Graphics-less Programmable LED Signs in Florida?

I previously posted the best advantages in having a programmable LED signs. LED signs can both show a graphics with either a detailed info or just an announcement. News from ABC caught my attention about an ordinance in St. Petersburg, Florida says that a programmable LED signs should only contain text and no info graphics is allowed.

The ABC News report says, the owner (Dr. Mark Scribano) of the Northeast Animal Hospital, spend of about $40, 000 to put up his programmable LED sign for advertising purposes.

According to the report from ABC Action News, the owner of Northeast Animal Hospital, Dr. Mark Scribano, spent about $40,000 to put up his programmable LED sign for advertising purposes. The LED display used to show a kitty and a dog in need of dental work. Now, the LED sign only has text.

It was earlier approved by the City of St. Petersburg but a new city ordinance declared graphics on programmable LED signs are not allowed because they are “distracting.” Non-compliance merits a fine.

Other affected business owners are also standing up against the ordinance. Meanwhile, Pam Levitt had her programmable LED sign granted two years ago and she is not ready to turn off her $52,000 digital sign. A council member has expressed views that

“St. Petersburg could look like Las Vegas” if more flamboyant signs popped up.

Based on this view, it seems programmable LED signs at St. Petersburg will remain graphics-less for some time.

Since such decree is further than anyone’s control, the best thing to do is to make the most of what you have. Rather than having no programmable LED sign for your business, get creative and influence on the power clever words can bring.

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Cars go Techie and Trendy with Programmable LED Signs

You already know the best placement of programmable LED signs in your business establishment. . But have you ever thought of how a programmable LED sign might be useful for your car?

In Australia, a man named Gagandeep Singh has. He has found another way to communicate with other drivers while on the road. Instead of multiple car horns or rude hand gestures, he developed a new rear window LED system that “offers feedback to bad drivers” such as those who like to tailgate.

Sample programmable LED signs concept different from the car LED types...

Programmable LED signs - Business Hour Sign

Singh’s very own programmable LED sign is home made out of LED lights and has pre-programmed messages such as “Driving slow!”, “Keep distance!” and “Keep right!” The LEDs (or light emitting diodes when spelled out) are spaced at 2cm intervals covering the entire rear window of his Volkswagen Polo. The space is just enough for short, two-word scrolling messages. Now for safety driving advocates, Singh says it doesn’t get in the way of his rear vision.

This daringly digital driver has more plans for his portable programmable LED sign. According to him, he is...

“attempting to add a Bluetooth receiver so drivers can update the LED sign via a mobile phone.”

Let’s just hope he doesn’t resort to texting while driving or it’s the traffic police who’ll be tailgating his rear.

[sources: Affordableled and theage.com.au]

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