Daktronics Galaxy AF-3050 Series User manual

Galaxy®Series
AF-3050
Display Manual
ED13462
Galaxy®and Venus®are registered trademarks of Daktronics, Inc. All others are trademarks of
their respective companies
ED13462
Product 1289
Rev 4 – 27 January 2003
Copyright ã2002-2003 Daktronics, Inc.
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.
331 32nd Ave PO Box 5128 Brookings SD 57006
Tel [phone] or 877-605-1113 Fax [phone]
www.daktronics.com e-mail: helpdes[email protected]om

Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction............................................................................................... 1-1
1.1 How To Use This Manual..........................................................................................1-1
1.2 Safety Precautions......................................................................................................1-2
1.3 System Overview .......................................................................................................1-2
1.4 Component Identification...........................................................................................1-3
1.5 Daktronics Nomenclature...........................................................................................1-5
Section 2: Mechanical Installation............................................................................. 2-1
2.1 Installation Requirements...........................................................................................2-1
2.2 Ventilation Requirements...........................................................................................2-1
2.3 Lifting the Display......................................................................................................2-2
2.4 Display Cabinet Mounting .........................................................................................2-2
Section 3: Electrical Installation................................................................................ 3-1
3.1 Common Connectors in the Display...........................................................................3-1
3.2 Control Cable Categories...........................................................................................3-2
Unshielded Cable.................................................................................................3-2
Shielded Cable.....................................................................................................3-2
Direct Burial Cable..............................................................................................3-2
High Voltage Insulation Cable.............................................................................3-2
3.3 Conduit.......................................................................................................................3-3
3.4 Preparing for Power/Signal Connection.....................................................................3-3
3.5 Power..........................................................................................................................3-4
Grounding............................................................................................................3-4
Power Installation................................................................................................3-4
3.6 Signal..........................................................................................................................3-5
RS422 Cable Requirements.................................................................................3-5
Signal Connection from Computer to Sign..........................................................3-5
Signal Termination Between Two (or More) Signs.............................................3-5
3.7 First Time Operation..................................................................................................3-5
3.8 Main Disconnect.........................................................................................................3-2
Section 4: Maintenance and Troubleshooting.......................................................... 4-1
4.1 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Overview ............................................................4-1
4.2 Signal Summary.........................................................................................................4-1
Modem.................................................................................................................4-1
4.3 Power Summary.........................................................................................................4-2
4.4 Service and Diagnostics .............................................................................................4-2
Transformer, RFI Filter and Fuse ........................................................................4-2
Controller.............................................................................................................4-3
Modules and Drivers............................................................................................4-4
Power Supplies ....................................................................................................4-5
Table of Contents i

Light Detector ..................................................................................................... 4-6
4.5 Thermostats................................................................................................................ 4-6
4.6 Ventilation Systems (With Fans and Filters)............................................................. 4-6
4.7 Galaxy Display Maintenance..................................................................................... 4-7
4.8 Weather Stripping...................................................................................................... 4-7
4.9 Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 4-8
4.10 Initial Operation Information..................................................................................... 4-8
4.11 Replacement Parts List .............................................................................................. 4-9
4.12 Daktronics Exchange and Repair and Return Programs............................................ 4-9
Appendix A: Reference Drawings .................................................................................A-1
Table of Contents
ii

List of Figures
Figure 1: Drawing Label ......................................................................................................................1-1
Figure 2: Controller..............................................................................................................................1-3
Figure 3: 16x16Pixel Module (Front and Rear) ...................................................................................1-4
Figure 4: Module Numbering Example – 24x80 Front........................................................................1-5
Figure 5: Module Numbering...............................................................................................................1-5
Figure 6: Typical Label........................................................................................................................1-5
Figure 7: Lifting the Display................................................................................................................2-2
Figure 8: Ribbon Cable Connector.......................................................................................................3-1
Figure 9: Termination Block................................................................................................................3-1
Figure 10: Phoenix Connector..............................................................................................................3-1
Figure 11: Mate-n-Loc Connector........................................................................................................3-2
Figure 12: RJ11/ RJ45 Connector ........................................................................................................3-2
Figure 13: Controller Component Layout............................................................................................4-3
List of Figures iii

Introduction 1-1
Section 1: Introduction
1.1 How To Use This Manual
This manual explains the installation and maintenance of Galaxy® 20mm series AF-3050 displays. For
questions regarding the safety, installation, operation, or service of this system, please refer to the
telephone numbers listed on the cover page of this manual.
The manual is divided into five sections: Introduction, Mechanical Installation, Electrical Installation,
Maintenance and Troubleshooting, and Appendix A.
· Introduction: Covers the basic information needed to make the most of the rest of this manual.
Take time to read the entire introduction as it defines terms and explains concepts used throughout
the manual.
· Mechanical Installation: Provides general guidance on sign mounting.
· Electrical Installation: Offers general guidance on terminating power and signal cable at the
sign.
· Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Addresses such things as removing basic sign components,
troubleshooting the sign, performing general maintenance and exchanging sign components.
· Appendix A: Includes the drawings referenced in this manual.
Daktronics identifies manuals by an ED number located on the cover page of each manual. For
example, this manual would be referred to as ED13462.
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.
· System Riser Diagrams: Overall system layout from control computer to sign, power and phase
requirements.
· Shop Drawings: Fan locations, mounting information, power and signal entrance points and
access method (front and rear).
· Schematics: Power and signal wiring for various components.
· Component Placement Diagrams: Locations of critical internal sign components such as power
supply assemblies, controller boards, thermostats and light detectors.
Figure 1 below illustrates Daktronics drawing label. The drawing number is located in the lower-right
corner of the drawing. Listing the last set of digits and the letter preceding them identifies drawings in
the manual. In the example below, the drawing would be referred to as Drawing A-69945. Reference
drawings are inserted in Appendix A.
Figure 1: 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.”
Additionally, drawings referenced in a particular section are listed at the beginning of that section as
seen in the following example:
Reference Drawing:
Component Placement Diagram............................................................ Drawing A-69945
Daktronics signs are built for long life and require little maintenance. However, from time to time,
certain sign components will need replacing. The Replacement Parts List in Section 4.11 provides
the names and part number of components that may need to be ordered during the life of the sign.
Most sign 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 the Daktronics Exchange and Repair and Return
Programs in Section 4.12. Refer to these instructions if any sign component needs replacement or
repair.
1.2 Safety Precautions
Important Safeguards:
1. Read and understand these instructions before installing.
2. Be sure the sign is properly grounded.
3. Disconnect power when servicing the sign.
4. Do not modify the sign structure or attach any panels or coverings to the sign without
the written consent of Daktronics, Inc.
1.3 System Overview
Daktronics Galaxy AF-3050 signs are designed and manufactured for performance, reliability, easy
maintenance and long life. The pixels have a 20mm center-to-center spacing, and are lit using LEDs
(light emitting diodes). Each sign section has minimum 6-inch character height. A light sensor on the
front of the sign is used for automatic dimming of the LEDs based on the ambient light levels. The
configuration of pixels depends on the model of sign ordered.
The Galaxy model numbers are described as follows: AF-3050-CCCxBBB-20-R
AF-3050 = Outdoor Galaxy Sign
CCC = Number of Rows High
BBB = Number of Columns Long
20 = 20mm center-to-center spacing with 6"
Minimum Character Height
R = LED Color (Monochrome Amber or Red)
Introduction
1-2

1.4 Component Identification
The following illustrations depict some of the more commonly accessed Galaxy sign components.
Because Daktronics occasionally alters standard design to meet customer needs, the actual sign design
may very slightly from the illustrations below.
This is only a brief overview. Refer to Section 4 for more detailed information on maintaining and
troubleshooting various sign components.
Com Port: Connector on the back of the control computer. The COM port is used to control the sign
network through either a 9- or a 25-pin serial connector.
Controller: “Brains” of the sign (refer to Figure 2 below). The controller receives signal information
from the control computer, translates it, and activates the appropriate pixels on the sign accordingly.
Figure 2: Controller
Galaxy®: Daktronics trademarked name for LED monochrome or tri-colored matrix signs.
Network: Consists of multiple signs connected to each other.
RS422: Standard differential communication type with a maximum cable length of 4000 feet (1.2
kilometers).
Sign Address: Identification number assigned to each sign of a network. It is set by flipping DIP
switches on the controller. The control software uses the address to locate and communicate with each
sign. Signs that are on the same network cannot have the same address.
Signal Converter: Daktronics supplied unit that converts the data from RS232 to RS422. The signal
converter is usually used in RS422 systems.
Refer to Figure 3 on the following page while reading the following component descriptions.
Introduction 1-3

Figure 3: 16x16Pixel Module (Front and Rear)
Driver/Pixel Board: The LED pixels are mounted directly onto the driver/pixel board. This board is
also responsible for the switching and intensity levels of the LEDs.
LED (light emitting diode): Low energy, high intensity lighting units.
Louver: Optional black plastic shade positioned horizontally above each pixel row. The louvers
increase the level of contrast on the sign face and direct LED light.
Module: 20mm Galaxy modules are 16 pixels high by 16 pixels wide (refer to Figure 3 above). Each
module is individually removable from the front of the sign.
Module Latch Assembly: Device utilizing a rotating retainer bar to hold the module firmly to the
sign frame. There are two per module: one near the top and one near the bottom.
Pixel: Cluster of LEDs. The number and color of the LEDs depends on sign application.
Power Supply: Converts AC line voltage from the load center to low DC voltage for one or more
module driver boards.
Introduction
1-4

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. This information is also
useful when trying to communicate
maintenance or troubleshooting efforts.
Introduction 1-5
A module is the building block of the
Galaxy sign. Each module measures 16
pixels high by 16 pixels wide. By placing modules side-by-
side and on top of one another a sign of any size can be
designed and built. Individual modules can be easily
removed from the sign if required. Figure 4 above
illustrates how Daktronics numbers modules on a Galaxy
sign. Figure 5 on the right breaks down the module
numbering method.
Figure 4: Module Numbering Example – 24x80 Front
The label “A” on a drawing typically denotes an assembly.
An assembly can be a single circuit board or a collection of
components that function together, usually mounted on a single plate or in a single enclosure.
Assemblies are divided into two types: those that route signal and those that route power.
Figure 5: Module Numbering
In addition, the following labeling formats might be found on various Daktronics drawings:
· “TB_ _” indicates a termination block for power or signal cable.
· “F_ _” signifies a fuse.
· “E_ _” stands for a grounding point.
· “J_ _” represents a power or signal jack.
· “P_ _” symbolizes 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 Service. Take note of the following part
number formats:
· “0P-_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _” designates an individual circuit board, such as a line receiver.
· “0A-_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _” indicates 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.
0P-1195-0001
SN: 6343
05/19/99 REV.1
Figure 6: Typical Label
· “W-_ _ _ _” denotes a wire or cable. Cables may also carry the
assembly numbering format in certain circumstances. This is
especially true of ribbon cables.
· “F-_ _ _ _” specifies a fuse.
Most circuit boards and components within this sign 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, use the label to
order a replacement. A typical label is shown in Figure 6 above. The part number is in bold.

Mechanical Installation 2-1
Section 2: Mechanical Installation
The Daktronics engineering staff must approve any changes made to the display. Before altering the
display, detailed drawings for the proposed modifications must be submitted to the Daktronics
engineering staff for evaluation and approval or the warranty will be rendered null and void.
Note: Daktronics does not guarantee the warranty in situations where the display is not constantly in a
stable environment.
2.1 Installation Requirements
An adequate support structure and mounting hardware must be present to mount the sign in a safe and
stable manner. It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure the mounting structure and mounting
hardware are capable of supporting the display, and will agree with local codes.
Before beginning the installation process, verify the following:
· The mounting structure will provide a straight and square-mounting frame for the display.
· The mounting structure is capable of supporting the display and will not yield at any unsupported
points after mounting.
· Clearance: 3" of unobstructed space is available below the display for proper ventilation of the
sign. Unobstructed space is needed for eyebolt removal/clearance above the sign. Additional space
may be required depending on the mounting method used.
Correct any deficiencies before installation.
Note: Daktronics is not responsible for the support structure or structural integrity of the mounting
structure.
2.2 Ventilation Requirements
Fans are mounted in the bottom of the sign for ventilation. Maintain a minimum distance of
3" (7.62-cm) below the sign to maintain proper airflow.
If the sign cabinet is completely enclosed:
· 12 square inches of unobstructed opening per module must be provided to ensure adequate
cooling.
· Allowances must be made to compensate for the percentage of material covering the openings in
the structure.
· For adequate cooling, forced ventilation may be required. If air is forced into the enclosed cabinet,
19 cubic feet per minute must be provided per module (12.48" x 12.48 " active area).
If these requirements are not met, the Galaxy sign warranty may be void.

2.3 Lifting the Display
The top of the display is equipped with eyebolts that are used to lift the unit. Take special care not to
exceed the rated load of the eyebolts. Refer to the information at the end of this section to determine
the allowable load of the eyebolts.
Figure 7 below illustrates both the correct (left example) and the incorrect (right example) method
of lifting a display. By using the non-recommended form on the right, the eyebolt may break. Lift the
display as shown on the left, with the lifting bar. Use every lifting point provided.
Do not attempt to permanently
support the display by the
eyebolts.
Figure 7: Lifting the Display
If removing the eyebolts,
adequately seal the holes using 13
bolts and sealing washers, ½ inch
in size. Silicone along the threads.
This ensures that water does not
enter the display.
2.4 Display Cabinet Mounting
1. Carefully uncrate the display. Look each side of the display over for signs of damage during
shipping.
2. Following the guidelines described in Section 2.3, lift the display into position on the support
structure.
3. Because mounting design will vary for the sign, Daktronics cannot provide additional detailed
information. Follow the instructions provided by the sign company for mounting your particular
sign(s).
4. Refer to Section 1 for information on routing power and signal.
Refer to Section 3 for wiring instructions.
Mechanical Installation
2-2

Electrical Installation 3-1
Section 3: Electrical Installation
Only a qualified individual should terminate power and signal cable within this Daktronics
display.
The Daktronics engineering staff must approve any changes made to the display. Before altering the
display, submit detailed drawings for the proposed modifications to the Daktronics engineering staff
for evaluation and approval or the warranty will be rendered null and void.
3.1 Common Connectors in the Display
The power and signal connections in the displays use many different types of
connectors. Take special care when disengaging any connector so as not to
damage the connector, the cable or the circuit board.
Figure 8: Ribbon
Cable Connector
When unplugging a connector plug from a jack, do not pull on the wire or
cable; pull on the jack itself. Pulling on the wires may damage the connector.
The following information presents some common connectors encountered
during display installation and maintenance:
1. Ribbon Cable Connectors:
Figure 8 on the right illustrates a typical ribbon connector. To disconnect
the ribbon cable, push the metal clips on the sides to unlock and remove
the jack.
Figure 9: Termination
Block
Before replacing a ribbon cable connector, spray it with Deoxit™contact
cleaner to remove any foreign matter that may cause signal problems. In
addition, apply a generous amount of Cailube™protector paste to the
plug before inserting it into the jack. This paste will protect both the
plug and the jack from corrosion.
2. Termination Blocks:
Termination blocks are usually used to connect internal power and
signal wires to wires of the same type coming into the display from an
external source. Most signal wires will come with forked connectors
crimped to the ends of the wire. Power wires need to have one-half inch
of insulation stripped from the end of the wire prior to termination.
Tighten all screws firmly to ensure a good electrical connection. Refer to
Figure 9 on the right.
Figure 10: Phoenix
Connector
3. Phoenixä-Style Connectors:
Phoenix-style connectors, which are usually green, are often used for
signal termination on circuit boards. Refer to Figure 10 on the right.
Strip one-quarter inch of insulation from the wire prior to termination.
To remove a wire, turn the above screw counter-clockwise to loose the
connectors grip on the wire. To insert a wire, push the bare wire into the
connector and turn the above screw clockwise to lock the wire into
place.

4. Mate-n-LokäConnectors:
Figure 11: Mate-
n-Loc Connector
The Mate-n-Lok connectors found in the displays are white and come in a variety
of sizes. Figure 11 on the left illustrates a five-pin Mate-n-Lok connector. To
remove the plug form the jack, squeeze the plastic locking clasps on the side of
the plug and pull it from the jack.
Figure 12:
RJ11/ RJ45
Connector
5. Phone Jacks (RJ11/RJ45 Connectors):
RJ connectors, as seen on the right in Figure 12, are similar to the
telephone connectors found in homes and are used on the ends of
RJ45 cable. In order to remove this plug from the jack, depress
the small clip on the underside of the plug.
Before replacing an RJ connector, spray it with Deoxit™contact
cleaner to remove any foreign matter that may cause signal
problems. In addition, apply a generous amount of Cailube™
protector paste to the plug before inserting it into the jack. This
paste will protect both the plug and the jack from corrosion.
3.2 Control Cable Categories
Daktronics has identified four general categories for control cable. Most commonly used for
installation in conduit are shielded and unshielded cable.
Unshielded Cable
Unshielded cable consists of paired wires. These wires should not be subjected to mechanical
flexing after installation. This cable is not for direct burial and should have one of the following
routings:
· In dedicated metallic conduit
· In plastic conduit away from interference signals
· Inside buildings – if cable is not in conduit, keep away from interference signals
Shielded Cable
This cable has stranded wire that is paired and overall shielded, and may be subjected to
interference signals. It does not need to have a dedicated metallic conduit. The shield must be
properly terminated at the controller. The cable can be subjected to some flexing after installation.
Cable is not for direct burial. Do not use this in conduit with power conductors.
With interference signals, such as power conductors, intercom, etc., a two-foot separation is
typically required.
Direct Bur a Cab ei l l
I t
This application uses a paired, overall shielded, solid, direct burial cable. It is intended that this
cable type be typically used underground without conduit.
High Voltage nsula ion Cable
This cable uses an individually shielded pair of stranded wires. The insulation rating is 600V and
60 degrees Celsius. Cable routing may be with power conductors. This category is discouraged
when other routing is possible. The National Electric Code has specific requirements concerning
the voltage rating of cables with power conductors. All applicable electrical and building codes
must be followed.
Electrical Installation
3-2

Conduit, and the labor to pull cable through the conduit, is the responsibility of the customer
and/or contractor.
3.3 Conduit
Daktronics does not include the conduit. Separate conduit must be used to route:
· Power
· Signal IN wires
· Signal OUT wires (if signal is required for another sign)
· Temp sensor
The conduit holes should located at the bottom right (rear view) of the back of the sign.
Punch or drill out the desired conduit openings. Be careful that none of the internal components
are damaged. Attach the conduit and route the power and signal cables. Refer Figure 3 for a picture
of the power and signal termination panels.
For signs with more than one face, signal and temperature sensor wiring between signs can be routed
through the same conduit.
3.4 Preparing for Power/Signal Connection
1. Punch in ½" knockouts (0.875 holes) or drill 7/8" (0.875) holes for the desired conduit openings.
Be careful that none of the internal components are damaged.Attach the conduit. Refer to the
component layout drawing specific to your sign type for internal components.
2. Remove the bottom left two modules (AX01 and AX02) to expose the power enclosure and signal
panel. To do this, use a 1/8-inch Allen wrench to turn the latch access fasteners one-quarter turn.
Turn the top latch clockwise and the bottom latch counter-clockwise. Lift the module away from
the display, then reach behind it and disconnect all power and signal connections.
3. Locate the controller for these displays. The controller is shown in Figure 2 located within
Section 1.4. The controller receives the incoming signal and relays it to the individual modules.
Now locate the power termination box. These are located according to component replacement
drawings.
4. Route power to the display through a fused disconnect switch capable of opening all ungrounded
power conductors. Install this disconnect within the line of sight of any personnel performing
maintenance on the display. If the disconnect is located out of sight of the display, it must be
capable of being locked in the open position.
5. Power conductors from the disconnect to the display should be routed through conduit in
agreement with local code.
6. You may route the signal cable from the control computer to the sign at this time also. Be sure to
run the power and signal cables in a separate conduit.
Electrical Installation 3-3

3.5 Power
Proper power installation is imperative for proper display operation. The following sub-sections give
details of display power installation. Qualified personnel must perform electrical installations.
Unqualified personnel should not attempt to install the electrical equipment. Serious danger to
equipment and personnel could occur if equipment is improperly installed.
G oundingr
Displays must be grounded according to the provisions outlined in Article 250 of the National
Electrical Code®. Daktronics recommends a resistance to ground of 10 ohms or less. The electrical
contractor who is performing the electrical installation can perform verification of ground
resistance. Daktronics Sales and Service personnel can also perform this service
The display system must be connected to earth-ground. 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.
The material of an earth-ground electrode differs from region to region and from 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 in earth, the steel is either primed or it corrodes,
making it a poor ground.
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 cable 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 neutral 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
enclosure.
· A disconnect that opens all of the ungrounded phase conductors should be used.
· The neutral and the ground conductors should be bonded at the ground lug termination
point in the receptacle within the display driver enclosure.
Electrical Installation
3-4

3.6 Signal
RS422 Cable Requirements
This cable is a 6-conductor shielded cable used to transmit an RS/422 signal. This shielded cable
consists of unpaired wires. They should not be subjected to mechanical flexing after installation.
This cable is not for direct burial and should have one of the following routings:
· In dedicated metallic conduit
· Inside buildings -if cable is not in conduit, keep away from interference signals.
With interference signals (such as power conductors, intercom, etc.) typically a two-foot
separation is required. The maximum length of an RS/422 signal cable is 4,000 feet (1.22
kilometers).
Signal Connect on from Compu er to Signi t
One end of the signal cable should be terminated to the 6-position terminal block in the sign
labeled “RS422 IN” (TB2). The opposite end is terminated at the signal converter (Daktronics part
number 0A-1127-0237) in the control room.
Signal Converter (J4/J5) Field Cabling Terminal Block TB2 (RS422 In)
Pin 1 (GND) Red Pin 1 (GND)
Pin 2 (RX-P) Black Pin 2 (TX-P)
Pin 3 (RX-N) Brown Pin 3 (TX-N)
Pin 4 (TX-P) White Pin 4 (RX-P)
Pin 5 (TX-N) Blue Pin 5 (RX-N)
Pin 6 (GND) Green Pin 6 (GND)
Signal Termination Between Two (o More) Signsr
This is the most common method of terminating signal between two or more signs. A 6-conductor
cable is used and one end terminates at the “RS422 OUT” 6-position terminal block (TB3) on the
first sign. The other end terminates at the “RS422 IN” 6-position terminal block (TB2) in the
second sign.
Sign A
Data Out (TB3) Field Cabling Sign B Data In (TB2)
Pin 1 (GND) Green Pin 6 (GND)
Pin 2 (Data TX-N) Blue Pin 5 (Data RX-N)
Pin 3 (Data TX-P) White Pin 4 (Data RX-P)
Pin 4 (Data RX-N) Brown Pin 3 (Data TX-N)
Pin 5 (Data RX-P) Black Pin 2 (Data TX-P)
Pin 6 (GND) Red Pin 1 (GND)
Pin 6(GND) Bare (Shield) N.C.
Note: Refer to Section 4.2 for the modem information. This is found on pages 4-1 and 4-2.
3.7 First Time Operation
When first operated, the sign will run through an initialization in which it will display the following:
1. Output Test (DDDs)
2. Product Name (Galaxy) 3. Sign Size (Row x Column) 4. Firmware Number (ED10134)
Electrical Installation 3-5

5. Firmware Revision (Rev X.XX)
6. COM1 Configuration (C1: V15/RTD)
7. COM2 Configuration (C2: None)
8. Line Frequency (60 Hz)
9. Hardware Address (HW: XX)
10. Software Address (SW: XX)
11. Sign Name
12. Modem if Present (Modem)
3.8 Main Disconnect
The National Electrical Code requires the use of a lockable power disconnect near the sign. Provide a
lockable disconnect switch (knife switch) at the sign location so that all power lines can be completely
disconnected. Use a 3-conductor disconnect so that both hot lines and the neutral can all be
disconnected. The main disconnect should be mounted at or near the point of power supply connection
to the sign. A main disconnect is to be provided for each supply circuit to the sign.
The disconnecting means must be located in a direct line of sight from the sign or outline lighting that
it controls. This requirement provides protection by enabling a worker to keep the disconnecting
means within view while working on the sign.
Exception: Disconnecting means that are capable of being locked in the open position may be located
elsewhere.
3-6 Electrical Installation