Decoding LG’s Commercial Display Lineup: Made Easy

When it comes to selecting the right commercial display, LG has a vast range of models that can feel overwhelming at first glance. With constant innovation and upgrades, navigating this lineup can seem complex. But don’t worry—once you crack the code behind LG’s model naming conventions, choosing the perfect display becomes a breeze. Let’s break it down so you can decode LG’s commercial displays like a seasoned pro!

Below, you’ll find practical tips to help you navigate LG’s commercial display lineup. Whether you’re specifying displays for a project, finding a model that fits your budget, or overcoming inventory challenges by identifying suitable alternatives, these tips will make the process simpler. While the details may change from time to time, these rules of thumb have proven to be consistently helpful, and I hope they are for you too!

Note: These tips apply to LG’s standard commercial display lineup. Other product categories, like Commercial Lite (TV), touchscreen displays, and DvLED screens, have their own naming conventions. We’ll cover those another time!

Step One: Size It Up

The first two digits in any LG commercial display model indicate the display size (in inches). For example:

  • 86UH5E: The “86” tells you it’s an 86-inch display.
  • 49ULJ5: The “49” signals a 49-inch display.

Pretty simple, right? Once you spot those first two numbers, you know the screen size.

Step Two: Understand the Series

The next two letters in the model number tell you about the display’s performance level:

  • UH: These are high-end models, offering premium features like higher brightness levels (500–700 nits) and versatile orientation options (landscape and portrait modes).
  • UM: Mid-tier models. These may have slightly lower brightness or fewer orientation options but still deliver solid performance.
  • UL: These are entry-level models—Less bells and whistles but still dependable and more affordable.

Step Three: Brightness Levels

The first number after the series code indicates brightness—a crucial factor based on the display’s environment:

  • 5: 500 nits, ideal for standard indoor settings.
  • 7: 700 nits, great for areas with more ambient light, like storefronts.
  • 3: 300 nits, suitable for controlled lighting environments.

Step Four: Model Variations

Next, you’ll often see one or two additional letters. These represent minor differences between models, like the version of webOS the display uses or slight dimensional variations. While these may seem small, they can be key depending on your specific application.

example specs of display modelsFor example, you can quickly tell that the 75UL has fewer features than the 75UH just by the “UL” in the model number. Meanwhile, comparing the 75UH5J-M to the 75UH5E-B, you’ll notice the differences are minor. However, changes like the webOS version could make or break your project, so always double-check the specs before finalizing your choice!

Decoder Key:

  • First two digits: Display size in inches.
  • Next two letters: Performance tier (UH = high-end, UM = mid-tier, UL = Less features/ entry-level).
  • First number after the letters: Brightness level (e.g., 5 = 500 nits).
  • Last few letters: Minor model variations (e.g., webOS version or specific features).

Now that you’ve got the basics down, decoding LG’s commercial display models is a piece of cake! Whether you’re setting up a high-end digital signage solution or finding a reliable mid-range option, you can confidently choose the right display for your needs.

Looking to crack the code on more complex solutions? Our Business Development Team—featuring brand specialists, technical experts, and category pros—is here to guide you through advanced inquiries. Whether you need support with displays or assistance specifying mounts, audio, control systems, or any essential components to bring your projects together, Exertis Almo has your back!

Want to know more? Check out Tiff’s other blog “Amping Up Government Operations: Rocking out with cutting-edge AV gear
Tiff Jones-Morton headshot-frame
About the Author

Tiff Jones-Morton | DSCE

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: LG Business Solutions (NE, SE, MW)

Contact Exertis Almo for product info, inventory availability, or to start a quote.

The AV MBA | You Can’t Always Get What You Want

options to considerAs I write this article, my truck is in the shop having new tires put on. Buying tires is one of my least favorite purchases of all time!!! Yet every few years I go through the same process. Gather my tire size information, check some tire websites, identify my needs in terms of performance (I live in Buffalo, NY, so a tire that performs well in the snow is a must!!!), establish my budget, read some reviews, select my top picks, shop prices, book the appointment.

This time around, I’m coming off a set of tires that performed very poorly in terms of mileage. They only lasted 24,000 miles and I rotated them every 5,000 miles. That is TERRIBLE!!! Additionally, they had a highway tread, which was good for gas mileage, but didn’t give me the traction I needed in the deep Buffalo snow. Finally, my service to this point has been done at the dealer. However, my free service package has timed out, and the dealer is farther away and more expensive than most of my local shops, so I am no longer motivated to use them.

Based on those factors, I shopped around for an All-Terrain tire at a discounted price from what my dealership was offering that got great reviews and picked the lowest priced local auto shop. While the tire I chose is more expensive than my original set, I will get better on-road performance and a longer tread life. This brings my total cost of ownership below the level of my current set of tires. I can live with that.assess the tradeoffs

Weighing the Options for Your Next AV Project

When working on audio-video (AV) projects, there are several tradeoffs to consider ensuring the project meets its objectives while staying within budget and time constraints. Here are some key tradeoffs:

Cost vs. Quality

    • High-Quality Equipment: Investing in top-tier equipment can provide superior audio and video quality, but it comes at a higher cost.
    • Budget-Friendly Options: Opting for more affordable equipment can save money but might compromise on performance and longevity.

Complexity vs. Usability

    • Advanced Features: Incorporating advanced features and automation can enhance functionality but may require more complex setup and user training.
    • Simplicity: A simpler system is easier to use and maintain but might lack some advanced capabilities.

Flexibility vs. Specificity

    • Flexible Systems: Designing a system that can adapt to various uses and future upgrades can be beneficial but might be more expensive and complex.
    • Specific Systems: Tailoring the system to specific needs can be more cost-effective and straightforward but may limit future adaptability.

Aesthetics vs. Functionality

    • Aesthetic Design: Prioritizing the visual appeal of the setup can enhance the user experience but might limit equipment choices and placement.
    • Functional Design: Focusing on functionality ensures optimal performance but might result in a less visually appealing setup.

Scalability vs. Initial Investment

    • Scalable Solutions: Investing in scalable solutions allows for future expansion but requires a higher initial investment.
    • Fixed Solutions: Implementing a fixed solution can be more affordable initially but may not accommodate future growth.

Integration vs. Independence

    • Integrated Systems: Integrating AV systems with other building systems (like lighting and HVAC) can provide seamless control but increases complexity and cost.
    • Independent Systems: Keeping systems independent simplifies installation and maintenance but might reduce overall efficiency and user experience.

Maintenance vs. Initial Cost

    • High-Quality, Low-Maintenance Equipment: Investing in high-quality equipment can reduce long-term maintenance costs but requires a higher initial investment.
    • Lower-Cost, Higher-Maintenance Equipment: Choosing cheaper equipment can save on initial costs but may lead to higher maintenance expenses over time.

balancing tradeoffsBalancing these tradeoffs requires careful planning and consideration of the project’s specific needs and constraints. Conducting a feasibility study and involving all stakeholders in the planning process can help identify the best approach 1 2. This way, you will be on the road to success and avoid getting stuck in the mud!!!

Is there a specific aspect of AV projects you’re focusing on or a particular challenge you’re facing? Get in touch to discuss.

Want more business development advice? Check out Tom’s earlier blog, “The AV MBA: Put Your Keys on the Dash!“.
Tom Keefe BDM

About the Author

Tom Keefe | CTS, DMC-D-4K, DSCE

Category Manager – dvLED

Supported Category: Direct View LED

AV Design Engineering vs. Project Engineering

Project vs. Design Engineering

When I first joined the AV industry almost 20 years ago, I worked as a project manager for a small integrator in Baltimore. My understanding of AV engineering at that time could be summarized as “there are real engineers (those that worked for my company) and then there are consultants and designers”. The rationale for this skewed perspective was simple: consultants and designers handed us (the integrator) a design full of holes and assumptions, and it was our job to fix those “mistakes” and turn the project into a real-life system that a real-life person could use and benefit from.

av integratorOf course, this naïve and incorrect view was the result of being on only one side of the fence. In the following years, I have been lucky enough to serve in several different roles throughout the industry, from design engineer at a major university, to project engineer, to consultant. Each of these roles has presented different sets of challenges, but more importantly, they have allowed me to see the industry from both sides of the fence, and how each of these roles complement each other to produce satisfactory results for clients and end users.

So what are the actual differences between the “project” engineering and “design” engineering roles? From a distance, these can appear to be two descriptions of the same task, but as we’ll see the differences are significant, beneficial, and necessary for the success of larger-scale projects.

Definitions

For the purposes of this post, we’ll divide the engineering roles into two categories: Project Engineering and Design Engineering. Project Engineering is typically undertaken by one or multiple engineers working for or on behalf of an AV Integrator to produce construction drawings to be used by installers working for that integrator. Design Engineering, on the other hand, is typically undertaken by an independent consultant or pre-sales engineer, creating conceptual drawings which will typically be used by an integrator to create construction drawings.

Goals

As previously stated, an AV Project Engineer is producing construction-level drawings which will actually be used by technicians to install a system. This entails a much higher level of detail and specificity than expected in design-level drawings. As products are being purchased and labor hours are being spent based on the information contained in the drawing package, money is on the line. Every connector, cable, adaptor, and piece of mounting hardware must be accounted for and documented. Cable pull sheets can be generated from these drawings, so cables must be identified and labeled in an understandable scheme. The financial (and technical) success of the installation and project are often reliant upon the accuracy of these drawings. For example, if a Project Engineer overlooks the need for HDMI extension for a long cable run, an extender set may need to be ordered from the field, which can lead to project delays and significant cost impacts.

By contrast, the AV Design Engineer is responsible for creating a design set of conceptual drawings which reflect the project goals set forth by the end user. These conceptual drawings will then be interpreted by the Project Engineer to create the construction drawings. The Design Engineer is expected to have a much closer relationship with the end user, to ensure that the project goals are met, while considering any constraints (budget, timeline, aesthetics) identified by the end user.

Time and Money

Why then do we need to have design drawings at all? Why can’t the Project Engineer simply take the end user’s goals and design the system to construction level all by themselves without the need for a Design Engineer?

As with many things in business and life, the answer comes down to time and money. A Design Engineer is typically contracted directly to the end user or architect via a design contract. This happens very early in the development process, before contractors have been hired. The design team then has the time to meet with the client and stakeholders well before “boots are on the ground”. Budgets can be established, designs can be iterated and reiterated (and re-reiterated) with minimal impact on the overall project budget. Put simply, it is easy and relatively cost-free to make design changes on paper. Changes on-site are a different matter altogether.

Once construction contracts have been issued, boots are on the ground, and drywall is being hung, changes to the design of a system can have massive cost implications. Most integrators do not have engineers on staff that they can commit to being part of a multi-month or multi-year design process. Once they have been hired, they are on the clock to finish the project with (hopefully) a bit of profit in their pockets.

Relationships

An often-overlooked aspect of the importance of the division of the design and project engineering roles is that of impartiality and bias in relationships. While it can be expected that, as professionals, both Project and Design Engineers should value the relationship with the client equally highly as their bottom line, the same expectation might not always be true when it comes to product selection.

business relationshipsAV integrators, by their nature, must have relationships with the manufacturers of products that they sell and install. To ensure competitive pricing, on-time delivery, and pre- and post-sale support, integrators must cultivate and maintain these manufacturer relationships. Through no fault of their own, this means that integrators will tend to want to sell products provided by manufacturers with which they have good relationships.

While this is all well and good for the integrator, the needs of the project and end user may dictate equipment made by other manufacturers. This is where the value of independent Design Engineers and Consultants is made known. Rather than relying on the product offerings of a few select manufacturers, the independent Design Engineer can select the proper product for the application, regardless of the manufacturer.

Conclusion

While I wish I could go back and tell my younger self these important distinctions, the truth is that it took living and working in both the design and project engineering roles to truly appreciate the differences, as well as the necessity of both roles in the industry. Successful deployments of large-scale AV projects require both the design and project engineer specializations, and we should all be thankful for that!

Interested in more design or engineering related content? Check out “Revisiting ADA Mounting Requirements“.

John Rossman - headshot-frame

About the Author

John Rossman | CTS

BDM II – Technical Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: Harman ProfessionalAKG, AMX, BSS, Crown, DBX, JBL, Lexicon, Martin, & Soundcraft

Esports on Campus: The Role of ProAV in Competitive Gaming

As Esports continues to surge in popularity, college campuses are emerging as key players in the competitive gaming landscape. From campus gaming centers and dedicated arenas to immersive broadcasting experiences, universities are investing in professional audiovisual (Pro AV) solutions to elevate their Esports programs. For systems integrators, this represents a unique opportunity to provide the advanced technology needed to support high-performance gaming environments.

Absen - esports case studiesLet’s explore the key categories of Pro AV technology essential for creating cutting-edge Esports facilities on college campuses and how integrators can play a vital role in the process.

Displays and Video Walls

High-quality displays, including large-format monitors, video walls, and projectors, are essential for both players and spectators. In gaming arenas, video walls allow for large-scale broadcasting of matches, while individual monitors ensure players have the highest resolution and refresh rates for competitive gaming.

The Absen KLCOB Series utilizes professional Micro LED technology for reliable and stable performance that stays cool. Check out these Absen esports case studies.JBL-SRX910LA speaker variety

Audio Systems

Clear and immersive audio is crucial for the player experience and for spectators. Advanced speaker systems and surround sound setups enhance gameplay immersion, while PA systems or distributed audio ensure audiences in live events can hear game commentary and match details.

JBL’s SRX900 Series addresses the growing need for scalable small and medium-format professional sound-reinforcement solutions. The SRX910LA is a two-way active line array element that can cover a variety of mid to large-sized applications. Want to know more? These JBL esports case studies may be of interest.

Broadcast and Streaming Equipment

Esports requires robust streaming capabilities. This includes video capture devices, professional-grade cameras, switchers, and encoding hardware for live streaming games to platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Professional lighting setups are also needed for player cams and audience viewability.lc200 bundle 51pb

Lumen’s Media Processor Bundle equips your space with the ability to record, store and stream video content including the LC200 CaptureVision system and PTZ cameras.

Atlona AVoIP case study gaming center

Control Systems and Signal Management

To manage all the audiovisual elements seamlessly, integrated control systems are needed. This includes AV-over-IP solutions for routing signals across multiple screens, gaming setups, and feeds, along with signal processors to ensure smooth transitions between live feeds, game replays, and announcements.

Atlona Velocity Hardware Gateway AT-VGW-HW-3 provides AV system control, plus room scheduling and AV asset management, and the Velocity System 7″ VESA Mount Touch Panel is designed for both AV control and room scheduling applications.
Atlona Velocity and Vesa touch panel
Optimized for video distribution over GbE infrastructure, deliver the highest quality 4K imagery with extremely low latency to video walls with the Atlona AT-OMNI-121 networked AV decoder featuring the advanced VCx™ codec which delivers artifact-free image presentation, ultra-fast switching, and ultra-low latency. Pair with AT-OMNI-111 AVoIP Encoder. For more insights, check out the Atlona AVoIP in Education and Esports case study.

Esports is a Growing Industry

These technologies are essential to creating an immersive and professional Esports environment on campus, elevating both player performance and viewer engagement.
SONY - Esports - Exertis Almo Webinar

As noted by rAVe in this 2024 “Esports and ProAV“ webinar description, “Virtually every college and university in North America is exploring ways to incorporate Esports on their campuses. Over 75 colleges in the USA already recognize it as a Division 1 sport. Moreover, the International Olympic Committee is considering its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.”

Esports on college campuses is not just a trend—it’s an evolving industry that demands sophisticated Pro AV solutions. From displays and audio systems to live streaming setups and control systems, the right technology ensures a seamless and engaging experience for players, spectators, and broadcasters alike.

By partnering with a trusted AV distributor like Exertis Almo, integrators can confidently deliver solutions for campus gaming centers as well as meet the high standards of collegiate Esports, positioning their clients at the forefront of this dynamic market.

Ready to level up your next Esports installation? Contact us today to explore how we can help bring your vision to life.

Want to know more about AV tech for education? Check out “Audio-Visual Trends in Higher Education That Elevate the Learning Experience“.

The Value of Expertise

“Old age and treachery beats youth and enthusiasm every time” is an old saying that I’ve used on numerous occasions – certainly, more often now as I continue to make laps around the sun.

A colleague and I had a fun bit of banter on this topic recently:

Him: Youth provides new perspectives and new solutions.
Me: But lacks maturity, wisdom and expertise.
Him: and fear and baggage, and bad habits to unlearn.
Me: “Old Age and Treachery Beats Youth and Enthusiasm Every Time.”
Him: There is value to both.
Me: Can arrive at solutions quickly. Avoids common pitfalls. Can discern between real change and fads.
Him: There is value to both.

(When you repeat yourself, you’ve lost. Just sayin’)

train station EnglandWant to know something? Ask someone who has been around a while. An example of this was back in 2007 as I got off the train in Guilford in Surrey, England. I needed directions to my hotel and since the information center was closed, I made inquiry with the nearest group of locals. They were younger and had never heard of the place. Their knowledge was limited. Afterwards I sought assistance from a much older person that I saw. Instant useable information. He knew his small town and how to get around.

A deep knowledge level was evident with a colleague of mine that recently retired. He had well over 30 years in AV and was well versed in products, applications, installations and the audiovisual business as a whole. Extremely knowledgeable with field experience, always willing to assist, mentor and never arrogant. (That description actually fits almost all of “The Greats” that I’ve ever been associated with in this industry and it’s one of the unique things that I treasure about it.)

I was first introduced to this new colleague right after Exertis and Almo became Exertis Almo. As audio people tend to do, we like to size one another up in conversation. What we really want to know is whether or not this person knows their stuff. There are a lot of supposed audio people out there and we want to separate the wheat from the chaff very quickly so we’re not wasting our time.

As an aside, it’s said that the only thing two sound people can agree on is how to spend a third sound person’s money.

Audio people can be a very opinionated bunch.

team opinions collaborationIn this case, what I discovered was a person with much the same in product preferences and a similar approach in design philosophy. It was very beneficial, when either of us got a project, to get on a Zoom call to discuss, assess and quickly arrive at an effective design approach. Yes, the client may have been inquiring about a product or solution they’d seen but we could also look beyond at what problem they might be trying to address with that equipment or inquiry. It helped us to better get to a real solution rather than just coming up with a list of boxes that could be sold. There’s a lot of value in that and it comes only with experience.

From the friendly banter noted above, my colleague mentioned that youth can provide new perspectives and solutions without fear, baggage and bad habits to unlearn. I wholeheartedly agree with that position. Conversely, the old guard brings maturity, wisdom and we can assess a situation and arrive at an effective solution quickly. If we lack information, we know how and where to research and we know whose opinion we can trust. We can discern fact from fiction and learned many years ago that certain types of products are not a one-size-fits-all. Further, since we’ve been around a while, we can discern between something that can bring real change vs. just another fad. We’re the same ones that have seen 3D come and go. Twice. (We’ll let you know when it’s actually viable.)

Over time, we’ve built relationships and trust around the industry and we can be honest with each other if the product isn’t a good fit.

Many years ago, I was the one with all the youth and enthusiasm. I had the ability to spout off with complete confidence whatever I was told by someone that had been around audio longer than I had. That’s not smart in an industry that is already filled with misconceptions. Thankfully, I started under the tutelage of a wise mentor and he remains one of my closest friends to this day.

FireWire interfaceTruthfully, you need the best of both youth and maturity if you’re not going to be left with a warehouse of FireWire interfaces or trying to sell solutions that promise to change everything but in practice, have limited application.

Which is really what we want anyway, right? The ability and foresight to embrace new possibilities guided with mature wisdom.

If you would like to tap into that right balance of youth and maturity, give our team here at Exertis Almo a call and we’ll be glad to provide some guidance on your next project.

If you enjoyed this blog, check out Tom’s “Choose Quality AV” blog for more insights.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

Amping Up Government Operations: Rocking Out with Cutting-Edge AV Gear

Hey there, fellow PROAV rockstars! We’re all about pushing the boundaries of tech wizardry, and guess what? Our skills aren’t just for concert halls and boardrooms. Nope, we’re taking our show on the road straight to the heart of government operations. So crank up the volume as we dive into how our cutting-edge AV gear is making waves in the public sector!

rocking-avCrystal-Clear Communication

When it comes to effective messaging, static just won’t cut it. High-definition video conferencing, interactive displays, dvLED walls, and digital signage ensure that government officials and the public stay tuned in and turned on to what’s happening, whether it’s a virtual summit or the latest policy updates.

Jamming Out Informed Decision-Making

With top-of-the-line AV gear, policymakers can visualize data in real-time, spot trends, and make evidence-based decisions. Think command centers lit up like a stage, where officials riff on emerging challenges and opportunities, all thanks to tech prowess.

Hands-On Training: Interactive Displays that Rock

CreateBoard Interactive displaysWho said training has to be boring? With the latest interactive displays, training sessions become an immersive experience that gets everyone pumped. Picture this: government employees in front of massive touchscreens, collaborating on real-time scenarios, and solving problems together like a band jamming out a new hit.

Enter LG CreateBoard—the ultimate interactive display that transforms learning into a dynamic, hands-on experience. These displays let users annotate, share, and engage with content effortlessly, whether it’s brainstorming in a war room or walking through emergency response protocols. With multi-touch capabilities and seamless integration with other devices, LG CreateBoard makes sure everyone is in sync, hitting all the right notes.

Keeping an Eye on Security and Surveillance

Safety first, always! High-resolution surveillance cameras and integrated security systems safeguard public spaces and infrastructure. For a high-flying twist, we have several drone manufacturers that provide exceptional aerial surveillance, with the ability to monitor large events, inspect infrastructure, and provide real-time footage during emergencies. Equipped with advanced sensors and AI capabilities, these drones offer unparalleled situational awareness, helping government agencies respond to incidents faster and more effectively.

Professional Audio: Rock-Solid Sound for Government Ops

When it comes to government communication, hitting the right notes is everything. Professional audio systems are the unsung heroes that keep the beat, ensuring every word lands like a power chord in a packed arena. We’re talking advanced mics, booming speakers, and sound tech that rocks every room, from city council meetings to courtroom showdowns.

Assisted Listening Devices: Amping Up Inclusivity

assistive listening with Listen EVERYWHERENow, let’s crank it up a notch for our audience with hearing impairments. Assisted listening devices (ALDs) are like the VIP passes that make sure everyone gets front-row sound, no matter where they’re seated. One of the rockstars in this space is Listen Technologies with their Listen EVERYWHERE system. This cutting-edge solution streams audio directly to users’ smartphones, letting them tap into the sound with their own headphones or hearing aids. Whether it’s hearing loops that sync up with hearing aids or infrared systems that cut through the noise, these bad boys plug right into the AV setup, delivering crystal-clear audio straight to those who need it most.

By plugging ALDs like Listen EVERYWHERE into the mix, government spaces become more than just inclusive—they become places where every voice counts and no one misses a beat. It’s all about making sure the rhythm of communication keeps everyone in the groove, turning public spaces into inclusive arenas where everyone’s part of the show.

Remote Monitoring: A Game-Changer for Government Applications

In an age where agility and responsiveness are key, remote monitoring of commercial displays is revolutionizing government operations. Imagine command centers with real-time updates, remote troubleshooting, and instant content changes, all managed from a centralized location. This not only ensures seamless communication and coordination but also enhances efficiency by reducing the need for on-site interventions. LG Connected Care DMS exemplifies this by providing comprehensive remote management and monitoring capabilities, ensuring that displays are always performing optimally. Whether it’s for monitoring public announcements, emergency alerts, or routine updates, remote monitoring ensures that government agencies are always in control and a step ahead. rock on

So there you have it! Cutting-edge AV gear isn’t just for show—it’s the secret sauce behind government operations that rock. As PROAV professionals, staying ahead of the curve ensures we keep the tunes pumping and build stronger, more dynamic communities for a brighter future. Rock on!

Tiff Jones-Morton headshot-frame
About the Author

Tiff Jones-Morton | DSCE

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: LG Business Solutions (NE, SE, MW)

Contact Exertis Almo for product info, inventory availability, or to start a quote.

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