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How to Troubleshoot Programmable LED Signs

Answer five questions to help you fix the problems of your scrolling LED signs without having to call a technician and save up on technician service fees.



Light-emitting diodes or LEDs are known to emit extremely bright light compared to fluorescent, HPS, or neon lighting fixtures and signs. And although they give such brightness, they use much less energy and emit less heat, which is why switching to LEDs is a great way to save power for homes and businesses.


However, there might come a time that your scrolling LED sign may not perform as well as you first purchased it. If you notice that the bulbs are not as bright as they used to be or the sign itself is frequently shutting down, there must be a problem with the power supply.


Before calling a technician or handyman, try troubleshooting your programmable LED sign first. In order to do that, here are questions you should ask yourself:


  1. Did I check the primary power source?
  2. Did I check the connections?
  3. Is the programmable LED sign’s wire too long?
  4. Are the wires the correct sizes?
  5. Is the system voltage enough to power up the scrolling LED sign?

Red single line scrolling LED sign from Affordable LED

#1 Did I check the primary power source?


First of all, check the main power source. This is because the problem might just be with the source itself. If that is the case, your LED sign does not have any internal problem.


Find a new power source. If you can't find one, use a generator or a portable power supply while the primary power source is being fixed.


#2 Did I check the connections?


If it's not the primary power source, the problem might be with the connections. Check for loose wires and connectors. Ensure that they are tight and secure; otherwise, your sign will not be able to function properly. 


Loose connections can not just cause problems with power reception but also cause your scrolling LED sign to overheat. Always make sure to regularly check the connectors and wires to prevent short circuits and fire hazards.


#3 Is the programmable LED sign’s wire too long?


If you are using a long wire extension or the sign's electrical wire itself is long and far from the primary power source, there's a probability that the voltage has dropped. This happens when the electric current is having a hard time traveling through long wires due to resistance, causing the voltage to drop.


Low voltage will not light up your sign and can also be dangerous to the internal components of the. With that said, find a near power source so you won't have to use long extension cords. Long wires are also not recommended as people can trip on them, pulling the wire off the plug.


#4 Are the wires the correct sizes?


The wire size is also an important factor to consider. If the wires are not of the correct sizes, the electric current will not be able to travel properly and will not meet the power requirements of your scrolling LED sign. This will also result in damage to the internal components via voltage drop and overheating.


If you really need to use extension cords, make sure to only use ones that are manufactured for heavy-duty use.


#5 Is the system voltage enough to power up the scrolling LED sign?


If you found a new power source, make sure that it gives the same voltage enough to power up your programmable LED sign and is compatible with it. Most scrolling LED signs work on 120 or 230 volts or within a 10 percent range like 115 or 220.


Make sure to stay within the range mentioned, or else your LED sign might get damaged. If your sign runs on 120 volts, it for sure cannot run on a 230.


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Do you need a new scrolling website for your business? Check AffordableLED.com to find that perfect sign for your establishment.



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