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How a video wall controller works and how to set up splicing modes (1x4, 2x2, rotate)
Short answer: a video wall controller takes one HDMI source, like a computer, and spreads that single image across several TVs or monitors. Connect the source to an input, run one HDMI output to each TV, then use the remote to pick the splicing mode that matches how many screens you have (in my case one by four), choose 4K or 1080p, and use the output buttons to flip any screen that shows its part of the picture in the wrong place. Label every cable and keep the remote safe.
What a video wall controller does
If you have one of these devices and want to learn how to control it, here is everything I do step by step. The idea is simple: you have, for example, one computer, and you want a huge image from that computer's HDMI output. With the controller you can show it across four TVs or four monitors as one big picture.
In my setup I have four TVs, 65 inches each, but the size doesn't matter. It could be 85 inches, 55 inches, whatever; it is going to work the same. You can watch a movie on it perfectly, you will just see the division between the screens. I use mine as a wall behind me, so when I go live on my YouTube channel I have a nice video wall instead of something simple.
The ideal is to use four monitors or TVs with the same dimensions and the same resolution.
Inputs and outputs on the back
On the controller you have the inputs and the outputs. Mine has two inputs; I saw another model that has only one input, so it depends on what you need. Then there are four outputs, and each output goes to one TV.
On the front you have the lights and a button to select input one or input two, plus the ports. Once you start playing with the settings, the image can get messed up, so a little organization at this step saves a lot of time later.
Label your HDMI cables first
My strongest recommendation: mark everything. Write TV1, TV2, TV3 and TV4 next to the output ports, and note which HDMI port each TV uses (HDMI 1, 3, 4 or whatever you choose). Also mark the cables themselves, for instance with colored electrical tape, yellow, blue and so on, so you can recognize the wires very quickly.
If all the HDMI wires are organized, or you put letters on each one, it will make your life much easier when one screen shows the wrong part of the image.
Mounting the controller behind the TVs
I also recommend getting a 3D printer. Instead of leaving the controller hanging behind the wall, you can design and print your own holder and mount it right behind the TVs. In the video you can see it hanging temporarily while I was printing the bracket.
Using the remote: modes, resolution and rotation
The remote control does the real work:
- Input buttons select input one or input two.
- Mode buttons set the splicing layout. Mine is one by four because I have four TVs; if you have two or three TVs, press the button that matches your setup.
- On the top you choose the resolution, 4K or 1080p, plus mute and power on/off.
- Output buttons rotate the image on that output.
For example, when I press output one, the part of the image on that TV flips, so the area that was at the bottom goes to the top. The same works for the other outputs. That is the main adjustment you get, and it is very convenient for fixing a screen that is upside down. The other modes simply depend on how many TVs you have.
Don't lose the remote
If you lose this remote control, you're toast: you won't be able to control the device. It happened to me. I moved from one place to another, set everything up, and one of the monitors was not working. I had forgotten about the remote. When I checked the Amazon listing I remembered it comes with one. I pressed one by four and all the monitors became active. Without the right mode you may only get three or two monitors working.
If you want to hire me, my information is in the video description. I also leave the link to the same product I used, and if you are outside the United States and want me to ship it to you, just let me know.
Frequently asked questions
What does a video wall controller do?
It takes one HDMI source, such as a computer, and splits the image across several TVs or monitors so they work as one big screen.
Do the TVs have to be the same size?
The controller works with any size, 55, 65 or 85 inches, but the ideal is four screens with the same dimensions and the same resolution.
Why is one TV showing its part of the image upside down?
Press that TV's output button on the remote; it rotates the image on that output so the top and bottom swap.
What happens if I lose the remote?
You won't be able to change modes. If the wrong mode is active, only some monitors may work, so keep the remote safe.