Written By: Sreedarshini Mitra Electronic Message Display / Jan 31, 2025

Electronic Message Board Signs: Types

Electronic message boards provide a dynamic way to display text and graphics to communicate with audiences. These programmable signs come in a variety of types suitable for different applications. This article explores the most common varieties of electronic message board signs available.

LED Message Boards

LED message boards feature an array of bright LED pixels used to form text or images. Key types:

  • Indoor LED boards – For use inside buildings and venues. Designed for shorter viewing distances.

  • Outdoor LED boards – Built to withstand weather and sunlight. Feature anti-glare construction.

  • Full color LED boards – Display messages in a full RGB color spectrum. Allow for branded color schemes.

  • Monochrome LED boards – Use single color LEDs, typically amber or red. Lower cost option.

LED pixel technology allows great visibility and control.

LCD Message Displays

LCD (liquid crystal display) message signs use LCD panels backlit with cold cathode fluorescent bulbs. Features:

  • Crisp text and graphics.

  • Low power consumption.

  • Indoor LCD signs – For use inside away from direct sunlight and weather.

  • High brightness LCD – Enhanced luminosity and contrast ratio for partial outdoor use.

LCD signs offer sharp image quality and versatility.

OLED Message Boards

OLED (organic LED) message displays utilize self-illuminating diode panels for high clarity and contrast. Benefits include:

  • Extremely thin panel profile.

  • Flexible form factors.

  • Wide viewing angles up to 180 degrees.

  • High environmental resistance.

OLED signs deliver striking visual impact.

Electronic Reader Boards

Electronic reader boards feature a matrix of flip discs or rotating cubes that toggle to display text. Types include:

  • Flip disc displays – Rotate flip discs between black and white sides.

  • Rotating cube boards – Pivot edge-mounted cubes to reveal colored sides.

Reader boards are a classic style with retro appeal.

Electronic Message Centers

Message centers combine an LED board with other elements like a logo header or changeable letter sign. Versatile options like:

  • Freestanding message kiosks – Combine digital display and printed graphics on a framed pedestal.

  • Message center monuments – Incorporate large brickwork frames and the facility name.

Message centers allow custom blend of branding and messaging.

Portable Message Boards

Portable wheeled sign boards offer convenient digital messaging for temporary use. Features include:

  • Onboard battery packs - Allow cordless operation.

  • Weatherproof enclosures – Protect components during outdoor use.

  • Wheeled carts – Enable positioning as needed.

Portable boards allow flexible messaging anywhere.

Conclusion

Electronic message boards utilize various display technologies like LED, LCD and OLED to offer the right digital signage capabilities for the intended application and environment. Understanding display types allows selecting optimal solutions to effectively reach audiences with impactful, up-to-date messaging.