In today’s fast-paced LED display industry, seamless visuals and real-time performance are essential. The Colorlight Z5 LED Controller delivers exceptional reliability and precision for broadcast studios, live events, and large installations. Featuring 4K-ready input, ultra-low latency, and Genlock synchronization, the Colorlight Z5 ensures smooth, immersive visuals. This guide covers its key features, specifications, and more.
Table of Content
1.What Is the Colorlight Z5 LED Controller?
The Colorlight Z5 is a high-end LED video controller designed to act as both a sending and processing hub for modern LED display systems. It supports not only signal transmission to LED receiving cards, but also advanced video features such as scaling, HDR conversion, genlock synchronization, and multiple display windows.
Its design targets demanding environments where real-time visual performance and color accuracy matter — such as concerts, broadcast studios, control rooms, and immersive display environments.
2.Key Features & Capabilities of Colorlight Z5
2.1 4K / HDR Input & High Pixel Capacity
Supports HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2, and 12G-SDI inputs at up to 4096×2160@60Hz, offering flexibility with modern video sources.
Maximum pixel capacity reaches 13.1 million (8-bit@60Hz) across all outputs — making it suitable for large UHD or multi-canvas setups.
Supports HDR10 and HLG, enabling high dynamic range visuals with deeper contrast and more vivid color gamut.
2.2 Massive Output & Dual Fiber Support
Comes with 20 Gigabit Ethernet ports (Neutrik etherCON), each capable of driving a substantial pixel load.
Also features 2×10G fiber SFP+ ports for long-distance, high-bandwidth transmission, mapping to the 20 network ports.
Supports redundancy on Ethernet ports and controller-level fallback to maintain display if one link fails.
2.3 Multi-Window & Layout Flexibility
Allows 3 independent windows on a single canvas, enabling live feed + video + graphics simultaneously.
Offers cropping, scaling, drag-and-drop layout, and window roaming, suitable for dynamic live content management.
2.4 Ultra-Low Latency & Genlock Sync
Delay is minimized to one frame or less, making synchronization with live sources (cameras, stage visuals) reliable.
Supports Genlock synchronization (bi-level/tri-level), essential for multi-controller setups and broadcast integration.
2.5 Color Calibration & Brightness Control
Provide fine-tuning for hue, saturation, contrast, brightness, and color temperature per-channel.
Network port grouping brightness control helps manage large displays with multiple segments.
2.6 Web-Based Control & Virtual Pixel Technology
Easily manage the Colorlight Z5 through its intuitive web-based interface—no software installation required. You can remotely adjust brightness, switch input sources, and save display layouts from any device running Windows, macOS, or Linux.
The built-in 3x/4x virtual pixel technology enhances image clarity on fine-pitch LED screens, transforming lower-resolution content into sharper, more vivid visuals.
2.7 Rugged Build & Industrial Design
Engineered for continuous 24/7 operation, the Colorlight Z5 ensures maximum stability with:
- Neutrik connectors for secure, dust-proof connections.
- Optional dual power redundancy and an integrated fuse for surge protection.
- Network port grouping, allowing partial system operation even in the event of hardware failure.
3.Colorlight Z5 LED Video Controller Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Spec / Feature |
|---|---|
| Supported Input Types | HDMI 2.0, DP 1.2, 12G-SDI |
| Max Input Resolution | 4096×2160@60Hz |
| Pixel Capacity | 13.1 million (8-bit@60Hz) |
| Output Interfaces | 20 × Gigabit Ethernet (etherCON) + 2 × 10G Fiber SFP+ |
| Supported Frame Rates | 23.98 Hz – 240 Hz |
| Color Depth | 8-bit / 10-bit input&processing |
| Windows / Layout | Up to 3 independent windows |
| Sync / Genlock | Bi-level / Tri-level, genlock loop-out |
| Control Interfaces | LAN, USB (for cascading), RS232 |
| Redundancy | Ethernet & controller redundancy |
| HDR Support | HDR10 / HLG |
| Dimensions / Rack Size | Approx. 482.6 mm × 88 mm × 407.1 mm (2U chassis) |
| Operating Temperature | –20 °C to +55 °C |
| Certifications | CE, FCC, CCC, CB, etc. |
4.Applications
4.1 Live Events & Concerts
When you need high-resolution visuals, multi-source content, and reliable synchronization, Z5’s ultra-low latency and multi-window layout capabilities make it an ideal choice for stage backdrops, immersive designs, or LED curtains.
4.2 Broadcast & Film Production
In broadcast studios or virtual production settings, accurate color, genlock sync, and HDR support help the LED display match camera output and visual storytelling demands.
4.3 Large Pixel-Wide LED Video Walls
For digital signage, facade screens, and advertising installations, Z5 supports ultra-wide resolutions (e.g., 16K width) using its custom resolution mode.
4.4 Exhibitions, Museums & Art Installations
These spaces often require dynamic visuals, multi-layer content, and high-fidelity color—areas where Z5’s flexibility and processing capabilities add value.
5.Colorlight Z5 LED Controller Pricing & Where to Buy
The Colorlight Z5 LED Controller is priced at approximately $3,638 USD, though the final cost may vary depending on your region, supplier, and configuration.
For accurate quotes or bulk order discounts, please contact ledcontrollercard or visit their official website for real-time pricing and availability.
6.Colorlight Z5 LED Controller Software & Manual Downloads
You can easily download the Colorlight LED control software, Specification, and setup manuals from the official Colorlight website or from leddisplayprice.com.
Manual
Colorlight Z5 LED Display Controller User Manual
Specification
Colorlight Z5 LED Video Controller Specification
Firmware Download
7.FAQs
Q1: Can the Z5 output to receiving cards directly or does it need a separate sending card?
A: The Z5 acts as the sending controller itself — no additional sending card is needed.
Q2: Does it support 120Hz or higher refresh rates?
A: Yes, Z5 supports frame rates between 23.98 Hz and up to 240 Hz, depending on configuration.
Q3: How many LED panels can it drive?
A: Up to 13.1 million pixels (8-bit @ 60 Hz). For higher frame rates or bit depths, the usable pixel count is lower.
Q4: Does Z5 support fiber transmission?
A: Yes, it supports 2× 10G fiber SFP+ links for long-distance distribution.
Q5: Is Z5 suitable for small LED screens or lower-resolution displays?
A: Yes—though its advanced features may be underutilized for simple setups, it still delivers reliability and future-proofing.
8.Conclusion
The Colorlight Z5 LED Controller is a powerful, future-ready solution for LED display systems demanding low latency, HDR rendering, synchronized video, and scalable output. Whether for live production, broadcast, advertising walls, or immersive installations, the Z5 brings advanced capabilities in a single, robust unit.
If your project demands precision, high visual fidelity, and operational reliability, Colorlight Z5 is an excellent choice to invest in.
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