In the fast-paced world of modern advertising, static signage is often no longer enough to capture the attention of a distracted public. Business owners are increasingly turning to dynamic, digital solutions to communicate their message. An Electronic Message Center (EMC) is a powerful tool that allows you to change your advertising content instantly, promote flash sales, display community information, and showcase your brand personality, all from a computer desk.
However, purchasing an EMC is a significant capital investment. It is not as simple as buying a television and hanging it outside. There are complex factors involving pixel pitch, viewing angles, software compatibility, and local zoning laws that must be navigated. This guide serves as a comprehensive resource to help you understand the technology and make an informed decision when selecting an Electronic Message Center.
Understanding the Technology: Pixel Pitch
The most common term you will encounter when shopping for an EMC is “pixel pitch.” This refers to the distance (usually measured in millimeters) between the center of one LED pixel and the center of the next.
- Low Pitch (e.g., 6mm – 10mm): These screens have pixels packed closely together. They offer high resolution and are designed for signs that will be viewed from a short distance, such as by pedestrians walking on a sidewalk or cars in a drive-thru. They can display detailed graphics and video clearly.
- High Pitch (e.g., 16mm – 20mm): These screens have pixels spread further apart. They are designed for signs that will be viewed from far away, such as a pylon sign on a highway. From a distance, the human eye blends the pixels together to form a smooth image.
Choosing the right pitch is a balance between budget and necessity. A 6mm screen is far more expensive than a 20mm screen. If your sign is 100 feet from the road, paying for 6mm resolution is a waste of money because the drivers won’t notice the extra detail.
Navigation of Zoning and Permitting
Before you fall in love with a specific screen size, you must check with your local municipality. Electronic signs are heavily regulated.
- Brightness Restrictions: Many cities have strict rules about how bright a sign can be at night to prevent driver distraction and light pollution. Quality EMCs come with automatic dimming sensors that adjust the brightness based on ambient light.
- Animation Rules: Some zones allow full-motion video, while others only allow static images that change every 8 to 10 seconds.
- Setback and Size: There may be limits on how close the digital portion of the sign can be to the road.
Ignorance of the law is not a defense. You need a partner who understands these codes.
The Importance of Build Quality
An outdoor sign lives a hard life. It is exposed to rain, snow, baking sun, and high winds. The internal components must be protected by a rugged cabinet.
Cheaply made imports often suffer from water intrusion or overheating, leading to “dead modules” (black squares on the screen) that ruin your professional image. Businesses rely on Electronic Message Center for signage that’s both eye-catching and built to last, using proven materials and precision fabrication. Look for systems with potted LEDs (encased in silicone) and high-grade aluminum cabinets that provide proper ventilation.
Software and Usability
The hardware is only half the equation. You need software to control what is displayed on the screen. The best EMC comes with intuitive, user-friendly software that allows you to schedule content in advance.
Ask to see a demo of the software before you buy. Is it cloud-based (accessible from anywhere) or desktop-based? Can you easily upload images and videos? Does it have a library of pre-made graphics? If the software is too difficult to use, your expensive sign will end up displaying the same outdated message for months because nobody on your staff knows how to update it.
Content Strategy
Finally, consider what you will actually put on the sign. An EMC is a broadcasting channel. To get a return on investment, you need a content strategy.
- The 3-Second Rule: Drivers moving at 40 mph only have about 3 seconds to read your sign. Keep text large and messages short.
- Call to Action: Don’t just display your logo. Tell people what to do. “Lunch Special: Buy 1 Get 1 Free” or “Now Hiring: Apply Inside.”
- Community Engagement: Use the sign to welcome local sports teams or display the time and temperature. This trains locals to look at your sign daily, increasing the chances they will see your sales messages too.
By focusing on the right resolution, ensuring legal compliance, and prioritizing durability, you can find a digital signage solution that transforms your business visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long do Electronic Message Centers last? A: A high-quality LED sign typically has a lifespan of 100,000 hours, which translates to about 10 to 11 years of continuous operation.
Q: Does an electronic sign use a lot of electricity? A: Modern LEDs are very energy efficient. While they use more power than a static unlit sign, they use significantly less than older incandescent or neon options. Operating costs are generally quite low compared to the marketing value they provide.
Q: Can I finance an Electronic Message Center? A: Yes, many sign companies and third-party lenders offer leasing or financing options. Because an EMC is a revenue-generating asset (by increasing sales), the monthly payment is often covered by the increase in business profit.
