Daktronics AE-3010-7.6-R,G,A - Manual (Page 11)

Introduction
1-3
1.2 Network Concepts
The concept of using LED displays as a cost effective, high impact method of
communication is rapidly growing throughout many industries and businesses. The
reasons for this growth are many, but the need for additional features and the
complexity of multiple sign installations has emerged. Daktronics display systems
are designed to meet those needs. The common thread to most client requests is a
means of programming and controlling a group of signs from a central control point.
Daktronics responded by developing a power system of interconnecting and
controlling signs. Great care has been taken to design products that will satisfy a
wide variety of installations. Some of the design goals of these systems include the
following:
• Easy transfer of messages
• The ability to tell a sign or group of signs in the network which message
should run
• The ability to determine the status of any sign on the network
• The ability to control multiple sign technologies on the same network
In order to avoid technical difficulties, Daktronics uses the popular and readily
available RJ11 connector. This connector is also used on modern home and office
telephone equipment, allowing for easily understood installation procedures.
All that is required for signal installation is standard six (6)-conductor modular
telephone wire and a tool to install the connector. Tools required for mounting the
display depend on the location and size of the display. For some installations, it may
be possible to purchase pre-terminated telephone cables for use with the displays.
There are four (4) network systems available: RS232, RS422, modem and TCP/IP
(Ethernet).
RS232 Network
RS232 (EIA/TIA-232-E) is a standard communication interface that employs a
single-ended serial transmission scheme. The RS232 uses a maximum cable length
of 7.6 meters (approximately 25 feet). This interface was designed for computer
communication at short distances. The computer used will require an RS232 serial
communications port. Refer to Section 3 for additional information.
RS422 Network
RS422 (EIA/TIA-422-B) is a standard communication interface that utilizes a
differential balanced transmission scheme, which uses a typical maximum cable
length of 1.2 km (approximately 4,000 feet). The main advantage of RS422 over
RS232 is the longer cable length. A signal converter is needed to convert the
computer’s RS232 to RS422. Refer to Section 3 for additional information.
Modem Network
The modem is a standard communication interface that utilizes standard phone
transmission lines. The phone company assigns each phone line a number that the
modem uses to communicate between the control computer and display. Refer to
Section 3 for additional information.