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Glossary
Central Controller:
A software system that can control displays remotely. The central
control software contains a message studio, schedule studio, a display manager, and
other tools that configure displays and networks for an Intelligent Transportation System.
Display Address:
An identification number assigned to each display of a network,
set through the front panel interface. The central controller uses the addresses to
differentiate between displays connected on the same network. Displays on the same
network cannot have the same address.
Distribution Board:
An internal display component that sends signal to and receives
signal from the VFC-3000 controller. It distributes the signals received from the VFC-3000
controller to sensors and modules throughout the display. All diagnostic data from the
sensors and modules transmit to the distribution board, which then routes this data back
to the VFC-3000 controller.
Driver:
A component on the rear of a module that interprets display data routing from
the VFC-3000 controller to power the pixels. The driver also controls the pixels’ dimming
level, based on data received from the VFC-3000 controller. Circuitry on the driver board
can test the operational status of each pixel and send this information to the VFC-3000
controller.
Dynamic Message Sign (DMS):
An electronic message display used on roadways to give
travelers information about traffic conditions. Such displays may inform of events like
traffic congestion, accidents, incidents, or roadwork zones.
Light Emitting Diode (LED):
Low-energy, high-intensity lighting unit. A cluster of LEDs forms
a pixel on the display.
Module:
A component containing an array of LED pixels on the front and a driver on the
back. Modules are placed next to each other to form the matrix of the display.
Network:
Multiple displays which are operated by the same control system.
Pixel:
The smallest single point of light on a display that can be turned on and off. Pixels
form the characters and graphics that make up message content.
Power Supply:
A device that converts incoming alternating current (AC) power to direct
current (DC) power. They provide power to display modules and sensors.
Vanguard
®
:
Daktronics-trademarked name for DMS and the software that operates
them.
