Citation

Green D. IMSA J. 2005; 43(3): 2 p..

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, International Municipal Signal Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Illuminated overhead street name signs are becoming increasingly popular, especially in communities with an older population of drivers. Fluorescent tubes have been the predominant light source for most internally illuminated street name signs, but they are prone to failure and need replacement every 1-2 years. This article looks at how light emitting diode (LED) technology is quickly becoming the preferred light source for illuminated signs. LEDs are energy efficient, perform well in hot and cold climates, and have a maintenance interval that is at least ten times that of fluorescent tubes. The article also focuses on the two types of LED illumination technologies, which are LED strips inserted in place of fluorescent bulbs, and LED edge-lit technology.