LED Sign Site Survey Records for Letter Depth, Face Material, and Lighting

Record the usable lighting depth, the complete face assembly, and the site's power, access, and control constraints before selecting LEDs. Give the estimator and fabricator a dimensioned sketch, labeled photos, and a list of open decisions. Those records let them compare layouts against the actual product datasheet and agree on what to verify before fabrication.

Measure the space available for lighting

For a front-lit channel letter, record the overall return depth and the clear distance from the proposed LED mounting surface to the inside of the finished face. Label both dimensions on a section sketch so the fabricator can account for module height when determining the clearance from the emitter or lens to the face. On a retrofit, measure where accessible and mark concealed dimensions for confirmation.

Check narrow strokes, tight corners, and wide sections separately. A layout that fits a broad letter may need to change where studs, seams, fasteners, or cable routes occupy the cavity. Mark the minimum clear depth, narrowest stroke, and any obstruction that could cast a shadow. For a halo-lit letter, record the rear clearance to the wall and note changes in wall texture, color, or finish across the sign footprint.

Use the measured geometry when shortlisting modules. HansonLed's channel letter catalog lists a Mini LED Module 2 LED With Lens. Confirm the selected model's dimensions, mounting requirements, and layout guidance before using it in an estimate. HansonLed channel letter LED modules

Specify the finished face assembly

Record the face substrate, thickness, color, finish, and supplier reference when available. Include applied films, printed graphics, diffuser layers, and opaque areas. On a retrofit, photograph both sides of an accessible face and note yellowing, repairs, and existing films. Ask whether the project will reuse that assembly or replace it, since the light can look different through the two faces.

Record expected viewing distances and angles, nearby lighting, and the times when the sign needs to be readable. If the job calls for an even face, identify where visible LED points, bright edges, or dark corners would be unacceptable. If the brief calls for visible pixels, document the intended spacing and viewing distance instead of using a uniform face as the acceptance criterion.

If a cabinet has limited rear clearance and room for side mounting, evaluate whether its optical assembly supports edge lighting. HansonLed's edge-lit catalog lists an Edge Lit LED Module for Box. Check the model guidance and the cabinet geometry before committing to an edge-mounted layout. HansonLed edge-lit LED modules

Record power, access, and control requirements

Mark where power is available, candidate locations for power supplies and controllers, estimated cable routes, and service access after installation. Note exposure to rain, washdown, or condensation where relevant. Have the responsible installer verify site conditions and check the selected components and wiring against their datasheets and installation requirements. Record any landlord or client restrictions on brightness, operating hours, or animation that could affect the controls.

Define what changes color independently

Whole-module RGB changes the color of the module as a unit. Modules that share a control zone can change together. Individually addressable RGB pixel control lets each addressable pixel receive its own color and brightness command. An address can represent a single emitter or a group, depending on the hardware. Specify the required behavior in plain terms, such as all letters changing together, each letter changing independently, or a chase moving through points within a letter.

HansonLed's pixel module catalog lists an Addressable RGB Pixel. For the exact model under consideration, verify the addressable unit, controller compatibility, wiring requirements, and supported run limits before quoting a sequence. HansonLed pixel LED modules

Site survey handoff checklist

• Label photos and sketches with the sign ID, survey date, and measurement locations.

• Record the return depth, minimum usable depth, narrowest stroke, and any halo gap.

• Identify the finished face layers and record which existing parts will be reused.

• Mark obstructions, cable entry points, equipment locations, and service access.

• Document operating hours, dimming needs, and which letters, zones, or pixels must respond independently.

• Assign each unresolved item an owner and a deadline before quoting or fabrication, as applicable.

Frequently asked questions

Can we quote from the nominal letter depth?

Use it for a budget estimate if you state the assumption. Confirm the usable clearance and any local restrictions before fixing the module count or releasing the layout for fabrication.

When should we request an illuminated sample?

Consider one when the face finish, shallow geometry, or appearance requirement makes the layout uncertain. Use the intended face layers and a representative tight section, then review it at the agreed viewing distance.

Do we need individually addressable pixels for a color-changing sign?

Whole-module RGB may suit a uniform color change, and separately controlled zones may suit letter-by-letter changes. Specify individually addressable pixels when the effect requires independent control of points within those zones.