Zip Signs is continually researching new technologies and equipment being introduced to the sign industry, to enhance value to our clients.

One of the more recent technology’s utilized within the sign industry are LEDs.  LEDs or Light Emitting Diodes are semiconductors or chips, much like computer chips. They are comprised of an alloy crystal, between two chips bonded in a transparent epoxy package. When electrical power passes through the chip, the photons are produced in the crystal and energy is emitted in the form of visible light.  

Different alloys produce different wavelengths of light, hence different colours, each having its own specific qualities and characteristics: red, yellow, blue, green and white are the colours that are presently available.  

Dependant on these specific qualities and characteristics is the relatively new concept of replacing neon technology with LED technology, to take advantage of the benefits of LEDs within certain limitations. 

The benefits of LEDs in comparison to traditional lighting devices are lower power requirements, high efficiency, resistant to hot and cold and long life span.  Recent improvements in LED manufacturing has seen the brightness of LEDs increasing and the cost decreasing, with the result many people are moving to use LEDs focusing on the cost savings in hydro, servicing and manufacturing.

"However, a significant amount of research and preparatory work needs to be done including building prototypes and comparisons for colour and brightness, before using LEDs in a particular sign application, LEDs have their limitations,” says Fred Bennink, president and owner of Zip Signs, “LEDs are not necessarily the ideal solution for every signage situation, but are an excellent choice when used in the proper context and environment.”