Gel-embedded LED Modules Preclude Air Conditioning in LED Billboards

As temperatures soar through most of the United States, people seek relief by cranking air conditioners and turning fans on high. Many digital billboards, those using LEDs instead of vinyl or paper, also must use air conditioners to keep complex mechanisms cool and dry.

Previewing the September 2007 issue of Signs of the Times’ feature on environmentally friendly products and trends in the sign industry, Watchfire Digital Outdoor, a digital-billboard manufacturer based in Danville, IL, has built an LED module that’s completely encapsulated in a silicone-gel bed, which precludes the use of air conditioning units in LED outdoor EDS displays. The 14 x 48-ft. LED billboard requires less electricity (200A to power the board, and 180A at peak) and weighs less than other comparable displays, according to the company. The silicone also protects components from rain and humidity.

Because of the exclusive encapsulation and engineering design, the LED boards can operate in extreme conditions, the company claims: 180 days completely submerged in water, 60 days in a salt-spray chamber, and temperatures ranging from -40 to 120° F. Watchfire signs operate in desert climates and in the coastal southern United States, where heat and humidity are both high. Watchfire Digital Outdoor billboards are backed by a five-year warranty.

Justin Booher, president of Vital Signs (Oklahoma City) and owner of a Watchfire board, said, “Although there have been droughts in the East and West, Oklahoma has had record rainfall this year, so it’s great to know that Watchfire Digital Outdoor boards have been tested so stringently. I’m confident, no matter the temperature, amount of rain or humidity, my Watchfire digital billboard will work.”