Daktronics AF-3180-64-R,A - Manual (Page 21)

Section 3: Electrical Installation
Only a qualified individual should terminate power and signal cable within this
Daktronics sign.
The Daktronics engineering staff must approve any changes made to the display. Before
altering the display, submit detailed drawings for the proposed modifications to the
Daktronics engineering staff for evaluation and approval or you will render the warranty null
and void.
3.1 Common Connectors in the Sign
Figure 11: Ribbon
Cable Connector
The power and signal connections in the signs use many different
types of connectors. Take special care when disengaging any
connector so as not to damage the connector, the cable or the circuit
board.
When pulling a connector plug from a jack, do not pull on the wire
or cable; pull on the jack itself. Pulling on the wires may damage
the connector.
The following information presents some common connectors
encountered during display installation and maintenance.
1. Ribbon Cable Connectors:
Figure 10 on the right illustrates a typical ribbon
connector. To disconnect the ribbon cable, push the plastic
clips on the sides to unlock and remove the jack.
Figure 12: Termination
Block
Before replacing a ribbon cable connector, spray it with
DeoxIT
™ contact cleaner to remove any foreign matter that
may cause signal problems. In addition, apply a generous
amount of CaiLub
™ protector paste to the plug before
inserting it into the jack. This paste protects both the plug
and the jack from corrosion.
2. Termination Blocks:
Termination blocks connect internal power and signal
wires to wires of the same type coming into the sign from
an external source. Most signal wires come with forked
connectors crimped to the ends of the wire. Power wires
need to have one-half inch of insulation stripped from the
end of the wire prior to termination. Tighten all screws
firmly to ensure a good electrical connection. Refer to
Figure 11 on the right.
Electrical Installation 3-1
3. Phoenix
™
-Style Connectors:
Phoenix-style connectors, usually green, allow for signal
termination on circuit boards. Refer to Figure 12 on the
right. Strip one-quarter inch of insulation from the wire
prior to termination. To remove a wire, turn the above
screw counter-clockwise to loosen the connectors grip on
the wire. To insert a wire, push the bare wire into the
connector and turn the above screw clockwise to lock the wire into place.
Figure 13: Phoenix
Connector