LED LIGHTS 31 Issue 257 - February / March 2025 email: editor@signlink.co.uk From bustling streets to quaint storefronts, LEDs have emerged as a go-to choice for modern signage illumination, promising a myriad of benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics. As a wide range of industries put energy efficiency at the forefront of their focus, the shift towards efficient LED lighting is being felt more strongly now than ever. For just one example, science and technology company X-Rite has introduced a brand-new LED testing product, which it says “aligns the global shift toward efficient, sustainable lighting solutions.” X-Rite’s new Judge LED light booth enables brands, manufacturers, and suppliers to accurately assess and evaluate colours under standard LED light sources, reflecting the many industries shifting away from traditional fluorescent lighting. In this special, we delve into the advantages and developments of LED signage, with insights from manufacturers and industry leaders. From reduced maintenance and energy savings to the creative possibilities of vibrant displays and customisable lighting effects, discover how LEDs can fit an array of different solutions. A Lite in the Dark Rising demand for LED signage has seen the continued development of new technologies and products in the sector. When speaking to Firstlite, a supplier and manufacturer of LED modules to the UK signage market, this increase in variety is clear. Firstlite’s range of products include LED reels, “neon flex” units and cabochon lighting, as well as a wide range of modules and fittings. Managing director of Firstlite, Megan Woodcock, explains that there have been a wide array of advancements in LED in recent years which can be of benefit to sign-makers. “LED signage isn’t just about being bright or colourful anymore”, she explains, “the focus has shifted to practical features – using less energy, making installation easier, and creating smaller, smarter designs that give sign-makers more options.” According to the UK Department of Energy, LEDs use at least 75% less energy, and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. Most modern LEDs promise a lifetime of at least 10,000 hours, meaning they can last around five years if used for five hours a day, seven days a week. With this increased efficiency and longevity in mind, LEDs are seen by many as the new industry standard for lighting in signage. As Woodcock puts it: “LEDs are practical, cost-effective, and sustainable. They use less energy and last longer, which translates to lower costs. They are also versatile, offering sign-makers the ability to customise brightness, colours, and schedules for unique effects.” Woodcock points to dimmable drivers as a further way to cut energy waste by offering precise controls. Recent innovations in intelligent DALI dimmable drivers provide users with extensive control, letting them adjust brightness, colour, patterns, and lighting schedules precisely and efficiently, increasing creativity while saving energy. Firstlite’s DALI drivers are designed to be flicker free, coming with overload, over temperature, over voltage, and short circuit protection as standard. Speaking about these innovations in the space, Woodcock continues: “Advances like DALI drivers make it possible to use LEDs in ways that are both creative and efficient, allowing for standout displays in any setting.” Firstlite recently launched a new testing area at its headquarters in Gateshead. The new facility is designed to offer a space for performance analysis of its range of products as well as allowing cusCreating Innovations in LEDs In this special, Jonathan Pert talks to manufacturers of LED lights to discover the recent innovations in the field and ask how these advancements can widen the scope of lighting solutions available to sign-makers Modern LED modules offer more efficient, cost-effective lighting solutions than traditional light sources ▲ LEDs are renowned for their low heat, high durability, and light product weight
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