Brookings, SD – Daktronics (NASDAQ – DAKT) has announced the addition of a new ITS LED display to its current line of widely-used Vanguard® dynamic message signs (DMS). The Vanguard® VM-1020 dedicated dynamic message sign (DDMS) is designed to provide a reliable signage solution dedicated to travel time, toll rate (such as high-occupancy toll lanes) and other managed lane applications.
“Displaying travel times and toll rates inherently requires a smaller dynamic message sign size,” said Mike Weinberg, Daktronics Vanguard product manager. “We designed the DDMS for the intended application, resulting in a low-profile LED panel mounted to a static panel and reducing maintenance efforts by placing critical components inside a roadside DDMS cabinet. However, the DDMS still provides a full feature set and adheres to ITS industry standards.”
Placing the critical components, such as the controller and power supplies, in the roadside DDMS cabinet produces a 2in LED cabinet depth. All Vanguard VM-1020 DDMS mount to traditional overhead static sign panels, which is made easy by the light weight of the LED cabinet.
“The key design factors for the new DDMS were simple installation, easy maintenance and still providing all the same levels of functionality of a typical dynamic message sign,” said Weinberg. “The LED panels can be installed on a static panel on-site or by the installation contractor prior to delivery.”
The LED panel is designed to meet NEMA TS 4 standards, protecting the LED modules – the only components inside – from the elements.
“With over 20 years of experience manufacturing DMS specifically for ITS applications, Daktronics understands the importance of designing our products, including the VM-1020, to meet and exceed ITS industry standards,” said Casey Crabtree, Daktronics ITS market manager. “With installations providing critical information, we also understand the importance of maximizing uptime and reducing the need for expensive and disruptive lane closures.”
One DDMS controller allows automatic and simultaneous updating of up to six LED panels at a time. The DDMS set can be operated with any NTCIP-compliant control software, including Vanguard central control software.
Vanguard VM-1020 DDMS are available in amber-only or red/green/amber models. Red/green/amber DDMS allow agencies to color-code travel times and toll rates. For example, if a travel time is higher than average, it can appear in red. The DDMS is designed in several standard configurations with a 30° LED viewing angle. 66mm and 46mm pixel-pitch options allow 18in or 12in character heights.
“Transportation agencies can continue to look to Daktronics as a dependable, proven manufacturer of DMS for providing critical information to motorists,” said Crabtree.
The Vanguard VM-1020 DDMS joins a line-up of Vanguard products used in more than 2,500 DMS installations in 43 of the 50 US states.