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Earth-leakage protective device
A device which will disconnect the mains supply to a transformer or transformers
in the event of a short circuit between any part of the secondary high voltage
circuit and earth. The device is in two parts, a sensor and a protective switch.
The functions of a sensor and protective switch may be combined in one unit.
Edgelit sign
An illuminated sign with the light source positioned along the top and/or
around the sides and the light transmitted into the panel. Text or graphics
can then be either engraved or applied, giving a much slimmer sign than
a full signcase.
Egg Crate
A patterned piece of plastic installed at the bottom of the arch and below
the light source in illuminated awnings to protect the tubes, keep them
clean, and help soften the light.
Electric Sign
Any sign containing or using electrical wiring.
Electronic Message Center
A variable message sign that utilizes computer-generated messages or some
other electronic means of changing copy. These signs include displays using
incandescent lamps, LEDs, LCDs or a flipper matrix.
Electrode
A device fitted at either end of a tube to allow the electrical discharge
within the tube to be connected to an external circuit. When an electrode
is connected to the negative pole of a supply, it will emit electrons and
is called a cathode. When it is connected to the positive pole of a supply,
it will receive electrons and is called an anode.
Electrode Shell
Refers to the metal cylinder inside the glass envelope of the electrode. It
is the source of the electric discharge in the neon lamp.
Electro-mechanical sign
A matrix or seven-bar sign in which a disc or bar is turned electro-mechanically
to display either of its two faces. One face is colored to blend into the
background and the other is colored to contrast with the background. These
are most commonly found in price display signs on petrol forecourts.
Electronic display
A general term referring to any type of electronic programmable display.
Elevation
A plan or drawing made from ground level showing the features of one side
of a structure or sign.
Embassy letter
An internally illuminated letter constructed from metal back and returns with
an acrylic face, in turn fitted with a reflective, highly-polished bevel
to enhance its daytime appearance. [Click here to view example]
Embassy Royal letter
Similar to an Embassy letter but with outward sloping returns.
Emboss
The process of producing raised letters, particularly those produced by engraving
dies or plates.
Embossing
Design features of a sign face which are raised; that is, which protrude outward
from the surface.
Engraving
Method of marking metal, plastic or glass in shallow, negative relief utilizing
a bit or graver. Engraving may be done freehand, using a pantograph or computer-driven
equipment. The engraved area may be filled to create greater contrast.
Ensuring electrical safety
The process of switching off the electrical supply to an installation, ensuring
that the supply cannot be switched back on again, checking that the supply
to the installation is dead and then proving that the instrument used to
do this is reading correctly.
Entrance canopy
A canopy or awning attached to a building's facade to provide protection and/or
lighting above the main entrance doorway.
Epoxy
A common form of glue that creates a strong adhesive between substances.
EPS
Encapsulated post script file, a standard graphics file format based on vectors.
Erect
To place a sign in its final location; install.
Exterior Illuminated Sign
A sign that is illuminated by a light source that is directed towards, and
shines on the face of a sign. Also called direct illumination.
Exploded view
Type of sketch where the components of the sign are shown separately or in
groups, rather than as a whole. However, the segments are arranged to show
their relationship to each other.
Exposed tubing
Sign where the surface of the tube(s) (normally neon) is visible.
Externally illuminated sign
An illuminated sign in which the light source is placed in front of the sign
face.
Extruded Aluminum
Used extensively for sign boxes, retainers and divider bars, the name comes
from the formation process in which aluminum is forced (extruded) through
a die.
Extrusion
A linear profile produced by forcing a raw material (usually aluminum or a
plastic) through a die to create a particular, often complex, shape. Term
often used to refer to the extruded aluminum members that make up the frames
of awnings or sign cases. |
