Kgirl

Happy belated B-day Marko ! Happy Birthday to you...Happy Birthday to you...Happy Birthday to youuuuuu......Happy Birthday to you!!!! Hugs and Kisses...hope you had a wonderful day!!!!!! Let this be your year...enjoy it to the fullest!!!!

try MET Labs..... http://www.metlabs.com/

* Permlight Products, Inc.™ Announces Kamran Sarmadi as VP of Engineering TUSTIN, Calif., Jan. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Permlight Products, Inc., a leader in the design and manufacturing of LED Light Engines, today announced Kamran Sarmadi has been named vice president of engineering. In his role, Sarmadi will oversee all product expansion and technical development for the company and its associated brands, Brillia® LED Light Engines and Permlight for Signs™. "Kamran aligns perfectly with our growth strategy and is the ideal leader for our rapidly expanding technology teams," said Philip Frey, CEO. "His expertise in the LED field is invaluable to Permlight." Sarmadi has led companies from start up to Fortune 500 in technical and operational roles, developing and executing growth strategies through new business development and operational excellence. Prior to joining Permlight, Sarmadi served as vice president of engineering and operations for Variant Technology/Variant LED. As general manager he led the engineering and operations for Opto-electronics division of Perkin Elmer Corporation where he implemented Lean-6-Sigma. Sarmadi brings over 25 years of technology management experience, having designed, patented and produced advanced optical systems, LED luminaries and electronic drivers. Sarmadi has patents pending for his work on dimmable LED lamps, LED lamps with internal power source and his work on development of Charging Systems for NiMH and Li+ batteries. Actively involved in his community, Sarmadi is on the board of directors for the City of Arcadia Upper Rancho and is a board member of the projects team, Engineers Without Borders. He graduated from Lewis and Clark College of Oregon with a BS in Physics and a BS in Communications and received his MBA from Golden Gate University of San Francisco, school of High Technology Management. Sarmadi started his exciting career in the Silicon Valley and now lives in the Los Angeles area with his wife Maryam, an established accountant, and two children. Kamran enjoys camping, fishing and flying single engine planes. About Permlight Products, Inc. Tustin, Calif. -based Permlight Products, Inc. is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-powered, LED light engines for use in signs and luminaires. Nearly 15 years post-inception, Permlight continues to lead the way in LED technology, using patented thermal management techniques to create light engines that are brighter, more efficient and longer lasting. The company has developed an extensive portfolio of patents to help guide the industry and the advancement of solid-state lighting. Permlight Products' innovative LED designs are offered through two brands: Brillia LED Light Engines is dedicated to expanding the boundaries of general illumination by providing off-the-shelf and customizable light engine solutions to the world's leading brands and manufacturers of lighting fixtures. Permlight for Signs develops high-powered LED systems for illuminated signs. Each benefits from shared R&D, manufacturing and purchasing capabilities. For more information about Permlight Products, Inc., visit www.Permlight.com or call 714-508-0729. SOURCE Permlight Products, Inc. Back to top RELATED LINKS http://www.permlight.com

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" January 17, 2011 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator Hope everyone is staying warm out there..... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing a freak accident on the job......The Sign Syndicate Meet in Las Vegas for ISA 2011.....Why drain holes are important.......LEDs for acrylic letters......welding broken poly-carbonate faces back together again........ Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSION FREAK ACCIDENT - EMPLOYEE BURNED The owner of that dry cleaner, Jim Batcheler, told The DNJ the man was limping after he jumped and even asked how badly he had been burned.....“He asked me if his back was burned up,” Batcheler said. “I told him it was, but it could have been a whole lot worse. His back was red and blistered but it wasn’t charred.”..... ISA 2011 - VIVA LAS VEGAS! - OFFICIAL SIGN SYNDICATE MEET ROLL CALL THREAD Alright, so who's going? Who's not? I'm about to book Kgirl and my ticket soon here on Southwest (flying this time), the hell with a 6 hour road trip!.....For the Sign Syndicate Meet most likely we'll just meet at Dick's Last Resort again (Located in Excalibur), in the patio if it's a nice day. I'll have some goodies for people to wear so our party is easily identifiable unlike last time where me missed so many people (I know, my bad) ..... WHY DRAIN HOLES ARE IMPORTANT Here is a sign I just serviced today. Hard to see from the quick still frames but the PS was all entirely submerged except for a 1/8" of the top, and it hasn't rained in weeks. This sign is completely exposed to the elements...... LED ACRYLIC LETTER I'm still looking for an LED strip that i can put in a solid acrylic letter with a routed groove, I have seen alot we have made a few samples, I just cant find a product that is UL Listed for this application, anyone doing this type of applications and have you had any issues with UL inspectors, any help is appreciated. ..... WELDING BROKEN CORNER ON POLYCARB FACE - WHAT WELD-ON PRODUCT WORKS BEST? I have had luck using weld on and plastic shavings to make a paste, you may want to v out the plastic first. Or they do sell an automotive plastic welder that comes with different sticks of various types of plastic; I had a plastic windshield weld up works good, I think Mac or Snap on sells them...... TIME TO FIND SOME FUN IN THE SUN Those companies I work for that limit the price I can charge for a part also allow me the option of letting the contracting company buy the needed parts from their own suppliers who ship the parts to me. Of course when I chose that option, I can't charge my normal 50% markup on those materials since I don't charge for them at all. But on the other hand, it seems to me that 50% is no more than a reasonable compensation....... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

OF COURSE....everyone is invited!..

I AM SUPER EXCITED ABOUT VEGAS.... AS I CAN HAVE A FEW, WELL MORE THAN JUST A FEW AND PARTY MY ASS OFF....I CANNOT WAIT TO HAVE A COCKTAIL OR TWO WITH ALL OF YOU.......and yes Erik we may have to check in early for some and the go back and join the crowd!!!!! IM LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING ALL OF YOU AGAIN!!!!!!!

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" Every Sign Syndicate Board Newsletter we will send out links to our newest board news and information to make "The Happening" out in our industry known. JANUARY 10, 2011 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator The New results are out!.....1,120 operating hours later since our last testing on our Neon & LED Light Projects.... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing having a "Meet" and parties in Las Vegas for ISA 2011......Action Service Group......people who are to cheap to pay for a service call.....channel letter fabrication......Direct Wholesale in Denver, what are your experiences?.......... Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS THE GREAT WHITE HOPE We dropped Philips this month and added two more product lines, Relume & GE's new Tetra PowerMAX. Be sure to check out the new Neon & LED initial Light output chart.. PROJECT TIGHTY WHITEY We have a failure of a single module this month, will be adding two more products later this month, CAO & iPan. Be sure to check out the new LED initial Light output chart. http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=2842 THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT A Neon lamp took a dump, now it's time to figure out why. Be sure to check out the new Neon & LED initial Light output chart. http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3143 NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSIONS ISA 2011 - Viva Las Vegas! Official Roll Call Thread Alright, so who's going? Who's not? I'm about to book Kgirl and my ticket soon here on Southwest (flying this time), the hell with a 6 hour road trip! Traveling with a large group of people probably, so we all might stay at Excalibur since it;s right next to the convention and we can just walk there. Most likely we'll just meet at Dick's Last Resort again (Located in Excalibur), in the patio if it's a nice day. I'll have some goodies for people to wear so our party is easily identifiable unlike last time...... ACTION SERVICE GROUP ASTON PA, PROBLEMS? - ANYONE HAVE PROBLEMS GETTING PAID? We didn't end up on good terms and no, we, did not get paid for the last job we did for them ( service work ) because we would not bend with their pricing and we just wrote it off as a bad debt and also i did become a little short with them and told them to stick it where the sun don't shine. never heard from them again..... TO CHEAP TO PAY FOR A SERVICE CALL....... The Hotel owner also personally cleans your toilet, washes your towels, and does the plumbing. I would laugh if once he got in the ladder fell. At least he tied the scaffolding off to the flag pole!............ CHANNEL LETTER FAB QUESTION I make all my letters by hand (channel baby and various sized rigid conduit) and I actually like the 040 better on small letters and serifs. It holds the bend a little better and doesn't kink as easy. 3.5" Coil 040 is the best way to go......... ANYONE HAD PROBLEMS WITH DIRECT SIGN WHOLESALE IN DENVER? We recently ordered reverse channel letters from Direct Sign Wholesale in Denver, CO. The product was terrible for a long list of reasons and they refuse to do anything about it. (even after admitting that they screwed up) Has anyone had experience dealing with them?...... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" January 3, 2011 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator Happy New Year!!!!..... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing SBI's January 2011 issue......Transformers.....old and new issues.......sign installation issues on certain wall types......potential dangers with a rep and how to deal with it........... Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSION Sign Builder Illustrated - January 2011 Issue I see he's still showing off his USLED crammed "O" to show potential clients how bright his energy efficient signs are that will save them a whopping 60%-80% energy savings. What should only be a manufacturer spec'd letter containing about 6-7 modules his carries 13 (doubled), I'm sure it's bright but it's not the energy saving it's claimed to be. Just like a duplicated story copy and pasted from Signs Of The Times it's nothing more than..... TRANNIES Here's a couple pics. TAke a look at the tag on the old transformer - General Electric. Been a LONG time since they did transformers. YOu can't see it but the plate is actually 24ma. In my short career I don't ever recall a plate showing that. This is the same tranny in the picture sitting on the table. It was for an OLD glass frame window sign. As you can see, s chain hooks were linked into the gto, leads from the trodes on the glass frame..... PROBLEMS DEALING WITH EVERBRITE? - ANYONE ELSE HAD ISSUES WITH A REP? We are replacing a sign that was damaged for a fast food chain. Everbrite is making the sign for the company. I wanted the match plate to have a stub, cap ring, donuts to weld into the existing pole. The rep at Everbrite says that she wants to just send the sign and a match plate that "any certified welder can just weld the plate on the pole" This sign weighs 4155lbs and is 70' up. My opinion is that is foolish to do that...... ADART ANY GOOD? I received a buyer request from a company called Adart. According to our notes, we did some work for them a long time ago and had trouble with payment. Has anyone worked for them recently? Another issue is the sign installation is for Goody's. I know they went bankrupt not too long ago. Any info or experiences would be great. Thanks syndicate! You rock!...... SIGN INSTALLS OVER EFIS-STUCCO I occasionally am contracted to do exterior wall sign installs on new buildings and wish I knew more about the different wall materials I encounter, like how strong they are and how resistant to moisture and if they require any special treatment during a sign installation to keep an installer like me out of trouble. Anybody know how I can research this stuff? I am somewhat familiar with..... WORKING FOR NATIONALS- PRICING CHANGING AFTER THE FACT Those companies I work for that limit the price I can charge for a part also allow me the option of letting the contracting company buy the needed parts from their own suppliers who ship the parts to me. Of course when I chose that option, I can't charge my normal 50% markup on those materials since I don't charge for them at all. But on the other hand, it seems to me that 50% is no more than a reasonable compensation....... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

Some previous info here... ..and here..

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" Every Sign Syndicate Board Newsletter we will send out links to our newest board news and information to make "The Happening" out in our industry known. DECEMBER 20, 2010 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are taking a look back in part one of...."A year in review of 2010"........... Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... A YEAR IN REVIEW OF 2010 - PART I Show us YOUR sign! We're located in an industrial park, in the first unit of our building (facing the street). The landlord only allows plaque style sings on square blanks that are located next to each door, so we simply stuck our logo on in vinyl and were done with it. I have since been able to persuade them to allow us to make an illuminated sign that is exactly the same size, but with a little more flair. ..... TACO BELL SIGN FALLS - KILLS WOMAN Wow. That pipe is shredded. I see one thing that happened in your case that interests me. The Section Modulus of pipe is determined by its thickness *and* its diameter. Section Modulus for those of you who do not fab heavy steel is the steel's ability to resist bending. I won;t bother running this through our engineering program to see if my numbers are exactly accurate, but the principle will be true. The SM of a 10" pipe with a 1/2" thick wall may be the same..... 520 WILKIE - WHO HAS ONE AND DO YOU LIKE IT? We have a Wilkie 520, It is very reliable, for a small crane it is as good as the skyhooks I used to work with, having to work the load line to telescope in and out while on service calls is a slight inconvenience, but over all you can't beat them, hell for most repairs you can get the parts at any auto parts store........ SHAME.....SHAME...BAD IMAGE....!... It is people like these that give our whole industry a BAD RAP, Especially Neon!! At night you can see that they did not use 2161 transformers....Not is there going to be a Fire, But when will it Happen??? They should be found and run outta town..Tared & Feathered........ MID POINT WIRING I believe the original post was referring to 'mid-point return', where the mid point of a well-balanced tube set is returned to the transformer ground lug. This requires a transformer which has two sets of secondary magnetic winding shunts (such that each half of the transformer secondary is independent of the other.) This method has fallen out of favor because (1) other than boarder tube, well balanced tube sets are few and far between, (2) secondary ground..... CITGO SIGN IN KENMORE SQUARE LED REPLACED AFTER 5 YEARS AFTER THE LEDS FAIL Red and Amber LEDs should hold up for a really long time and 100,000 hours is achievable. The problem is the circuit design, drive current, how waterproof is it considering the application, and is the LED chosen a suitable part for the application. It sounds like on more than one front, they built a system that wouldn't hold up....... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" Every Sign Syndicate Board Newsletter we will send out links to our newest board news and information to make "The Happening" out in our industry known. DECEMBER 20, 2010 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator From The Sign Syndicate to everyone.....Christmas is coming...I did say Christmas...!!!! Merry Christmas Everyone... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing LED power sources installations for channel letters....Working for national sign companies.......Wilkie crane trucks......Solid Works software........CNC tables......something very cool coming to ISA Vegas 2011........... Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSIONS CHANNEL LETTER INSTALLATION: - REMOTE POWER SUPPLIES TTo make a relatively short story. Inspectors are about as unknowledgeable as most sign people about this. You say "inspectors" - and as such they get to choose what they like and want. Their reasoning for such is up for grabs. UL still requires that metal letters be bonded - whether by conduit or by using the three wire led wire using one for the bond. Some inspectors, out here, like the conduit, flex or..... WORKING FOR NATIONALS - PRICING AFTER THE FACT Wondering how others handle this...we do a lot of work for nationals, both service and installation, and generally both sides are happy. What we're seeing more and more though is that after they receive their bill we get an email demanding lower parts pricing...even if we stayed under their NTE. We can either give them what they want or lose the account to someone who will. It's not so bad when they can replace our stock, say sending us a transformer, but when it comes to lamps..... 520 WILKIE - WHO HAS ONE AND DO YOU LIKE IT? We have a Wilkie 520, It is very reliable, for a small crane it is as good as the skyhooks I used to work with, having to work the load line to telescope in and out while on service calls is a slight inconvenience, but over all you can't beat them, hell for most repairs you can get the parts at any auto parts store........ SOLID WORKS SOFTWARE Has anyone here used (or heard of) Solidworks? It seems to be a graphical cad program, looks interesting but I only know of one sign company who uses it. We don't know the price yet, but will likely find that out next week. Anything anyone has heard would be appreciated!..... CNC ROUTERS - WHAT DO YOU USE? My boss has a goal - we are going to get a CNC router next year! I could use some info on the types of routers the industry uses, as well as the software. Thanks in advance!...... JUST READ SOMETHING COOL Just learned General Stanley McChrystal the formal commander of Afghanistan that Obama fired will give the keynote address at the 2011 ISA in Vegas. That's awesome, talk about a "man's" man, anyone read that Rolling Stone article about him? Anyway, I think I just might make it a point to see the Keynote just to see him. I'm impressed...... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

Halco Lighting Technologies® Introduces Electronic Sign Ballasts Norcross, GA. November 24, 2010 – Halco Lighting Technologies® announces the addition of ProLume® Electronic Sign Ballasts to replace their Magnetic Sign Ballasts. Four ballast models operate one to six lamps from 2 to 48 total feet. They are much lighter in weight than magnetic ballasts, making them easier to install and require less maintenance. These ballasts consume 25-40% less energy and operate cooler and quieter than magnetic sign ballasts. With an input voltage range of 120-277V, they can address more applications with fewer SKUs, reducing inventory costs. The parallel lamp operation ensures that if a lamp fails, the remaining lamps will continue operating, keeping the sign lit. These instant start ballasts provide reliable starting in temperatures as low as -20°F. ProLume’s electronic sign ballasts are UL listed and backed by a 3-year warranty. About Halco Lighting Technologies® Halco Lighting Technologies® is a leading manufacturer of lamps and ballasts designed for industrial/commercial, residential and special lighting applications. Halco’s extensive product line includes the following brands: Halco®, ProLume®, HaloXen®, ProLED®, Prism®, ProFormance®, Eco-Shield®, SureColor® and CoverShield. Established in 1974, the company has U.S. distribution centers in Atlanta, Cleveland, Houston and Phoenix. For more information, visit www.halcolighting.com. For information contact: Deby Forster Marketing Manager Halco Lighting Technologies (800) 558.2852 dforster@halcolighting.com ESignBallast.pdf

Light and human health: LED risks highlighted 15 Nov 2010 LED Magazine - Tim Whitaker Issues relating to the effects on health and well-being of artificial light are discussed in three recent publications; including one that says the blue-light component in white LEDs causes toxic stress to the retina. It is now accepted that artificial night-time lighting has various effects on humans (not to mention wildlife) and that exposure to optical radiation affects human physiology and behavior, both directly and indirectly. Many areas are not well understood, and a position statement from the Illumination Engineering Society (IES) emphasizes mainly the need for further research. At the other end of the scale, a French government report emphasizes the risks of LED lighting and makes various recommendations. IES position statement and DOE white paper The Illumination Engineering Society (IES) has released a position statement entitled "Effects of Exterior Lighting on Human Health (PS-03-10)," which is not specific to LEDs. The document states that "optical radiation detected by the retina impacts an individual’s behavior, psychology, and perception of the environment. The position of the IES is to promote and encourage a more complete understanding of human responses to optical radiation leading to improved designs for all lighted environments." The way to achieve this, says IES, is through additional research with specific emphasis on additional field research to document typical exposures to optical radiation in exterior settings. The document also states that "the position of the IES is that typical exposures to exterior lighting after sunset have not been shown to lead to cancer or other life-threatening conditions." Meanwhile, the DOE Solid-State Lighting program has produced a White Paper entitled "Light at Night: The Latest Science," which resulted from a panel session at the SSL Market Introduction workshop held in July 2010. The white paper concludes that, given the available research, it is unclear what changes, if any, should be made to current best-practice lighting design. "It is clear that additional peer-reviewed research and validation are required to determine the relative significance of the visual and the photo-neural effects of typical light exposures," says the report. ANSES highlights risks from LED lighting ANSES, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety, has published a report entitled (in English): " Lighting systems using light-emitting diodes: health issues to be considered," which focuses squarely on potential problems caused by LED lighting. The full report is available in French only, but the report summary (in English) says that risks have been identified concerning the use of certain LED lamps, raising potential health concerns for the general population and professionals. "The issues of most concern identified by the Agency concern the eye due to the toxic effect of blue light and the risk of glare," says the report, adding that the blue light necessary to obtain white LEDs causes "toxic stress" to the retina. Blue light causes a photochemical risk to the eye, says the report, the level of which depends on the accumulated dose of blue light to which the person has been exposed, which is generally the result of low-intensity exposure repeated over long periods. "Blue light is…recognized as being harmful and dangerous for the retina, as a result of cellular oxidative stress," says the report, adding that 3 groups are particularly at risk; children, populations which are already light-sensitive, and workers likely to be exposed to high-intensity lighting. The other main risk is from glare. The report say that, for indoor lighting, it is generally agreed that luminance higher than 10,000 cd/m² causes visual discomfort whatever the position of the lighting unit in the field of vision. Because the emission surfaces of LEDs are highly-concentrated point sources, the luminance of each individual source can be 1000 times higher than the discomfort level. The level of direct radiation from this type of source can therefore easily exceed the level of visual discomfort. Other risks related to the use of LED lighting systems have also been raised, but futher study is required. The report says that the photobiological safety standard (EN 62471) seems ill-adapted to lighting systems using LEDs, and that the Unified Glaring Rate used for the other types of lighting is unsuitable for LEDs. Among various recommendations, ANSES says that only LEDs falling into risk groups similar to those of traditional lighting systems be available to the general public, and that the highest risk lighting systems be reserved for professional use under conditions in which it is possible to guarantee the safety of workers. Manufacturers and integrators of lighting systems using LEDs are encouraged to use optics or diffusers, for example, so that the beams of light emitted by the LEDs cannot be seen directly, to avoid glare. Manufacturers should also take account of the progressive wear of layers of phosphor in white LEDs, which in time could lead to devices being moved from one photobiological risk group to a higher one, according to ANSES.

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" Every Sign Syndicate Board Newsletter we will send out links to our newest board news and information to make "The Happening" out in our industry known. NOVEMBER 15, 2010 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator This is that time of the year again where the holiday season starts... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing this months newest Neon/LED test results are out........future of HO Fluorescent light systems.....Sign industry and family time.......Regency Sign payment history and work relationships......Social media and the sign industry...... Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS THE GREAT WHITE HOPE New current cabinet pics are added to the pdf download file. Temps are cooling. Some manufacturers LED light output is rising but some continue to drop. PROJECT TIGHTY WHITEY Temps are cooling. Some manufacturers LED light output is rising but some continue to drop. http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=2842 THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT Since we started this project in warmer temps we're seeing better light output then when we started. http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3143 NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSIONS ADVANCED DISCONTINUES ELECTRONIC HO BALLASTS??? There are some TriPhosphor T-12 lamps being made - however they were no more efficient, but probably gave greater light output, brighter any way, but did not lend to be able to use wider spacing between the lamps. These were being made by providers to the sign market, which were not the big fluorescent lamp manufacturers..... TIME AND QUALITY OF LIFE My boss's however work long hours, I know they have families also. I was wondering how all you people in management who have a lot of responsibility to keep the business going, do it? Do you have time to spend with the family, or do they just accept the fact that you will be spending long hours at work? Is it hard for you to pry yourself away from work for family time? ..... REGENCY SIGNS The present Regency Signs which all this is about was...Apollo Signs,Then USA Signs located in E. Farmingdale Long Island NY. The New named company is Regency Signs now located in Deer Park, Long Island NY They have a 631 area code. As I said before...Same Circus, Different Clowns ............ "ONLY 5 PEOPLE POST" - A CHALLENGE I started this whole thread because I was told that there was NO REASON for N Glantz to post anything about their JT LED line using licensed white LED products and not infringing any patents. I said - "if they do not infringe - tell everyone that - I dont see any harm in N Glantz saying that if it is true". Seems odd he wouldnt post that - but he told me this site was just a crappy little place......... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

* Residence hall lighting retrofit project earns rebate and saves energy costs at University of Minnesota MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (11/08/2010) -Xcel Energy has issued a rebate check for $142,772 to the University of Minnesota Housing and Residential life staff for a residence hall lighting retrofit project done by the university's Energy Management department this year.(Media-Newswire.com) - MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL ( 11/08/2010 ) —Xcel Energy has issued a rebate check for $142,772 to the University of Minnesota Housing and Residential life staff for a residence hall lighting retrofit project done by the university's Energy Management department this year. University of Minnesota staff retrofitted more than 7,400 inefficient T12 lamped, magnetic ballasted fluorescent light fixtures with modern solid state ballasts and high efficiency T8 lamps in eight residence halls on the Twin Cities campus. The lighting retrofit has improved the quality of light provided in the students' living spaces, study areas, common areas and dining facilities, while saving money and reducing the university's carbon footprint. The project cost $404,000 upfront, but will pay for itself in 2.6 years. Along with the $142,772 rebate from Xcel Energy for the improvements, the university will save about $100,000 annually. "Housing and Residential Life came to Energy Management looking for ways to become more energy efficient and this lighting retrofit was a no-brainer," said Jim Green, assistant director in Energy Management at the U of M. "The end result is a better performing lighting system which consumes less energy." The lighting systems installed qualified for prescriptive rebates under Xcel's Lighting Efficiency Rebate Program which made the return on investment in this situation very attractive, Green said. "Everybody ended up a winner on this project and we'll continue to reap the benefits for many years to come," Green said. In 2008, the university set a goal to reduce campus energy consumption by five percent, saving $2.25 million annually and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25,000 tons per year. The five percent goal was met in March 2010, approximately three months ahead of schedule, due mostly to an aggressive building recommissioning program. As of Nov. 1, efficiency improvements implemented since April 2008 have saved the university more than $3 million annually in energy costs. The Residence Hall Lighting Retrofit is just one example of the hundreds of projects implemented as part of this overall energy efficiency initiative. The benefits of the retrofits are: Operating Savings -- approximately $100,000 annually Energy Savings -- 1,654, 951 kWh annually Carbon Savings -- approximately 1,374 Metric Tons annually

We got an interesting email "DOES SOCIAL MEDIA work for your company? Any company? The verdict is in........and its basic business 101. People should assess whether SOCIAL MEDIA was a good fit for their company before jumping in on the HYPE... For some businesses, Social Media DOESN'T WORK........."

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" Every Sign Syndicate Board Newsletter we will send out links to our newest board news and information to make "The Happening" out in our industry known. November 8, 2010 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator Countdown to the Holidays is in full effect... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing payment and relationships with a few National Sign Companies......What to expect on sign service for a franchise chain....updates to the Great White Hope Project....U.L. recognized sign work that is,not to U.L. but it labeled so anyway..... Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSIONS CHECK OUT THIS QUALITY NEON WORK...NOT!!! Beautiful, bet there was even UL stickers on it to boot. Ya know this is one prime example of why neon gets a bad rap. Its not the Physical neon, It;s the absolute Morons who make signs like that. Is it laziness, stupidity or just dont have a clue???? Wouldnt happen to have seen a name tag on there or even the UL #? .... ADVANCE DISCONTINUES ELECTRONIC HO BALLASTS - ANYONE KNOW WHY? I had a call from someone who said the same thing. I was just as surprised. I was also told that Advance is discontinuing all sign ballasts both magnetic and electronic. All I can say for now is that I have heard it second or third hand. No confirmation yet. ..... REGENCY SIGNS I got a RFQ from Regency Signs and started to do some research. According to signweb.com they used to be called USA signs. There were several posts on there warning of non-payment. Does anyone know anything about them or do work for them? I looked through our database and we did some work for USA signs a long time ago and it took 6 months for them to pay. Any info would great! ...... WHAT TO EXPECT Hi Folks.....We may have to service these Midas signs and was wondering if anyone with previous experience in them may be able to tell me what to expect when I open them up. The have vacuum formed faces and are shaped irregularly so I am not sure as to what type of lamps and ballast I may run across........ CUMMINGS SIGNS - PAYMENTS & RELATIONSHIPS hi all, we are a sign company in mexico that installed a job in monterrey mexico for bridgestone firestone, stan bell at cummings signs asked me to make the job, 4 months latter he found that the charge was very expensive, 400 milles away, 8 people, 2 cranes, 2 man lift, 10 work days in 4 diferent travels, fixing their signs because wrong pattern, working under extreme condition due.... GREAT WHITE HOPE (YEAR 3 & 4) (TOPIC PUBLIC) Updated today with Cabinet pictures displaying Nov 2008 project start, Nov 2009, and present time. It's a good picture comparison to show light degradation, or lumen maintenance. Be sure to check those out!..... EMPLOYMENT - LOOKING FOR? NEED TO FILL A POSITIONS? Well, check out the classified forum. Looks like there is a need, professionals want to help you and you may can improve your company by adding a few!!!!....... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

well that's weird...

hate to admit it.....but guess i'm here too...

MESSAGE FROM THE "UNDERGROUND CONDUIT" Every Sign Syndicate Board Newsletter we will send out links to our newest board news and information to make "The Happening" out in our industry known. October 25, 2010 By Kirstie Gastelum, SS Administrator This is the last day for our discounted yearly membership upgrades for sign companies and vendors....This will not again be offered again in 2011... This weeks discussions on The Sign Syndicate we are discussing a few Signs Of The Times Magazine articles......Sign Association Appointments & Placements.....LED Retrofitting and Recycling.....Project Facilities........Do all customers think LEDs are LEDs?.......Sign Industry employment........ Don't forget to log in under your free membership other wise you won't be able to see the The Sign Syndicate in it's entirety....and check out the newest products & specials from out Board Vendors below... NEWEST BOARD DISCUSSIONS HUMANS DON'T FEEL COMFORTABLE IN LED LIGHT - MARCUS THEILEN ARTICLE IN SIGNS OF THE TIMES MAGAZINE Correct, Marcus is not allowed to be product specific unlike other articles that have been written. He is not employed by a manufacturer or "sign shop" Most importantly he has a scientific background that goes far beyond the sign industry, located in Europe (which is far advanced in R&D on conserving energy than North America & China is)and will not put anything into writing or talk about....... SIGN ASSOCIATION APPOINTMENTS / PLACEMENTS - PUBLIC POLL Much like today, I feel like these Rhino's need to be ousted. Their time needs to be appreciated by all that they put forth so humbly but, the time needs to be finite.....This may sound harsh but I'm a firm believer that new ideas and fresh blood need to be brought in from time to time. The flood gates of "new" washing away that of which was "old" needs to happen from time to time. It gets to a point where it gets to "cliquey". Like today, a new chairperson or executive going in with good intentions might be easily.... LED RECYCLING AND RETROFITS I to would like to know what recycling is done to the replaced LED systems. Any flourescent system can be 100% recycled if the proper channels are followed. I think a good case study would be the CVS or walgreen program that has been converted back and forth a few times with differnt systems. Oddly enough the vast majority of neon that was removed, replaced and removed was clear red.......The Citgo sign is an excellent one location case and would definately like to see the results from that one....... PROJECT FACILITIES - FLUORESCENT & LED RETROFIT TEST, ROI This is a Comparison for 2 lamp 4' T-Bar Fluorescent lamp fixtures. The standard for this project is a T12 lamp on a magnetic ballast. We will be looking at comparing different size Fluorescent lamps as well as various LED systems for retrofitting.... BOARD PATRON / VENDOR MEMBERSHIP - SPECIAL EXPIRES OCT 25TH For all of those who would like to support this board......we have a membership upgrade special right in celebration of The Great White Hope Projects 2nd Birthday.....Board Patrons for sign companies $75 a year......Board Vendors $300 per year for Suppliers and Manufacturers...this comes with some free advertising packages............ IT'S ALL LED TO ME, MAKES YOU WONDER How many times do you lose a customer because your prices are higher. You bid out a job using Sloan. GE or a reputable company that stands the test. Or at least guarantees their product. The customer comes back and says "you're to high, I got a price using LED that was alot cheaper. They dont know anything except..L E D Sometimes I can convince them, sometimes not. I usually see them in 6 months wondering why their signs are dimming.... EMPLOYMENT - LOOKING FOR? NEED TO FILL A POSITIONS? Well, check out the classified forum. Looks like there is a need, professionals want to help you and you may can improve your company by adding a few!!!!....... NEW BOARD VENDORS PRODUCTS & SPECIALS 120 Watt, 90-277VAC input, 12 Volt DC Power Supply - only $55 - 2 Power supplies in one package From Axiom http://store.axiomled.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=PS120HD12 MET Labs UL48 Programe - An alternative to UL LETRO-LED Light Bars and Modules now Available in 2800K White - New Product From Eurocom http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4029 INSIDE SIGN DESIGN - A new industry setting design book that I dare you to find an equal http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=4005 PLASCO Trim Cap Special - Remember this stuff??? Introductory Special Offer!!! http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3904 NEW MONTHLY LIGHT PROJECT TESTING RESULTS

Have you tried MET?

Why Should I Upgrade? There are two kinds of memberships. Board Patrons for individual sign shops, & Board Vendors for Suppliers / Distributors / Wholesalers / Media / Associations, or anyone who sells products & services to sign shops. By upgrading your free membership you will be helping to support the Sign Syndicate develop helpful tutorials, build and update light sources testing for channel letters, sign cabinets and general lighting. As a thank you for supporting us you will have access to all tutorials and test results from our various board projects. We started out tested our testing in 2008, which consists of every major manufacturer of Neon & LED lamps continually updating them as new products get introduced. These tests help to make your buying decisions easier. The benefits of doing so are listed below: (You don't need a paypal account, any credit card can be used) Membership Purchase Link Board Patrons Board Patron $29.99 per year Status is only for individual sign shops, or sign shops who also do wholesale work for other sign shops. We will also use and separate at my own discretion should there be a conflict of interest. You will have access into our National Sign & Service Review Forum, Sign Company Installer Map, Post items in our Classified Section, Access to our Private Forum - The Order. Supporting our various Light Project Comparisons for Channel Letters and Sign Cabinets Light Projects These are the current Light Projects that The Sign Syndicate Exclusively holds at present, The Great White Hope, Project Tighty Whitey, and The Red Light District, Border Security, & Project Blue Light Special Over 50+ Different individual compartment testing of all major brand light products currently used on the market. Video Tutorials HV Probe Use Tutorial - How to use a HV Probe when serving neon, make sure your neon load on a transformer is correct. A lot of time when servicing someone else's work you might find that they didn't load the magnetic transformer correctly Capacitance Tutorial - This is a tutorial on a basic comparison on Neon GTO cable products put our by various manufacturers and how they compare to one another. How capacitance differs in various solid conduits but most importantly what toll they can put on your transformers. Video demonstrations to neon transformers reactions to loads of neon filled lamps, Hg filled lamps, and heavy capacitive loads Added Benefits as a Board Patron Sign companies will now have the added bonus to become listed in the Install & Service Map for easy finding . This directory & map can assist your company in obtaining sub-contract work from other sign companies across the country and further. You will also be the only members who can have graphics or links as signatures that will appear at the bottom in every post you make. Signature example: Install & Service Map Board Vendor I - Gross Sales Under ($500K) Board Vendor II - Gross Sales Over ($500K) Board Vendor I $350, Board Vendors II $500 Status is for Component Manufacturer's, Suppliers, Distributors, Industry Groups, Trade Magazine Staff & Sign Association. No longer can anyone in this category sign up for a Board Patron. For the duration of your membership: All the added benefits of Board Patron's PLUS... Board Vendors have their own Directory where they can promote their products & services in our Board Vendor List, also get customer feedback as well. Also with the ability to Promote, Mention their Products and services anywhere across the Board with some restrictions As a Vendor you are given a Affiliate banner located at the footer of this site for the membership duration, a rotating Board Vendor Banner seen on all phases of this website, a large horizontal banner that is rotated between Board Vendors in each weekly newsletter. Depending on the number of Board vendors participating in newsletter ads a possible second location will be opened Newsletter Banner Banner Size 175 x 700 Horizontal Board Vendor posts made in their directory, promoting or advertising their products and services will be shown at the bottom of the weekly newsletters under “NEW PRODUCTS & SPECIALS” as they come Affiliate Banner (Footer Location) Rotating Banner ALL MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTION OPTIONS CAN BE FOUND HERE http://www.thesignsyndicate.com/forums/index.php?/store/category/1-membership-upgrade/

You should see the other bloopers, I might post in the pvt forum. I/we debated about keeping that scene in among other things (also the shi&), but I thought to myself everyone has to have a sense of humor, I think! We're just trying to have fun with the site. We'll also start doing weekly news clips this way, but much shorter. This was our trial run. Believe it or not, it took two days, and 6-8 hours of footage crammed into 4 minutes. Didn;t think it would take this long, but, it's a first time. Oh my gosh...had to be longer...I had to do so many retakes and do this or do that, fix your make up, put your hair down...shoot......Erik is a tough boss to work for...ahhhhh And we might do this once a week...ahhhhhh LOL It was fun.....my kids thought it was funny listening to me do this over and over....haa haa