Outdoor LED Signs - Communication Methods

Below are our current options for communicating with your LED sign. Important considerations include the distance between your sign site and computer or network, if trenching (burying data cables) is a viable option, if you want the ability to control the sign from multiple computers, the speed and reliability of the connection, and any additional costs associated with the communication method.

For more information, download our Wired Communication Methods or Wireless Communication Methods documents (PDF format).

Laptop to Sign via Serial Cable
A laptop computer connects to the LED sign using a serial cable of up to 50 feet in a weather-proof box located at the base of the sign. No trenching of data cables required, but requires an individual to be at the sign with a laptop each time the message is changed.

PC to Sign via Serial Cable
A computer connects directly to the LED sign using a serial cable of up to 50 feet. Simple and inexpensive. Only one computer per location can be used to control the sign.

PC to Sign via Cat5E Cable
A computer connects to a provided converter box that converts the computer's RS232 signal to an RS485 signal for increased distance of up to 4000 feet. Extremely reliable and fast data transfer rate. Only one computer per location can be used to control the sign.

Telephone Modem
A computer connects to the LED sign using a dial up modem over unlimited distances. We recommend using a dedicated phone line to your sign. Multiple computers can be used to control the LED sign, including Stewart Signs customer support who can perform remote diagnostics. Due to limited speed, this method is not recommended for full color message centers.

PC to Network to Sign via Cat5E Cable
A computer connects to the LED sign using your existing LAN (Local Area Network) and an outdoor grade network cable of up to 4000 feet. Single or multiple signs can be controlled from any computer on the network.

PC to Network to Sign via Fiber Optic Cable
A computer connects to the LED sign using your existing LAN (Local Area Network) and a fiber optic cable up to 10,000 feet in length. Single or multiple signs can be controlled from any computer on the network. Fiber optic cable reduces the possibility of lightning damage and can be placed in the same trench as the electrical service. Requires additional fiber optic equipment.

PC to Sign via Premier Wireless RF Modem
A computer connects to the LED sign using a 900 MHz Spread Spectrum, Frequency Hopping Wireless RF (Radio Frequency) transmitter. A distance of up to 3,500 feet is recommended, however greater distances may be attained. Highly reliable and no trenching of data cables. Direct line-of-sight recommended, but may not be required at close range. Only the computer with the modem installed can be used to control the sign.

Customer-Provided Wireless Network Connect
A computer connects to the LED sign using the customer's existing network. Customer provided equipment wirelessly transmits message to sign via RF.

Wireless Network Bridge
A computer connects to the LED sign using your existing LAN (Local Area Network) and a Wireless Network Bridge consisting of a transmitting antenna and an internal receiving antenna. No trenching of data cables. Highly reliable up to distances of 3,500 feet, however greater distances may be attained. Uses 64-bit or 128-bit WEP-Plus encryption. Requires direct line-of-sight between antennas.

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