Power installation, Grounding, 1 power installation – Daktronics DF-2100 User Manual
Page 16

3.1 Power
Installation
Only qualified individuals should perform power termination to the display.
It is the responsibility of the electrical contractor to ensure that all electrical 
work meets or exceeds local and national codes. 
Daktronics DataMaster displays have been designed for simple hook-up of power and 
signal. Correct power installation is imperative for proper display operation. Improper 
installation could result in serious damage to the equipment and could be hazardous to 
personnel. 
 
The DataMaster outdoor displays require a dedicated, 120 V circuit for incoming power. The 
display itself has no breakers or fuses. Refer to Drawing A-263988 and to the chart in Section 
2 to determine maximum power requirements for this model. 
 
It is critical that the display circuit be fused at 15 A, and that all conductors used must 
be designed to pass a 15 A current in normal operation. Failure to meet wiring and 
over-current protection device requirements is a violation of the National Electrical 
Code
®
and will void the display warranty.
Grounding
Displays MUST be grounded according to the provisions outlined in Article 250 of 
the National Electrical Code and according to the specifications in this manual. 
The display system must be connected to an earth electrode installed at the display. Proper 
grounding is necessary for reliable equipment operation. It also protects the equipment from 
damaging electrical disturbances and lightning. The display must be properly grounded or 
the warranty will be void. Refer to Schematic Drawing A-263988. 
 
Important points about grounding: 
•
Follow local and national codes: The material of an earth-ground electrode differs from 
region to region and from conditions present at the site. Consult the National Electrical Code 
and any local electrical codes that may apply. 
•
Support structure cannot be used as an earth-ground electrode: The support is generally 
embedded in concrete. If embedded in earth, the steel is either primed or it corrodes, making 
it a poor ground. 
•
One grounding electrode for each display face: The grounding electrode is typically one 
grounding rod for each display face. Other grounding electrodes as described in Article 250 
of the National Electric Code may be used. 
•
Resistance to ground 10 ohms or less: This is required by Daktronics for proper display 
performance. If the resistance to ground is higher than 10 ohms, it will be necessary to install 
additional grounding electrodes to reduce the resistance. The grounding electrode should be 
installed within 25 feet of the base of the display. The grounding electrode must be connected 
to the ground wire inside the display. 
 
 
8
Electrical Installation
