Description
NovaStar MSD300 / MCTRL300 LED Display Sending Card — M3 Series 1.3 Million Pixel DVI Controllers & Standalone Sending Box with Dual Ethernet & Audio
The NovaStar M3 series LED display sending card & controller box is available in two configurations — the LED display sending card / box (bare card for integration into sending boxes) and the MCTRL300 standalone sending box (independent controller with built-in power supply and metal housing). Both deliver identical 1.3 million pixel loading capacity, DVI video input, dual Gigabit Ethernet output with hot backup, audio transmission, and USB cascading control for professional GOB LED display systems. Supports resolutions: 1280×1024@60Hz, 1024×1200@60Hz, 1600×848@60Hz, 1920×712@60Hz, 2048×668@60Hz. Certified CE/RoHS/EAC/FCC/IC.


What Is the NovaStar M3 Series LED display sending card / box?
The NovaStar M3 series represents NovaStar’s foundational line of professional LED display control systems, designed for reliable, cost-effective signal distribution in rental LED displays, fixed installation LED displays, and commercial advertising screens worldwide. The series is offered in two form factors to match different installation requirements: the MSD300 LED display sending card — a compact bare card designed for integration into third-party sending boxes or custom LED cabinet designs — and the MCTRL300 sending box — a fully independent controller housed in a rugged metal enclosure with built-in AC power supply, ready for immediate deployment without additional hardware.
Both models share identical core processing capabilities, delivering 1.3 million pixel loading capacity distributed across dual Gigabit Ethernet output ports (650,000 pixels per port), DVI video input, 3.5mm audio input, USB Type-B control, and UART cascading for multi-unit synchronization. Developed by NovaStar, the world’s leading LED display control manufacturer, the M3 series LED display sending card / box has become one of the best-selling controller platforms globally, trusted by thousands of installations across 90+ countries for applications ranging from concert stages to corporate boardrooms.
MSD300 LED display sending card vs MCTRL300 controller box — Choose the Right Form Factor for Your Project
| Specification | MSD300 LED display sending card | MCTRL300 LED display sending box |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Bare sending card (PCB board only) | Standalone controller with metal housing |
| Power Supply | DC 3.3V – 5.5V (requires external power) | AC 100V-240V~50/60Hz built-in (independent power supply) |
| Dimensions | 130.1 mm × 99.7 mm × 14.0 mm | 204.0 mm × 160.0 mm × 48.0 mm |
| Net Weight | 104.3 g | 1.04 kg |
| Installation | Installs into sending box or LED cabinet | Plug-and-play standalone unit |
| Ideal For | OEM integration, custom cabinet designs, existing sending box upgrades | Rental events, quick deployment, field operations, standalone setups |
| Price | $260.00 (was $300.00) | $380.00 (was $500.00) |
| Stock | 500 units in stock | 100 units in stock |
Which one should you choose? Select the MSD300 LED display sending card if you are building custom LED control systems, integrating into existing sending boxes, or manufacturing LED display cabinets with built-in control modules. Choose the MCTRL300 LED display control box if you need a ready-to-use, standalone controller for rental LED displays, live events, or installations where rapid deployment and independent operation are priorities. Both deliver identical video processing performance, resolution support, and control capabilities.

LED display sending card / Box – 1.3 Million Pixel Loading Capacity — Power Meets Precision
At the heart of both the MSD300 LED display sending card and MCTRL300 LED display sending box is their impressive 1.3 million pixel loading capacity, distributed across two independent Gigabit Ethernet output ports with 650,000 pixels per port. This substantial processing power enables the M3 series LED display sending card & Controller box to drive a wide range of display configurations without compromising image quality or refresh rate stability. Both models natively support multiple standard resolutions optimized for different aspect ratios and application scenarios:
- 1280×1024@60Hz — Ideal for indoor LED displays and meeting room video walls with 5:4 aspect ratio
- 1024×1200@60Hz — Perfect for portrait-oriented digital signage and LED poster displays
- 1600×848@60Hz — Optimized for wide cinematic stage LED screens and broadcast monitors
- 1920×712@60Hz — Ultra-wide format for stadium perimeter displays and highway LED billboards
- 2048×668@60Hz — Maximum width configuration for panoramic LED video walls
Beyond these preset resolutions, both models also support custom resolution configurations with a maximum width of 3840 pixels (3840×600@60Hz) or maximum height of 3840 pixels (548×3840@60Hz), providing exceptional flexibility for non-standard display designs and creative LED installations. Both models accept progressive scan signals only — interlaced signals are not supported — ensuring clean, flicker-free output for professional applications.
Dual Ethernet Output with Hot Backup — Zero-Downtime Reliability
A standout feature of the M3 series LED display sending card / Control box is its dual Gigabit Ethernet output architecture with built-in hot backup redundancy. Each RJ45 port can independently drive up to 650,000 pixels, and in the event of a cable failure or port malfunction, the system automatically switches to the backup path without interrupting the display. This failover capability is essential for mission-critical applications such as security monitoring centers, live event LED walls, and broadcast studios where even a momentary signal loss is unacceptable.
The dual-port design also enables expanded signal distribution for larger LED video walls. By connecting each port to a separate chain of MRV series receiving cards, the M3 series can effectively double the horizontal span of the display without requiring additional sending hardware. This scalability makes both the MSD300 LED display sending card and MCTRL300 controller box cost-effective solutions for growing fixed installation LED displays that may need to expand over time.
Integrated Audio Transmission — Synchronized Sound & Vision
Unlike many basic LED controllers that handle video only, both the MSD300 LED display sending card and MCTRL300 LED display sending box feature a dedicated 3.5mm audio input jack that enables synchronized audio transmission alongside video signals. The audio data is embedded into the Ethernet output stream and can be extracted at the receiving card level for playback through external amplifiers or powered speakers. This integrated audio capability eliminates the need for separate audio distribution systems, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter in conference room LED displays, retail advertising screens, and entertainment venues.
USB Control & UART Cascading — Scalable Multi-Display Management
Both models communicate with the host PC via a Type-B USB port, providing a stable, high-speed control channel for configuration, firmware updates, and real-time monitoring through NovaStar’s NovaLCT software. For larger installations requiring multiple controllers, both the MSD300 LED display sending card and MCTRL300 sending box support cascading of up to 20 units through their dual UART ports (IN and OUT), enabling unified control of complex LED video wall arrays from a single computer without additional control hardware.
This cascading architecture is particularly valuable for rental LED display companies managing multi-screen setups at concerts, trade shows, and corporate events, where rapid configuration and synchronized playback across dozens of display cabinets are essential. Each cascaded unit can be individually addressed and configured, allowing technicians to customize resolution, brightness, and color settings for different zones of the display while maintaining overall system coherence.
Pixel-Level Calibration Technology — Perfect Color Uniformity
Working in conjunction with NovaLCT and NovaCLB calibration software, both the MSD300 LED display sending card and MCTRL300 sending box support next-generation pixel-level brightness and chroma calibration. This advanced process measures the light output of each individual LED pixel across the entire display, then generates correction coefficients that eliminate brightness variations and color shifts between adjacent modules. The result is a perfectly uniform image with consistent brightness and chromaticity from edge to edge — critical for high-end fine pitch LED displays, GOB LED screens, and broadcast-quality video walls where viewers are positioned close to the display surface.
Ambient Light Sensor Integration — Intelligent Brightness Control
Both models of LED display sending card & Control box include a dedicated light sensor connector that enables integration with external ambient light sensors (such as the NovaStar NS060). When connected, the system automatically adjusts display brightness based on real-time environmental lighting conditions — increasing output in bright daylight for outdoor LED billboards and reducing intensity in dimly lit indoor venues. This intelligent brightness management not only improves viewer comfort and visibility but also significantly extends LED module lifespan and reduces power consumption, delivering long-term operational cost savings.

M3 Series vs MCTRL600 — Choose the Right Controller for Your Project
| Specification | MSD300 / MCTRL300 (M3 Series) | MCTRL600 |
|---|---|---|
| Pixel Loading Capacity | 1.3 million pixels | 2.3 million pixels |
| Video Input | 1 × SL-DVI | 1 × SL-DVI + 1 × HDMI 1.3 |
| Ethernet Outputs | 2 × Gigabit RJ45 | 4 × Gigabit RJ45 |
| Audio Input | 1 × 3.5mm audio jack | 1 × HDMI/external audio |
| Max Resolution | 1920×1200@60Hz | 1920×1200@60Hz |
| Cascading Capacity | Up to 20 units | Up to 20 units |
| Gray Scale Processing | 8-bit | 12-bit/10-bit/8-bit |
| Video Formats | RGB | RGB, YCrCb4:2:2, YCrCb4:4:4 |
| Ideal For | Small to medium LED displays, rental events, retail signage, budget-conscious projects | Large video walls, high-end broadcast, multi-screen synchronization, 4K applications |
| Price Point | Cost-effective ($260-$380) | Premium performance ($800+) |
For most rental LED display and fixed installation projects, the MSD300 LED display sending card / MCTRL300 sending box strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability. The MCTRL600 is recommended only for ultra-large displays exceeding 1.3 million pixels or applications requiring HDMI input and 12-bit color depth processing.
Complete Interface Configuration
| Video Input | 1 × SL-DVI (supports up to 1920×1200@60Hz, custom max 3840×600) |
| Audio Input | 1 × 3.5mm stereo audio jack |
| Ethernet Output | 2 × RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet (650,000 pixels per port, redundancy supported) |
| Control Port | 1 × Type-B USB (PC communication & firmware updates) |
| Cascade Ports | 2 × UART (IN/OUT, supports up to 20-unit cascading) |
| Sensor Port | 1 × Light sensor connector (ambient brightness auto-adjustment) |
| MSD300 Input Voltage | DC 3.3V – 5.5V |
| MCTRL300 Input Voltage | AC 100V-240V~50/60Hz (built-in power supply) |
| Power Consumption | 3W (rated), 2.5W (typical) |
| MSD300 Dimensions | 130.1 mm × 99.7 mm × 14.0 mm |
| MCTRL300 Dimensions | 204.0 mm × 160.0 mm × 48.0 mm |
| MSD300 Net Weight | 104.3 g |
| MCTRL300 Net Weight | 1.04 kg |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +60°C (MCTRL300) / -20°C to +75°C (MSD300) |
| Operating Humidity | 10% RH – 90% RH (non-condensing) |
| Certifications | CE, RoHS, EAC, FCC, IC, PFOS, CB, EMC |
Application Scenarios — Where M3 Series LED display sending card / box controllers Excel
- Concert & Live Event LED Walls — Dual Ethernet hot backup ensures uninterrupted performance during high-stakes performances; MCTRL300’s standalone design enables rapid field deployment
- Security Monitoring Centers — 24/7 reliability with automatic failover; pixel-level calibration ensures color accuracy for surveillance video analysis
- Sports Stadium & Arena Displays — Wide temperature tolerance handles outdoor exposure; light sensor integration auto-adjusts for day/night visibility
- Retail & Shopping Mall Advertising — Cost-effective 1.3M pixel capacity perfect for medium-sized indoor LED billboards; audio transmission enables synchronized promotional content
- Corporate Conference Rooms — MSD300’s compact size fits standard LED cabinet designs; DVI input compatible with all major presentation systems and video conferencing hardware
- Broadcast Studios & TV Stations — Progressive scan output ensures flicker-free capture on professional cameras; calibration technology delivers broadcast-grade color uniformity
- Exhibition & Trade Show Booths — MCTRL300’s plug-and-play design enables rapid deployment; cascading supports expandable booth designs from single-screen to multi-panel video walls
- Transportation Hubs & Wayfinding — Reliable signal distribution for airport, train station, and metro platform digital signage networks
- OEM LED Display Manufacturing — MSD300 bare card form factor ideal for integration into custom LED cabinet designs and third-party sending boxes
Why Choose GOB LED Display Sending Card /Box – NovaStar M3 Series Controllers
- Two Form Factors, One Performance — Choose MSD300 for OEM integration or MCTRL300 for standalone deployment; identical processing power in both
- Proven Global Reliability — One of the best-selling LED display controllers worldwide, trusted by thousands of installations across 90+ countries
- 1.3 Million Pixel Power — Sufficient capacity for most commercial, rental, and corporate LED display applications
- Dual Ethernet Redundancy — Hot backup failover ensures zero signal interruption for mission-critical displays
- Integrated Audio Channel — Synchronized sound and video transmission eliminates separate audio infrastructure
- 20-Unit Cascading — Scalable from single-screen to massive video wall arrays without additional control hardware
- Pixel-Level Calibration — NovaStar’s advanced calibration technology delivers perfect brightness and color uniformity
- Intelligent Brightness Control — Light sensor integration auto-adjusts display output for optimal visibility and energy efficiency
- Wide Environmental Tolerance — Operates reliably from -20°C to +75°C, suitable for indoor and outdoor deployments
- Ultra-Low Power Consumption — Only 3W rated power reduces heat generation and operational costs
- Full International Certification — CE, RoHS, EAC, FCC, IC, PFOS, CB, and EMC compliant for global deployment
- Exceptional Value — MSD300 at $260 and MCTRL300 at $380 deliver professional-grade performance at unbeatable price points
Compatible Products — Build Your Complete NovaStar LED Control System
The MSD300 LED display sending card and MCTRL300 controller box work seamlessly with the following GOB LED Display control system components to create a complete, professional LED display solution:
- MRV Series Receiving Cards — MRV328, MRV412, MRV336, MRV208 receiving cards with mapping, 3D support, and color calibration
- MCTRL600 Sending Box — 4K video splicing processor with HDMI/DVI inputs for large-scale LED video walls
- MCTRL 4K Processor — Ultra-HD LED display controller for demanding broadcast and stadium applications
- MCTRL660 Pro Sending Box — Advanced LED displat sending card/box with enhanced processing for high-refresh-rate LED displays
- NovaLCT Software — Professional LED display configuration, calibration, and monitoring platform
Packaging & Shipping
| Shipping Terms | CFR By Sea / FOB By Air |
| MSD300 Packaging | Anti-static bag + foam cushioning + reinforced carton (335×190×62mm inner box / 400×365×355mm master carton) |
| MCTRL300 Packaging | Cardboard box: 280 mm × 210 mm × 120 mm with accessories |
| MSD300 Accessories | 1 × Power Cord, 1 × USB Cable, 1 × DVI Cable |
| MCTRL300 Accessories | 1 × Power Cord, 1 × USB Cable, 1 × DVI Cable, 1 × Cascading Cable (1 meter) |
| Minimum Order | 1 unit (bulk discounts available for 50+ units) |
| Lead Time | MSD300: 500 units in stock — ships within 3-5 business days | MCTRL300: 100 units in stock — ships within 3-5 business days |
| Warranty | 2-year standard warranty on all M3 series controllers |
Warranty & Guarantee of LED display sending card / LED display controller box
- No-Risk Money Back Guarantee — 30-day return policy for unused products in original packaging
- Hassle-Free Refund Policy — Full refund within warranty period for manufacturing defects
- Secure Payment Processing — SSL-encrypted transactions via major credit cards, PayPal, and wire transfer
- 2-Year Standard Warranty — Covers controller hardware, firmware, and Ethernet ports
- Lifetime Technical Support — Remote diagnostics, firmware updates, and email support from certified NovaStar engineers
- Free Configuration Assistance — Our technical team provides remote setup guidance for first-time installations
Industry Resources & References
- NovaStar Official Website — LED display control system manufacturer, software downloads, and technical documentation
- LEDinside Market Research — Global LED industry trends, technology analysis, and market forecasts
- Digital Signage Federation — Industry standards, best practices, and certification guidelines for digital displays
- AVIXA (InfoComm International) — Global AV industry authority, CTS certification, and professional education resources
- Digital Signage Expo (DSE) — LED display exhibition, product showcases, and industry education events
For more inquiry: led@soarapex.com












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