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320*320 LED Module

320x320mm LED Module: The Complete Buyer's Guide for Large-Format Display Projects

When it comes to building large-scale LED displays, the module size you choose has a direct impact on installation speed, structural stability, and overall cost. Among the standard sizes available in the market, the 320x320mm LED module stands out as the premier choice for outdoor advertising, stadium screens, and large-venue fixed installations.

This guide explains why the 320x320mm format has become the go-to standard for large-format projects, what pixel pitches are available, how it compares to other sizes, and what to look for when sourcing.

1. WHAT IS A 320x320mm LED MODULE?

A 320x320mm LED module is a square-shaped display panel measuring 320 millimeters on each side. Each module contains a matrix of LED pixels soldered onto a multi-layer PCB, driven by driver ICs, protected by a plastic louver mask, and housed in a durable frame — typically aluminum or reinforced plastic for outdoor versions.

The square 1:1 aspect ratio makes it fundamentally different from the more common 320x160mm rectangular module. This shape enables uniform grid layouts and simplifies cabinet design, especially for large-area displays where alignment precision matters.

Physical Parameter Specification
Module Dimensions 320 mm x 320 mm
Aspect Ratio 1:1 (square)
Typical Thickness 15-25 mm (indoor) / 18-30 mm (outdoor)
Weight 0.5-1.2 kg (varies by pixel pitch and frame)
Material Plastic (indoor) / Die-cast aluminum (outdoor)
Mount Method Screw-fixed front-service or rear-service
Module Area 0.1024 m2 per module

2. WHY CHOOSE 320x320mm OVER OTHER MODULE SIZES?

The LED display industry offers several standard module sizes — 160x160mm, 192x192mm, 250x250mm, 320x160mm, and 320x320mm. Each serves a purpose, but the 320x320mm format has distinct advantages for large-scale projects.

  • 2.1 Larger Coverage per Module: A single 320x320mm module covers 0.1024 m2 — exactly twice the area of a 320x160mm module (0.0512 m2). For a 100-square-meter display, you would need approximately 976 modules in the 320x320mm format versus 1,953 in the 320x160mm format. That translates to half the connections, half the cabling, and significantly faster on-site assembly.
  • 2.2 Perfect Square Grid Layout: The 1:1 square shape tiles uniformly in both directions. Three modules wide by three modules high (3x3) form a perfect 960x960mm cabinet — one of the most common outdoor cabinet sizes. This symmetry simplifies structural frame design and ensures consistent seam alignment across the entire display wall.
  • 2.3 Fewer Seams, Better Visual Uniformity: Every seam between modules is a potential point of visual disruption. With larger modules, you have fewer seams per square meter, resulting in a cleaner, more seamless appearance — especially important for outdoor billboards viewed from a distance.
  • 2.4 Optimized for Larger Pixel Pitches: The 320x320mm format is predominantly used with larger pixel pitches — P4, P5, P5.33, P6.67, P8, and P10 — which are the industry standards for outdoor advertising, building facades, and stadium displays. The larger board area accommodates the physical spacing requirements of these pitches while maintaining structural integrity.
  • 2.5 Structural Rigidity: The larger PCB area requires a more robust frame, which naturally results in better overall structural rigidity. This is critical for outdoor installations that must withstand wind loads, temperature fluctuations, and vibration.

KEY TAKEAWAY: If your project is under 20 square meters and uses fine-pitch (P1.5-P3), the 320x160mm format may be more appropriate. For large outdoor displays above 30 square meters, the 320x320mm format delivers superior installation efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

3. 320x320mm VS. 320x160mm: A DIRECT COMPARISON

Feature 320x320mm 320x160mm
Shape Square (1:1) Rectangle (2:1)
Area per Module 0.1024 m2 0.0512 m2
Modules per 100 m2 ~976 ~1,953
Module Weight 0.5-1.2 kg 0.3-0.5 kg
Typical Pixel Pitches P4, P5, P6.67, P8, P10 P1.53 to P10
Primary Applications Outdoor fixed, stadiums, building facades Indoor advertising, rental stages, retail
Cabinet Fit (3x3) 960x960mm 640x640mm
Cabinet Fit (2x2) 640x640mm 640x320mm (not square)
Front-Service Common (screw-fixed) Magnetic snap-on
IP Rating Typically IP65 Varies (IP20-IP65)
Cost per Module Higher (larger board) Lower (smaller board)
Installation Speed Faster (fewer connections) Slower (more connections)

4. AVAILABLE PIXEL PITCHES FOR 320x320mm MODULES

Pixel Pitch Resolution (W x H) Total Pixels Typical Use Brightness
P2.5 128 x 128 16,384 High-res indoor, retail, lobby >= 1,000 cd/m2
P3.076 104 x 104 10,816 Semi-outdoor, shopping malls >= 1,200 cd/m2
P4 80 x 80 6,400 Indoor large-format, stage >= 1,500 cd/m2
P5 64 x 64 4,096 Outdoor advertising, signage >= 5,000 cd/m2
P5.33 60 x 60 3,600 Outdoor billboards, facades >= 5,500 cd/m2
P6.67 48 x 48 2,304 Outdoor billboards, stadiums >= 6,000 cd/m2
P8 40 x 40 1,600 Large outdoor billboards >= 6,500 cd/m2
P10 32 x 32 1,024 Highway signs, venue perimeter >= 7,000 cd/m2

Note: The 320x320mm format spans from indoor fine-pitch (P2.5) to outdoor ultra-large-pitch (P10), but its sweet spot is P5 through P10 for outdoor fixed installations.

5. CABINET AND INSTALLATION

The 320x320mm module is most commonly paired with the 960x960mm cabinet standard. A single cabinet holds exactly nine modules in a 3x3 grid layout, forming a nearly 1-square-meter display unit.

5.1 Common Cabinet Configurations

960x960mm cabinet (3x3 modules)

  • Cabinet area: 0.9216 m2
  • Most common for outdoor fixed installations
  • Supports front and rear service access
  • Standard steel or aluminum construction

640x640mm cabinet (2x2 modules)

  • Cabinet area: 0.4096 m2
  • Used for smaller installations or rental setups
  • Easier to handle and transport

5.2 Installation Steps

  1. Assemble the steel frame structure and mount cabinets in position.
  2. Secure each 320x320mm module to the cabinet using screws and waterproof gaskets (outdoor) or standard fasteners (indoor).
  3. Connect power cables (typically 5V or 4.5V DC) and data flat cables between modules following the manufacturer's wiring diagram.
  4. Install receiving cards inside each cabinet and connect to the control system (Novastar, Colorlight, LINSN, or Huidu).
  5. Power on and run calibration using control software to ensure uniform brightness and color across all modules.
  6. Apply waterproof sealing at all cabinet joints for outdoor installations.

5.3 Screen Size Calculation Example

For a 6m (W) x 4m (H) outdoor billboard using 960x960mm cabinets:

Cabinets needed: 6.25 wide -> 6 cabinets (6 x 0.96 = 5.76m)
                  4.17 high -> 4 cabinets (4 x 0.96 = 3.84m)
Total cabinets: 6 x 4 = 24 cabinets
Modules per cabinet: 9 (3x3)
Total modules: 24 x 9 = 216 modules
Final screen size: 5.76m x 3.84m

6. INDOOR VS. OUTDOOR 320x320mm MODULES

INDOOR 320x320mm MODULES

  • LED Type: SMD2121, SMD1515 (fine-pitch indoor)
  • Brightness: 800-1,500 cd/m2
  • Protection: IP20-IP31 (dust-resistant only)
  • Scan Mode: 1/16, 1/32 scan (lower power consumption)
  • Frame: Plastic or slim aluminum
  • Typical Pitches: P2.5, P3.076, P4

OUTDOOR 320x320mm MODULES

  • LED Type: SMD1921, SMD2727, SMD3535, DIP346
  • Brightness: 5,000-10,000+ cd/m2 (sunlight-readable)
  • Protection: IP65 front / IP54 rear (fully weatherproof)
  • Scan Mode: 1/2, 1/4, 1/5, 1/8, 1/10 scan
  • Frame: Die-cast aluminum with waterproof gaskets
  • Typical Pitches: P4, P5, P5.33, P6.67, P8, P10

WARNING: Indoor 320x320mm modules lack waterproofing and sufficient brightness for outdoor use. Deploying indoor modules outdoors will result in water damage, LED degradation, and visibility failure within weeks or months.

7. FRONT-SERVICE VS. REAR-SERVICE

One of the defining features of high-quality 320x320mm outdoor modules is dual-service access — the ability to remove a module from either the front or the rear.

FRONT-SERVICE

Recommended for wall-mounted displays

  • Module is removed from the front using a special tool or screwdriver
  • No need for rear access walkways
  • Saves valuable space behind the display
  • Essential for building-facade and wall-mounted billboards
  • Slightly more complex frame design; higher module cost

REAR-SERVICE

Standard for free-standing structures

  • Module is removed from behind the cabinet
  • Requires maintenance walkway or access platform behind the display
  • Simpler mechanical design, lower cost
  • Suitable for billboard structures with built-in rear access

IMPORTANT: Always confirm the service type before purchasing. If your display will be mounted flush against a wall, front-service is non-negotiable.

8. CONTROL SYSTEM COMPATIBILITY

The 320x320mm module is compatible with all major LED control systems. The receiving card interface is typically HUB75 (indoor) or a proprietary outdoor connector.

Control System Receiving Card Software
Novastar MRV series, A5s/A8s NovaLCT, VNNOX, ViPlex
Colorlight S series, i series LEDVision, Colorlight Cloud
LINSN RV series LEDStudio, LEDSet
Huidu HD series HD Player, LEDArt

Most 320x320mm outdoor modules come with pre-configured RCFG (receiving card configuration) files from the manufacturer, which simplifies setup. Always request these files with your order.

9. POWER AND ELECTRICAL CONSIDERATIONS

The 320x320mm module consumes more power per unit than smaller modules due to its larger area and higher LED count. Proper power planning is essential.

Pixel Pitch Max Power per Module Typical Power per Module
P5 30-40W 12-18W
P6.67 30-40W 12-18W
P8 25-35W 10-15W
P10 25-35W 10-15W

For a 960x960mm cabinet with nine P8 modules:

  • Max power: 9 x 35W = 315W per cabinet
  • Typical power: 9 x 15W = 135W per cabinet
  • Recommended PSU: single 400W or dual 200W power supply units per cabinet

Always use 80% of the PSU's rated capacity as the practical maximum load. For outdoor installations, factor in additional power for cooling fans if the cabinet design includes active ventilation.

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Explore Large-Format 320x320mm Display Solutions

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10. BUYING GUIDE: QUALITY CHECKLIST FOR 320x320mm MODULES

10.1 LED Chip Brand

Premium: Nationstar, Kinglight, Nichia, CREE
Standard: Silan, Desay, Hongsheng
Budget: Generic (shorter lifespan, inconsistent color)

10.2 Driver IC

Premium: Macroblock MBI5124 / MBI5252, Chipone ICN2053. These deliver high refresh rates (>= 1,920Hz for outdoor, >= 3,840Hz for camera-ready) and smooth grayscale performance. Avoid modules with generic or unmarked driver ICs.

10.3 PCB Quality

  • Minimum 4-layer PCB for outdoor modules
  • FR-4 material with >= 1.6mm thickness
  • Copper trace weight: >= 1oz (2oz preferred for outdoor)
  • Conformal coating on outdoor PCBs for moisture protection

10.4 Mask and Louver Design

  • Outdoor modules must have a proper louver (sunshade) design to improve contrast ratio in direct sunlight
  • Mask color: dark gray or black for optimal contrast
  • Check for a snug, gap-free fit — gaps cause light bleed

10.5 Waterproofing (Outdoor) & 10.6 Certifications

  • IP65 front rating is mandatory
  • Look for silicone gaskets around each LED and module edges
  • Waterproof connectors for power and data cables
  • Drainage holes at the bottom of the cabinet
  • CE (Europe) and FCC (North America)
  • RoHS compliance
  • ETL / UL for North American electrical safety
  • IP65 test report for outdoor modules

10.7 Warranty and Support & 10.8 Batch Consistency

  • Standard: 2-3 years
  • Confirm the supplier stocks spare modules for at least 3-5 years
  • Remote technical support availability
  • RCFG files and calibration data should be included
  • Always purchase all modules for a project from the same production batch. Even minor differences in LED binning between batches can cause visible color shifts across the display.

320x320mm Module Inquiry Template

Use this structure when contacting suppliers to get complete, comparable answers:

Hello, I am sourcing 320x320mm LED modules for a [Indoor/Outdoor] project.

Please confirm:
1. LED chip brand and driver IC model
2. Pixel pitch, brightness (nits), and refresh rate
3. IP protection rating and waterproofing details (outdoor)
4. Compatible cabinet and receiving card specifications
5. Aging test records and calibration data
6. Spare parts policy and warranty terms (2-3 years standard)
7. RCFG configuration files availability
8. Lead time for [Quantity] modules

11. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the weight difference between 320x320mm and 320x160mm?

A 320x320mm outdoor module typically weighs 0.8-1.2 kg versus 0.4-0.6 kg for a 320x160mm outdoor module. The cabinet structure must be designed to support this additional weight, especially for large displays.

Can I mix 320x320mm and 320x160mm modules on the same display?

Not recommended. The different physical sizes and aspect ratios make it impossible to maintain a uniform grid. You would face severe alignment issues and visible seams. Always use one module size throughout a single project.

How many modules for a 4K (3840x2160) outdoor display?

With P10 modules (32x32 pixels each), you need 120 modules wide and 67.5 modules high — approximately 8,100 modules covering 38.4m x 21.6m. This is only practical for stadium-scale installations.

Are 320x320mm modules suitable for rental and staging?

Generally not. The larger size and heavier weight make them less convenient for frequent assembly and disassembly. Rental applications typically prefer lighter 500x500mm or 500x1000mm all-in-one cabinets with integrated power and receiving cards, or smaller 320x160mm modules in lightweight frames.

What is the typical lead time for a custom order?

Standard production lead time is 15-25 days for quantities under 500 modules. Larger orders and custom pixel pitches may require 25-45 days. Always factor in an additional 7-15 days for international shipping.

How do I clean and maintain outdoor 320x320mm modules?

Use a soft, anti-static brush or low-pressure compressed air for dust removal. For stubborn dirt, use a slightly damp microfiber cloth with a mild detergent — never spray water directly onto the module surface. Clean every 3-6 months depending on environmental exposure.

CONCLUSION

The 320x320mm LED module is the workhorse of large-scale outdoor and fixed-installation LED displays. Its square format, larger coverage area, and compatibility with the 960x960mm cabinet standard make it the most efficient choice for outdoor advertising billboards, building facades, stadium perimeter screens, and highway signage.

While the 320x160mm format dominates the indoor and rental market, the 320x320mm module delivers clear advantages where it counts for big-screen projects: fewer connections, faster installation, better structural integrity, and a cleaner visual result with fewer visible seams.

When sourcing your modules, prioritize proven LED brands (Nationstar, Kinglight), quality driver ICs (Macroblock), and proper certifications (CE, FCC, IP65, LVD, EMC, CCC, RoHS). Remember to buy from a single production batch for color consistency, and always plan your power distribution and cabinet layout before placing your order. With the right 320x320mm modules and proper planning, your outdoor LED display project will deliver years of reliable, high-impact visual performance.

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