Daktronics VF-23 Series User manual

GENERIC SERVICE
VF-23XX
GEN 2
Display Manual
DD3891099 Rev 0—13 April 2018
117 Prince Drive PO Box 5120 Brookings SD 57006
tel [phone] fax [phone]
www.daktronics.com [e-mail]

DAKTRONICS, INC.
Copyright 2018
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.
Vanguard®is a trademark of Daktronics, Inc. National Electrical Code®and all other trademarks are property of their respective companies.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................. i
Section 1: Introduction.................................................................................................................2
1.1 How to Use This Manual .......................................................................................................2
1.2DMS Overview........................................................................................................................2
1.3 Theory of Operation ...............................................................................................................2
Vanguard®Software........................................................................................................2
VFC-3000 Controller........................................................................................................2
1.4 Auxiliary Control Panel (Optional) ......................................................................................3
1.5 Display Peripherals.................................................................................................................3
Section 2: Components................................................................................................................5
2.1 Modules....................................................................................................................................5
2.2 Power Supplies........................................................................................................................5
Power Supplies.................................................................................................................5
Low Voltage Distribution Board....................................................................................5
2.3 Control Panel ...........................................................................................................................6
CAN Distribution Board .................................................................................................6
CAN I/O Board ...............................................................................................................6
DC / DC Converter Board..............................................................................................6
2.4 Panelboard ...............................................................................................................................6
2.5 Surge Suppressor ....................................................................................................................6
2.6 Relays........................................................................................................................................7
2.7 Sensors Network .....................................................................................................................7
External Sensor.................................................................................................................7
Internal Sensor..................................................................................................................7
Bottom Sensor...................................................................................................................7
2.8 Ventilation and Heater Systems............................................................................................7
Intake Fans and Filters ....................................................................................................7
Fan RPM Sensors (Optional) ..........................................................................................7
2.9 Beacon(s) (Optional) ...............................................................................................................8
2.10 Traffic Cabinet (Optional)......................................................................................................8
Cabinet Light ....................................................................................................................8
Door Reporting (Optional) .............................................................................................8
Pull-Out Drawers and Shelving.....................................................................................8
Panelboard ........................................................................................................................8
Outlet Strip and Outlets ..................................................................................................8
Exhaust Fan Assembly ....................................................................................................8
Cabinet Heater (Optional) ..............................................................................................9
UPS (Optional) .................................................................................................................9
2.11 Laptop Interface Enclosure (Optional).................................................................................9
Light...................................................................................................................................9

ii Table of Contents
Fold-Down Shelf ..............................................................................................................9
Outlets ...............................................................................................................................9
Section 3: Mechanical Installation.............................................................................................11
3.1 Display Lifting.......................................................................................................................11
3.2 Display Mounting .................................................................................................................11
3.3 Traffic Cabinet Mounting.....................................................................................................12
Ground Mounting..........................................................................................................12
Pole Mounting ................................................................................................................12
3.4 LIE Mounting.........................................................................................................................12
Section 4: Electrical Installation................................................................................................13
4.1 Power Installation .................................................................................................................13
Grounding.......................................................................................................................13
Power...............................................................................................................................13
Bonding Screw................................................................................................................13
4.2 Power Connections ...............................................................................................................13
Display Termination......................................................................................................14
Conduit Sealing..............................................................................................................14
Module Connection .......................................................................................................14
Fans and Power Supplies Connection.........................................................................14
4.3 Traffic Cabinet (Optional) ....................................................................................................14
4.4 First Time Fire Up .................................................................................................................15
Section 5: Maintenance and Troubleshooting .........................................................................17
5.1 Service and Diagnostics........................................................................................................17
5.2 Module Numbering System ................................................................................................17
5.3 7-Segment Error Codes.........................................................................................................18
Modules...........................................................................................................................18
LVDB ...............................................................................................................................18
5.4 Internal Component Access.................................................................................................19
5.5 VFC-3000 Controller Replacement .....................................................................................19
5.6 Module Replacement............................................................................................................19
5.7 Driver Board Replacement...................................................................................................20
5.8 Power Supply Replacement.................................................................................................20
5.9 LVDB Replacement...............................................................................................................21
5.10 LVDB Fuse Replacement......................................................................................................21
5.11 Control Panel Maintenance..................................................................................................21
DC / DC Converter Board (PC1) Replacement .........................................................22
CAN Distribution Board (PC2) Replacement ............................................................22
CAN I/O Board (PC3) Replacement ...........................................................................22
5.12 Ventilation Fan and Filter Maintenance.............................................................................23
Filter Replacement .........................................................................................................23
Fan Replacement ............................................................................................................23

5.13 Traffic Cabinet Maintenance ...............................................................................................24
Traffic Cabinet Fan and Thermostat Assembly Replacement .................................24
Traffic Cabinet Light Replacement..............................................................................24
5.14 LIE Maintenance ...................................................................................................................24
5.15 Display Maintenance ............................................................................................................25
Structure..........................................................................................................................25
Earth Ground Resistance ..............................................................................................25
Display Cabinet..............................................................................................................25
Temperature and Light Sensors...................................................................................25
Fans..................................................................................................................................25
Filters ...............................................................................................................................26
VFC-3000 Controller......................................................................................................26
Face Panels......................................................................................................................26
Wet Outdoor Cleaning Method ............................................................................26
Pressure Wash Cleaning Method .........................................................................27
LEDs ................................................................................................................................27
LED and Electronic Circuitry .......................................................................................27
5.16 Maintenance Checklist .........................................................................................................28
5.17 Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................29
Section 6: Replacement Parts and Exchange and Repair Programs....................................33
6.1 Daktronics Part Numbers ....................................................................................................33
6.2 Daktronics Exchange and Repair & Return Programs.....................................................33
Exchange Program.........................................................................................................33
Before Contacting Daktronics ......................................................................................34
Repair & Return Program.............................................................................................35
Shipping Address ..........................................................................................................35
Email................................................................................................................................35
Glossary 37

2 Introduction
Section 1: Introduction
1.1 How to Use This Manual
This manual explains the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of VF-2300 series
Dynamic Message Signs (DMS). For information regarding the safety, installation, operation,
or service of this system, refer to the telephone numbers on the cover page of this manual.
Daktronics identifies manuals by the ED or DD number located on the cover page of each
manual. For example, this manual is referred to as DD3891099.
The serial and model numbers for the display are on the ID label attached to the display. This
label looks similar to Figure 1. When calling Daktronics Customer Service, please have this
information available to ensure timely response.
Daktronics builds displays for long life, and they require little maintenance. However, from
time to time, certain components need replacing. Refer to the Daktronics Exchange and
Repair & Return Programs in Section 6.2 if any component needs replacement or repair.
1.2 DMS Overview
The VF-2300 series displays are front access.
1.3 Theory of Operation
Vanguard®Software
Daktronics Vanguard®software allows the DMS operator to check display status and to
control messages. Refer to the Vanguard®Software Help File for information about
operating Vanguard®software.
VFC-3000 Controller
The VFC-3000 controller is the communication hub for DMS management; it is located in the
display or in the traffic cabinet.
Figure 1: Display ID Label

Introduction 3
The central controller creates messages and transmits them to the VFC-3000 controller for
storage. Upon request from the central controller or the front panel interface, the VFC-3000
controller locates the message to display and sends it to the display’s modules via the
distribution board. The modules activate the appropriate pixels to form the message.
The VFC-3000 controller also monitors local sensors (display-based sensors) like temperature,
light level, and door detection. The VFC-3000 controller interprets sensor data for display
control and diagnostic functions, such as adjusting the display’s intensity for current lighting
conditions.
1.4 Auxiliary Control Panel (Optional)
The auxiliary control panel (ACP) complements the VFC-3000 controller by providing a
secondary control interface panel at the DMS site. The ACP allows a maintenance technician
to perform diagnostics while working in one location without having to access the VFC-3000
controller in another location. This improves safety and reduces maintenance time.
1.5 Display Peripherals
A peripheral is a display component configured through the VFC-3000 controller. Peripherals
include sensors, power supplies, low voltage distribution boards (LVDB), fans, and heaters.

Components 5
Section 2: Components
2.1 Modules
A module is a replaceable unit consisting of a display panel with
clusters of LEDs, called pixels, and a driver board. The pixels
show messages on the display face. Refer to Figure 2.
Each module contains drive electronics, which receive data
packets from the distribution board and light the appropriate
pixels at the correct dimming level.
2.2 Power Supplies
Power Supplies
The power supplies mount to internal cabinet verticals.
The power supplies provide voltage to power the modules. Multiple power supplies provide
power redundancy. Each power supply is paired with another power supply to make a
power supply group. If one power supply in the group fails, the other is capable of
supporting the full power load, which prevents power failure to the modules.
Low Voltage Distribution Board
One low voltage distribution board (LVDB) mounts to each power supply. The LVDB
provides input and output voltage to the power supply. Figure 3shows an LVDB.
The LVDB receives 120 VAC input voltage from the distribution panel.
Output from the power supply routes through the LVDB. Each output is
fused at 15 A with automotive spade fuses. From there, the 24 VDC
output routes to the modules.
LVDB diagnostics include power supply data sent to the VFC-3000
controller about output voltage and the passing or failing of each fuse.
Figure 2: Module
Figure 3: LVDB

6 Components
2.3 Control Panel
The control panel is located in the right
side of the display. Figure 4shows what
components make up the control panel.
These components use information
received from the VFC-3000 controller to
operate the display.
CAN Distribution Board
The CAN distribution board receives high-
speed serial data from the VFC-3000
controller through a fiber-optic or Cat-5
cable. It then distributes the signal to the
appropriate modules and sensors. The
CAN distribution board receives
diagnostic data from the modules,
temperature sensors, light sensors, LVDBs,
and CAN I/O board and transmits the
data to the VFC-3000 controller.
The distribution board uses a protocol that
routes signal to each horizontal line of the display. With this protocol, signal failure to one
module in a horizontal line does not affect other LED modules in that line.
CAN I/O Board
The CAN I/O board is an input/output interface that also monitors the status of the power
supplies, door open sensors, control beacons, fans, and heaters.
DC / DC Converter Board
The DC / DC converter board converts the 24 VDC output of the power supplies to 9 VDC.
The power is then used by the light and temperature sensors, CAN distribution board, CAN
I/O board, sensors, and LVDBs within the display.
2.4 Panelboard
The panelboard is a circuit breaker box that distributes incoming power to the fans, DC / DC
converter, and outlets.
2.5 Surge Suppressor
The parallel surge suppressor protects the display from current spikes.
Figure 4: Control Panel

Components 7
2.6 Relays
Relays are solid-state switches in which the electrical current applied across one port or
terminal controls electrical currents for another terminal, such as a beacon or fan. Relays
receive signal from and transmit signal to the CAN I/O board, which communicates the
relay’s status to the CAN distribution board.
2.7 Sensors Network
External Sensor
The external temperature and rear light sensor consists of a small printed circuit board (PCB)
in a protective enclosure that mounts to the back of the display.
The temperature and light sensor transmits the external temperature and the ambient light
level behind the display to the CAN distribution board, and the VFC-3000 controller adjusts
the display accordingly.
Internal Sensor
The internal temperature, humidity (optional), and front light sensor measures the
temperature near the LED pixels and the ambient light level in front of the display. The
sensor transmits these measurements to the CAN distribution board, and the VFC-3000
controller adjusts LED intensity to protect the LEDs from overheating.
The internal sensor may also measure humidity within the display.
Bottom Sensor
The bottom light sensor is located on the bottom-right of the display. It detects the light
intensity below the display.
2.8 Ventilation and Heater Systems
Intake Fans and Filters
Filtered intake fans mount to the lower rear of the display. The VFC-3000 controller analyzes
internal and external temperature readings from the temperature sensor network and adjusts
fan usage. A filter removes dust and debris from the incoming air to protect the internal
display components.
Fan RPM Sensors (Optional)
If your display has fan RPM sensors, a mini CAN I/O board for the RPM fans is installed on
the rear wall of the display.
With this option, each intake fan connects to an RPM sensor. The sensors monitor up to 2 fans
for failure. The fans fail if they do not revolve at 1,000 RPM. This information is then reported
to and displayed on the VFC-3000 controller.

8 Components
2.9 Beacon(s) (Optional)
Beacons are turned on and off independently from the rest of the display by the CAN I/O
board. The CAN I/O board interfaces with the beacon control panel (BCP), located on the
rear wall. A power supply and DC relays are located within the BCP.
Beacons are used only during certain messages, such as emergencies or warnings, as an extra
measure of alert.
2.10 Traffic Cabinet (Optional)
Cabinet Light
The traffic cabinet is equipped with a fluorescent light and sensor. The light is located on the
top rack of the traffic cabinet. The door sensor, located at the bottom of the traffic cabinet
door opening, activates the light when the cabinet door opens.
Door Reporting (Optional)
The door sensor, located at the bottom of the traffic cabinet door opening, can report whether
the door(s) are open or shut. This information routes to the mini CAN I/O board, which
monitors the status of the door sensor(s) and reports the status to the VFC-3000 controller.
Pull-Out Drawers and Shelving
Traffic cabinets contain a pull-out drawer and several support shelves. The shelves can
support items such as the VFC-3000 controller, the communication device, or a laptop
computer.
The pull-out drawer is often used for storage of extra supplies such as screws, screwdrivers,
or other hardware, and for the display and controller manuals. The pull-out drawer also flips
up to create a temporary location for a laptop computer.
Panelboard
The panelboard is equipped with switches that control power to lights, heat, and other power
circuits.
Outlet Strip and Outlets
The GFCI and utility outlets are located next to the panelboard. The outlet strip offers several
outlets for plugging in or charging electrical devices.
Exhaust Fan Assembly
The exhaust fan assembly is located at the top of the traffic cabinet and includes the exhaust
fan and a thermostat. The fan and thermostat keep internal components and the interior of
the traffic cabinet cool.

Components 9
Cabinet Heater (Optional)
If equipped, the heater fan is located at the bottom of the traffic cabinet. The fan, thermostat,
and heater regulate the temperature within the traffic cabinet, ensuring internal components
operate at ideal temperatures.
UPS (Optional)
A UPS contains batteries and an inverter. If the utility AC power fails, the UPS powers the
VFC-3000 controller and communication equipment for a limited amount of time.
2.11 Laptop Interface Enclosure (Optional)
Light
The LIE is equipped with a fluorescent light and light switch, located at the top of the LIE.
Fold-Down Shelf
The LIE has a fold-down shelf that holds a laptop computer.
Outlets
The GFCI and utility outlets provide a location within the LIE to plug in electrical equipment.

Mechanical Installation 11
Section 3: Mechanical Installation
3.1 Display Lifting
The top of the display is equipped with several 5/8" eyebolts for lifting the display. Lift the
display using a lifting bar. Use every eyebolt, and maintain a 90° lifting angle as shown in
Figure 5. The eyebolts may fail if this is not done.
The eyebolts are designed to carry only the weight of the display cabinet. Do not lift the
mounting structure or other additional weight. Do not permanently support the display with
the eyebolts. Contact Daktronics with additional questions about display lifting.
3.2 Display Mounting
Securely mount each display to a suitable mounting structure provided by others. Daktronics
attached aluminum Z-extrusions to the back of the display for mounting. Use all Z-extrusions
when mounting the display.
Use appropriate hardware to support the weight of the display. Have a qualified engineer
inspect the mounting structure.
Note: Daktronics is not responsible for mounting methods or the structural integrity of
support structures provided by others.
Figure 5: Correctly Lifting the Display

12 Mechanical Installation
After installing the display, inspect the top and sides of the display for any openings that
may allow moisture to enter the display. Seal openings with silicone or another waterproof
sealant. Not sealing openings may void the warranty.
The eyebolts can either remain in the display or be removed without compromising the water
tightness and weather resistance of the display cabinet. If removed, Daktronics recommends
replacing eyebolts with 5/8" diameter stainless steel bolts to prevent debris from filling the
threads of the permanent hardware.
3.3 Traffic Cabinet Mounting
Ground Mounting
Secure the traffic cabinet to a 24" x 30" concrete pad using anchor bolts. Daktronics
recommends using 3/4" stainless steel anchor bolts. When anchoring the traffic cabinet to the
concrete pad, make sure the bottom of the cabinet allows for water drainage. Do not seal the
cabinet to the concrete pad as this prevents water from draining properly.
The conduit for power and signal enters through the open area in the bottom of the cabinet.
Pole Mounting
Mount the cabinet using the pole-mount brackets. Make sure the brackets are secured at all
locations.
3.4 LIE Mounting
LIEs are designed for pole-mounting. After installing the LIE, select power and signal
entrances on the bottom, sides, or rear of the LIE. Prior to drilling, be aware of internal
component locations to avoid damaging the components. Ensure the entrances will not
obstruct the drain holes on the bottom of the LIE.
Seal any hole punched or drilled in the LIE with either a watertight plug or with a watertight
conduit hub to prevent water from entering the LIE.

Electrical Installation 13
Section 4: Electrical Installation
4.1 Power Installation
Qualified personnel must perform electrical installations to prevent injury to personnel and
damage to equipment.
Grounding
All components of a display system—including but not limited to displays, control
equipment, and connected peripheral equipment—must be electrically grounded. Only
qualified individuals may perform electrical work, including verification of ground
resistance. Daktronics is not responsible for improper grounding or damage incurred as a
result of improper grounding.
Grounding methods must meet the provisions of all applicable local and national codes.
Inspect and verify all grounding methods meet the provisions of all applicable local and
national codes.
Proper grounding is necessary for reliable equipment operation and general electrical safety.
Failure to properly ground the display system may void the warranty, disrupt operation,
damage equipment, and cause bodily harm or death.
Power
For installation with ground and neutral conductors provided, the power cable must contain
an isolated earth-ground conductor. Do not connect neutral to ground at the disconnect or at
the display; this violates electrical codes and voids the warranty. Use a disconnect so all hot
lines and neutral can be disconnected.
Bonding Screw
A bonding screw is included (not installed) with the panelboard. If the bonding screw is
required, install it to avoid violation of local and national codes.
4.2 Power Connections
Each display operates on 120/240 VAC 3-wire plus ground, single-phase power. Power
routes through the opening in the display rear and terminates at the panelboard.
Route power and signal cables to the display in conduit approved by national and local
electrical codes. Terminate all wires as labeled in the termination panels.

14 Electrical Installation
Display Termination
Power enters the display through the rear wall near the panelboard. To connect power to the
display:
1. Locate the A41 panelboard inside the display.
2. Remove the panelboard cover to reveal the panelboard blocks.
3. Route the power cables through the 1 1/2" conduit hub and into the A41 panelboard.
4. Terminate each wire at the appropriate terminal block and earth-ground lug.
Conduit Sealing
Fill the ends of conduits entering the display with duct seal.
Module Connection
4-pin connectors make the low voltage power connections within the display. Power for each
module is provided with the use of one red, one orange, one blue, and one black wire. Power
connections are completed at the factory.
The modules receive 24 VDC power from the power supply groups. Power redundancy is
achieved with the 4-pin conductor and the 2 power supplies in the power supply groups. The
primary power supply runs power through 2 pins in the 4-pin connector, and the backup
connects to the remaining 2 pins.
Both lines are 24 VDC present at all times. The backup 24 VDC line only powers the module
if the primary line fails. Primary and backup 24 VDC lines alternate between odd- and even-
addressed driver modules in an effort to balance the load.
Fans and Power Supplies Connection
The fans and power supplies use 120 VAC from the panelboard. The surge suppressor in the
panelboard protects the power supplies and modules from damaging power surges.
4.3 Traffic Cabinet (Optional)
Individually wire the following items directly to the earth-ground rod with an 8 AWG or
larger wire according to local and national codes.
•Earth-ground lug mounted on the rear of the panelboard.
•Conduit grounding collars.
•Earth-ground connection inside the panelboard.