Frequently Asked Questions About M-EXL series

Mandex Motion LED Displays

What kind of LED sign do I need?

• A 7 row high matrix, such as an EXL, MST or LCN series sign works best for text-only displays.
• A TKR series sign uses a tighter matrix of LEDs and therefore can provide a finer resolution for logos, stock symbols and a wider variety of special fonts.

LED Color

Does it matter what color(s) I choose for my LED sign?

• Red is the best color to use for LED signs facing full sun exposure, followed by amber and green. If full sun exposure is unavoidable use a dark matte background chassis color for maximum contrast.
• Because of the high contrast, any color works well in interior and shaded areas.
• Ask Mandex to recommend solutions for LED color issues with direct sunlight exposure or to explain LED brightness, its measurements and how it will influence your project.

Character Height

How much character height do I really need for my LED sign?

• Every inch of character height adds 30-50 feet of viewing distance to the LED sign. 
• The resolution of an image will be clearer from a greater viewing distance.

Software

How easy are MMD’ LED signs to program?

• Most MMD LED signs come with a windows-based programming utility that is fairly easy to use.  All programs are either accompanied by a user manual & direct support’ personnel to ensure successful deployment and operation.
• Software and controllers can be tailored to a specific project to give the end user the most options and flexibility based on their requirements.  
• If you don’t want to program your sign manually we can configure your sign to accept data feeds from streaming content providers.  These providers’ software will also allow for manual programming of the signs giving the user the control to run their own custom messages.  See Software for more information. 

Installation

How do MMD LED signs attach?

• From the back: cleat and rails attach through soffit in back of the sign, or back brackets which secure to a wall.
• From the top: threaded rods, ½” NPT steel conduit, or hanging brackets/with aircraft cabling, this type of installation is usually used with both straight and flexible chassis configurations.
• Into a pre-existing cavity: LED signs can be built without chassis to fit into an external enclosure with electronics.

Communication Options

How can I connect to my LED sign?

• Serial port with Aten converter RS232 to RS422.  Note:  If your laptop does not have a serial port then you will need a serial to USB converter. MMD will supply one if you do not have one so please let us know.
• Ethernet: using an external device server such as a Lantronix UDS Ethernet converter, or connect directly to the LED sign’s internal controller. You can also connect wirelessly using a laptop on your local network if the sign’s controller or external device server is directly connected to your local network.  Weak wireless connections may affect your ability to communicate with the sign. 
• Data input cables are located at right end rear of the sign unless specified