Varied designs for advertising, consumer electronics uses

Segmented numeric and alphanumeric, and dot-matrix models drive Hong Kong’s LED display sector. Products are available in a range of height, thickness and color for instruments, advertising and consumer electronic devices.

Numeric, 7-segment units come in single- or multidigit versions. The latter includes 2 to 6-digit varieties. Alphanumeric 14 and 16-segment types support one or two digits. The character height ranges from 6.2 to 203mm. Suppliers accept special requests on light bars, arrows and other custom designs.

Dot-matrix displays are available in various configurations, including 4×4, 5×7, 5×8, 8×8, 11×7 and 16×16. The dot size is from 1.8 to 20mm.

Although segmented and dot-matrix LED displays remain staple products, more makers are directing their R&D activities toward high-power LEDs and backlights, LED bulbs, tubes and decorative lights. Some offer LED message displays for retail, commercial, industrial and in-vehicle applications. The messages can be configured in ticker or fixed text lines, or through graphic characters. Outdoor, weather-resistant housings can be provided on request.

There are about 30 suppliers of various LED display products in Hong Kong. More than 10 companies also offer modular LED video panels for large-scale setups. The modules can be used for indoor, outdoor and indoor/outdoor applications, and integrate SMD LEDs in 0603 and 0805 configurations. The typical module unit sizes are 192×96, 192×192, 244×122, 256×128, 256×256, 320×160 and 200x200mm. These support a pixel pitch of 8, 10, 12, 16, 25 or 30mm. Indoor models featuring P4.4 are available as well.

The pixel composition is 1R1G1B, 1R2G1B or 2R1G1B. Brightness and contrast ratio ratings can reach 6,000cd/sqm and 2,000:1, respectively.

Makers provide technical assistance and troubleshooting services. Tier 1 companies generally deal directly with local and overseas end-users, and can provide installation, programming, maintenance and other onsite support.