Search:

LCD Enclosures - Secrets of Inexpensive Outdoor Digital Signage

The challenges of outdoor digital signage differ to those of the larger indoor sector. For indoors the main priority is content and location; however, outdoors there are other considerations too.
Protection is vital for any outdoor screen otherwise the first spell of bad weather can lead to a permanent or expensive failure, but there are other weather elements and challenges with an outdoor screen that also needs to be planned for.
Rain, hail and snow
The most obvious weather elements that an outdoor screen needs to be protected against come from the sky. Rain, hail and snow are all water based so it is crucial thee elements are kept from the outdoor screen. Even a minute droplet of water can lead to a short circuit - and possible failure.
IT can be difficult to properly waterproof an outdoor screen because as they generate heat, a flow of air needs to be able to pass through the device to transfer heat away - causing a potential area where moisture can seep in.
Dust and Windblown debris
Dust can have similar effects to water on an LCD screen. Windblown dust and debris can contain all sorts of elements, from metals, to sand - many of which are conductive. Not only can dust short circuit an LCD screen but it can also clog internal parts, block filters and cause overheating.
Temperature
Overheating is not just caused by dust, though. Commonly, temperatures in outdoor locations can vary from one extreme to the other, depending on the season. During hot weather, heat is obviously the problem and measures have to be taken to prevent the device from getting to hot and overheating.
In the winter and colder months, the opposite is true. The screen needs to be kept warm to prevent components freezing and any condensation expansion from damaging the device.
Impacts
Another challenge for outdoor digital signage is protecting the devices from vandalism and accidental impact. Most outdoor screens are left unattended and unsupervised so some from of physical protection is essential.
Solutions
There are various different solutions for protecting screens from all the above elements. Firstly, outdoor TVs are manufactured specifically for outside use. They are waterproof but also highly expensive. These outdoor LCD TVs also offer little defence against impact and damage and while they have wider temperature ranges they are still vulnerable in extreme conditions.
LCD enclosures are a more comprehensive solution and, furthermore, by using an LCD enclosure you can use a standard or commercial grade screen without having to invest in a waterproof version. The LCD enclosure will keep the weather elements of the screen and any media player, and will also ensure the correct temperature within the enclosure as they contain thermostatic climatic systems - such as fans, heaters, insulation and air conditioners.
Made from steel, LCD enclosures are also durable and can withstand even the most tenacious vandal. Often they have security locks fitted to prevent any attempts at theft and shatterproof screens are placed in front to protect the screen from impact and prevent permanent damage.
Coste effective tough, durable, LCD enclosures allow monitor, display, TV and digital signage use in even the harshest of environments.

Article Source: http://www.ezinearticles.mk

Armagard have nearly two decades of experience manufacturing protective environments for computers, printers and displays. Using this knowledge and experience, Armagard have produced a range of protective LCD enclosures designed for protecting standard LCD and plasma screens in outdoor or hazardous locations - ideal for outdoor digital signage or patio/backyard TV viewing. Our LCD enclosure comes with world class warranty.

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated