Daktronics AF-3500 User Manual
Galaxy
®
AF-3500 Series
46 mm
Installation & Operation Manual
DD1674581 Rev 5 —11 July 2013
201 Daktronics Dr. PO Box 5128 Brookings SD 57006
Tel 866-343-3122 Fax 605-697-4700
www.daktronics.com
DD1674581
Information Needed for Technicians and/or Customer Service
Location address of the display:
Model number of the display:
Version of software being used:
Method of communication being used:
Controller version used in the display:
Product 1535
Rev 5 – 11 July 2013
Complete the chart with specific information about this display, so the details are readily available
when calling for service or replacement parts.
daktronics
Copyright 2010-2013
All rights reserved. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, the publisher
assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book covered by the copyrights hereon may be
reproduced or copied in any form or by any means – graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying,
taping, or information storage and retrieval systems – without written permission of the publisher.
Galaxy® and Venus® are registered trademarks of Daktronics, Inc. Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. IBM® is a
registered trademark of IBM Corporation. Mate-N-Lok® is a registered trademark of AMP Company.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Overview of the Displays ........................................................................................... 1
1.1 Display Details ........................................................................................................................ 1
Section 2: Mechanical Installation .............................................................................................. 3
2.1 Display Identification ............................................................................................................. 3
2.2 Pre-installation Checklist ....................................................................................................... 4
2.3 Support Structure Requirements .......................................................................................... 4
2.4 Display Mounting ................................................................................................................... 6
2.5 Ventilation Requirements ...................................................................................................... 6
Open Area Requirement for Rear Ventilation ............................................................. 6
Natural Convection ......................................................................................................... 7
Fans .................................................................................................................................... 8
2.6 Optional Temperature Sensor Mounting............................................................................. 8
Section 3: Power Installation ....................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Conduit ..................................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Overview of Power Connection ............................................................................................ 9
3.3 Power Requirements .............................................................................................................. 9
3.4 Grounding .............................................................................................................................. 10
3.5 Power Connection ................................................................................................................. 11
3.6 Power Routing in the Display ............................................................................................. 12
Section 4: Signal Installation ..................................................................................................... 13
4.1 Overview of Signal Connection .......................................................................................... 13
4.2 Primary/Mirror Display Interconnections ........................................................................ 13
4.3 USB to Ethernet Adapter ...................................................................................................... 14
4.4 Setting the IP Address on the Display Controller ............................................................ 14
Section 5: Start-up Procedure ................................................................................................... 17
5.1 Start-up Checklist .................................................................................................................. 17
5.2 Start-up Sequence ................................................................................................................. 17
5.3 Post Installation Checklist .................................................................................................... 18
Section 6: Maintenance .............................................................................................................. 19
6.1 Proper Ladder Use ................................................................................................................ 19
6.2 Internal Display Access ........................................................................................................ 20
Table of Contents i
6.3 Ventilation .............................................................................................................................. 21
6.4 Display Face Cleaning .......................................................................................................... 22
6.5 Annual Inspection ................................................................................................................. 23
Section 7: Diagnostics and Troubleshooting ........................................................................... 25
7.1 Controller Diagnostics .......................................................................................................... 25
7.2 MLC Diagnostics ................................................................................................................... 25
7.3 Temperature Sensor Diagnostic .......................................................................................... 26
7.4 Troubleshooting Display Problems .................................................................................... 26
Section 8: Parts Replacement .................................................................................................... 31
8.1 Parts Replacement List ......................................................................................................... 31
8.2 Instructions for Replacing Parts .......................................................................................... 32
Section 9: Daktronics Exchange and Repair & Return Programs .......................................... 39
9.1 Exchange Program ................................................................................................................ 39
Before Contacting Daktronics ...................................................................................... 39
9.2 Repair & Return Program .................................................................................................... 40
Shipping Address .......................................................................................................... 40
9.3 Daktronics Warranty and Limitation of Liability ............................................................. 40
Glossary .................................................................................................................................... 41
Appendix A: Reference Drawings.................................................................................................. 43
Appendix B: Temperature Sensor Installation ............................................................................. 45
Appendix C: International Installation .......................................................................................... 47
Appendix D: Maintenance Log ....................................................................................................... 49
Appendix E: Daktronics Warranty and Limitation of Liability .................................................... 51
ii Table of Contents
Section 1: Overview of the Displays
AF-3500-RRxCCC-MM-R,A,RGB-XX
AF-3500
=
Outdoor Galaxy display
RR
=
Number of pixel rows high
CCC
=
Number of pixel columns long
MM
=
Pixel pitch in millimeters
R,A,RGB
=
LED Color: R (Red), A (Amber),
RGB (Full Color - Red, Green, Blue)
XX
=
SF (Primary) or 2V (Primary/Mirror)
Figure 1: AF-3500 46 mm RGB Module
This manual provides installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting information to ensure the
optimal performance of the Daktronics Galaxy® AF-3500 Series 46 mm displays. Diagnostic
information, parts replacement information, and a glossary are at the end of this manual.
1.1 Display Details
The Galaxy® model numbers are as follows:
Displays come either as single-face or as 2V (Two-View) units. Standard display lengths
greater than 192 pixels are single face only. For 2V units, refer to the first display as primary,
and the second display as mirror. Modules are the “building blocks” of Daktronics displays.
Figure 1 shows a 46 mm 8 x 8 RGB module.
A typical display system consists of an IBMcompatible computer running Venus 1500
software for one or more displays. The Venus®
1500 software package runs on Windows® XP, or
Windows Vista® Home/Professional operating
systems. Refer to the Venus® 1500 Software
Version 4 Operation Manual (DD1370296) for
installation and operation of the Venus® 1500
software.
Overview of the Displays 1
Figure 2 shows the front and back views of a typical display. Figure 3 shows a simplified
Figure 2: Display Components
Figure 3: Basic Display Setup
diagram of basic display setup.
2 Overview of the Displays
Section 2: Mechanical Installation
Figure 4: Single / Sectional Matrix
Read Section 2:, Section 3:, and Section 4: before installing the display.
Daktronics’ engineering staff must approve any changes that may affect the weather tightness of the
display. Before making any modifications, submit detailed drawings of changes to Daktronics for
evaluation and approval. Failure to do so may void the warranty.
Note: Do not drill holes in the display. Doing so will result in failure of internal components due to
water intrusion. Daktronics is not responsible for installations or the structural integrity of support
structures done by others. The customer must ensure a qualified structural engineer approves the
structure and any additional hardware.
2.1 Display Identification
The following matrix shows the standard sizes for AF-3500 Series 46 mm displays. It shows
which displays use front or rear ventilation, and which displays are single or sectional.
Galaxy 3500 series 46 mm displays that are 56 pixels high and above are shipped with side
borders attached to the display cabinet. Top and bottom borders are shipped in a separate
box and should be attached at time of installation. In order to maintain the integrity of
display operation and ensure that it meets the required specifications, the side borders must
remain attached to the display. It is recommended that the top and bottom borders be
attached for aesthetic purposes, but can remain off if surrounding structure prevents them
from being installed.
In order to comply with UL requirements, the UL mark must be visible after installation of all
Galaxy displays. This label is typically located on the front of the display near the lower left
corner.
Mechanical Installation 3
2.2 Pre-installation Checklist
Verify the following before Installation
The display is in good condition after shipping and uncrating.
The mounting structure will provide a straight and square mounting frame for the display.
Height variation in any 4' (1.2 m) horizontal section must not exceed 1/4" (6.3 mm).
Provide adequate support for the display so that the structure will not yield at any unsupported
points after mounting.
There is a 4" (10.2 cm) of unobstructed space above the display. This is required for eyebolt
removal.
There is clearance around the display. This is required for unobstructed airflow through the
vents and fans, and for access to internal components.
The display cabinet has no holes (accidental or intentional) that could allow water to enter the
display.
All display modules are fully latched into the display cabinet.
2.3 Support Structure Requirements
Daktronics expects the installer to use a safe and robust structure that meets all local codes to
support the display.
Support structure design depends on the mounting methods, installation height, display size,
and weight. Because every installation site is unique, Daktronics approves no single
procedure for mounting Galaxy® displays.
The information contained in this section is general information only and may not be
appropriate for all installations. Refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 for basic display setups.
Mounting plans need to take into account:
The ventilation system. All display vents must remain completely unobstructed for
airflow. Proper ventilation keeps the internal components from overheating. Refer to
Section 2.5.
The face-mounted light sensor.
4 Mechanical Installation
The location of mounting clips, and the clearance needed for the power and signal
Figure 5: Back View of Typical Display
Figure 6: Structural Restrictions for Installation
terminations on the back of the display. Refer to Figure 7.
Display height and wind
load. Refer to Figure 6 and
the Shop Drawing that is
included with the display.
Mechanical Installation 5
2.4 Display Mounting
Figure 7: Correct Lifting Procedure
To ensure structural integrity of the display cabinet, maintain a 90° angle between the cabinet
and the lifting method.
If damage occurs because of improper lifting procedures, the warranty will be void.
General Mounting Procedure
1. Lift the display into position on the support structure. Refer to Figure 7.
Notes:
Use all eyebolts to lift the
display, as shown in Figure
7. Failure to do so may
result in tear-off at
hardware connections.
Do not permanently
support the display by the
eyebolts.
2. Weld or use
stronger) bolts and hardware to
secure all of the clip angles to the
support structure. Refer to the Shop
Drawing included with the display.
Note: If using alternative mounting methods in place of clip angles, ensure that all bolt
locations are used.
3. Refer to Section 3: for power routing and to the appropriate communication manual for
signal connections to the display.
4. After installation is complete, carefully inspect the display for any holes that may allow
water to seep into the display. Seal any holes with silicone.
1
/2" grade-5 (or
2.5 Ventilation Requirements
Displays are equipped with ventilation systems to keep internal electrical components at safe
operating temperatures. Depending on the size of the display, it will use either natural
convection or fans. Pay special attention to the locations of intake and exhaust vents, as these
vents must remain unobstructed to maintain safe operating temperatures.
Open Area Requirement for Rear Ventilation
The open area requirement is the amount of open space needed behind a rear-ventilated
display for proper ventilation. This area is different for each display. Refer to Figure 8 for a
general overview. For specifics on the open area requirement, refer to the Shop Drawing for
the display.
6 Mechanical Installation
Natural Convection
Figure 8: Rear Ventilation
RGB displays 40 pixels high and above use natural convection. RGB displays 40 and 48 high
have intake vents in the front bottom, and exhaust vents in the rear top. RGB displays 56 high
and above have intake and exhaust vents in the rear only.
Monochrome displays 48 high and above have intake and exhaust vents in the rear only.
Refer to Figure 8.
Note: To maintain safe operating temperatures in the display, do not close off the top or
bottom of the structure. The openings on the side of the structure do not help in cooling the
display adequately. Openings on the side of the structure cannot be considered “open area.”
If the natural airflow is blocked, the display will overheat and cause performance issues.
Daktronics cannot be held responsible for performance issues that occur due to obstructed
airflow.
Mechanical Installation 7
Fans
Figure 9: Front Ventilation Airflow
Displays up to 40 pixels high use
fans. Intake fans pull air through
vents located on the bottom
front of the display. If front
ventilated, ensure the entire
front of the display is exposed to
allow for proper airflow.
Exhaust vents allow airflow
through adjacent vents along the
bottom front of the display.
Refer to Figure 9.
Note: When mounting the
display, the entire front of the
display must be exposed to
allow for proper ventilation.
Aesthetic shrouding (common in
monument installations) is not advised.
2.6 Optional Temperature Sensor Mounting
Some displays use optional temperature sensors. Refer to Appendix B: for mounting and
signal connections.
8 Mechanical Installation
Section 3: Power Installation
Only a qualified individual should terminate power and signal cable to a Daktronics display.
Daktronics engineering staff must approve all proposed changes, or the warranty will be void.
3.1 Conduit
Daktronics does not provide conduit. Separate conduit must be used to route:
Power
Signal-in wires to the signal termination enclosure (when applicable).
Signal-out wires (if not using the provided interconnect cable).
For power, displays come with either a J box, or a 3/4" conduit access hole located near the
lower-right corner, on the back of the display. For signal, displays come with either signal
input quick-connects, or etched drilling guides for conduit.
3.2 Overview of Power Connection
Terminate display power either at the J box, or internally, at the power termination panel.
Refer to Section 3.5 for wiring examples.
Route power to the display through a fused disconnect switch, which can open all
ungrounded power conductors. Refer to Section 3.3 for additional information.
Install the disconnect switch within sight of display maintenance personnel, unless it can
be locked in the open position. Refer to Section 3.3 for additional information.
Note: Displays are equipped with circuit breakers that carry a UL489 or UL1077 (IEC
60947, VDE 660) rating. These devices protect only the components within the display.
Follow local code specifications when routing power conductors from the disconnect
switch to the display.
Connect the grounding conductor to the grounding lug on the back of the display. Refer
to Section 3.4 for additional information.
For sectional displays, each section has its own power termination panel. Display lengths
of 208, 224, 240, and 256 are two sections shipped as one; therefore, the installer will have
to bring power to each assembled section.
3.3 Power Requirements
Install the display according to applicable local and national electrical codes. This
includes proper grounding and bonding of the display.
Displays use single-phase power.
Do not connect the displays to any voltage other than that listed on the Daktronics
product label.
Proper power installation is imperative for display operation.
Refer to Appendix B: for the power specifications of the various display sizes.
Note: For circuit conductors delivering power to a display, size them according to local
and national electrical codes, so the power distribution system delivers full load power to
the display while maintaining a voltage within five percent of the nominal utility voltage.
Power Installation 9
Main Disconnect
Figure 10: Correct Grounding
Daktronics requires using a disconnect switch so that all ungrounded conductors can be
disconnected near the point of power connection.
Place the disconnect switch in direct line of sight from the display, unless it can be locked
in the open position. This ensures power remains off while service personnel work on the
display.
3.4 Grounding
Ground displays according to the provisions outlined in local and national electrical
codes. Install with the ground and neutral conductors provided.
Note: Do not connect neutral to ground at the disconnect switch or at the display. This
violates electrical codes and voids the warranty.
Connect the display system to the earth ground, as shown in Figure 10. Proper
grounding protects the equipment from electrical disturbances and lightning.
Daktronics requires a resistance to ground of 10 ohms or less. Failure to ground the
display properly voids the warranty.
Important Points about Grounding
Resistance to ground 10 ohms or less: This is required by Daktronics for proper display
Follow local and national codes: The material of an earth-ground electrode differs from
10 Power Installation
performance. If the resistance to ground is higher than 10 ohms, install additional
grounding electrodes to reduce the resistance. The grounding electrode should be
installed within 25' (7.6 m) of the base of the display and must be connected to the
ground lug on the back of the display. Refer to Figure 10.
region to region and for conditions present at the site. Consult any local and national
electrical codes that may apply.
Support structure cannot be used as an earth-ground electrode: Daktronics does not
120 VAC
120/240 VAC
Line 1 – Black
Line 1 – Black
Line 2 – Red
Neutral – White
Neutral – White
Ground – Green/Yellow
Ground – Green/Yellow
Figure 11: 120 V J box Termination
Figure 12: 120 / 240 V J box Termination
recommend using the support structure as an earth-ground electrode; concrete, primer,
corrosion, and other factors make the support structure a poor ground.
Note: The support structure may be used as an earth-ground electrode only if designed
to do so. A qualified inspector must approve the support structure and grounding
methods.
One grounding electrode for each display face: The grounding electrode is typically one
grounding rod for each display face. Other grounding electrodes as described in any
local and national electrical codes may be used.
3.5 Power Connection
For most displays, power terminates externally at the J box. However, larger displays require
internal power termination at the power termination panel.
For Displays with an External Power Termination J box
To terminate hot, neutral, and ground wires at the J box:
1. Route the power cable through conduit to the rear of the display, and into the power
termination J box. The J box contains 3/4" threaded conduit fittings.
2. The J box contains two or three wires, plus a ground coming from the interior of the
display. These wires pre-terminate at the power termination panel inside the display.
Refer to the following table for wire colors:
3. Inside the external J box, use wire nuts to connect the power wires to the wires
Power Installation 11
coming from the display interior. Refer to Figure 11 for 120 V AC and Figure 12 for
120 / 240 V AC.
For Displays with Internal Power Termination
Figure 13: Single-phase 6-breaker
Domestic Panel
Figure 14: Power Flow Summary
To terminate single-phase power to the internal power termination panel:
1. Open the display as explained in Section 6:
and locate the power termination panel.
2. Route the cable through conduit to the back of
the display. Use the 3/4" knockout for access,
careful not to damage internal components.
3. Connect the neutral wire to the neutral lug and
the live wires to the Line 1 and Line 2 lugs.
4. The ground wire connects to the grounding
bus bar. Refer to Figure 13.
3.6 Power Routing in the Display
The following list is a summary of power routing. The
list refers to the numbers in Figure 14.
1. Power terminates internally to the power
termination panel (either directly or via the
rear-mounted J box).
2. Power routes through the circuit breakers and
the Z-filter in the power termination panel.
3. Power routes through filters to the power
supplies, which provide power to the modules.
4. Power travels
through the
transformer, which
steps down power to
the appropriate
voltage for the
controller (or MLC in
a mirror display).
5. Power routes
through a filter to the
thermostat and the
fans. The thermostat
activates the fans.
Note: Power supplies
are set to the proper
voltage via the V
adjust harness that is
connected to the
nearest module.
12 Power Installation
Section 4: Signal Installation
Communication Type
Communication Manual
Communication Quick Guide
Ethernet
DD1417609
DD1417573
Fiber Ethernet
DD1417611
DD1417581
Wireless Ethernet Bridge
DD1417615
DD1417586
Wi-Fi
DD1417619
DD1417592
USB to Ethernet Adapter
N/A
DD1790707
Figure 15: Primary/Mirror
Quick-connect Cable
For specific details on installing communications, consult the quick guide and manual included with
the communication equipment. Refer to the table below for the standard communication types and
their corresponding manual number. These are the standard communication types. Each site is
unique and may include additional equipment. If problems arise, contact the display’s service
company or Daktronics Customer Service.
4.1 Overview of Signal Connection
Refer to the communication manuals for methods of signal termination.
Route signal cable to the signal termination enclosure. Ground the enclosure to an
isolated earth ground connector (when required).
Route signal cable through conduit into the enclosure. Use
on the enclosure.
Route signal quick-connect cables through conduit, from the enclosure to the display.
Optionally, you can route signal through the display pole; however, do not route signal
through the display pole if routing power through the display pole.
3
/4" conduit for the knockouts
Note: Daktronics strongly recommends that the quick-connect cables be secured to
protect them from weather or vandalism.
4.2 Primary/Mirror Display Interconnections
If this display is a two-sided primary/mirror display, a 20'
quick-connect cable will be provided to connect the signal
between the two faces. This cable cannot be lengthened. Refer
to Figure 15.
Secure the excess cable to the support structure to prevent
weather damage or vandalism.
Signal Installation 13
Loading...