Daktronics FB-2500 Series User manual

201 Daktronics Drive PO Box 5128 Brookings, SD 57006-5128
Tel: 1-800-DAKTRONICS (1-800-325-8766) Fax: [phone]
www.daktronics.com/support
Modular LED Football
Scoreboards
Installation Manual
DD2363266 Rev 2 –5 December 2013
Model Series
FB-2500
FB-2600

DD2363266
Product 1647
Rev 2 –5 December 2013
DAKTRONICS, INC.
Copyright 2012-2013
All rights reserved. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, the publisher
assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book covered by the copyrights hereon may be
reproduced or copied in any form or by any means –graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying,
taping, or information storage and retrieval systems –without written permission of the publisher.
All Sport®and PanaView®are trademarks of Daktronics, Inc. Other trademarks used in this manual are the property of their
respective owners.

Table of Contents i
Table of Contents
Section 1: Introduction ............................................................................................................................1
1.1 Scoreboard Controllers...........................................................................................................1
Sport Codes.......................................................................................................................1
1.2 Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................................2
1.3 Specifications Label.................................................................................................................2
1.4 Resources..................................................................................................................................2
1.5 Product Safety Approval........................................................................................................2
Section 2: Mechanical Installation ........................................................................................................3
2.1 Lifting the Scoreboard ............................................................................................................3
2.2 Scoreboard Mounting.............................................................................................................4
I-Beam Clamps .................................................................................................................5
Clamping Angles .............................................................................................................6
Mounting Tubes ...............................................................................................................6
2.3 Ad Panel Mounting.................................................................................................................7
Unistrut Attachment........................................................................................................7
I-Beam Clamps .................................................................................................................8
Clamping Angles .............................................................................................................9
2.4 Scoreboard Protective Devices ..............................................................................................9
Section 3: Electrical Installation ..........................................................................................................11
3.1 Power......................................................................................................................................11
Grounding.......................................................................................................................11
Connection ......................................................................................................................12
3.2 Power-On Self-Test (POST) .................................................................................................13
Radio Settings.................................................................................................................13
3.3 Signal Connection .................................................................................................................13
Fiber Optic ......................................................................................................................14
3.4 Power/Signal Connections Between Sections...................................................................14
3.5 Lightning Protection .............................................................................................................16
Section 4: Daktronics Exchange and Repair & Return Programs ..................................................17
4.1 Exchange Program ................................................................................................................17
Before Contacting Daktronics.......................................................................................17
4.2 Repair & Return Program ....................................................................................................18
Shipping Address ..........................................................................................................18
4.3 Daktronics Warranty and Limitation of Liability .............................................................18
Section 5: Scoreboard Options .............................................................................................................19
5.1 Team Name Message Centers (TNMCs)............................................................................19
5.2 Trumpet Horns......................................................................................................................19
5.3 Radio Control.........................................................................................................................19
5.4 Changeable Caption Kits......................................................................................................20
Appendix A: Specifications........................................................................................................................21
Appendix B: Reference Drawings ............................................................................................................23
Appendix C: Daktronics Warranty and Limitation of Liability..........................................................25

Introduction 1
Section 1: Introduction
This manual explains the installation of Daktronics Modular LED Football Scoreboards (Product 1647).
For additional information regarding the safety, installation, operation, or service of this system, refer
to the telephone numbers listed in Section 5. This manual is not specific to a particular installation.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS:
Please read and understand all instructions before beginning the installation process.
Do not drop control equipment or allow it to get wet.
Do not disassemble control equipment or electronic controls of the display; failure to
follow this safeguard will make the warranty null and void.
Disconnect display power when not in use or when servicing.
Disconnect display power before servicing power supplies to avoid electrical shock.
Power supplies run on high voltage and may cause physical injury if touched while
powered.
Do not modify the scoreboard structure or attach any panels or coverings to the
scoreboard without the express written consent of Daktronics, Inc.
Project-specific information takes precedence over any other general information found in
this manual. Such information may include:
Shop Drawings –describe mounting methods and locations of display components
and structural elements
System Risers –describe power and signal connections between display components
and the control location; may also include control room layout and schematic
Ensure all applicable material has been gathered before beginning the installation. Contact a
Daktronics sales coordinator or project manager.
1.1 Scoreboard Controllers
Daktronics outdoor scoreboards are designed for use with the All Sport®5000 series control
consoles. This console uses keyboard overlays (sport inserts) to control numerous sports and
scoreboard models. Refer to the following manual for operating instructions:
All Sport 5000 Series Control Console Operation Manual (ED-11976)
The scoreboard controller manual is available online at www.daktronics.com/manuals.
Sport Codes
At right is a table of common sport codes for the
multiple modes of the football scoreboards in
this manual. Refer to the Operation Manuals for
a complete listing of sport codes.
Sport
Common Code(s)
All Sport 5000
Baseball
5601 (with clock)
5602 (without clock)
Football
6601
Lacrosse/
Field Hockey
4601
Soccer
7601
Track
8601 (manual timing)

2 Introduction
1.2 Troubleshooting
For an extensive troubleshooting guide and instructions on how to replace scoreboard
components, refer to the following manual:
Outdoor LED Scoreboards Service Manual (DD2124597)
The service manual is available online at www.daktronics.com/manuals.
1.3 Specifications Label
Power specifications as well as serial and model number information can be found on an ID
label on the display, similar to the one shown in Figure 1.
Please have the assembly number, model number, and the date manufactured on hand when
calling Daktronics customer service to ensure the request is serviced as quickly as possible.
Knowing the facility name and/or job number will also be helpful. Note that the Product
Number(s) are sometimes used to distinguish different generations of the scoreboards having
the same model number.
1.4 Resources
Figure 2 illustrates a Daktronics drawing
label. The drawing number is located in the
lower-right corner of a drawing. This
manual refers to drawings by listing the last
set of digits and the letter preceding them.
In the example, the drawing would be
referred to as Drawing C-325405.
Daktronics identifies manuals by the DD or
ED number located on the cover page of each manual. For example, this manual would be
referred to as DD2363266.
1.5 Product Safety Approval
Daktronics outdoor scoreboards are ETL listed and tested to CSA standard for outdoor use.
Contact Daktronics with any questions regarding testing procedures.
Figure 1: Specifications Label
Figure 2: Daktronics Drawing Label
0A-1647-0093 HRev: 01
SN: 1001
10/16/13
3219728 0001
FB-2500-200X
VOLTS: 120V AC
AMPS: 2.5
WATTS: 300
Product Number
Model Number

Mechanical Installation 3
Section 2: Mechanical Installation
Mechanical installation consists of installing concrete footing and steel beams and mounting the
scoreboard and accompanying ad panels to the beams. Refer to site-specific diagrams for proper
placement and mounting method of display pieces. These drawings may be requested from a
Daktronics sales coordinator or project manager.
Be sure that the installation complies with local building codes and is suitable for the particular soil
and wind conditions. The columns, footings, and all connection details must be designed and certified
by a professional engineer licensed to practice in the state of the scoreboard installation.
Note: Daktronics does not assume any liability for any installation derived from the information
provided in this manual or installations designed and installed by others.
2.1 Lifting the Scoreboard
Larger scoreboard sections and message centers are shipped equipped with eyebolts used to
lift them. The eyebolts are located along the top of the cabinet for each scoreboard or
scoreboard section. Daktronics scoreboards use 1/2" and 5/8" shoulder-type eyebolts mounted
to the top of each scoreboard section.
Daktronics strongly recommends using a spreader bar, or lifting bar, to lift the display.
Spreader bars ensure the force on the eyebolts remains straight up, minimizing lifting stress.
Figure 3 illustrates the preferred scoreboard lifting method on the left and an acceptable
alternative lifting method on the right. When lifting the display:
Use a spreader bar if possible.
Use every lifting point provided.
Cables and chains attached to the eyebolts and directly to a center lifting point, as shown in
the right-hand example in Figure 3, can create a dangerous lateral force on the eyebolts and
may cause the eyebolts to fail. The smaller the angle between the cable and the top of the
display, the lighter the sign must be to safely lift it. If this method must be used, ensure a
minimum angle between the chain and scoreboard of at least 45°.
Figure 3: Lifting Methods

4 Mechanical Installation
Do NOT attempt to lift the display if the angle is less than
45°. Exceeding load angles or weight limits could cause
the bolts in the scoreboard cabinet to buckle, resulting in
serious damage to the scoreboard or injury to personnel.
Also, loads should be applied directly in the plane of the
eyebolt as shown in Figure 4.
Note: Daktronics assumes no liability for damages
resulting from incorrect setup or lifting methods.
Eyebolts are intended for lifting only. Do not attempt
to permanently support the display by the eyebolts.
In typical multi-section installations, the lower scoreboard
is installed first and secured to the support beams.
The upper section is then placed atop or above the lower
section and attached to the beams. Refer to Section 3.4 for
more information on the power/signal connections between sections.
If installers remove the eyebolts, plug the holes with bolts and the rubber washers that are
used with the eyebolts. Apply silicone or another waterproof sealant to the eyebolt openings.
Also inspect the top and sides of the display for any other holes or openings that may allow
moisture to enter the display and plug and seal those openings.
2.2 Scoreboard Mounting
Three standard mounting methods are available for Daktronics modular football scoreboards.
Each method requires spring nuts to be inserted into the rear channel of the scoreboard:
1. Insert spring nuts into the top and bottom scoreboard channels. Twist the spring nuts
until they are perpendicular to the scoreboard channel (Figure 5).
Note: Each scoreboard section require four spring nuts per beam (two at the top and two
at the bottom).
2. Measure the beam spacing and position a spring nut on either side of the beams.
Once the spring nuts are in place, refer to the appropriate section below for the type of
mounting hardware provided with the scoreboard.
Figure 4: Eyebolt Plane Load
1) Insert into channel 2) Twist Correct spring nut position
Figure 5: Spring Nut Insertion
1
2

Mechanical Installation 5
I-Beam Clamps
This mounting method is used to mount a scoreboard to I-beams with a flange thickness of
1/4" –3/4". If flange thickness is greater than 3/4", longer bolts will be required at additional
expense.
Mounting hardware includes I-beam clamps, 1/2-13 x 3" bolts, 1/2" flat washers, and 1/2" lock
washers. Refer to Figure 6 and Drawing A-1052565 in Appendix B.
1. Position a scoreboard section at the front of the beams, and lift it to the desired height.
2. Slide a lock washer, flat washer, and I-beam clamp onto the bolt, and loosely screw
the bolt into the spring nut.
3. Position each I-beam clamp assembly as close to the I-beam flanges as possible.
4. Make final adjustments in the positioning of the scoreboard section to ensure it is
flush and level, and firmly tighten all of the bolts.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 with all scoreboard sections.
Figure 6: I-beam Clamp Mounting Method, Rear Isometric View

6 Mechanical Installation
Clamping Angles
This mounting method may be used to mount a scoreboard to I-beams or any beam/pole that
does not have flanges.
Mounting hardware includes rear clamping angles; 1/2-13 x 24" threaded rods; and 1/2" nuts,
flat washers, and lock washers. Refer to Figure 7 and Drawing A-1048184 in Appendix B.
Note: The threaded rods do not pass through the beams; they run along both sides.
1. Screw a threaded rod into each of the spring nuts as far as it will go.
2. Position a scoreboard section at the front of the beams with the threaded rods
extending from the rear of the spring nuts, straddling the beams.
3. Lift the scoreboard section to the desired height.
4. Slide clamping angles over the ends of the rods and loosely install the washers and nuts.
5. Make final adjustments in the positioning of the scoreboard section to ensure it is
flush and level, and firmly tighten all of the 1/2" hex nuts.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for all scoreboard sections.
Mounting Tubes
This mounting method may be used to mount a scoreboard to horizontal beams. The
mounting tubes are attached to the scoreboard using spring nuts and 1/2" hardware as
described above; this may be done during manufacturing or on-site. Refer to Figure 8 and
Drawing A-1048268 in Appendix B for mounting tube assembly. The clip angles can be
adjusted vertically before they are bolted or welded to the horizontal beams. Recommended
attachment method and positioning of display pieces are provided in site-specific diagrams.
Figure 7: Clamping Angle Mounting Method, Side View

Mechanical Installation 7
2.3 Ad Panel Mounting
Unistrut Attachment
1. Using the backup channel as a
template, drill four 7/16" holes in
the upper and lower rear flanges
of the ad panel where the beams
will be located.
Note: Try to ensure that the two
center holes will be within the
width of the beam.
2. If the ad panel has backsheets,
remove them as needed to
access the ad panel interior.
3. Attach the piece of unistrut to
the ad panel with the included
hardware, as shown in Figure 9.
4. If any backsheets were removed,
put them back on at this time.
5. Place spring nuts into the unistrut. Twist the spring nuts until they are perpendicular
to the unistrut channel (refer to Figure 5 from Section 2.2).
Once the unistrut is attached and the spring nuts are in place, refer to the appropriate section
below for the type of mounting hardware provided with the ad panel.
Figure 8: Mounting Tube Attachment, Side View
Figure 9: Unistrut Attachment, Side View

8 Mechanical Installation
I-Beam Clamps
Mounting hardware includes I-beam clamps, 1/2-13 x 3" bolts, 1/2" flat washers, and 1/2" lock
washers. Refer to Figure 10 and Drawing A-1052539 in Appendix B.
Note: I-beams must have a flange thickness of 1/4" –3/4". If flange thickness is greater
than 3/4", longer bolts will be required at added expense.
1. Position the ad panel at the front of the beams, and lift it to the desired height.
2. Slide a lock washer, flat washer, and I-beam clamp onto the bolt, and loosely screw
the bolt into the spring nut.
3. Position each I-beam clamp assembly as close to the I-beam flanges as possible.
4. Make final adjustments in the positioning of the ad panel to ensure it is flush and
level, and firmly tighten all of the bolts.
Figure 10:Ad Panel Mounting with I-beam Clamps, Rear Isometric View

Mechanical Installation 9
Clamping Angles
Mounting hardware includes rear clamping angles; 1/2-13 x 24" threaded rods; and 1/2" nuts,
flat washers, and lock washers. Refer to Figure 11 and Drawing A-1052388 in Appendix B.
Note: The threaded rods do not pass through the beams; they run along both sides.
1. Screw a threaded rod into each of the spring nuts as far as it will go.
2. Position the scoreboard at the front of the beams, and lift it to the desired height.
3. Slide clamping angles over the ends of the rods and loosely install the washers and nuts.
4. Make final adjustments in the positioning of the ad panel to ensure it is flush and
level, and firmly tighten all of the 1/2" hex nuts.
2.4 Scoreboard Protective Devices
Daktronics makes optional protective devices, including screens and netting, to help prevent
damage to the scoreboard due to normal ball impacts.
Note: Some users install devices to protect the scoreboard from projectiles. Scoreboard
protection devices not provided by Daktronics must be approved by Daktronics prior to
installation. Failure to follow this approval procedure will void the scoreboard warranty.
Figure 11:Ad Panel Mounting with Clamping Angles, Side View

Electrical Installation 11
Section 3: Electrical Installation
CAUTION: Only qualified individuals should terminate power and signal cable and access the
electrical components of the display and its associated equipment. It is the responsibility of the
electrical contractor to ensure that all electrical work meets or exceeds local and national codes.
Daktronics engineering staff must approve all changes or the warranty will be void.
3.1 Power
Correct power installation is imperative for proper display operation. The subsections that
follow give details of display power installation. Only qualified individuals should attempt to
complete the electrical installation; untrained personnel should not attempt to install these
displays or any of the electrical components. Improper installation could result in serious
damage to the equipment or injury to personnel.
Multi-section outdoor scoreboards require a dedicated 120 V (or 240 V for international use)
circuit for incoming power (refer to Appendix A). The display itself has no breakers or fuses.
WARNING: It is critical that 120 V scoreboard circuits be fused at 20 A and that all
conductors used must be designed to pass a 20 A current in normal operation. For 240 V
scoreboards, consult local electrical codes. Failure to meet wiring and overcurrent
protection device requirements will void the scoreboard warranty.
Grounding
The display must be properly grounded according to local and national codes or the warranty
will be void. Proper grounding is necessary for reliable equipment operation and protects the
equipment from damaging destructive disturbances and lightning.
Daktronics recommends a resistance-to-ground of 10 ohms or less. The electrical contractor
performing the electrical installation can verify ground resistance. Daktronics Sales and
Service personnel can also provide this service.
The display system must be earth-ground. The material for an earth-ground electrode differs
from region to region and may vary according to conditions present at the site. Consult local
and national electrical codes.
Daktronics does not recommend using the support structure as an earth-ground electrode;
concrete, primer, corrosion, and other factors make the support structure a poor ground.
Note: The support structure may be used as an earth-ground electrode only if designed to
do so. A qualified inspector must approve the support structure and grounding methods.
There are two types of 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:

12 Electrical Installation
Installation with Ground and Neutral Conductors Provided
For this type of installation, the power circuit must contain an isolated earth-ground
conductor. In this circumstance, do not connect neutral to ground at the disconnect or at the
display as this would violate electrical codes and void the warranty.
Use a disconnect so that all ungrounded lines 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/power enclosure.
Use a disconnect that opens all of the ungrounded phase conductors.
Connection
Both power and signal cables are routed into the scoreboard from the rear via conduit.
All power and signal wiring terminates at the master driver enclosure.
Look for a warning label similar to Figure 12 to locate
the access panel to the driver enclosure. Remove the
screws or loosen the latches to open the access door
panel. Remove the metal cover of the driver enclosure to
expose the driver components (Figure 13).
Connect the appropriate wires coming through the rear of the scoreboard to the main
terminal block, as shown in Figure 13. Note that SIGNAL OUT connects here as well.
Figure 12:Power Warning Label
Figure 13:Driver Enclosure & Main Terminal Block

Electrical Installation 13
Certain scoreboard sections do not receive power via terminal block. Instead, an interconnect
harness routes from the nearest scoreboard section. Refer to Section 3.4.
Note: If a power receptacle is needed to operate the control console at the scoreboard for
troubleshooting, Daktronics recommends that an installation electrician provides a 120 V
outlet close to the disconnect box specifically for this purpose.
3.2 Power-On Self-Test (POST)
The scoreboard performs a self-test each time that power is turned on and the control console
is powered off or not attached to the scoreboard. If the control console is attached and
powered on, the self-test does not run, and data from the control console is displayed on the
scoreboard after a brief period of time. Each scoreboard self-test pattern will vary depending
on the scoreboard model, the number of drivers and types of digits. Figure 14 shows an
example of the LED bar test pattern that each digit performs.
Radio Settings
If a radio receiver is installed, the radio Broadcast settings (“b1”) and Channel settings (“C1”)
will be displayed in the clock digits during the POST. These values must match the settings in
the control console (refer to the manual listed in Section 1.1).
3.3 Signal Connection
For wired setups, route signal cable from the
control location into the conduit knockout on
the rear of the scoreboard to the signal surge
arrestor card (Figure 15), located just above the
main termination block in the driver enclosure.
At the SIGNAL IN terminal block, connect red
signal wire to positive (+) and black signal wire
to negative (–).
Note: Be sure to properly connect the
shield (silver) wire to the SHIELD terminal.
To connect signal to additional scoreboard sections, route signal wire from SIGNAL OUT on
the main terminal block (Figure 13) of one section to SIGNAL IN on the signal card of another.
For signal cable, Daktronics recommends, as a minimum, single-pair, shielded cable, 22 AWG
(part # W-1077). Two-pair shielded cable (part # W-1234) is preferred.
Figure 14:Digit Segment POST
Figure 15:Signal Surge Arrestor Card

14 Electrical Installation
Fiber Optic
Another common signal communication method is fiber optic
cabling. A minimum cabling of multi-mode, 62.5/125 um, and 2-
core fiber cable is recommended (part # W-1242). The fiber optic
cable is terminated to a male ST-type connector and plugged into
the mating J26 FIBER jack on the driver (Figure 16). This method
requires a signal converter between the All Sport console’s
scoreboard output and the fiber optic cable (not provided by
Daktronics).
3.4 Power/Signal Connections Between Sections
The table below lists the scoreboard sections that do not receive main power or signal:
Information
Shown
Model #
Driver/Power
Supply Location
Power/Signal
Connections*
T.O.L. (HOME)
FB-2531, FB-2533, FB-2536,
FB-2538, FB-2540, FB-2545
HOME Score
A1 J1
PS1 J1
A1 J50
T.O.L. (GUEST)
FB-2571, FB-2573, FB-2575,
FB-2577, FB-2579, FB-2583
GUEST Score
A1 J10
PS1 J10
A1 J50
DOWN
FB-2618, FB-2628, FB-2658
TO GO
A1 J3
PS1 J3
A1 J42B
Mod 1 J2
QTR (quarter)
FB-2621, FB-2631, FB-2661
BALL ON
A1 J8
PS1 J8
A1 J42B
Mod 4 J1
*For HOME T.O.L. sections built prior to September 2013, the digit connects to J14 on
A1/PS1. For GUEST T.O.L. sections, the digit connects to J15 on A1/PS1. Backlit/
electronic captions for either section connect to J42B.
The T.O.L., DOWN, and QTR sections may have up to four connections:
Route the 9-pin plug into the adjacent section and connect to the appropriate jack on
the primary (A1) driver.
Route the 2-pin plug into the adjacent section and connect to the appropriate jack on
the Power Supply (24"+ white LED digits or 36"+ red/amber LED digits only).
If the section includes a backlit or electronic caption, a 5-pin plug must be connected
to the power/signal interconnect cable coming from the primary (A1) driver.
A ribbon cable must be connected between the last mod of the DOWN and BALL ON
electronic captions to the first mod of the TO GO and QTR electronic captions.
Figure 16:Driver Fiber
Connection Location