Troubleshooting XM Player and ASYNCH 11 / ASYNCH 11NC Controllers
This guide explains how to troubleshoot display issues on LED signs using XM Player with ASYNCH 11 and ASYNCH 11NC controller cards.
These systems can fail in different ways — from screens that go blank, to signs that play old content but ignore new uploads.
This guide walks through the key checks to determine whether the issue is caused by the controller, the receiving card, or a communication problem.
Applies to: XM Player controllers, ASYNCH 11, and ASYNCH 11NC cards.
Note: For HRV, LRS, or other cards using XM Player, the process is more complex and may require a remote support session for configuration or repair.
Tools You Will Need
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3 mm Allen wrench – for removing front modules
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Ethernet cable (6 ft or longer) – for testing or bypassing connections
Safety First
Always disconnect main power before removing modules or handling internal components.
If you are not comfortable using a multimeter or working near electrical components, consult an electrician or contact LED Sign City Support before proceeding.
Understand the Layout of Your Sign
Each video (receiving) card can control up to 16 modules. Larger signs use multiple cards linked together to expand control.
Examples:
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A 4×4 sign may use one card.
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A 4×6 sign may use two cards.
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A 6×9 sign may use up to six cards, each controlling nine modules.
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An 8×12 sign may also use six cards, each controlling sixteen modules.
Knowing how your sign is structured helps you determine where the data link stops..
Locate the Video and Controller Cards
The controller card (main control board) is typically located behind the first module on the left side of the sign.
The video or receiving cards are installed behind the modules in each section the controller communicates with.
For most signs up to 4 feet tall, the video cards are located along the bottom row of the sign.
Examples:
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A 6-foot-wide sign will usually have the controller behind module 1, and video cards behind modules 2 and 4
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A 4×8 sign will typically have the controller behind module 1, and video cards behind modules 2 and 5.
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As the sign grows larger, each video card continues this pattern — roughly one card per 3–4 modules.
If you have rear access, you can easily see the video cards mounted inside the cabinet. Each card is located directly behind the section where power and signal cables connect to the sign.
Controller Reference Diagram
The image above shows the layout of the ASYNCH 11 / ASYNCH 11NC controller and its related components.
Key Components:
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5V Power Input
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Ethernet IN (LAN)
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Brightness Sensor Module & Cable
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Video Out to Receiving Card
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Video Activity Lights (Red / Green)
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PoE Adapter Port
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Power Supply (110/220V IN → 5V DC OUT)
Common Display Symptoms
When troubleshooting your controller, begin by identifying which situation matches your sign:
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The software connects to the controller, but the screen is blank.
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The software cannot connect, and the screen is blank.
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The screen is playing old content but will not update.
Each scenario points to a different cause. Start with the first section that matches your issue.
Scenario 1 – The Software Connects, but Nothing Appears on the Screen
If your controller appears online in the software but the sign remains blank, the issue is typically between the controller and the receiving card (video card).
Steps to Check
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Look at the controller’s video activity lights (see the diagram above).
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You should see a solid red power light and a blinking green activity light.
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If both lights are off, the controller is not communicating with the video card.
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Check the Video Out cable connection. Disconnect and reconnect both ends.
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If lights remain off, press the test button on the video card twice.
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If the screen lights up or cycles red, green, and blue, the video card is functional.
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Try connecting the controller directly to the video card using a standard Ethernet cable.
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If the display lights up, the existing cable is faulty — replace it.
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If the test button does nothing and you’ve confirmed power is present on the video card, replace the video card.
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If the controller still shows no red or green light after confirming power, replace the controller.
Scenario 2 – The Software Cannot Connect and the Screen Is Blank
When both the screen and software connection fail, start by confirming controller activity.
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Check the controller’s video activity lights.
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If both the red and green lights are off, the controller is not functioning. Replace it.
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If the lights are on but the software cannot detect the controller:
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Press and hold the reset button on the controller for 30 seconds with power on.
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The controller will reset to its default IP address (192.168.1.128).
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On your PC, assign a static IP in the same range, such as 192.168.1.10 or 192.168.1.127.
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Connect your PC directly to the controller’s LAN port and open the XM Player software.
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Attempt connection again.
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If the software connects and the screen responds, the issue was network-related.
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If no connection is made and the activity lights remain off after reset, replace the controller.
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Scenario 3 – The Screen Is Playing Content but You Cannot Update It
If your sign continues to display old messages but won’t accept new uploads, this is a communication issue rather than a controller fault.
Common Causes
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Network antenna or PoE adapter failure
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Faulty LAN port on the controller
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Damaged Ethernet cable
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Custom IP address conflict
Steps to Check
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Verify all network cables between the controller, PoE adapter, and antennas are securely connected.
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Confirm the PoE adapter or power injector indicator light is on.
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Test communication by connecting your PC directly to the controller’s LAN port.
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If connection works directly, replace or reconfigure your wireless network components.
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If the software still cannot connect:
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Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds to restore factory IP settings.
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Reconnect using the default IP (192.168.1.128) and set your PC to 192.168.1.10 or 192.168.1.127.
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Note: If you previously used a custom IP address, you’ll need to reassign it once communication is restored.
For more detailed network troubleshooting, see our Connection & Communication Issues section.
Tips and Additional Notes
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Always confirm that 5V DC power is reaching both the controller and video card.
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Reseat Ethernet cables — a loose connector is one of the most common failure points.
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If your system uses HRV or LRS cards with XM Player, contact LED Sign City for support before attempting repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the default IP address for ASYNCH controllers?
The default IP is 192.168.1.128. Set your PC to a static IP in the same range (e.g., 192.168.1.10 or 192.168.1.127) to connect directly.
Where is the reset button located?
The reset button is a small black push-button labeled RESET, located near the Ethernet port on the controller board. Press and hold it for 30 seconds (with power on) to restore defaults.
What do the lights mean on the controller?
A solid red light indicates power. A blinking green light indicates active communication. If both are off, there’s no power or signal.
What software should I use for ASYNCH controllers?
Use ViPlex Express, ViPlex Handy, or VNNOX depending on your setup. All are compatible with ASYNCH 11 and ASYNCH 11NC controllers.
How do I know if the controller is bad?
If the lights are off, the reset procedure doesn’t work, and power is confirmed, the controller must be replaced.
Can I replace the controller myself?
Yes, if you are familiar with basic electrical connections. If not, contact LED Sign City Support for a guided remote session.
When to Contact Support
If the display remains blank after following these steps, or if connection and video output both fail, contact LED Sign City Support.
Include:
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Your sign’s size and model
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Controller type (ASYNCH 11, ASYNCH 11NC, etc.)
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A clear photo showing the controller’s status lights