Report

Re: Comparison of Neon Sign and LED

Reported by the Management Committee of the Kanto Neon-Sign Industry Association

Recently, the usage of LED as a new light source has been expanding. We believe many of our member companies have used LED. However, there are many unknown aspects of LED. In cooperation with our Technical Committee, we have started a comparison study of neon and LED. As a first step, we have prepared the following Q&A to be used when talking to customers:

Ｑ1
I heard that the running cost of LED sign is quite low. How low is it on an actual basis?

Ａ1
The study done by the Neon-Sign Association showed a cost reduction of 60% when the same size and brightness neon and LED signs were compared using a cumulative electric power measuring machine.

Ｑ2
I heard that LED has a long life. How long does LED last in actual usage?

Ａ2
Some data show that the half-life ratio of a neon sign is over 20,000 hours. There are various opinions with regard to the life of LED. As it has not been long since the high brightness type LED became available, we believe that we should continue to study a little longer before commenting on LED expected life.

Ｑ3
How about ease of construction when neon and LED signs are compared?

Ａ3
As for neon signs, construction standards exist for not only high-voltage (over 1,000V) but also for lower voltage signs, and a license is required. Since the voltage of LED is lower than direct-current 24V, no special qualifications are required for construction.

Ｑ4
Is it true that LED signs are maintenance-free?

Ａ4
LED signs operate on low-voltage and are considered to have a strong resistance to deterioration. However, LED signs are electric equipment like neon signs. We, therefore, believe periodic inspection and maintenance are necessary. Outdoor advertising built with government permission is required to submit an inspection report at the time of permit renewal (once in one to three years depend on the type).