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
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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.

LCD vs DVLED: Choose the Right Technology for the Right Application

In a world where Direct View LED (DVLED) is becoming the dominant technology for new video wall installations, does the multi-display LCD video wall still have a place?

Recently, I encountered several instances where clients were interested in DVLED walls but found that a multi-display LCD wall was a better fit for their application. One such case involved a sports bar, and I want to detail why we chose LCD over DVLED in this instance.

LCD display example
direct view led example
AIO dvLED

The sports bar client was initially interested in a 1.88mm pixel pitch 163” all-in-one DVLED display which can be a great choice to get a large, bright, full HD (1920 x 1080) display in a relatively compact and cost-effective form. video wall All-in-one DVLED displays are a great option as they do not require external LED controllers/sender units to operate since all the required components are built into the unit, so it functions like a standard monitor, and there are typically several predefined sizes to work in various environments.  The other option for DVLED is a custom video wall solution. Custom DVLED walls are a good option when you have an application requiring a specific size display, atypical aspect ratio, or need specific resolutions or brightness levels.  Custom DVLED allows the user the broadest choice in selecting products to meet the needs of their individual application, but generally requires a more complex installation using external LED controllers/sender units.

low resolution imageIn this example, after talking with the client, it was determined that the better way to achieve their goals was to use LCD technology due to one primary factor, resolution.  The client stated that they wanted to have multiple unique images on the display simultaneously, up to 9 different sporting events or advertisements on the wall at any given time. While it is possible to show the required number of images on the DVLED display using external video processing, the resolution of each image would end up being very low using the DVLED display discussed.

In the sports bar example, if we created 9 images on the 163” 1920 x 1080 resolution display, each image would be approximately 54.3” diagonal and have a resolution of 640 x 360 which is not ideal (see simulated images below).  This leaves us two options to explore to get a higher resolution individual image on the display wall, either go with a custom DVLED solution with a finer pixel pitch or change to an LCD display array.

LCD lo resolution
LCD hi resolution

If we went the custom DVLED path, we would need to use a sub 1mm pixel pitch to see a significant increase in resolution, as well as incorporate external video processing to create the multiple windows desired.  This would end up being cost prohibitive for the project.  If we change to a multi-display 55” LCD option, we can create a 3-display high by 3-display wide array of 9 total displays with the entire array being 165” 5760 x 3240 resolution, and each of the nine 55” images will have a 1920 x 1080 resolution which would be ideal.  Additionally, most commercial LCD displays designed for use in a video wall array application have a feature to allow you to create an image on the array of displays (or a subset of the array) that will span multiple monitors without the need for any external video processing equipment.  By changing to the LCD array, we were able to provide the client with not only the ability to show nine full HD resolution images on the array, but also being able to show one large image spanning the entire array or one enlarged image spanning four of the displays on the array and individual full HD images on the remaining five displays, and for a similar price point to the 163” all-in-one DVLED display.

9 panels
9 panels 1 image
9 panels mixed configuration

I wanted to highlight this use case to convey that the latest trends in technology aren’t always the best fit for a given application.  While DVLED has many advantages over LCD, such as, no bezel spacing between panels, greater ability to customize the physical layout, and higher available brightness levels, the end user needs should be evaluated for each project before the technology is considered for the application.  In this instance, the most important needs for the client were to have multiple high-resolution images on the display simultaneously and have the technology fit within the physical parameters of the chosen wall, so the LCD array was a better choice.

If you are considering a video wall for your next project, discuss these key factors with your design or integration partner to make sure you get the most appropriate technology for the application:

Desired content layout and usage

  • Do you just want one large image from a single source, or would you like to display multiple sources/images at the same time?
  • What type of content will you be showing primarily? (i.e., text/documents, video, construction plans, custom signage, etc.)
  • Will the display need to be running 24/7, or does this application only require periodic use and the ability to fully power down the system is desired?

Physical constraints of the space

  • Does the display need to fit within a certain area on a wall?
  • Are there any room constraints that need to be overcome? (i.e., poor light control in the desired location, power restrictions at the desired location, construction limitations at the desired location, cabling limitations, etc.)
  • Is the ceiling height sufficient to get the size of display needed for the application, or is a smaller primary display with additional repeater monitors within the room required to accommodate the audience?

Other considerations

  • How flexible is the technology budget for the room, does the display absolutely need to fit within a certain price range, or will the budget be determined based on the most appropriate technology for the space?
  • Are there any special requirements for the display? (i.e., We don’t want to see any bezel gaps on the display regardless of cost)

Transforming Your Business with AV Outsourcing. See how teaming with Exertis Almo can give your business an edge by expanding reach and establishing recurring revenue. Learn more ⟫

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About the Author

Dominic Pizza | CTS-D

ECC – Design Engineer

Innovate Corporate Collaboration with AI-Powered Solutions for Microsoft Teams Rooms

In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective collaboration is essential for success. With the rise of remote work and dispersed teams, the demand for seamless and intelligent collaboration solutions has never been higher. This is where AI-powered solutions for Microsoft Teams Rooms come into play, revolutionizing the way teams communicate and collaborate. As a professional audio-visual technology distributor, we understand the importance of providing innovative solutions to our Pro AV resellers and integrators. Let’s explore how AI-powered technology can elevate corporate collaboration, focusing on solutions that seamlessly integrate with Microsoft Teams Rooms.

Understanding the Need for Advanced Corporate Collaboration Solutions

MAXHUB 21.9 Aspect Ratio DisplayIn today’s digital age, businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance collaboration and productivity. Traditional meeting rooms are being replaced by intelligent, interconnected spaces that facilitate seamless communication and collaboration. With the increasing demand for remote work and flexible collaboration solutions, businesses need tools that can adapt to their evolving needs. AI-powered solutions for Microsoft Teams Rooms offer the perfect solution, providing advanced features and functionality that enhance the collaboration experience.

Introducing AI-Powered Solutions for Microsoft Teams Rooms

AI-powered solutions for Microsoft Teams Rooms leverage the latest advancements in artificial intelligence to deliver an unparalleled collaboration experience. These solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with Microsoft Teams, providing users with intelligent communication and collaboration tools. From AI-powered cameras and microphones to intelligent displays and content sharing solutions, there are a variety of AI-powered technologies available to enhance the Microsoft Teams Rooms experience.

21:9 Aspect Ratio Displays: Revolutionizing Collaboration with AI Integration

Epson 21.9 Aspect Ratio short throw projectorOne of the key components of an AI-powered Microsoft Teams Rooms solution is the MAXHUB 21:9 Aspect Ratio Display. These innovative displays combine cutting-edge technology with intelligent AI features to revolutionize the collaboration experience. With a 21:9 aspect ratio, MAXHUB displays provide users with more screen real estate, allowing for better multitasking and productivity. Also, these displays feature built-in AI capabilities, such as facial recognition and gesture control, that further enhance the collaboration experience.

For projects with limited space, the Epson PowerLite 810E Extreme Short-Throw Projector can deliver up to a 160″ diagonal image from just 12″ away from the wall. It’s built-in flexible digital canvas makes for easy integration at 16:9 native aspect ratio and provides additional support for ultra-wide 16:6 and 21:9 for an equitable conferencing experience in meeting rooms.

Other Essential AI-Powered Technologies for Microsoft Teams Rooms Integration

In addition to 21:9 displays, there are a variety of other AI-powered technologies available to enhance the Microsoft Teams Rooms experience. Lenovo 11S30008US THINKSMART CORE FULL ROOM KIT SystemAI-powered cameras and microphones, such as those offered by Jabra and Audio-Technica, provide crystal-clear audio and video quality, ensuring that every meeting is productive and professional. AI-powered content sharing solutions, such as those offered by Barco ClickShare, make it easy to share content and collaborate in real-time.

To simplify the meeting room product specification process, there are also a variety of meeting room kits available with a system of products from manufacturers such as Lenovo, Jabra, and Yealink.

Check out our recommended MTR-compatible solutions used in the MTR Experience Center at E4.

Explosive Interest in AI Integrated Solutions

The 2024 E4 Experience shows are set to ignite interest in AI integrated solutions, with a particular focus on cutting-edge advancements. Along with showcasing a diverse range of hardware certified for seamless integration with Microsoft Teams, a standout innovation to be featured is Microsoft Copilot, a revolutionary tool harnessing the power of AI. With its ability to streamline tasks and enhance productivity, Copilot makes a significant impact in a variety of applications including corporate spaces. From facilitating the creation of dynamic presentations to optimizing workflows, AI-driven solutions are poised to revolutionize how businesses operate, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of workplace technology.

Summing Up AI-Powered Collaboration With MTR

Innovative AI-powered solutions are transforming the way businesses collaborate, and Microsoft Teams Rooms integration is at the forefront of this revolution. By leveraging AI-powered technologies such as 21:9 aspect ratio displays, auto-tracking video cameras, wireless microphones, and networked control, businesses can create intelligent, interconnected meeting spaces that facilitate seamless communication and collaboration.

Lisa Lingo, Category Manager – Collaboration

At Exertis Almo, we are committed to providing our Pro AV resellers and integrators with the latest and most innovative collaboration solutions. If you’re interested in learning more about how AI-powered solutions can enhance your Microsoft Teams Rooms experience, contact us today.

Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? What I’ve learned about dvLED.

One thing that keeps me interested in my career is that our industry is ever-evolving as technologies are introduced and evolve over time. After 17 years of working in the world of Pro AV distribution, I never stop learning new things. Most recently, I was tasked with learning about dvLED to help support our sales team and customers on projects. While I still have a lot to learn, here are some key takeaways that I can share based on what I have learned thus far.

Pixel Pitch & Viewing Distance

The term pixel pitch was new to me, but it is one of the key factors to think about when designing a dvLED display project. Simply put, pixel pitch is the measurement, in mm, between the individual LEDs or pixels, measured from the center of one LED to the center of the LED adjacent to it. Naturally, as the pixel pitch value decreases, the resolution in a fixed size cabinet increases and allows for a closer optimal minimum viewing distance.

For this reason, it is important that you discuss with the client where the closest viewer will be in relation to the display so that you can choose a pixel pitch that is appropriate for the specific application, remembering that as pixel pitch decreases, the equipment cost increases. As a general rule of thumb that has been shared with me, you can multiply the pixel pitch by 10 to give you the approximate closest viewing distance in feet. For example, the recommended minimum viewing distance for a 2.5-pixel pitch wall would be 25 feet.

Resolution

If you are like me, then often when you think about display resolution for common applications it is typically 1080p (1920×1080), WUXGA (1920×1200), or 4K (3840×2160), understanding that there are many others, but these are most common. With flat panel displays and projectors, the image size can vary while the resolution remains constant. For example, a 4K display can be 55” in diagonal, 98” in diagonal, or several other sizes, but the resolution will always be 4K. With projection, a native WUXGA projector, whether displaying a 110” diagonal image, a 216” diagonal image, or any size for that matter, the resolution will always be 1920×1200. 

This is not the case with dvLED, as the individual LEDs (or “pixels”) mounted on the surface of the module are a fixed size, so that when the size of a dvLED display changes, so does the resolution. To illustrate this, let’s look at a dvLED panel that is 16:9, 27.5” in diagonal with a pixel pitch of 1.58. The resolution of this panel is 384×216. If you require a 1920×1080 display, you will need 25 panels in a 5×5 array making a 137.5” diagonal display, while if you require a 4K 3840×2160 display, you will need 100 panels in a 10×10 array making a 275” diagonal display, requiring four times the real estate!

Structural Considerations

In many cases, dvLED displays will either be wall-mounted or flown, although sometimes they can be ground stacked with the appropriate stacking hardware. Depending upon the size of the display, they can get quite heavy. For example, a recent 165” diagonal display (6×6 array) I quoted weighed just shy of 500lbs, and a 275” display (10×10 array) weighed over 1300 lbs. It is absolutely crucial that the structure or wall on which you are mounting the dvLED or the structure from which you are rigging can support the load. 

Additionally, in order for a successful installation, the dvLED cabinets need to be perfectly aligned along the x, y, and z axes so there are no visible seams between the individual panels that make up the display. Since most walls will have some imperfections and not be perfectly flat, you will be faced with either using shims or exploring mounting hardware that provides post-installation adjustment of all three axes.

Power and Data

Unlike a traditional flat panel or projector, the display does not have a single power cord with dvLED. Instead, depending upon the size and resolution of the display, multiple AC circuits are required. If we go back to the 165” 6×6 array I referenced earlier, this display required six dedicated 110v/10A outlets. In this case, each AC circuit is powering six panels with a main connection to the first, then daisy-chaining with power jumpers to the next five.

In addition to power, every dvLED display requires multiple data connections between the display and the dvLED controller/processor using data cabling, such as Cat6. The number of data runs will vary based on the overall resolution of the display, but you can expect that the manufacturer will advise you during the proposal stage on the required cabling and power requirements for the specific project.

I am seeing more and more projects come across my desk that involve dvLED, and there has been dramatic growth in overall product sales in the category over this last year. There is no reason to believe that these trends will not continue, and I look forward to continuing my education on the subject.

For more information, visit https://www.exertisalmo.com/products/direct-view-led-displays, and get in touch with your Exertis Almo regional service development manager today.

3 Reasons Why Outsourced Technician Assistance Should Be a Key Part of Your 2021 Strategy

2021 is here, which means we have had a chance to say goodbye to what was a challenging 2020 officially. We are all hopeful that 2021 will be a year filled with opportunity. But it will not come without some uncertainty, and that will hold true for the AV industry as a whole. As an integrator, this does not mean you can’t plan to scale your business. Yet, prediction and preparation are not mutually exclusive! 

Here are our top 3 reasons why your company should be using Outsourced Technician Assistance for 2021.

It is time to get back to growing! 

There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected your business in some way, shape, or form. For some, the impact may not have been as severe, but for others, tough decisions were made to keep businesses alive. Those decisions were likely in the form of reducing headcount, most often from the outsourced technicians. 

Now that we have rolled into 2021 with some optimism and renewed energy. It’s time to start moving into growth mode. One of the fastest ways is by augmenting your staff through outsourcing and reduce risk. This is the simple practice of augmenting your labor force to help assist your skilled W2 technicians/project leads out in the field. 

This form of outsourcing has become very popular in recent years. The need to augment technicians through an outsourcing program was accelerated due to the pandemic’s impact. With technician augmentation capability, you no longer have to pass on jobs due to lack of employees, keeping your calendar full for 2021. 

Now is not the time to lose control!

You have spent a considerable amount of time and effort building your business, so it is understandable that the reputation you have made through your relationships and proof of performance means everything. 

They are possibly the biggest reasons for your success. By using technician augmentation it could be perfect for your business as you wade through uncertain times. Let me explain: Augmentation and supplementation are two very different things. 

Augmentation gives you access to technicians that will work alongside and take direction from your on-site staff members, whereas supplementation is relinquishing an entire job to be outsourced. 

It is often vital to consider technician augmentation rather than supplementation to ensure that specific processes are followed, control is maintained, and the project outcomes are as you desire. Technician help allows you to perform the job YOUR way. 

We don’t need no education (yes, we do).

In December, Presidential Elect Joe Biden announced a plan to get kids back in the classroom in 2021. That plan came with a recommendation to Congress to pass a $4 Billion emergency package to upgrade technology in school systems across the country. 

We all understand the importance of kids being in school from an academic and social perspective, and it’s clear an aggressive effort is being made to get kids back on the school bus! In preparation for the upcoming school year, technology implementation will be crucial to accommodating in-room distanced and virtual learning

So what does that have to do with technician augmentation? Well, it’s simple. Whether public, charter, or private, most schools have at least a handful of classrooms and often hundreds, if not thousands per district. Most of these classrooms are cookie-cutter in terms of technology deployment for clear reasons. 

Teachers and students are trained on how to interact with the same systems, no matter what room they are in. An assisted technician staff best fills this type of repeatable work. From wire-pulling to display mounting to disposal of waste, outsourcing technicians in multi-room environments can prove to be very cost-effective and very efficient—no more hiring and firing based on a single job. 

You can take comfort knowing your organization can complete the work without incurring any unwanted pre and post burden. We should all have a shared enthusiasm for what is next in our industry. The collective ability to adapt and overcome in 2020 has been remarkable, but there are more audible calls to come.  The AV industry will continue to shift and change rapidly, as it did in 2020 (let’s never speak of it again). I cannot stress enough the importance of making sure outsourced Technician Assistance is a Key Part of Your 2021 Business Strategy.

3 Key Things to Know About Panasonic Professional Displays

1.THE LINEUP

Did you hear?  Panasonic is extending their successful line of entry-level and standard display panels to include more sizes, more features, and more versatility.  This growing line of panels are reliable, and come from a well-established brand like Panasonic – a staple in the audio-visual industry.  You will notice Panasonic’s display form factor has not changed much, if any, over the decades – and that design decision is purposeful.  Simply put, it makes swapping out an older Panasonic display for a new Panasonic display quite easy.  Panasonic is a tried & true brand and a go-to supplier for many, many resellers and integration firms.  Here are some of our favorite go-to models. 

Oh yeah, they also have touch displays and video wall options – but I will save that for another blog write-up for now.  I must share that their product finder is also an excellent tool to find the size and display type needed for your next project. Check it out.   

2. THE FEATURES

Let’s talk features!  There are so many great features, but I am going to touch on the ones that I think are more important and show why Panasonic displays are in a league of their own.

Quality

Many Panasonic displays employ 4K picture quality to render intricately detailed images. For example, the SQ1 Series features the “12-Axis Color Management function” for ideally faithful color reproduction of digital signage content, and “HDR” compatibility to express a wide brightness range from dark to bright. Equipped with the new Intel® SDM specification slot standard, the SQ1 Series can be combined with an interface board for simple but wide system interoperability.

Versatility

Here’s a quick summary of the best applications for Panasonic’s multi-series professional display lineup.  SQ1 Series is ideal for signage – portrait or landscape.  The EQ1 is designed for and has features that are ideal for conference & meeting spaces, and this model is budget-friendly, too. And finally yet importantly, the CQ1 Series is ideal for bars and restaurants.  Click here for a rundown of all features and specs. 

3. THE WARRANTY

One of the best warranties in the Pro AV industry comes from Panasonic.  Their flat panel display products come with a three-year limited warranty with advance replacement.  Yes, 3 years – that is awesome!  To further delight resellers and their customers, Panasonic adds a higher level of protection to their displays with extended support options available for purchase. In addition, if you or your staff require product training or equipment deployment assistance with any Panasonic products, they provide on-site consultation packages. Here are the details.


Flat Panel Advance Swap Program

Professional displays mission critical application are backed up with an exchange program (Hot Swap) included in the standard warranty. This includes:

• Reducing repair turn-around time on your defective display

• Replacement unit sent with two-day expedited shipping

• Shipped anywhere within the continental states

• Applies to all display models purchased after April 2018

• Replacement units are inspected and conditioned at our Panasonic National Repair Center

• Warranty for replacement unit will be a continuation of the defective one being replaced

What you can expect: 

• Two Business Day Delivery

• Support 5 Days a Week (Monday-Friday)

• Free Shipping and Delivery on each instance for the flat panel swap

• Technical Support available 8AM-8PM EST (requests must be received by 12:00PM EST to meet shipping deadlines for delivery

• Same or comparable model provided

• Transportation times for larger display sizes (above 55 inches) may vary due to handling requirements

Panasonic Tech Support experts will manage the logistics of getting the replacement unit to your customers’ locations as well as to pick up the defective unit.


Please reach out to me if you have any questions about the Panasonic panel lineup or any or any of their professional equipment.  I am here to help!

Angie Greene

Business Development Manager, CTS, DSCE

Email: [email protected]
Toll-free: 888.420.2566 x6209
Fax: 267.350.0314

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