[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text text_larger=”no”]Display use in outdoor environments is a rapidly growing segment of the market, whether for outdoor digital signage or outdoor hospitality and living spaces. The advent of displays that perform in a wide range of weather conditions has brought about increased use of the technology for outdoor stadiums, amusement parks and transportation as well as residential spaces. Specialized displays that can withstand sun, rain and snow are increasingly common, as is the use of traditional displays in semi-enclosed outdoor environments where direct exposure to the elements isn’t a problem. However, the mount is often an afterthought in these applications, and this can be a mistake both for aesthetics and longevity of the installation.
Industry Challenge
Technology advances have created new opportunities for AV integration outdoors. Stadiums use menu boards and displays throughout the facilities to create a better experience for guests. Displays are used at outdoor transportation stops to inform passengers on wait times and routes as well as additional advertising revenue streams. Amusement parks, zoos and other outdoor parks rely on digital displays for outdoor wayfinding, menu boards and in-line communication and entertainment. Residential outdoor displays help create living spaces that bring the inside outside, so you can watch the game on the patio while grilling on a nice day. Commercial end users are shifting to digital signage for the benefits of modern marketing tools and better customer experiences.
However, outdoor AV creates new problems, particularly when the mount is not considered. While outdoor-rated displays can withstand exposure to rain, humidity and UV radiation, if the mount is not specially built to handle these same issues, problems arise. A mount that isn’t outdoor rated can begin to rust over time. This can cause aesthetic issues like rust staining the wall and floor underneath the mount. Additionally, standard mounts are not rated for UV exposure, which can lead to ugly paint chalking, and faded, brittle plastics.
Rain/Humidity/Ocean Air
Moisture over time causes rust, both weakening the mount as well as raising the potential for building damage if the rust washes down onto the structure. Weather-proofing a mount with many surfaces and connection points takes careful planning and design. Every piece of sheet metal used in the mount is surrounded with galvanized plating, outdoor primer and outdoor-rated paint to resist oxidation.
Hardware is another point of consideration. Non-outdoor rated hardware can be a major rust point, leading to significant staining of architecture over time. Using stainless steel hardware eliminates such rust points, ensuring the installation won’t detract from the environment over time.
Source Article: legrandav.com
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
