Introduction
1
1 Introduction
How to Use This Manual
This manual explains the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of VF-2100
series Dynamic Message Signs (DMS). For information regarding the safety, installation,
operation, or service of this system, refer to the telephone numbers on the cover page of
this manual.
Daktronics identifies manuals by the ED or DD number located on the cover page of
each manual. For example, this manual is referred to as
DD3938527
.
The serial and model numbers for the display are on the ID label attached to the display.
This label looks similar to
. When calling Daktronics Customer Service, please have
this information available to ensure timely response.
Daktronics builds displays for long life, and they require little maintenance. However, from
time to time, certain components need replacing. Refer to the
if any component needs replacement or repair.
DMS Overview
The VF-2100 series displays have rear access.
Theory of Operation
Vanguard
®
Software
Daktronics Vanguard
®
software allows the DMS operator to check display status and to
control messages.
VFC-3000 Controller/Vanguard
®
Field Controller
The VFC-3000 controller/Vanguard
®
Field Controller is the communication hub for DMS
management. It is located in the display or
the traffic cabinet
.
The central controller creates messages and transmits them to the VFC-3000 controller/
Vanguard
®
Field Controller for storage. Upon request from the central controller or the
front panel interface, the VFC-3000 controller/Vanguard
®
Field Controller locates the
message to display and sends it to the display’s modules via the Vanguard
®
control
board. The modules activate the appropriate pixels to form the message.
The VFC-3000 controller/Vanguard
®
Field Controller also monitors local sensors (display-
based sensors) like temperature, light level, and door detection. The VFC-3000 controller/
Vanguard
®
Field Controller interprets sensor data for display control and diagnostic
functions, such as adjusting the display’s intensity for current lighting conditions.
Figure 1:
Display ID Label