1) Back brace of a sign in the shape of an "A". 2) Double-sided display, usually non-illuminated, in the shape of an "A".

The ability to withstand the effects of repeated wearing, rubbing, scraping, etc. that tend to remove material from surface.

A family of resins, created by polymerizing two liquids and a gas. The result is a thermoplastic which is strong, long-wearing and resistant to stains and chemicals. ABS is used for race-way letter backs, menu boards and sign cabinets.

Hinged or removable doors located in a sign cabinet to provide access to the signs interior for servicing

A section of sign cabinet, generally located on the bottom or end of a sign, that is removable for service and repair.

A brand of F shaped, 2" extruded acrylic trim for large letters and cut-out panels.

A commonly used plastic sign face material for illuminated signs. Marketed under a variety of trade names such as Plexiglas, Acrylite, etc.

Brand of acrylic sheet.

Red, green and blue are the primary colors in this light system. When using direct, or primary transmitted light, they create all other colors, and when combined from white colors.

To affix one material to another with adhesive.

Small spray gun used for art and detailed sign work.

Method of spray-applying paint without creating over-spray. This technique is similar to conventional spraying, except that the paint is forced through the gun under pressure, and no air leaves the gun.

Steel rod with continuous threads, end to end.

Brand name for a product made by laminating two thin sheets of aluminum over a thermoplastic core. It is available pre-painted and anodized, and is a good substrate for pressure sensitive vinyl films and sheeting like 3M Scotchcal? or Arlon's Cut Graphics?.

Brand name for a product made by laminating two thin sheets of aluminum over a thermoplastic core, one side of which is either bright gold or bright clear aluminum anodize. Available in 3mm and 4mm. Recommended for interior use only.

Brand of paint formulated for aluminum.

The light in a given area. May be natural or man-made, but does not include direct or internal illumination.

Various types of inserts used in concrete, brick, etc., to accept fastening hardware.

In installing signs with concrete foundations, a base plate is welded to the column, which supports the sign. The anchor bolts are vertical steel rods (with 4 to 10 inches of thread) which secure the base plate to the foundation, using mounting nuts and washers. (Also known as J-bolts.)

Describes any piece of structural iron or steel bent to a right (90 degree) angle.

An attention compelling system where by certain lighting components are made to either flash off and on in a sequence to create the effect of moving or flowing motion of messages, ideas; including moving figures.

1) To heat in order to fix "laid on" color (glass, porcelain, enamel, etc.). 2) To heat and then cool in order to make softer and less brittle.

1) To subject (a metal) to electrolytic action as the anode of a cell in order to coat with a protective or decorative film. 2) Chemical process used to enhance the non-corrosive nature of exotic metals, especially aluminum.

A protective oxide film, clear or colored, usually found on aluminum, accomplished through electrolysis.

A process frequently used on exposed aluminum components. Relatively inexpensive, anodizing gives mill finish (as it comes from the extrusion press) aluminum a rich lustre and adds greatly to its weathering properties when used on outdoor units. Anodized finishes may be clear or in a variety of colors.

The organization that develops voluntary guidelines and product performance standards for the electrical and other industries.

A process used in graphics programs, by which jagged lines are blended to make them appear smooth and straight.

An additive substance, which prevents or slows down oxidation of materials exposed to the air (rusting in the case of metals; other forms of degeneration in the case of plastics).

Tape used in the transfer of vinyl letters and graphics from the liner to the sign, wall, or window surface. Different tack levels and paper weight are selected depending on the graphic size or print type.

The area along a street or sidewalk from where a sign first becomes visible until the display is no longer readable as the viewer passes by.

1) Luminous glow formed by the flow of electric current through ionized air, gas or vapor between separated electrodes or contacts. 2) A portion of the circumference of a circle.

1) The resistance to the flow of current offered by the voltaic arc (i. e., if the carbons of an arc lamp are 1/12" apart, the arc resistance will be 11/2 ohms). 2) The resistance of a material to the effects of an arc passing across its surface stated as a measure of the total elapsed time taken to form a conducting path (of material carbonizing by the arc flame) across the surface under prescribed conditions of applications of high voltage, low current arc (as across an insulator).

A colorless gas used alone or mixed with neon gas which is pumped under pressure into glass tubing used in the manufacture of neon signs.

Protruding support from which a sign is hung. SEE MAST ARM.

Brand name of aluminum covered plywood, used as a back for "Channelume" type letters.

All copy, graphics and logos used in preparing a job.

That part of a lower case letter which rises above the main body of the letters.

Buffing acrylic with a slurry or paste of pumice and water to dull the surface.

The height to width ratio of an object such as a sign.

That area of a sign or marquee designed so that messages can be changed. Also referred to as reader panel, reader board, marquee, or changeable copy panel.

Drilling equipment, with bits of various diameters, used in excavating for caisson foundations.

Bulletin or poster space available for rental at any given time.

An average rating, in hours, indicating when 50% of a large group of lamps have failed, when operated at nominal lamp voltage and current; manufacturers use 3 hours per start for HID lamps when performing lamp life testing procedures; every lamp type has a unique curve that depicts its average rated life.

Abbreviation for American Wire Gauge, a standard system for designating wire diameter.

A specific brand of catalyst mix paint, originally formulated for automobile and boat finishing.

A roof like cover extending over, or in front of an area (over a deck, or in front of a door or window) as a shelter. It can be used as a business identity sign and lighted for day and night effectiveness.