Daktronics 4203 Series User manual

4203 Series
Digital Billboard
Service Manual
DD2504581 Rev 01 – 24 February 2015
201 Daktronics Dr. PO Box 5128 Brookings SD 57006
Tel [phone] Fax [phone]
www.daktronics.com

DD2504581
Product 1604
Rev 01 – 24 February 2015
Copyright 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.

i
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction.......................................................................................................................1
1.1 Important Contact Information.....................................................................................................1
1.2 Display Identification .....................................................................................................................1
1.3 Terms Used in this Manual............................................................................................................1
1.4 Spare Parts Box ................................................................................................................................2
1.5 Field Replaceable Units ..................................................................................................................2
Section 2: Display and Control Overview.........................................................................................3
2.1 Internal Display Control System Flow Overview ......................................................................3
2.2 Display Power Overview...............................................................................................................4
2.3 Display Signal Overview ...............................................................................................................5
Even Module High Section Signal Path................................................................................5
Odd Module High Section Signal Path.................................................................................5
Section 3: Display Troubleshooting..................................................................................................7
3.1 Display Troubleshooting................................................................................................................7
Section 4: Accessing Internal Components...................................................................................11
4.1 Rear Access.....................................................................................................................................11
4.2 Front Access ...................................................................................................................................11
Section 5: Module Testing and Removal ........................................................................................13
5.1 Module Lanyard Attachment......................................................................................................13
5.2 Removing a Module from the Display Face (Front Access) ...................................................13
5.3 Reinstalling the Module (Front Access).....................................................................................13
5.4 Removing a Module (Rear Access).............................................................................................14
5.5 Removing a Module From the Bottom Row of a Section (Rear Access) ...............................15
5.6 Removing a Module from Behind a Term Panel (Rear Access) .............................................15
5.7 Reinstalling a Module (Rear Access)..........................................................................................16
5.8 Hinging and Removing the ISP Enclosure for Module Access ..............................................16
5.9 Hinging and Removing the DMP-8065 for Module Access....................................................16
Section 6: Testing and Replacing Display Components...............................................................17
6.1 Testing a Module...........................................................................................................................17
Performing a Module Self-Test ............................................................................................17
6.2 Replacing Module Power Supplies ............................................................................................17
Replacing a Module Power Supply.....................................................................................17
6.3 Testing and Replacing a ProLink Router...................................................................................17
Table of Contents

Testing a PLR..........................................................................................................................18
Replacing a ProLink Router .................................................................................................18
6.4 Replacing PLR Power Supplies...................................................................................................18
6.5 Replacing a Display Fan...............................................................................................................19
Section 7: Control Equipment Overview, Service, and Replacement..........................................21
7.1 Control Equipment Overview.....................................................................................................21
DMP-8065................................................................................................................................21
Opening the ISP Enclosure ...................................................................................................21
Connecting a Laptop .............................................................................................................21
7.2 Replacing Control Equipment.....................................................................................................22
Replacing DMP Power Supplies..........................................................................................22
Replacing the ISP Enclosure Filter.......................................................................................22
Replacing the Router .............................................................................................................23
Replacing the Network Switch ............................................................................................23
Replacing the POE Injector...................................................................................................23
Replacing an iBoot .................................................................................................................23
Replacing the Z-Filter............................................................................................................24
Replacing the Heater .............................................................................................................24
Replacing the Fan...................................................................................................................24
Section 8: Multi-Direction Light Sensor Testing and Replacement .............................................25
8.1 Troubleshooting Multi-Direction Light Sensor (MDLS) Issues..............................................25
8.2 MDLS Testing ................................................................................................................................25
8.3 Replacing the MDLS .....................................................................................................................26
Section 9: Webcam Access and Troubleshooting.........................................................................27
9.1 Retracting the Webcam to the Display Face..............................................................................27
9.2 Webcam Troubleshooting............................................................................................................27
Section 10: Display Maintenance ......................................................................................................29
10.1 Service Calls ...................................................................................................................................29
10.2 Annual Inspection.........................................................................................................................29
Appendix A: Reference Drawings .......................................................................................................31
Appendix B: Limitation of Liability .....................................................................................................33
ii Table of Contents

1
Introduction
Section 1: Introduction
1.1 Important Contact Information
Daktronics Help Desk: 1-877-697-4000
Project Manager: Phone Number:
Email: [email protected]
1.2 Display Identication
This section provides information that is helpful in understanding a Daktronics digital billboard
display label. Refer to Figure 1 while reading the table below.
1.3 Terms Used in this Manual
DMP-8065: digital billboard control card that sends content to the display. The DMP regulates
display content and content hold times.
Lanyard Attachment Ring: a ring found on the back of each module and on the display doors
that attaches to a lanyard and prevents the module or door from falling.
Latch Release: a device that holds the module firmly to the display frame. There are two per
module, one on the top and one on the bottom.
Light Emitting Diode (LED): low-energy, high-intensity lighting unit.
Line Filter: a device that alternates electromagnetic interference that might disrupt local
communication channels and internal equipment operation.
Louver: a black plastic shade positioned horizontally above each pixel row. Louvers increase
display contrast.
Module: consists of a display board with LEDs, a driver board or logic card, housing, a module
latch assembly, and a louver. Each module is individually removable from either the front or
back of the display. Module part numbers vary by pixel pitch.
ASSY NO.
SER. NO.
MFG DATE
BROOKINGS, SD 57006-5128 PHONE [phone] LL-2306 R01
201 DAKTRONICS DR.
DAKTRONICS
R
0A-1727-0002 HRev: 00
SN: 1001
05/15/13
1234567 0001
DB4203-4X18 MODS
RMN: DAKT-0200-07 SF
220-440/380-415 VAC
2W+N+PE: 50/60HZ
AMPS = 6.6/5.6, WATTS = 2684
Figure 1: Example 4203 Series Display Label
Display Assembly Number
Display Serial Number
Manufacture Month/Date/Year
DB-4203 Modules High X Modules Wide
RMN: Daktronics - 0200 - 07 Manufactured in Sioux Falls, SD
220-440/315-415 VAC
2 Wire + Neutral + Protective Earth Ground
Total Amps (6.6/5.6) and Watts for Display Section (2684)

2
ProLink Router (PLR): the PLR takes data in from the DMP and then routes that data to other
areas in the sign. There is typically one PLR per display section.
Power Supply: a device that converts AC line voltage from the panel board to low DC voltage for
driver boards. One power supply powers multiple modules.
Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) Cable: allows high-speed signal transfer from
device to device. In digital billboards, they run signal from module to module.
Termination Block: an electrical connection point, usually used to connect internal power or
signal wires of the same type coming into the display from an external source.
1.4 Spare Parts Box
Every Daktronics digital billboard is shipped with a spare parts box that includes commonly
replaced components. The table below lists some of the components that may be included in the
spare parts box. Refer to the spare parts inventory list on the top of the display spare parts box
for a list of the parts in your spare parts box. Contact the Account Service Manager (ASM) to
order additional spare parts.
1.5 Field Replaceable Units
The table below lists component names and part numbers of components that can be replaced in
the display and the control system. Some of these components may be located in the spare parts
box. Contact the ASM to order components when needed.
Description Daktronics Part Number
Module Varies by pixel pitch
PLR-6050 W/Hook Mount 0A-1487-6009
28" SATA Cable W-2410
Power Supply A-2476E
LC-LC Duplex Fiber Cable W-1767
30' 4 Pin Male to 4 Pin Female Cable W-1820
3' 3 Pin Male to 3 Pin Female Cable W-2510
Display FRUs Control System FRUs
Description Daktronics Part Number Description Daktronics Part Number
Module Varies by pixel pitch Cisco Router 0A-1690-1200
Surge
Suppressor
A-3252-2400
A-2139-1201 DMP-8065 (for market) 0A-1603-3200
Power Supply A-2476E Light Sensor 0A-1604-4621
Axial Fan .4 A B-1045 Ethernet Switch A-1815
Axial Fan .17 A B-1094 500 W Heater 0A-1690-2900
28" SATA Cable W-2410 POE Injector (optional) A-3126
ProLink Router 0A-1487-6009 Mobotix Webcam (optional) A-3127
Stepdown Transformer T-1135
60 V Surge Protector A-3159
Axial Fan .16 A B-1053
Axial Fan .13 A B-1071
Filter EN-2242
Introduction

3
Display and Control Overview
Section 2: Display and Control Overview
This section describes generic power and signal paths for Daktronics digital billboards. Refer to display
specific signal and riser drawings for component locations on your display.
2.1 Internal Display Control System Flow Overview
Figure 2 shows the location of the ISP enclosure and the DMP-8065. The control system bay or
components may vary by display. Refer to project specific drawings for your display control
location, signal path, and power path.
Display Back
DMP
ISP Enclosure
Surge Suppressor
Power Entrance
Figure 2: 4203 Series Control Components

4
2.2 Display Power Overview
The power system for the 4203 series is significantly different than any previous series of
Daktronics digital billboards. Each 65 Watt power supply powers two modules. In most cases, the
module power path follows the signal path. Figure 3 shows a basic overview of what the power
system looks like in an individual display section. Power to the display section enters into the
termination panel and is redistributed to the power supplies. Refer to the layout drawing for
display specific power distribution.
x2
Power Supply
ProLink Router
Line from
Power Supply
Upright
From Front
Figure 3: Poster Power Example
Display and Control Overview

5
Display and Control Overview
2.3 Display Signal Overview
This section provides generic signal path illustrations for even module tall sections, Figure 4, and
odd module tall sections, Figure 5.
Signal is sent from the DMP-8065 and is sent to the ProLink Router (PLR) in the display section.
The PLR then sends the signal to the first module in the section. From that module, the signal is
then sent to the other modules in the section. The PLR not only sends signal to the first module in
the chain but also receives signal from the last module in the chain and creates a redundant signal
path.
Even Module High Section Signal Path
Odd Module High Section Signal Path
PLR
Signal From DMP
Figure 4: Even Module Tall Section Signal Path Example
PLR
Signal From DMP
Figure 5: Odd Module Tall Section Signal Routing Example

7
Section 3: Display Troubleshooting
3.1 Display Troubleshooting
The section provides generic guidelines for repairing issues with the 4203 series. Work with
Daktronics help desk or experienced technicians to address display issues.
Issue Issue Image Troubleshooting Steps
Entire display
blank
1. Verify there is power to site by ensuring the
power supply indicators are on. If they are on,
there is power to site and it is most likely a
signal issue. If there is site power, continue to
Step 3.
2. Verify the ProLink Router (PLR) is receiving
power. If the LED indicator lights are on,
unplug and reestablish power to the PLR.
3. Verify the ber cables from the Digital Media
Player (DMP) to the PLR are connected.
4. Call Daktronics help desk at 1-605-697-4000
and have them verify the content that was
supposed to play was successfully uploaded
and sent to the display.
Blank display
section
1. If applicable, verify the ber interconnects are
installed.
2. On a new installation with multiple power
entrances, verify power was run to that
section. Check the modules at the beginning
and end of the affected area. This issue can
be caused by disconnected or bad SATA
cables on both of those modules. If the
module power indicator is on, there is most
likely a SATA cable issue. If the module power
indicator light is off, there is most likely a
module issue.
3. Measure site power and verify it meets the
requirements listed on the system riser. If
this issue appears when there is white or
light content, it is possible there is insufcient
power to the display. If this is the case, work
with an electrician to establish the correct site
power.
4. Verify the PLR has power and is functioning.
Disconnect and reconnect power to the PLR.
5. Verify there is power to that display section by
checking module status indicators on multiple
modules. If there is no power, check the
breakers on that sections term panel.
6. Check that the contactors in each display
section are closed which means that section
should be receiving power.
Display Troubleshooting

8
Content switched
between display
sections
1. Check the signal interconnect cables between
the display sections because they may be
switched. Port A should be connected to Port
A. Port B should be connected to Port B.
2. Check the ber cables coming from the DMP
because they may be switched.
Scattered or out
of order content
1. The SATA cable and redundant SATA
cable from the PLR to the modules may be
switched.
2. Call Daktronics help desk to verify the
translation table is correct.
Area of content
mixed up -
module ID out of
order
1. Verify the SATA cable path in that area is
correct by comparing it to the display signal
drawing. If not, correct the signal path.
1 module out 1. Ensure the SATA and power cables to the
module are connected and secure.
2. A SATA cable may be damaged, replace
both SATA cables to the module to see if this
addresses the issue.
3. It is likely a bad module. Swap the module
with a replacement module and verify that the
new module functions correctly.
2 modules out 1. Check the status indicators on the back of the
modules. If the indicators are off, check the
power indicator on the power supply for the
affected modules. If the power supply indicator
is off and there is power connected to the
power supply, replace the power supply.
2. If there is power to the power supply and
the modules, check the SATA cables to the
modules. It is possible the SATA cables at the
beginning and end of the affected modules are
disconnected or bad.
Display Troubleshooting

9
Display Troubleshooting
3 or more
modules out
in a line within
the same PLR
section
1. Check the modules at the beginning and
end of the affected area. This issue can be
caused by disconnected or bad SATA cables
on both of those modules. If the module power
indicator is on, there is most likely a SATA
cable issue. If the module power indicator
light is off, check the power supplies for the
modules at each end of the issue are on. If
not power or signal, it is most likely a module
issue.
2. Measure the site power to verify it meets
Daktronics requirements. If this issue is only
seen with white or light-colored content,
there is most likely a power issue. If there is
insufcient power, work with an electrician to
establish proper site power.
Display too bright 1. Immediately call Daktronics help desk and
have them blank the display.
2. Verify the Multi-Direction Light Sensor (MDLS)
is connected.
3. Inspect the area for a light source shining on
the Multi-Direction Light Sensor (MDLS). This
may cause incorrect readings. If necessary,
relocate the MDLS to a different area.
4. Verify the MDLS is mounted correctly. If not,
remount the MDLS.
5. Have the help desk verify that the MDLS is set
to multi-direction and automatic.
Display too dim 1. Verify the MDLS is connected.
2. Verify the MDLS is mounted correctly. If not,
remount the MDLS.
3. Verify there is no debris or excessive dirt
buildup on the three MDLS windows.
4. Have the help desk verify that the MDLS is set
to multi-direction and automatic.
5. Have the help desk verify the display is
not experiencing thermal dimming due to
excessive heat.

11
Accessing Internal Components
Section 4: Accessing Internal Components
4.1 Rear Access
Required Tools: Flathead screwdriver
4203 series digital billboards have hinged doors that are
secured with two quarter-turn latches. If the doors are
obstructed, they can be lifted off the hinges for easy access.
Refer to Figure 6.
To access components from the back of the display:
1. With a flathead screwdriver, turn the two quarter-
turn latches counterclockwise.
2. If the door is obstructed, lift the door off the hinges.
a. Pull the bottom of the display door away from
the back of the display.
b. Carefully place the access door out of the way.
4.2 Front Access
Front access is completed by removing modules from the
display front. Refer to the steps in Section 5.1 to remove
a module from the front of the display to access internal
components.
1/4 Turn
Latch
Hinge
Intake Hood
Exhaust Hood
Figure 6: Labeled Rear Access Door

13
Module Testing and Removal
Section 5: Module Testing and Removal
5.1 Module Lanyard Attachment
Daktronics recommends attaching a module lanyard (located in the spare parts box) whenever
removing a module. To attach a module lanyard:
1. Attach one end of the module lanyard to a lanyard attachment ring on the top of the of
the module.
2. Feed the lanyard over a wire rod or through a nearby upright. Do not anchor the module
to another module.
3. Attach the other end of the module lanyard to the lanyard attachment ring on the top of
the module.
5.2 Removing a Module from the Display Face (Front Access)
Required Tools: 1/8" hex wrench, module lanyard (from the spare parts box)
To remove a module from the front:
1. With one hand on the module face, insert the 1/8" hex
wrench into the bottom access hole. Refer to Figure 7.
2. Turn the latch release approximately a quarter-turn
counterclockwise.
3. Insert the 1/8" hex wrench into the top access hole.
4. Turn the latch release approximately a quarter-turn
counterclockwise. You should feel the module release
from the display face.
5. Pull the module from the display face just far enough
to reach the back of the module.
6. Disconnect the power and SATA cables from the back of the module.
7. Gently place the module on a clean and dry surface.
Note: If there is no place to set the module, use a safety lanyard to hang the module
from the back of the display. Attach the safety lanyard in a way that takes up slack on
the lanyard. Carefully let the module hang while ensuring it does not damage LEDs or
louvers.
5.3 Reinstalling the Module (Front Access)
1. Reinstall the module by aligning it with the opening.
2. Reattach the power and SATA cables.
3. Carefully insert the module into the opening while verifying that SATA and power cables are
not being pinched between the module and display face.
4. Firmly press the lower half of the module against the display face.
Figure 7: Module Access Holes

14 Module Testing and Removal
5. Insert the 1/8" hex wrench into the bottom access hole and turn approximately a quarter-turn
clockwise or until you feel it latch in place.
6. Insert the 1/8" hex wrench into the top access hole and turn approximately a quarter-turn
clockwise or until you feel it latch in place.
7. Gently pull on the module to verify it is properly seated.
Note: If the module is not latched properly, the latch springs on the module should force the
module away from the display face. If you notice this, attempt to reinstall the module.
5.4 Removing a Module (Rear Access)
Sometimes, when removing a module from the back of the display, certain display components
may inhibit module removal. If that occurs, remove the component according to the instructions
provided in Section 6 and then remove the module. Replace all components when done servicing
the module.
Required Tools: 1/8" hex wrench, module lanyard
(from the spare parts box)
To remove a module from the back of the display:
1. Attach one end of the safety lanyard to a
lanyard ring on the top of the module.
2. Feed the lanyard over a wire rod or through a
nearby upright in the display. Do not anchor
the lanyard to another module.
3. Attach the other end of the lanyard to the
lanyard attachment ring on the bottom of the
module.
4. Disconnect the SATA power cables from the
back of the module.
5. With a 1/8" hex wrench, turn the bottom latch
gear approximately a quarter-turn clockwise
to disengage the latch.
6. With a 1/8" hex wrench, turn the top latch gear
approximately a quarter-turn clockwise to
disengage the latch.
Note: Always maintain a firm grip on the
module as you remove it from the face sheet.
7. Rotate the module in a way that allows you to guide it through the frame opening
without catching the louvers or LEDs on the cabinet. Figure 8 shows proper module
removal from the back. Figure 9 shows improper module removal from the back.
Figure 8: Proper Module Removal from Back
Figure 9: Improper Module Removal from
Back

15
Module Testing and Removal
5.5 Removing a Module From the Bottom Row of a Section (Rear
Access)
Required Tools: 90° 1/8" Allen wrench, module lanyard
To remove a module along the bottom row:
1. Using the procedure outlined in Section 5.4, remove the module above the target
module.
2. Disconnect the power and SATA cables from the module.
3. Connect a module lanyard from a lanyard attachment ring on the module to a structural
member inside the display.
4. Insert the 90° Allen wrench into the top module latch gear.
5. Turn a quarter-turn clockwise to disengage the module from the face sheet.
6. While holding the back of the module, insert the 90° Allen wrench into the bottom
module latch gear.
7. Turn a quarter-turn clockwise to disengage the module from the face sheet.
8. Remove the module by pushing it away from the display face, pivoting and rotating it
90° and pulling it through the face sheet.
Note: Ensure the louver blades run lengthwise when pulling the module through the
display face so they do not get damaged by the face sheet.
9. Repair or replace the module as needed.
10. Reverse Steps 1 - 8 to reinstall the module.
5.6 Removing a Module from Behind a Term Panel (Rear Access)
Required Tools: Phillips head
screwdriver, 1/8" Allen wrench, module
lanyard
1. Locate the two release screws
along the top of the term panel.
Refer to Figure 10.
2. Use the Phillips head
screwdriver to turn each screw
counter-clock wise until the
term panel disengages from the
display.
3. While holding the term panel,
allow it to slowly hinge
forward.
4. Follow the steps in Section 5.4 to remove and reinstall a module.
5. Reverse Steps 1 - 3 to replace the term panel.
Term Panel Release
Figure 10: Term Panel

16 Module Testing and Removal
5.7 Reinstalling a Module (Rear Access)
1. Rotate and carefully guide the module through the module opening.
Note: To ensure proper alignment, verify the word TOP printed on the back of the module is
to the top left of the module.
2. Once the module is through the display face, align the module with the face sheet so the
gravity load pegs fit in the gravity load peg holes. Ensure the lanyard or cables do not pinch
between the module and the display.
3. After the module is in place, use the bottom module lanyard rings or the lanyard to pull the
module firmly against the face sheet.
4. With a 1/8" hex wrench, turn the bottom latch gear approximately a quarter-turn counter-
clock wise to engage the latch.
5. Use the top module lanyard rings or the lanyard to pull the module firmly against the face
sheet.
6. With a 1/8" hex wrench, turn the bottom latch gear approximately a quarter-turn
counterclockwise to engage the latch.
7. Use the top module lanyard rings or the lanyard to pull the module firmly against the face
sheet.
8. With a 1/8" hex wrench, turn the top latch gear approximately a quarter-turn
counterclockwise to engage the latch.
9. Connect the SATA and power cables to the back of the module.
5.8 Hinging and Removing the ISP Enclosure for Module Access
The ISP enclosure hinges out of the way for module access. It can also be lifted off the of the
hinges. To hinge the ISP enclosure out of the way and lift it off the hinges:
1. Locate the quarter-turn latch at the top of the ISP enclosure.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver, turn the quarter-turn latch counterclockwise until the ISP
enclosure disengages.
3. Pull the ISP enclosure from the right to hinge it out of the way.
4. If needed, carefully lift the ISP enclosure off of the hinges on and set aside while ensuring
power and signal cables do not get pinched.
5.9 Hinging and Removing the DMP-8065 for Module Access
The DMP-8065 hinges out of the way for module access. It can also be lifted off the of the hinges.
To hinge the DMP-8065 out of the way and lift it off the hinges:
1. Locate the quarter-turn latch at the top of the DMP-8065.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver, turn the quarter-turn latch counter-clock wise until the DMP-
8065 disengages.
3. Pull the DMP-8065 from the right to hinge it out of the way.
4. If needed, carefully lift the DMP-8065 off of the hinges and set aside while ensuring
power and signal cables do not get pinched.