Daktronics DF-1050, DF-1051, DF-1052, DF-1053 User Manual
331 32nd Ave PO Box 5128 Brookings SD 57006
Tel 605-697-4034 or 877-605-1113 Fax 605-697-4444
www.daktronics.com e-mail: helpdesk@daktronics.com
DataMaster
Parking Garage Displays
Installation and Operation Manual
ED-14139 Rev 4–11 January 2005
Models DF-1050/51
TM
Four-Digit LED
ED-14139
Product 1279
Rev 4 – 11 January 2005
DAKTRONICS, INC.
Copyright 2005
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.
DataTime
®
and DataMaster™ are trademarks of Daktronics, Inc.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction....................................................................................1-1
1.1 Safety Precautions..................................................................................... 1-2
1.2 Network Concepts.....................................................................................1-3
Current Loop (DataMaster)................................................................ 1-3
Current Loop (Signal Converter)........................................................1-3
Manual Control Functions..................................................................1-3
1.3 Product Overview......................................................................................1-3
Parking Garage Display Specifications.............................................. 1-4
1.4 Component Identification.......................................................................... 1-5
1.5 Daktronics Nomenclature.......................................................................... 1-6
Section 2: Mechanical Installation.................................................................2-1
2.1 Mechanical Installation Overview.............................................................2-1
2.2 Mechanical Installation.............................................................................. 2-2
DF-1050 Installation........................................................................... 2-2
DF-1051 Installation........................................................................... 2-3
Section 3: Electrical Installation.....................................................................3-1
3.1 Preparing for Power/Signal Connections...................................................3-1
3.2 Power and Grounding Connections...........................................................3-1
Power.................................................................................................. 3-1
Grounding........................................................................................... 3-2
3.3 Lightning Protection..................................................................................3-3
3.4 Signal Connection......................................................................................3-3
Current Loop (DataMaster)................................................................ 3-4
Current Loop (Signal Converter)........................................................3-5
Manual Control Functions..................................................................3-8
3.5 Host/Client and Address Settings.............................................................. 3-9
Host/Client Definitions....................................................................... 3-9
Section 4: Maintenance and Troubleshooting..............................................4-1
4.1 Cabinet Specifications............................................................................... 4-1
4.2 Component Location and Access..............................................................4-1
4.3 Service and Diagnostics.............................................................................4-2
Digit Replacement..............................................................................4-2
Segmentation and Digit Designation..................................................4-3
LED Driver......................................................................................... 4-3
Light Sensor Installation.....................................................................4-5
4.4 Troubleshooting......................................................................................... 4-5
4.5 Replacement Parts ..................................................................................... 4-6
4.6 Daktronics Exchange and Repair and Return Programs............................4-7
Table of Contents i
Section 5:
Appendix: Reference Drawings .....................................................................A-1
Appendix B: DataTime/DataMaster FAQ...........................................................B-1
Parking Garage Display Operation ............................................. 5-1
5.1 DataMaster 100 Overview.........................................................................5-1
5.2 DataMaster Insert and Code ...................................................................... 5-1
5.3 Parking Garage Display Operation............................................................5-2
Parking Garage Display Startup .........................................................5-2
Menu Items.........................................................................................5-4
Parking Garage Display Controller Operation....................................5-4
Modifying Level Settings................................................................... 5-4
Display Level Editing.........................................................................5-5
LED Test ............................................................................................ 5-5
Modem Settings.................................................................................. 5-5
Display Status.....................................................................................5-5
Set Time..............................................................................................5-6
Display Sequence ............................................................................... 5-6
Dimming.............................................................................................5-6
ii Table of Contents
Table of Figures
Figure 1: Daktronics Drawing Label.....................................................................................1-2
Figure 2: Model DF-1050..................................................................................................... 1-5
Figure 3: Model DF-1051..................................................................................................... 1-5
Figure 4: Typical Label......................................................................................................... 1-7
Figure 5: DF-1050 Mounting................................................................................................ 2-2
Figure 6: DF-1051 Drop-In................................................................................................... 2-3
Figure 7: DataMaster Driver Enclosure with 4-Column Driver............................................3-4
Figure 8: Direct, DataMaster Control ................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 9: DataMaster Connections........................................................................................3-5
Figure 10: Standard Wire (Current Loop) Layout.................................................................3-6
Figure 11: Standard Wire Signal Connections...................................................................... 3-6
Figure 12: Standard Fiber Optic Layout ............................................................................... 3-7
Figure 13: Stand Fiber Optic Signal Connections................................................................. 3-7
Figure 14: Manual Control Layout........................................................................................3-8
Figure 15: Manual Control Connections...............................................................................3-8
Figure 16: Host, Signal Out to Client, Signal In ................................................................... 3-9
Figure 17: Common Address Settings ................................................................................ 3-10
Figure 18: Parking Garage Display.......................................................................................4-2
Figure 19: Digit Replacement............................................................................................... 4-2
Figure 20: Digit Designation.................................................................................................4-3
Figure 21: 4-Column Digit Driver ........................................................................................ 4-4
Figure 22: Light Sensor Installation...................................................................................... 4-5
Figure 23: DataMaster 100....................................................................................................5-1
Figure 24: DataMaster 100 Insert LL-2551 .......................................................................... 5-2
Table of Figures i
Section 1: Introduction
This manual explains the installation, maintenance and troubleshooting of the Daktronics
DataMaster
safety, installation, operation, or service of this system, please refer to the telephone numbers
that are listed on the cover page of this manual.
This manual is divided into 7 sections: Introduction, Mechanical Installation, Electrical
Installation, Maintenance and Troubleshooting, Parking Garage Display Information,
Appendix A and Appendix B.
Daktronics identifies manuals by the ED number located on the cover page of each manual.
For example, this manual would be referred to as ED-14139.
Listed below are a number of drawing types commonly used by Daktronics, along with the
information that each is likely to provide. This manual might not contain all these drawings:
TM
DF-1050/DF-1051 LED Parking Garage displays. For questions regarding the
• Introduction covers the basic information needed to make the most of the rest of
this manual. Take time to read the entire introduction because it defines terms and
explains concepts used throughout the manual. It also contains an overview of the
product and product safety information.
• Mechanical Installation provides general gu i dance o n di splay mounting.
• Electrical Installation gives general guidance on terminating power and signal
cables at the display.
• Maintenance and Troubleshooting addresses such things as removing basic display
components, troubleshooting the display, performing general maintenance and
exchanging display components.
• Parking Garage Display Operation gives a product overview of the DataMaster
controller used to program the Parking Garage display.
• Appendix A lists the drawings referenced in this manual.
• Appendix B lists the Frequently Asked Questions when operating this display.
• System Riser Diagrams: overall system layout from DataMaster control location to
the display.
• Electrical and Mechanical Specification Drawings: driver enclosure locations,
mounting information, display dimensions, power and signal entrance points and
access method (front or rear).
• Schematics: power wiring, signal wiring, panel board or power termination panel
assignments, signal termination panel assignments and transformer assignments.
Figure 1 illustrates a Daktronics drawing label. The drawing number is located in
the lower-right corner of each drawing. This manual refers to drawings by listing the
last set of numbers and the letter preceding them. In the example below, the drawing
would be referred to as Drawing A-69945.
Introduction 1-1
Figure 1: Daktronics Drawing Label
All references to drawing numbers, appendices, figures or other manuals are
presented in bold typeface, as shown below:
“Refer to Drawing A-69945, in Appendix A for the power supply location.”
In addition, any drawings referenced within a particular section are listed at the
beginning of that section as shown in the following example:
Reference Drawing:
Component Placement Diagram............................. Drawing A-69945
Daktronics displays are built for long life and to require little maintenance. However,
from time to time, certain display components will need to be replaced. The
Replacement Parts List in Section 4.5 provides the names and part numbers of
components that you may need to order during the life of this display. Most display
components have a white label that lists the part number. The component part
number is in the following format: 0P-____-____ (circuit board) or 0A-____-____
(multi-component assembly).
Following the Replacement Parts List is an explanation of the Daktronics
Exchange and Repair and Return Programs. Refer to these instructions if any
display component needs replacement or repair.
1.1 Safety Precautions
Important Safeguards:
1. Read an d understand these instructions before installing the
display.
2. Do not drop the control console or allow it to get wet.
3. Be sure the display is properly grounded with a grounding
electrode at the display location.
4. Disconnect power to the display when it is not in use.
5. Disconnect power when servicing the display.
6. Do not modify the display structure or attach any panels or
coverings to the display without the written consent of Daktronics,
Inc.
1-2 Introduction
1.2 Network Concepts
The concept of using LED technology displays as a cost effective, high impact
method of communication is rapidly growing throughout many industries and
businesses. The common thread of most requests is a means of programming and
controlling the displays in a variety of ways.
The Parking Garage displays can be controlled via wire current loop, fiber optic or
manual functions.
Current Loop (DataMaster)
The DataMaster controller connects to the Parking Garage display either from a jbox located outside near the display or from an indoor location. The communication
method is current loop to the host display, and from the host to the client. Current
loop is a standard communication method that uses a maximum cable length of 600
meters (approximately 2000 feet). Refer to Section 3 for additional information and
connections.
Current Loop (Signal Converter)
Two types of signal converters can be used in the case of some Parking Garage
displays. In each case the computer connected to the signal computer will be running
custom software for the displays. Refer to Section 3 for additional information and
connections.
In one case, a serial cable connects to the signal converter, and then current loop wire
will run to the display at a maximum length of 300 meters (approximately 1000 feet).
In the second case, a serial cable connects to the first signal converter, and fiber
connects it to a second signal converter. The fiber cable between displays can be up
to 1.2 k (approximately 4000 feet). From the second signal converter a current loop
wire can go another 300 meters to the display.
Manual Control Functions
In some cases, a manual switch box can be wired to the Parking Garage display to
either increment or decrement the number on the display. The switch box is outdoor
rated, and has a maximum length of 300 meters (approximately 1000 feet) from the
display.
1.3 Product Overview
DataTime and DataMaster Parking Garage displays are part of a family of
Daktronics LED digit displays designed for easy installation, readability, and
reliability.
The DataTime/DataMaster Series includes:
• Parking Garage Displays: four-digit displays used for parking locations
requiring a DataMaster, switch inputs or third-party software.
• Gasoline Price Displays: gas price signs with three standard digits, decimal
and
9
/
10
fraction.
Introduction 1-3
• Rate Displays: two- or four-digit signs, typically used to display
hotel/motel room rates or commodity prices.
• Lottery Displays: three-digit signs typically used to display
lottery jackpots.
• Event Counters: these displays are typically used to count to a
designated goal. They will count either up or down, and values
can be up to 9 digits long.
• Time & Temperature Displays: automatic time & temp signs capable
of displaying temperatures in Fahrenheit or Celsius (three digits, degree
symbol and F and C character) and 12- or 24-hour time.
The DataMaster series includes parking, gasoline, and rate displays, along with
lottery and event counters. The DataTime series name is used for time and
temperature displays only.
These displays have the following features:
• These displays use LEDs to illuminate their numeric digits.
• Power usage for individual displays in this series is a maximum 300 W. All
models have a 120 V power requireme nt .
• All DataMaster displays are configured with red, amber or green LEDs,
depending on the display type ordered.
• DataMaster cabinets are constructed of heavy-gauge aluminum.
• Digit faceplates are black, and they are set directly into the surface of the
display.
• Mounting weights and dimensions for each model are listed in Section 2 of
this manual.
• The models may be equipped with an optional light sensor for automatic
dimming in changing-light environments.
• The DataMaster outdoor LED displays have been desi g ned for use wi t h a
DataMaster
™
100 hand-held controller. The device uses a keyboard insert
for display control. Section 5 of this manual provides operating
instructions.
• The DataMaster model numbers are described as follows:
DF-105X-L-HH-C
DF-105X =
L =
HH =
C =
Outdoor Digit Display (1050 full cabinet and 1051 drop-in
cabinet)
Number of Levels (DF-1050)
Digit height in inches (5”, 7” and 10”)
Front insert model, DF-1051, is available in 5”, 7”, 10” or
13”
LED Color- R (Red) or A (Amber) for 1050 and 1051
Parking Garage Display Specifications
There are two basic models in the numeric, or fixed-digit, parking display series: DF1050 and DF-1051. Figure 2 and Figure 3 shows that both are modular displays, but
DF-1050 signs are typically used in a tower arrangement with end caps, while DF1051 signs have a drop-in cabinet, designed for placement in an existing parking
garage structure, in a wall cutout or in a new custom sign.
1-4 Introduction
Figure 2: Model DF-1050
Because this series is based on a modular design, there can be any number of module
and caption combinations. Some displays may utilize a single module, while others
may consist of multiple modules arranged vertically. Each model has four digits that
can display the words “OPEN” and “FULL” as well as any number from 0 to 9999.
The text messages or numbers are controlled via signal protocol.
Caption modules are un-powered units that attach to the top or bottom of a digit
module. Caption modules all use permanent vinyl lettering. Some signs may also use
optional “blank” modules as filler or spacer panels.
Each section in this manual contains model-specific information, including physical
dimensions, digit configuration and power requirements. Display drawings, located
in Appendix A, also list dimensions, weight and mounting instructions for each
display. Additionally, model number and electrical requirements can be found on a
label located on the display's entrance panel.
The Parking Garage displays have been designe d for use with the Daktronics
DataMaster
Daktronics DataMaster parking garage so ftware and the appropriate interface. Refer
to Section 5 for detailed operating information.
Figure 3: Model DF-1051
™
100 hand-held console. Other controllers may be used to control
1.4 Component Identification
The following terms include some of the more commonly used terms when referring
to these displays. Because Daktronics occasionally alters standard design to meet
customer needs, the actual display design may vary slightly from the illustrations
below.
This is only a brief overview. Refer to Section 4 for additional information on
maintaining the various display components.
Introduction 1-5
Client: The client display contains a client driver that receives signal from the “host”
driver on the Signal IN terminals. These drivers can re-drive signal to other client
drivers.
DataMaster Controller (DM100): The handheld keyboard like device used to set
the time, date, hold times, dimming etc. on the Parking Garage display. See Section
5 for more information on the DataMaster controller.
Display Address: The display address is an identification number assigned to each
driver in a network. The address is set using an 8-position binary switch on the driver
board. For single-line displays, the address will typically be “1”. For Parking Garage
displays with several levels, the top display is often set to address “1” and the others
are set to “2”, “3” etc. The address will be displayed each time the display powers
up.
Digit Circuit Board: The LEDs are mounted to a circuit board, which mounts to the
back of a digit panel. Problems with individual digits, segments or LEDs may require
accessing or replacing this board.
Host/Primary: The host display contains the host driver which relays signal directly
from the DataMaster controller on its Signal IN terminals. It is the only driver
connected to the temperature/photo sensor. The Signal OUT terminals are used to
connect the client driver. The host driver is selected by inserting the “Protocol-4”
plug into the protocol jack.
LED (light emitting diode): LEDs are high-intensity, low-energy lighting units.
Mirror/slave: receives a signal from the master but does not have a driver.
Power Supply: Converts AC line voltage from the load center to low DC voltage for
one or more digit circuit boards.
Protocol plug: The “Protocol-4” plug is inserted in the 5-pin protocol jack to select
the host driver for a set of host-client displays.
1.5 Daktronics Nomenclature
To fully understand some Daktronics drawings, such as schematics, it is necessary to
know how various components are labeled in those drawings. You will find this
information useful when trying to communicate maintenance or troubleshooting
efforts.
The following labeling formats might be fou nd on va ri o us Daktronics drawings:
• “TB _ _” denotes a termination block for power or signal cable.
• “E _ _” denotes a grounding point.
• “J _ _” denotes a power or signal jack.
• “P _ _” denotes a power or signal plug for the opposite jack.
Finally, Daktronics part numbers are commonly found on drawings. Those part
numbers can be used when requesting replacement parts from Daktronics Customer
1-6 Introduction
Service. Take note of the following part number formats. (Not all possible formats
are listed here.)
• “0P- _ _ _ _- _ _ _ _” denotes an individual circuit board , such as a drive r
board.
• “0A-_ _ _ _ - _ _ _ _” denotes an assembly, such as a circuit board and the
plate or bracket to which it is mounted. A collection of circuit boards
working as a single unit may also carry an assembly label.
• “W- _ _ _ _ ” denotes a wire or cable. Cables may also carry the assembly
numbering format in certain circumstances. This is especially true for
ribbon cables.
Most circuit boards and components within this display carry a label that lists the
part number of the unit. If a circuit board or assembly is not listed in the
Replacement Parts List in Section 4.5, use the label to order a replacement. A
typical label is shown in
Figure 4. The part number is in bold.
Figure 4: Typical Label
Introduction 1-7
Section 2: Mechanical Installation
Note: Daktronics does not guarantee the warranty in situations where the display is
not constantly in a stable environment.
Daktronics engineering staff must approve any changes that may affect the weathertightness of the display. If any modifications are made, detailed drawings of the
changes must be submitted to Daktronics for evaluation and approval, or the
warranty may be void.
Daktronics is not responsible for installations of structural integrity of support
structures done by others. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that a
qualified structural engineer approves the structure and any additional hardware.
2.1 Mechanical Installation Overview
Mechanical installation consists of attaching end caps, mounting the display to
support columns or mounting the units in parking facility walls or into existing
signage.
The table below shows all of the weights and dimensions for each model in this
series. Models are listed in order by digit size.
Model
DF-1050
DF-1050
DF-1050
DF-1051
DF-1051
DF-1051
Digit
Height/Color
5" (127 mm)
Red or amber
7" (178 mm)
Red or amber
10" (254 mm)
Red or amber
5" (127 mm)
Red or amber
7" (178 mm)
Red or amber
10" (254 mm)
Red or amber
Dimensions
(Height, Width, Depth)
H10", W28", D6.2"
(254 mm, 711 mm, 157 mm)
H12", W40", D6.2"
(305 mm, 1016 mm, 157 mm
H15", W52", D6.2"
(381 mm, 1321 mm, 157 mm)
H8", W18", D5.56"
(203 mm, 711 mm, 141 mm)
H12", W27", D5.75"
(305 mm, 711 mm, 146 mm)
H15", W36", D5.75"
(381 mm, 711 mm, 146 mm)
Approximate Weight
(per Section)
14 lb
(6.4 kg)
20 lb
(9.1 kg)
32 lb
(14.5 kg)
6 lb
(2.7 kg)
14 lb
(6.4 kg)
23 lb
(10.4 kg)
DF-1051
13" (330 mm)
Red or amber
H19", W50", D5.75"
(483 mm, 711 mm, 146 mm)
43 lb
(19.5 kg)
Mechanical Installation 2-1
2.2 Mechanical Installation
Reference Drawings:
Mechanical Spec, DF-1050......................................... Drawing A-191157
Mechanical Specification Drawings..........................Refer to Appendix A
As noted previously, the DataMaster Parking Garage displays are designed for either
tower or flush wall mounting. Refer to the Mechanical Specifications Drawings for
installation details.
DF-1050 Installation
DF-1050 modules are assembled with end caps and attached with angles to a support
structure provided by the customer. Refer to Drawi ng A-191157 for detailed
mounting information. Individual drawings for each DF-1050 model are listed in
Appendix A.
End caps are manufactured to have an appropriate height based on the number of
sections or modules the finished display has. The following table provides a guide
for vertical display heights:
DF-1050Display Heights
Overall Height According to Number of Sections Digit
Size
5" 40" 50" 60" 70" 80" 90" 100"
7" 48" 60" 72" 84" 96" 108" –
10" 60" 75" 90" 105" – – –
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Figure 5 illustrates a
typical DF-1050
installation. Note that
the individual
cabinets attach to the
end caps with a single
screw on either side
of the display (front
and back surfaces).
Holes for the end caps
and for the steel
mounting angles are
pre-drilled, and
hardware for those
components is
provided by
Daktronics.
Figure 5: DF-1050 Mounting
2-2 Mechanical Installation
DF-1051 Installation
DF-1051displays are “drop in” models, intended
for flush wall mounting or placem e nt in a cuto ut
of an existing sign. (The cabinet is complete with
a front flange or bezel that provides a finished
border for flush wall or in-sign applications.)
The drop-in feature is illustrated in Figure 6.
The size of the sign or wall cutout varies,
depending on the model, as shown in the
following table:
Figure 6: DF-1051 Drop-In
DF-1051 Series: Cutout Needed for Mounting
Model Cutout Dimensions
DF-1051-5
DF-1051-7
DF-1051-10
DF-1051-13
H6.25", W16.25", D5.56"
(159 mm, 419 mm, 141 mm)
H9.5", W25", D5.75"
(241 mm, 635 mm, 146 mm)
H12.5", W34", D5.75"
(318 mm, 864 mm, 146 mm)
H16.38", W47.75", D5.75"
(416 mm, 1213 mm, 146 mm)
Prior to mounting, run conduit to the display location and make all power and signal
wiring connections. With the electrical hookup completed, simply slide the display
into the wall cutout and secure it at the mounting holes across the top, sides and
bottom. Be sure to use anchors and other mounting hardware appropriate for the wall
material.
The Mechanical Specification Drawings give details on the cutouts needed and the
location of the mounting holes.
Mechanical Installation 2-3
Section 3: Electrical Installation
Daktronics Parking Garage displays are ETL listed and tested to CSA standards.
Contact Daktronics with any questions regarding the testing procedures.
Only qualified individuals should perform power routing and termination to the
display. It is the responsibility of the electrical contractor to ensure that all
electrical work meets or exceeds local and national codes.
3.1 Preparing for Power/Signal Connections
Reference Drawings:
Enclosed Driver, 4-col MASC, Wide............................Drawing A-191943
Electrical Specification Drawings............................. Refer to Appendix A
Electrical installation consists of the following processes:
• Providing power and ground to a disconnect near the display.
• Routing power and ground from the main disconnect to the display driver
enclosure.
• Connecting the ground to a grounding electrode at the display location.
• Routing the control signal cable from the control location to the display
location.
Electrical Specifications Drawings for displays in this series show the locations of
internal components and display signal and electrical access holes. Refer to these
drawings before making power and signal connections. All power and signal
terminates to blocks within the driver enclosure, immediately below the power
supply. Termination is to be completed by the customer's electrician to the power
terminal block (TB4). Refer to Drawing A- 19 1943.
3.2 Power and Grounding Connections
Correct power and grounding installation is imperative for proper display operation.
The subsections that follow give details of display power and installation. Only
qualified individuals should attempt to complete the electrical installation. Improper
installation could result in serious damage to the equipment and could be hazardous
to personnel.
Power
Daktronics DataMaster displays have been designed for easy access to components,
and to power and control signal hookup. Front panels ar e hinged to allow access to
the digits, cabling and other electronic components.
The DataMaster, Parking Garage displays require a dedicated, 120 VAC circuit for
incoming power. The display itself has no breakers or fuses.
Power conductors and conduit are to be sized and installed by the customer's
electrician. Knockout-type access holes for the conduit are
both sides of the display.
Electrical Installation 3-1
7
/8" and located on the
The table below shows the circuit specifications and maximum power requirements
for each model in this series. Models are listed in order by digit size, and display
type.
Model
Digit
Height/Color
Maximum
Wattage
Power
Amps
per Line
DF-1050
DF-1050
DF-1050
DF-1051
DF-1051
DF-1051
DF-1051
5" (127 mm)
Red or amber
7" (178 mm)
Red or amber
10" (254 mm)
Red or amber
5" (127 mm)
Red or amber
7" (178 mm)
Red or amber
10" (254 mm)
Red or amber
13" (330 mm)
Red or amber
30 W 120 V
AC
150 W 120 V
AC
150 W 120 V
AC
30 W 120 V
AC
150 W 120 V
AC
150 W 120 V
AC
150 W 120 V
AC
0.3A
1.3 A
1.3 A
0.3 A
1.3 A
1.3 A
1.3 A
Grounding
Reference Drawings:
Enclosed Driver, 4 Col MASC, Wide........................... Drawing A-191943
Displays MUST be grounded according to the provisions outlined in Article 250 of
the National Electrical Code and according to the specifications in this manual.
Daktronics requires a resistance-to-ground of 10 ohms or less.
The contractor performing the electrical installation can verify ground resistance.
Technicians from Daktronics Sales and Service offices can also provide this service.
The display system must be connected to an earth electrode installed at the display.
Proper grounding is necessary for reliable equipment operation. It also protects the
equipment from damaging electrical disturbances and lightning. The display must be
properly grounded, or the warranty will be void. Refer to Drawing A-191943, for
information on where to connect the grounding wire. Connection at the driver
enclosure terminal block is illustrated at the bottom of the drawing.
The material for an earth-ground electrode differs from region to region and may
vary according to conditions present at the site. Consult the National Electrical Code
and any local electrical codes that may apply. The support structure of the display
cannot be used as an earth-ground electrode. The support is generally embedded in
concrete, and if it is in earth, the steel is usually primed or it corrodes, making it a
poor ground in either case.
3-2 Electrical Installation
Power Installation
There are two considerations for power installation: installation with ground and
neutral conductors provided, and installation with only a neutral conductor provided.
These two power installations differ slightly, as described in the following
paragraphs:
Installation with Ground and Neutral Conductors Provided
For this type of installation, the power circuit must contain an isolated earth-ground
conductor. Under this circumstance, do not connect neutral to ground at the
disconnect or at the display. This would violate electrical codes and void the
warranty. Use a disconnect so that all hot lines and neutrals can be disconnected. The
National Electrical Code requires the use of a lockable power disconnect within sight
of or at the display.
Installation with Only a Neutral Conductor Provided
Installations where no grounding conductor is provided must comply with Article
250-32 of the National Electrical Code. If the installation in question meets all of the
requirements of Article 250-32, the following guidelines must be observed:
• Connect the grounding electrode cable at the local disconnect, never at the
display driver/power enclosur e.
• Use a disconnect that opens all of the ungrounded phase conductors.
3.3 Lightning Protection
The use of a disconnect near the display to completely cut all current-carrying lines
significantly protects the circuits against lightning damage. The National Electrical
Code also requires it. In order for this device to provide protection, the power must
be disconnected when the display is not in use. The control console should also be
disconnected from power and from the signal j-box when the system is not being
used. The same surges that may damage the display's driver can also damage the
driver console's circuit.
3.4 Signal Connection
Reference Drawing:
Enclosure Driver, 4 Col MASC, Wide ..........................Drawing A-191943
Electrical Specification Drawings............................. Refer to Appendix A
To gain access to the driver enclosure, open the access door and remove the cover
from the enclosure. Refer to the Electrical Specification Drawings for the access
location for your sign.
Route power and signal cables into either side of the display, where there is a
separate knockout for signal conduit. The signal cable terminates to the signal
terminal block (TB3) in the driver enclosure, immediately below the power supply
and to the right of the power connectors. The component is a dual-row barrier
terminal block, and it accommodates “Signal In,” “Signal Out,” and “12 V DC Out”
as well as “Inc” (increment), “Dec” (decrement), “Open,” “Full” and “Common”
terminals for operating the display from switches.
Electrical Installation 3-3
Figure 7: DataMaster Driver Enclosure with 4-Column Driver
The customer's electrician completes the signal termination as shown on the
schematic, Drawing A-191943. Recommended signal conductor is 2-pa ir, 22 AWG,
stranded with shield (Daktronics part number W-1234), but 18 AWG may b e us ed as
indicated on the drawing. If the sign is to be operated from switches, this wiring may
be done using 22 AWG cable. Shielded cable is recommended if the switch wiring is
run next to other cables that may induce noise in the switch wiring.
Daktronics provides the protocol plug for the signal, and the customer may use
standard DataMaster software or may provide his or her own software.
Current Loop (DataMaster)
Reference Drawing:
Enclosure Driver, 4 Col MASC, Wide.......................... Drawing A-191943
A directly controlled display uses a current loop connection from the j-box at the
display to the driver enclosure in the sign. All the power and signal wiring terminates
at the driver enclosure. The DataMaster hand-held controller receives its power from
the display. The display layout is shown in Figure 8.
Note: The cable from the j-box to the display needs to be routed through conduit or
the display pole to protect it from weather or vandalism.
1. Mount the j-box near the display.
2. Route a 4-conductor cable through conduit
from the j-box to the driver enclosure in the
host display. (Distance limit from the j-box
to the display is 50 ft.)
3. Connect the signal/power cable from the j-
box to the driver enclosure as shown in
Figure 9 and listed in the table. Refer to
Drawing A-191943 for additional
information.
4. Using a DB9M to DB9F serial cable, plug
the DataMaster controller into the j-box
connected to the driver enclosure.
Figure 8: Direct, DataMaster Control
3-4 Electrical Installation
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