not rackable — standalone 204 x 160 mm box, plan the mounting.
• 3 W — compatible with a small UPS.