Designing a videowall is not always as simple as choosing a wall and filling it with displays. There are several variables that need to be assessed first. Here’s a list of important considerations that can assist you in deciding upon the right shape and size to be the most effective for your application.
Purpose of the Videowall
Will the videowall be used as digital signage, an art installation, or in a control center? Depending on the usage, the size and shape will be partially dictated by the needs that are being fulfilled. For a control room, there is a very specific purpose and each part of the videowall will provide information that users need to monitor and perform tasks. The goal is to provide that information in a visible manner that is efficient and nothing else. In the case of a hotel lobby, a videowall may need to be large and flashy such as in a Vegas casino hotel—used primarily to create an engaging and exciting welcome, but not necessarily to provide information.
Aspect Ratio
Depending on how many displays high and wide a videowall may be, the aspect ratio may change. Typically, you don’t want to stray from displaying content in anything other than its native aspect ratio as it will look distorted.
Video Content Sources
The content you choose to use will also play an important role in determining the shape of your wall. If you are creating the content, then you have more freedom to explore more diverse videowall layouts. However, if you will be using existing content then you will need to consider this in the design as well. Can content be enlarged or reduced, upscaled or downscaled to fit the needs of your videowall? Will images or text be discernible if modified? These factors will impact the size of your videowall depending on how your content can be altered.
Comfortable Viewing
Whether in a control room situation where viewers will be looking from a desktop computer screen up to a videowall or in a public venue where people may be seated, standing, or both, eye and head tilt must be considered. You want to ensure a comfortable viewing position for onlookers. This requires a look at the general distance of the viewer to the videowall as well as the height.
