Daktronics Galaxy AF-3300 Series User manual

Galaxy AF-3300 Series
Outdoor LED Display
Display Manual
ED-15507 Rev 0 20 June 2005
331 32nd Ave PO Box 5128 Brookings SD 57006
Tel [phone] or 877-605-1113 Fax [phone]
www.daktronics.com e-mail: [email protected]

ED-15507
Product 1350
Rev 0 – 20 June 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.
Galaxy®is a registered trademark of Daktronics, Inc.
All others are trademarks of their respective companies.

Table of Contents i
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction....................................................................................1-1
1.1 Safety Precautions .....................................................................................1-2
1.2 Network Concepts .....................................................................................1-3
1.3 Display Overview...................................................................................... 1-3
1.4 Component Identification..........................................................................1-4
1.5 Daktronics Nomenclature..........................................................................1-6
Section 2: Mechanical Installation.................................................................2-1
2.1 Mechanical Installation Overview.............................................................2-1
2.2 Support Structure Design........................................................................... 2-1
2.3 Ventilation Requirements..........................................................................2-2
2.4 Lifting the Display..................................................................................... 2-2
2.5 Display Mounting...................................................................................... 2-3
2.6 Optional Temperature Sensor Mounting ...................................................2-3
Section 3: Electrical Installation.....................................................................3-1
3.1 Common Connectors in the Display.......................................................... 3-1
3.2 Conduit...................................................................................................... 3-3
3.3 Preparing for Power/Signal Connection.................................................... 3-3
3.4 Power.........................................................................................................3-4
Power Requirements........................................................................... 3-4
Grounding........................................................................................... 3-4
Power Installation............................................................................... 3-5
Power Connection ..............................................................................3-5
Main Disconnect................................................................................. 3-6
3.7 Signal Termination from Computer to Display......................................... 3-7
3.8 Signal Termination Between Displays (Primary – Mirror) .......................3-8
3.9 Optional Temperature Sensor Installation.................................................3-8
Section 4: Maintenance and Troubleshooting..............................................4-1
4.1 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Overview............................................ 4-1
4.2 Signal Summary ........................................................................................ 4-2
4.3 Power Summary ........................................................................................4-2
4.4 Display Access .......................................................................................... 4-3
4.5 Service and Diagnostics............................................................................. 4-4
Transformer and RFI Filter ................................................................4-5
Controller ...........................................................................................4-6
4.6 Ventilation Systems................................................................................... 4-8
4.7 Thermostats ...............................................................................................4-9
4.8 Weather Stripping...................................................................................... 4-9
4.9 Display Maintenance................................................................................. 4-9
4.10 Troubleshooting....................................................................................... 4-10
4.11 Initial Operation Information................................................................... 4-11

Table of Contents
i
i
4.12 Replacement Parts List............................................................................4-11
4.13 Daktronics Exchange and Repair and Return Programs..........................4-12
Appendix A: Reference Drawings .....................................................................A-1
Appendix B: Optional Temperature Sensor .....................................................B-1

List of Figures iii
List of Figures
Figure 1: Drawing Label ...........................................................................................................1-1
Figure 2: Version 3 Controller ...................................................................................................1-4
Figure 3: 12 mm 2-point latches.................................................................................................1-5
Figure 4: 20 mm 4-point latches.................................................................................................1-5
Figure 5: Module Numbering for Reference.................................................................................1-6
Figure 6: Module Numbering Technique .....................................................................................1-6
Figure 7: Typical Label .............................................................................................................1-6
Figure 8: Lifting the Display (Correct, Left; Incorrect, Right)........................................................2-2
Figure 9: Ribbon Cable Connector .............................................................................................3-1
Figure 10: One Breaker Termination Block .................................................................................3-1
Figure 11: Phoenix Connector....................................................................................................3-2
Figure 12: Mate-n-Loc Connector ..............................................................................................3-2
Figure 13: RJ11 Connector........................................................................................................3-2
Figure 14: RS232/6-pin Quick Connect Jack................................................................................3-2
Figure 15: Primary Display with Enclosures................................................................................3-4
Figure 16: Connections in Power Termination J-box....................................................................3-5
Figure 17: Power Installation to Power Termination Box) ............................................................3-6
Figure 18: Display Interconnect.................................................................................................3-8
Figure 19: Quick Connect Cable ................................................................................................3-8
Figure 20: Control Component Locations....................................................................................4-3
Figure 21: Removing a Module ..................................................................................................4-3
Figure 22: Primary Display Power Termination Box....................................................................4-5
Figure 23: Controller Component Layout....................................................................................4-6

Section 1: Introduction
This manual explains the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Daktronics
Galaxy®AF-3300 series LED 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 six sections: Introduction, Mechanical Installation, Electrical
Installation, Maintenance and Troubleshooting, Appendix A and Appendix B.
•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 display 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
•Appendix A lists the drawings referenced within this manual
•Appendix B includes information on the Optional Temperature Sensor
Daktronics identifies manuals by an ED number located on the cover page of each manual.
For example, this manual would be referred to as ED-15507.
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 of these
drawings:
•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 display
components, such as power supply assemblies, controller boards, thermostats, and
light detectors
Figure 1 illustrates the 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 B-222544. Reference drawings are inserted in Appendix A.
Figure 1: Drawing Label
Introduction
1-1

All references to drawing numbers, appendices, figures, or other manuals are presented in
bold typeface, as shown below.
“Refer to Drawing B-222544 in Appendix A for the display power requirements.”
Additionally, drawings referenced in a particular section are listed at the beginning of that
section as seen in the following example:
Reference Drawing:
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x34-12-RGB, 32x80-20-R......... Drawing B-222544
Daktronics displays are built for long life and require little maintenance. However, from time
to time, certain display components will need replacing. The Replacement Parts List in
Section 4.12 provides the names and numbers of components that may need to be ordered
during the life of the display. Most display components have a white label that lists the part
number. The component part number is in the following format: 0P-_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _
(component) or 0A-_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _ (multi-component assembly).
Following the Replacement Parts List is the Daktronics Exchange and Repair and
Return Programs in Section 4.13. Refer to these instructions if any display component needs
replacement or repair.
1.1 Safety Precautions
Important Safeguards:
1. Read and understand these instructions before installing
2. Be sure the display and external signal enclosures are properly grounded
with an earth ground electrode at the display
3. Disconnect power when servicing the display
4. Do not modify the display structure or attach any panels or coverings to the
display without the written consent of Daktronics, Inc
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance
with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference. In such cases, the user will be required to correct the
interference at their own expense.
Modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment under FCC rules.
1-2 Introduction

Introduction
1-3
1.2 Network Concepts
The concept of using LED displays as a cost effective, high impact method of
communication is rapidly growing throughout many industries and businesses. The
reasons for this growth are many, but the need for additional features and the
complexity of multiple display installations has emerged. Daktronics display systems
have been designed to meet those needs.
The common thread to most client requests is a means of programming and
controlling a group of displays from a central control point. Daktronics responded by
developing a powerful system of interconnecting and controlling displays. Great care
has been taken to design products that will satisfy a wide variety of installations.
Some of the design goals of these systems include the following:
•Easy transfer of messages
•The ability to tell a display or group of displays in the network which
message should run
•The ability to determine the status of any display on the network
•The ability to control multiple display technologies on the same network
1.3 Display Overview
Reference Drawing:
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x48-12-RGB, 32x48-20-R ......Drawing B-241264
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x64-12-RGB, 32x80-20-R ......Drawing B-240560
Daktronics, AF-3300 Galaxy®displays are designed and manufactured for
performance, reliability, easy maintenance, and long life. A light sensor on the front
of the primary display is used for automatic dimming of the LEDs based on the
ambient light levels.
The Daktronics AF-3300 display contains two separate LED matrices. The pixels
have either a 12 mm or a 20 mm center-to-center spacing, and are lit using LEDs
(light emitting diodes). Although the matrices are different sizes and have different
color capacities, a single controller provides signal to the display.
The Galaxy®model numbers are described as follows:
AF-3300-RR x CC-12-RGB/RR x CC-20-R
AF-3300 = Outdoor Louvered Galaxy Display
RR = Number of Rows High
CC = Number of Columns Long
12/20 = 12 mm/20 mm pixel to pixel spacing
RGB/R = Color Capability-RGB (32,000 colors),
R-Monochrome Red
Refer to appropriate shop drawing for your display for the approximate size, weight,
and power requirements for your display.

Refer to Sections 4.2 and 4.3 for the summaries of how signal and power are routed
through the displays.
1.4 Component Identification
The following illustrations depict some of the more commonly accessed Galaxy®
display components.
This is only a brief overview. Refer to Section 4 for additional information on
maintaining the various display components.
Controller: The display’s controller is the “brains” of the display (refer to Figure 2).
The controller receives, translates, and activates the signal information from the
computer to the appropriate pixels on the display.
Figure 2: Version 3 Controller
Display Address: The display address is an identification number assigned to each
display of a network. Rotating the address switches on the controller sets the display
address. The control software uses the address to locate and communicate with each
display. Displays that are on the same network cannot have the same address.
Driver/Pixel Board: For the 20 mm pixel boards, the LEDs are mounted directly
onto the driver/pixel board. In the case of the 12 mm boards, there is a separate LED
board and a separate driver that attaches to it. The driver board, whether separate or
built-in, is responsible for the switching and intensity levels of the LEDs.
Galaxy®: Daktronics trademarked name for LED monochrome, tri-colored, or RGB
matrix displays.
LED (light emitting diode): This is a low energy, high intensity lighting unit.
1-4 Introduction

Louver: Black plastic shade positioned horizontally above each pixel row. The
louvers increase the level of contrast on the display face and direct LED light.
Mirror: A mirror display is the second display in a Primary-Mirror or Double-Face
configuration. The mirror display does not have a controller. All signal information
to the mirror is received though a signal interconnect cable from the primary.
Module: There are two types of modules in the AF-3300, 12 mm RGB and 20 mm
monochrome red. Each is individually removable from the front of the display.
Module Latch Assembly: This is a device utilizing a sliding retainer bar to hold the
module firmly to the display frame. There are two latches on the 12 mm modules
(refer to Figure 3) and four latches on the 20 mm modules (refer to Figure 4). A 1/8"
Hex wrench is used to turn the different latches.
Introduction
1-5
Figure 3: 12 mm 2-point latches Figure 4: 20 mm 4-point latches
Network: A network consists of multiple displays connected to each other. Up to
240 primary displays can exist on one network.
Pixel: A pixel is a single LED or cluster of LEDs. The number and color of the
LEDs depends on display application.
Power Supply: Converts AC line voltage from the load center to low DC voltage for
one or more module driver boards.
Primary: A primary display is a signal-faced unit or the first display in a Primary-
Mirror or Double-Face configuration. The communication and temperature sensor
input will be connected to this display. The light sensor is also internally mounted in
this display. An interconnect cable will transfer information from the primary to the
mirror display in the Double-Face configuration.

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.
Figure 5: Module Numbering for Reference
A module is the building block of the Galaxy®display. The 12 mm modules measure
24 pixels high by 16 pixels wide and the 20 mm modules measure 16 pixels high by
16 pixels wide. By placing modules side-by-side and on top of one another, a display
of any size can be designed and built. Individual modules can be easily removed
from the display if required. Figure 5 shows how Daktronics numbers modules on a
Galaxy®display. Figure 6 illustrates the module numbering method.
In addition, the following labeling formats might be
found on various Daktronics drawings:
Figure 6: Module Numbering
Technique
•“TB_ _” signifies a termination block for
power or signal cable
•“F_ _” represents a fuse
•“E_ _” shows a grounding point
•“J_ _” denotes a power or signal jack
•“P_ _” stands for 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-_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _” indicates an individual
circuit board, such as the internal fiberboard
Figure 7: Typical Label
•“0A-_ _ _ _-_ _ _ _” stands for an assembly,
such as a circuit board and the plate or bracket
to which it is mounted
•“W-_ _ _ _” represents a wire or cable
Note: A collection of circuit boards working as a single unit may carry an assembly
label. Cables may also carry the assembly numbering format in certain
circumstances. This is especially true of ribbon cables.
1-6 Introduction

Introduction
1-7
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, use the label to order a replacement. A typical
label is shown in Figure 7. The part number is in bold.

Mechanical Installation
2-1
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 weather-tightness
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 or the 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
Because every installation site is unique, there is no single Daktronics-approved
procedure for mounting the Galaxy®displays. The information contained in this
section is general information only and may or may not be appropriate for your
particular installation.
A qualified individual must make all decisions regarding the mounting of this
display.
Read both the mechanical and electrical installation sections of this manual
before beginning any installation procedures.
2.2 Support Structure Design
Support structure design depends on the mounting methods, display size, and weight.
The structure design is critical and should be done only by a qualified individual.
Display height and wind loading are also critical factors. It is the customer’s
responsibility to ensure that the structure and mounting hardware are adequate.
Daktronics is not responsible for the installations or the structural integrity of
support structures done by others.
It is the installer’s responsibility to ensure the mounting structure and
hardware is capable of supporting the display, and will agree with local codes.
Before beginning the installation process, verify the following:
•All clip angles or mounting holes must be attached to the support structure
•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: 4" of unobstructed space is available above the top of the display
to remove the eyebolt

Note: No clearance is required once the eyebolt is removed.
Correct any deficiencies before installation.
2.3 Ventilation Requirements
Reference Drawing:
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x48-12-RGB, 32x48-20-R...... Drawing B-241264
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x64-12-RGB, 32x80-20-R...... Drawing B-240560
Vents are provided in the face of the display for ventilation. Vents and fans draw air
into the display at the bottom, and the warm air is expelled out at the top through
vents in the front. Both of the intake and exhaust vents run the length of the display
and should not be obstructed. Refer to the appropriate Shop Drawing for additional
information.
The display cabinet may be completely enclosed on the sides and in the back, so long
as the vents in the face are not obstructed.
If these requirements are not met, the Galaxy®display warranty may be void.
2.4 Lifting the Display
The top of the display is equipped with eyebolts that are used to lift the unit. Take
special care to ensure that the rated load of the eyebolts is not exceeded. Refer to the
information at the end of this section labeled Eyebolts to determine the allowable
load of the eyebolts shipped with the display.
Figure 8 illustrates both the correct (left example) and the incorrect (right example)
method of lifting a display. Lift the display as shown on the left, with the lifting bar.
Use every lifting point provided.
Figure 8: Lifting the Display (Correct, Left; Incorrect, Right)
Do not attempt to permanently support the display by the eyebolts.
Eyebolts can be removed for the display to eliminate the need for overheard
clearance.
2-2 Mechanical Installation

Mechanical Installation
2-3
2.5 Display Mounting
Reference Drawing:
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x48-12-RGB, 32x48-20-R ......Drawing B-241264
Shop Dwg, AF-3300-48x64-12-RGB, 32x80-20-R ......Drawing B-240560
The method used to mount displays can vary greatly from location to location. For
this reason, only general mounting topics can be addressed in this manual.
It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure the installation will adequately
meet local codes and standards, as well as the mounting hardware and method.
Before beginning the installation process, verify the following items:
•The mounting structure will provide a straight and square-mounting frame
for the display – height variation in any four-foot horizontal section may
not exceed ¼-inch
•The mounting structure will not give way at any unsupported points after
the display is mounted
The back of the display is equipped with 2x2x¼”thick angles on the top and bottom
of the display (Refer to the Shop Drawings). All mounted displays and wind loading
must meet local codes and be inspected by a qualified structural engineer.
1. Carefully uncrate the display and inspect each side of the display for
possible damage that may have occurred during shipping
2. Following the guidelines described in Section 2.4, lift the display into
position on the support structure
3. Weld or use ½" Grade-5 bolts and hardware to secure the clip angles to the
support structure as shown in the Shop Drawings.
4. Refer to Section 3 for information on routing power to the display
5. After installation is complete, carefully inspect the display for any holes
that may allow water to seep into the display and seal any openings with
silicone – if the eyebolts on the top of the display have been removed,
plug the holes with bolts and the rubber-sealing washer that was
removed with the eyebolt or fill the nut insert with silicone (unless there
is an overhead structure)
2.6 Optional Temperature Sensor Mounting
If an optional temperature sensor will be used with this display, see Appendix B for
mounting and signal connections.

Section 3: Electrical Installation
Only a qualified individual should terminate power and signal cable at 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.
When pulling 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:
Figure 9: Ribbon
Cable Connector
1. Ribbon Cable Connectors:
Figure 9 illustrates a typical ribbon connector. To
disconnect the ribbon cable, push the plastic clips on the
sides out to unlock and remove the jack.
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.
Figure 10: One Breaker
Termination Block
2. Termination Blocks:
Termination blocks are commonly used to connect internal
power and signal wires to wires of the same type coming
into the display from an external source. Power wires need
to have one-half inch of insulation stripped from the end of
the wire prior to termination. Insert wires in terminations
and make sure the clamp holds the wire firmly. Refer to
Figure 10 for more information.
Electrical Installation
3-1

3. Phoenix™-Style Connectors:
Figure 11: Phoenix
Connector
Phoenix-style connectors, which are usually green, are often
used for signal termination on circuit boards. Refer to Figure
11. Strip one-quarter inch of insulation from the wire prior to
termination. To remove a wire, turn the above screw counter-
clockwise to loosen the connector's 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-Lok™Connectors:
The Mate-n-Lok connectors found in the displays are white and
come in a variety of sizes. Figure 12 illustrates a four-pin Mate-
n-Lok connector. To remove the plug from the jack, squeeze
the plastic locking clasps on the side of the plug and pull it
from the jack.
Figure 12: Mate-n-
Loc Connector
5. Phone/Network Jacks (RJ11/RJ45 Connectors):
RJ connectors, as seen in Figure 13, are similar to the telephone
connectors or network jacks found in homes and businesses
and are used on the ends of RJ11 or 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.
Figure 13: RJ11
Connector
6. Quick Connect Jack:
The display uses quick connect jacks for the connection of the
signal termination enclosure, the temperature sensor and
possible connection to a mirror display. There are three input
and one output quick connect jacks located on the back of the
primary display, and when not used the attached dust cover
should be kept closed.
Figure 14: RS232/6-pin
Quick Connect Jack
To attach the cable to a jack, make sure to line up the plug to
match the jack, push the plug in then turn the outer collar to
lock in place. Figure 14 illustrates the 6-pin quick connect
jack.
3-2 Electrical Installation