All forms of industry, be they educational, governmental, or retail, are making the transition to digital signage. The versatility of the displays and the eases of message adjustment make LED outdoor displays a worthwhile investment for virtually every industry.
Over the last decade, digital solutions evolved to encompass cost-effective and eco-conscious designs that are also technologically advanced. While the sign’s evolution is excellent, the growing popularity happened at such an exponential rate that many owners do not understand these displays’ fundamental maintenance concerns.
While outdoor LED displays use various design measures to withstand any market’s different climate conditions, these signs require upkeep. Therefore, to help the new owner, this article presents a list of 10 maintenance tips.
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Hardware Maintenance
While LED display installers ensure your sign’s secure placement, the display will need adjusting from time to time. For example, it is not uncommon for bolts to loosen after years of use or environmental factors to lead to corrosion if left unattended.
As a sign owner, get in the habit of requesting routine inspections at least once per year. The assessment will include checking for rodents, loose connections, and component corrosion. You want to ensure your sign lasts as long as possible, and it all starts with hardware maintenance.
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Surface Cleaning
It is recommended that the entire sign system be dismantled and cleaned once per year, but the surface needs to be cleaned more frequently. Digital outdoor displays collect a fair bit of dust and grime from being exposed to the elements. If the dirt is allowed to accumulate, then you may end up with clogged data ports. Any clog can lead to overheating of internal components. Yaham offers complete maintenance solutions for your LED display to ensure its longevity.
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Powering On and Off
For the optimal function of your LED display, take care to follow the switching sequence. Never turn the display on before the computer and software are on and fully loaded. Doing so can cause problems with the sign.
When powering the system down, you will follow the sequence in reverse. You want to turn the power to the sign off first and then shut down the computer and software.
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Prescribed Range
Every system has a specified MTBF or mean time before failure. The MTBF tells an owner of the prescribed range of operation.
Every system needs time to cool, reducing the risk of overheating. The MTBF is the measurement for the maximum runtime between cooling periods. Make sure you know and adhere to this number to avoid problems.
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Software Updates
Software, as with any technological system, is vital to the proper operation and management of the system. To ensure sustained operation of your LED display, be sure to stay on top of software updates.
However, beyond updating the system, file management is also necessary. Make it a priority to remove any unnecessary files in the system routinely. By maintaining a clean and updated database, your system will continue to run like new for years.
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Ground Protection
While LED signs do not require a significant amount of power, they do require a stable supply. Power surges can lead to overheating and sign or system failure. Ensuring adequate ground protection and a legitimate installation is vital to your LED outdoor display’s prolonged life. If installers use improper or inadequate materials, damage to the sign is a real risk.
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Operational Temperature Range
Every LED display has a set operational temperature range. The range is enough to accommodate climates in nearly every market, but temperature regulation is still something you need to consider during installation. For example, if the installation will occur in a desert climate, keep in mind that areas with little or no shade will be significantly hotter than the stated temp. If a sign is routinely subjected to temperatures outside of its stated range, then you may experience anomalies in the display.
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Content Cycling
While not an aspect of the display’s physical maintenance, content cycling is essential for brand and sign awareness. If a company refuses to change the messaging on their sign, people become accustomed and stop noticing it. If you want to make the most of your sign purchase, then change the messaging and display frequently, giving people a reason to look.
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Weather Conditions
Every outdoor LED sign is equipped with a weatherproof rating, but that does not mean leaving the system on during severe weather conditions. Severe weather can cause water to get inside the system, and if left on, the water can cause significant damage to the electrical components. Turn the display off during bad weather, and if you suspect water in the sign, call a maintenance professional.
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Professional Inspections
Outdoor LED signs are advanced pieces of equipment. The electronics are sensitive and require experienced hands when performing delicate maintenance. Never let a non-professional touch the interior of your outdoor sign. Always hire a professional to handle annual inspections and maintenance issues.
What is your current outdoor display for your business or building? Are you still using static signs? If so, consider updating your branding and messaging strategy with an outdoor LED display. The signs provide versatile and customizable messaging and hold up to even the harshest weather conditions. If you are interested in learning more, contact YAHAM LED.
