Table of Contents Introduction .........1 Fans and Power Supplies Connection ..............8 How to Use This Manual ......1 Traffic Cabinet ...........8 Theory of Operation ........1 Vanguard Control Board Address ® Vanguard Software .......1 ® Setting ............9 VFC-3000 Controller/Vanguard Field ® Maintenance and Troubleshooting 10 Controller ..........1 Getting Started ........10...
Page 4
Maintenance Checklist ......19 Troubleshooting ........20 Replacement Parts and Exchange and Repair Programs .......22 Daktronics Part Numbers ......22 Daktronics Exchange and Repair & Return Programs ...........22 Exchange Program ......22 Before Contacting Daktronics .....22 Repair & Return Program .....23 Shipping Address ........24 Email ............24...
Auxiliary Control Panel The auxiliary control panel (ACP) complements the controller by providing a secondary control interface panel at the DMS site. The ACP allows a maintenance technician to perform diagnostics while working in one location without having to access the controller in another location.
Components Modules A module is a replaceable unit consisting of a display panel with clusters of LEDs, called pixels. The pixels display messages on the display. Refer to Figure 2. Each module contains drive electronics that receive data packets from the Vanguard control board and ®...
Service Control Panel The service control panel (SCP) is located on the right side of the display’s back wall. The internal components of the SCP use information received from the VFC-3000 controller/ Field Controller to control the display. Figure 5 shows the location of the SCP’s Vanguard ®...
DC Breaker Rail The DC breaker rail receives incoming power from the power supplies and distributes power to the modules and the VCB. Display UPS System A UPS contains batteries and an inverter. If the utility AC power fails, the UPS powers the controller and communication equipment for a limited amount of time.
Lights The display is equipped with lights, which are turned on by a timer switch. Beacon(s) Beacons are turned on and off independently from the rest of the sign by the VCB. A power supply and DC relays make up the beacon controller and are located within the SCP.
Electrical Installation Daktronics recommends that a separate circuit be run to the electronic display(s) to isolate it and prevent any issues that could be caused by line voltage fluctuations or high frequency noise on the power line caused by other types of equipment. A separate circuit also makes display maintenance and troubleshooting easier.
Display Termination Power enters the display through the rear wall into the SCP. To connect power to the display: 1. Locate the A41 panelboard inside the display. 2. Remove the panelboard cover to reveal the inside of the panelboard. 3. Route the power cables through the 1 "...
Vanguard Control Board Address Setting ® The rotary switches set the sign address, which the software uses to identify the particular display. When replacing a VCB (refer to Figure 6), set the rotary switches on the new VCB to the same address configuration as the defective VCB. Each VCB in a network needs a unique address.
2. Only qualified service personnel should access internal display electronics. Contact Daktronics Customer Service for training needs. 3. Daktronics engineering staff must approve changes made to the displays. If making modifications, submit detailed drawings to the Daktronics engineering staff for evaluation and approval or the warranty will be void.
7-Segment Error Codes (VFC-3000 Controller) A 7-segment indicator appears on the following components; refer to Figure 9. The 7-segment indicator provides codes to indicate any present errors and their cause. When an error occurs, the 7-segment will flash the error code. If multiple errors are present, the 7-segment will flash the errors individually in succession.
7-Segment Error Codes (Vanguard Field Controller) ® Three 7-segment indicators appear on the following component; refer to Figure 10. The 7-segment indicators provide codes to indicate normal running conditions as well as any present errors and their cause. When an error occurs, the 7-segment will flash the error codes individually in Figure 10: Three 7-Segment Indicators succession.
A single 7-segment indicator appears on the following components; refer to Figure 9. The 7-segment indicator provides codes to indicate any present errors and their cause. When an error occurs, the 7-segment will flash the error code. If multiple errors are present, the 7-segment will flash the errors individually in succession.
Module Replacement (20mm) Caution: Modules are not hot swap components. Always turn off power to the modules prior to servicing. 1. Turn off power to the failed module by turning off the breakers for all power supplies. 2. Remove the wire connections: a.
Power Supply Assembly Replacement Power supply assemblies are mounted on the rear interior of the display. 1. Turn off power to the power supply assembly by turning off the breaker in the distribution panel. 2. Locate the failed power supply assembly reported by the VFC-3000 controller/ Vanguard Field Controller.
Check the connections of the earth ground wires, if accessible. Earth Ground Resistance At least once per year ensure earth ground resistance meets local and national codes. Note: Ground meters for this test are available for purchase from Daktronics. Maintenance and Troubleshooting...
Display Cabinet At least once per year: • Check for water stains and other signs of water intrusion in the display cabinet. • Seal any leaks that have developed with a silicone sealant or another suitable sealer. • Repair any door gaskets that have tears or missing pieces. •...
LED and Electronic Circuitry Test LED and electronic circuitry at intervals determined by customer requirements. Daktronics recommends performing the tests at least monthly. Perform tests on the DMS to check for hardware problems and incorrect variable settings. Note: The following tests display functions, not other DMS equipment hardware.
Maintenance Checklist Refer to the instructions in the Display Maintenance (p. 16) and Ventilation Fan and Filter Maintenance (p. 15) sections. One copy of the following table may be filled out for each display. Display Location: Monthly Remote Dates Performed Maintenance Item 1 yr.
Troubleshooting For additional assistance, contact Daktronics Transportation Customer Service at the telephone number on the cover page. Problem Observed Possible Cause Solution Signal plug terminals are not Inspect all wires and terminals seated well at driver board, or for 20-pin plug. Repair as One module is garbled, too wire is bad.
Page 25
Problem Observed Possible Cause Solution Light sensor assembly is Clear obstruction. obstructed. One or more wires or terminals in the light/temp control cable are misplaced, open or shorted to other wires or the frame in display, Repair as needed. VFC-3000 controller/Vanguard ®...
Daktronics offers a unique Exchange Program as a quick service for replacing key parts in need of repair. If a part requires repair or replacement, Daktronics sends the customer a replacement, and the customer sends the defective part to Daktronics. This decreases display downtime.
Repair & Return Program For items not subject to exchange, Daktronics offers a Repair & Return Program. To send a part for repair, follow these steps: 1. Call or fax Daktronics Customer Service: Refer to the appropriate market number in the chart listed on the previous page.
Shipping Address Daktronics Customer Service 600 E 54th St N Case #____________ Sioux Falls, SD 57104 Email transportationhelp@daktronics.com Replacement Parts and Exchange and Repair Programs...
Page 29
Glossary Address: Identification number assigned to each sign in a network, set through the front panel interface. The central controller uses the address to differentiate between signs connected on the same network. Signs on the same network cannot have the same address.
Page 30
Serial Port: Connector on the back of the control computer that controls the display network through either a 9- or a 25-pin serial connector. Service Control Panel (SCP): Enclosure that serves as a central point for all data and power distribution. The SCP contains the VCB, relays, surge suppressors, and the main power distribution panel.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the VF-20 Series and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers