Troubleshooting Guide
If you encounter errors while setting up or using your LED Digital Sign, please refer to the following troubleshooting guide for possible solutions. If your issue is not listed or the solutions provided do not resolve the problem, please reach out to our Technical Support team at 832-680-6111 for further assistance.
Possible LED digital sign issues
1
Sign is all out
The sign is completely dark, showing no images.
Solutions:
1. Check power to the sign components.
2. Check software for the sign for function, schedule and content.
3. Power off the sign and wait 10 minutes, then start back the sign.
2
Dashed line
Solutions:
1. Usually involves bad modules or ribbon cables at the right-most part of the dashed line.
2. First, replace the ribbon cable ( A ).
3. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (B).
4. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (C).
3
Line out
Only one line of module boards are out.
Solutions:
1. Usually involves bad modules or ribbon cables at the right-most part of the dashed line.
2. First, replace the ribbon cable ( A ).
3. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (B).
4. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (C).
4
Section out
A section (more than one line of boards) is out, beginning at the far rightside of the sign.
Solutions:
1. Locate the “Control card” If there is more than one control card shown on the sign, locate the one nearest to the section that is out.
2. Remove the LED module(s) covering the control card.
3. Locate indicator lights on control card. Make sure the indicator lights are on. If the lights are on, proceed to the next step. If the lights are not on, there is no power going to the control card. See “How to replace a power supply”
4. Verify that the control card has a light turn on to it.
a) If the control card light is working, and all of the LED modules connected to this control card are still not working, replace the interface card. See “How to replace a control card”
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b) If the control card light is working, but only some of the LED modules connected to this control card are not working, then you may have a problem with failed power supplies. See “How to replace a power supply”
5
Section Out - Half the sign is out
A section (more than one line of boards) is out.
Solutions:
1. Remove one or more LED modules at the far right hand side of the outage. Trace back the power cable to the LED power supply.
2. Look for the LED indicator lights on the power supply.
3. If any indicator light is out. see: “How to replace a power supply”
6
Discoloration on One Module
One discolored LED module. For example: one color is missing or one LED module is too bright or too dim.
Solutions:
1. See “How to replace an LED module”
7
Discoloration of multiple modules in one line
Multiple discolored LED modules. For example: one color is missing or one LED module is too bright or too dim
Solutions:
1. Usually involves bad modules or ribbon cables at the right-most part of the dashed line.
2. First, replace the ribbon cable ( A ).
3. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (B).
4. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (C).
8
Data corruption on one line
Data is not displaying correctly on only one line of the sign. This will often look like static on a television set, with modules displaying areas at full bright and other areas on the same module that are completely dark.
Solutions:
1. Usually involves bad modules or ribbon cables at the right-most part of the dashed line.
2. First, replace the ribbon cable ( A ).
3. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (B).
4. If this doesn’t solve the problem, replace module (C).
9
Dimming or brightness issues
The entire sign is too bright or too dim.
Solutions:
1. Check brightness setting on the software
and re-send the program using software.
10
Two sides, one working
& one side not working
Solutions:
1. Change the ethernet cable between two sides. See "How to change Ethernet cable".
The side that is not working is not receiving data from working side.
How to replace an LED module - Front Service
1. Turn off the power: Before beginning any work, ensure that the power to the LED sign is turned off to prevent electrical accidents.
2. Find the hex head screws positioned on the front of the module.
3. Using a 5/64" or 7/64" T-Handle Allen wrench, rotate the screws about a quarter turn counterclockwise.
4. Carefully lift the module upwards and remove it from its position.
5. Disconnect both the input and output ribbon cables associated with the module.
6. When reinstalling the module, ensure that the ribbon cable connector keys are aligned correctly to guarantee proper reinstallation.
How to replace an data ribbon cable - Front Service
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Turn off the power: Before beginning any work, ensure that the power to the LED sign is turned off to prevent electrical accidents.​
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Find the data ribbon cable, which is connected to both the right and left sides of the module board.
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To disconnect the data ribbon cable, gently grasp the end of the cable and carefully pull it out from the module.
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When reinstalling the cable, it is crucial to align the ribbon cable connector keys properly. This ensures the cable is reinstalled correctly and functions as intended.
How to replace an LED module - Front Access
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Turn off the power: Before beginning any work, ensure that the power to the LED sign is turned off to prevent electrical accidents.
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Once you have identified the module panel that needs replacement, unlock the cabinet using the provided key and access the area beneath the sign.
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Carefully pull the red and black power cable located at the center of the module, ensuring a gentle and controlled motion.
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Next, gently detach the ribbon cable from each side of the module panel, taking care not to apply excessive force.
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To remove the screws behind the module panel, you can use either a drill machine or a screwdriver, depending on your preference and availability of tools.
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With the screws removed, apply gentle pressure to push the module, allowing it to come out smoothly from its position.
Remember to handle each step with caution and avoid unnecessary force to prevent any damage or mishaps during the replacement process.
How to replace an data ribbon cable - Front Access
To begin, find the data ribbon cable connected to both the right and left sides of the module board. To disconnect the cable, grip the end of it firmly and carefully pull it out from the module. When reinstalling the cable, it is crucial to align the ribbon cable connector keys accurately. This ensures proper reinstallation and optimal functionality.
How to replace an Power supply
To begin, identify the failed power supply by inspecting if any LED indicator light is not lit. To release the power supply, use your fingers to unscrew it by turning and lifting it up and out of the back panel. Remove all the screws holding the power supply in place. When reinstalling the power supply, it is crucial to reconnect all the wires in the same configuration as they were before removal. This ensures proper reinstallation and guarantees optimal functionality.
How to replace an Control Card
To begin, identify the failed control card and, if necessary, remove enough modules to gain access. If the sign allows front service, open the sign to gain access. If it's a front access sign, you can directly open it for access.
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Next, disconnect the two ethernet cables from the display port and PC port. Then, remove the screw to disconnect the red and black wire.
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Carefully pull the data ribbon cable out from the control card to disconnect it. Take caution to avoid damaging the cable.
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Lastly, remove the screws securing the control card to release it from the back panel. This will allow you to remove the control card for further examination or replacement.
LED Digital Sign component’s diagram
