Starbucks Catalog

A been found to be a form of regulatory taking. The legality of amortization depends on state law and numerous other -Flush mount
conditions, and is frequently unenforceable.
Acetate
A tough, clear plastic film that`s ink-receptive and a popular substrate for point-of-purchasing advertising. Animation
The sequential switching on and of graphical, pictorial or decorative arrangements of fluorescent lamps, cold cathode
Acid-etching tubes, LEDs or bulbs to provide the illusion of movement.
A method similar to sandblasting, used primarily for marking glass. A stencil of the artwork is applied to the glass,
which is then brushed with an acid mixture such as ammonium and sodium bifloride. The surface is then washed and Animated Signs
the stencil is removed. A sign depicting action, motion, light or color changes through electrica l or mechanical means. Although
technologically similar to flashing signs, the animated sign emphasizes graphics and artistic display.
Acrylic
Although sometimes used as a generic term to describe plastics, acrylic is a particular type of plastic characterized by Anneal
its clarity and colorability (See Poly-Methyl Methacrylate). A process that prevents or removes strain by heating glass above a certain temperature and then cooling slowly in a
very controlled manner. Used in glass manufacturing.
Acrylic Paint
A paint with an acrylic resin base. Anodizing
Process by which a protective aluminum oxide layer is formed on an underlying metal using electrolysis as an integral
Adhesion part of that metal. Anodizing can create a variety of colors and special effects while providing a durable surface.
The ability of two materials to be held together at the molecular level, usually created through the use of an adhesive.
May also occur through suction. Annual Average Daily Traffic (Annual ADT)
Measurement representing the total number of vehicles passing a given location each day. These counts can usually
Advertising Media be obtained from your State Highway Department.
The means by which an advertising message is carried to potential customers; including Internet, magazine,
newspaper, radio, signage and television. Argon
An inert gas which, when mixed with mercury, is used in fluorescent lamps and neon tubes. In gas discharge tubes,
Aesthetics the combination of argon and mercury creates a blue color and ultra-violet light, and by itself argon is a pale lavender.
A term dealing with form, design, and/or quality of construction of a particular sign, building, site or structure, that
presents a judgmental statement concerning the level of beauty or artistic value. Artwork
Any illustrative material which is prepared for reproduction. It acts as controlling mechanism ensuring the graphic
Age In quality of items such as company symbols, logotypes, diagrams, text and color.
The initial lighting up of a neon lamp to achieve full brightness. The amount of time to `age in` can vary widely.
Ascender
Airbrush In a given typeface, the portions of the lower case b,d,f,h,k and l that extend above the height of the lowercase x.
A small pen-sized spray gun utilizing compressed air to generate a fine spray of paint. As air passes through the
head of the airbrush, a vacuum is created, siphoning the paint up from its container. Studio versions are generally Authorized person
gravity feed. A person employed, appointed or selected by his employer to carry out defined duties, such person being a
competent person.
Aluminum
Pure aluminum is soft and ductile and unsuitable for commercial use but with the addition of other elements such as Awning
copper, manganese, magnesium, silicon and zinc, the alloys produced have both strength and good working A shelter constructed of non-rigid materials on a supporting frame work which projects from and is supported by the
characteristics for many uses. In addition to flat sheets, aluminum can also be extruded into complex linear profile. exterior wall of a building. An awning may be illuminated and/or decorated with graphics to serve as a sign.
(See extrusion).
Awning Sign
Ambient Light A building mounted sign that provides additional functionality as shel ter.
The light in a given area. May be natural or man-made, but does not include direct or internal illumination.
A
Amortization
1) In accounting terms, this refers to the method in which an intangible asset is depreciated over a specified period of
time.
2) In terms relevant to signage and urban planning, it conveys the "grace period" beginning on the date a sign owner
is notified that removal of a previously conforming sign has been ordered, and ending on the date removal is
required. This process makes a structure, which was legally erected with all permits, legally non-conforming for
period of time. After an amortization period, the sign becomes illegal and non -conforming. Amortization has often

B Blue Gas -Flush mount
An EGL argon/neon gas mixture that contains mostly argon.
Background panel B
A panel onto which individual text or logo elements are fitted, either for support or for easier on -site installation. Bombarder
Properly a bombarding transformer, a bombarder provides a high voltage and higher current than is ordinarily used
Back-to-back with a neon tube for purposes of bombarding.
Two or more sign faces mounted on a common structure but facing in opposite directions. Many pole signs are back -
to-back or double-sided. Bombarding
The process of heating the glass and metal portions of a neon tube to a high temperature to release all absorbed
Ballast gases and other impurities. Improper bombarding may result in a decrease in illumination, darkening of the tube or
A device that operates as part of a fluorescent lamp circuit and is designed primarily to provide sufficient starting premature tube failure.
voltage. A ballast may also heat the lamp electrodes and, once the tube is in operation, limit the amount of electrical
energy going through the lamp. Border
Band that defines the outer edge of a sign.
Banner
A sign made of fabric, plastic or other non -rigid material which has no enclosing framework. May be painted, screen- Box Sign
printed, digitally printed or decorated with vinyl. A sign composed of lightweight material. Promotional banners include A sign which is totally enclosed and which may have internal lighting. Most box signs have translucent plastic portions
those used to announce open houses and grand openings, make special announcements, or communicate events. carrying text on one or more faces.
Ornamental banners use images or colors of a decorative nature.
Bronze
Base Plate An alloy of copper and zinc with traces of other materials, long associated with traditional institutional signage.
A flat, thick piece of steel (usually square or rectangular), welded to the bottom of a sign support. The base plate Bronze signs can be either lacquered, peroxides for protection or left to oxidize naturally.
adapts the support to the concrete foundation, to which it is secured with anchor bolts.
Built-up, flat faced (BUFF) letter
Backlighted Letter (See flat face(d) letter).
An illuminated reverse channel letter (open or translucent back) so light from the letter is directed against the surface
behind the letter producing a halo lighting effect around the letter. Also referred to as Silhouette lighted or halo Burning-In
lighted. Recommended to bring a neon tube to its proper brilliance, burning-in involves connecting the complete tube to a
transformer similar to that which will be used in the installation and allowing it to remain lighted until proper
Bench Sign brightness, color and electrical properties are achieved. Also called ageing.
A sign located on the seat or back of a bench or seat placed on or adjacent to a public right -of-way. A type of street
furniture. Burnish
To polish by rubbing. For instance, after gold leaf is applied to a substrate, it is burnished with a cotton cloth to bring
Bevel up the shine and reveal any holes where the leaf will have to applied a second time.
A flange more attractively fitted at an angle to the sign or letter fac e in such a way as to reflect ambient light.
Depending on the angle, a flange may be described as having a bevel (outward sloping) or an inverted bevel (inward Brand Equity(Branding)
sloping). The intangible, but real, value of words, graphics or symbols that are associated with the products or services offered
by a business. Developing branding of a site includes the presentation of signage and architecture to create a unique
Blackout awareness and memory by the potential customer of the products or services offered at that site. Brand equity for a
A type of paint used in the crossover connections between letters to prevent light spill. Special paints have been particular business is similar to the goodwill of an enterprise.
formulated for this purpose that offer a high-degree of adherence to glass, as well as resistance to weather heat,
light, high voltages and corona discharge. Building Code
State and/or local regulations governing public health, welfare and safety of construction and maintenance.
Bleed (1)
In screen printing, bleed refers to the portion of the job which extends beyond the area of the finished print. When the Building Fascia
print is cut or die-cut, the bleed is cut away. Also in screen printing, bleed is used to describe the area where one That portion of any elevation of a building extending vertically from the grade to the top parapet wall or eaves, and
color overprints another for purposes of registration. horizontally across the entire width of the building elevation, including slanted wall surfaces sometimes referred to as
a mansard.
Bleed (2)
Sometimes used to describe the visual halation which can occur to an illuminated sign around a letter/logo shape Building Mounted Sign
where there is a sharp contrast in colors. (See also Halation). A sign that is applied or attached to a building.

Block colors
Colors that are printed or painted without gradations, tints or s hades

C Chase (1) -Flush mount
The illusion of movement in neon tubes or incandescent bulbs created by turning the light sources on and off in
Cabinet Sign sequence. Chasing is more loosely related to animated signs than to flashing. It is achieved by using a chase, an C
A sign structure consisting of the frame and face(s), not including the internal components, embellishments or support electric component which can be programmed to provide the on and off sequence.
structure.
Chase (2)
Canopy To decorate metal, typically by engraving or cutting. Term can also be used to describe placing a normally surface -
See marquee. run cable into a recess to minimize its visual impact.

Canopy Sign Choke
1) A building -mounted sign functioning as a marquee. Small transformer used in fluorescent lighting circuits.
2) A sign mounted on a marquee or canopy.
Circuit breaker
CAD Electrical switch that literally breaks the circuit it begins to overload. It can prevent damage to signs and other
Computer aided design. The use of a computer with suitable graphics software to create a design, whether technical, electrically-driven equipment by automatically disrupting the flow of current.
engineering or graphical.
Cladding
CAM A facade or decorative cover added to a building (or sign) to hide the structural framework.
Computer aided manufacture. The use of a computer to control the operation of a machine tool. Su ch a tool may be
linked to a computer aided design station and the combination is then known as CADCAM. Classic letter
A metal channel or trough letter with a polished stainless steel bevel fitted aroun d the leading edge with an exposed
Candela cold cathode tube in the trough. [Click here to view example]
A unit of measure indicating the amount of intensity displayed by artificial light. Abbreviated as cd.
Clearance
Cap height The shortest distance between two conductive parts or between a conductive part and the interior surface of the
Height of an upper case letter used as a unit of measure. installation, measured through the air.

Caps and smalls Coating
Type consisting of capitals for initials and small caps in place of lower case. The process of applying a protective film to a sign. Coating includes such diverse activities as applying a layer of
varnish or japan color over gold leaf to laminating clear vinyl over a digitally-produced graphic.
Casting
A method for mass-producing metal or plastic letters or individual metal signs, depending on the material, a rubber or Coated Tubing
metal mould of the item to be cast is prepared. The molten material is then poured into the mould. Once the cast Clear glass tubing, coated on the interior surface with phosphorus powder. Coated tubing produces a variety of
material is cool, it is removed from the mould and finished. different light colors, dependent upon the specific mixture of phosphorus powders utilized.

CD ROM Cold Cathode Lamp
Compact disk read only memory. Non erasable storage of fonts etc. The name given to neon lamps with tubing diameters larger than 15 mm. Technically any lamp or sign with neon
electrodes is a cold cathode lamp. Cold cathode lamps use high voltage and low current, making them very energy
Central line of vision efficient.
Theoretical line of vision of a person looking straight ahead.
Cold Cathode
Changeable Copy Panel 1) Electric discharge lighting, which uses an electrode with a large metal mass to emit electrons. Neon tubing is a
A section of a sign that functions like a changeable copy sign. cold cathode type.
2) Generic term employed to specify custom interior lighting produced through the use of larger diameter cold
Changeable Copy Sign cathode tubing.
A variable message sign composed of individual letters panel -mounted in or on a track system.
Colored Tubing
Channel Letter Transparent glass tubing manufactured with color pigments, typically color examples include ruby red, canary yellow,
Fabricated or formed three-dimensional letter that may accommodate a light source. green, and midnight blue.

Character
Letter, numeral or punctuation mark.

C Cost Per Thousand (CPT) -Flush mount
Refers to the cost for an advertiser to send a message to 1000 receivers. The measure is calculated by dividing the
Conforming Sign amount of money spent for a given advertisement by the number of people exposed to it. (Based on this measure, C-D
A sign that is legally installed in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. signs are usually considered to be the least expensive form of advertising.)

Conspicuity Coverage
The characteristics of the sign that enable an observer to differentiate the sign from its surrounding environment. A marketing term that refers to the percentage of the total market population reached by an advertising message
displayed in a given medium; measured at least once a month.
Content Neutral: Time, Place, and Manner Regulations
Consistently applicable non-discriminatory sign regulations that specify, without reference to the content of the Creepage distance
message, when, how and where a sign can be displayed, with physical standards, such as but not limited to height, The shortest path between two conductive parts or between a conductive part and the interior surface of the
size and location, that allow the sign to be readable. installation,measured along the surface of the insulating material.

Contrast Cross section
The difference or degree of difference between things having similar or comparable natures, such as light and dark View of an object showing it cut through to expose its internal structure.
areas, colors, or typefaces.
Customer Acquisition Cost
Competent person Basic value calculation used to measure the cost versus return from the presence of signage; the cost of acquiring a
A person with sufficient training, knowledge or experience to prevent danger, having regard for the degree of customer.
supervision which is appropriate to the nature of the work.
Custom Sign
Component A sign designed, manufactured and installed to meet the requirements of a specific location.
One of the parts or pieces that together make a complete system or design. Reference is often made to design
components or the electrical component of a sign. Current
The flow of electric charge through a conductor. The unit of current is the Ampere or MilliAmp.
Condensed
A font in which the proportion of the letters, numbers and symbols has been altered by reducing their width. D

Conduit Daily Effective Circulation (DEC)
Metal or plastic tubes or piping which protect wires from weather or impact damage. The average number of daily potential exposures to a display or group of signs determined by counting only those
vehicles traveling toward the face of the sign, and then multiplying that number by the average number of people per
Contrast car during the hours the sign is visible. Pedestrian and mass transit circulations are not included. This is the basic
In design, the use of dissimilar or opposing elements, such as light and dark areas, warm and cool colors or script measure in establishing cost per thousand exposures on signs. The basic traffic numbers can usually be obtained
and block typefaces. from your State Department of Transportation.

Converter Deck Cabinet
A unit for the electronic conversion of an a.c. supply at one frequency to an a.c. supply at another frequency. The Similar in detail and use as a raceway except larger in cross section to provide a background area.
voltage may or may not be altered during the conversion.
Dead
Copyright An electrical supply which is at or about zero potential and disconnected from any live system.
The right of the creator of an original work to control the use of that work. In the UK it exists automatically by virtue of
the creation of the original work. Decal
Words, graphics or a combination of the two screen printed on the non-adhesive side of vinyl film, then cut to a
Copy specified shape using a plotter or die. Decals are often created when a large number of identical pieces are required
The words or message displayed on a sign. for a particular job or customer.

Copy Area Degrees Kelvin
Areas that enclose the actual copy on a sign. A unit of measure often used to describe a lamp`s color temperature. It is also a unit of measure of temperature.

Cost Approach (Valuation)
An approach to estimating the value of real property whereby the appraiser determines the production cost of the
property, minus any accrued depreciation. This approach does not merely include the hard costs of construction, but
includes all soft costs such as interest, permits, and fees. In sign appraisal this concept includes the cost of replacing
the message delivered to viewers.

D Dropshadow -Flush mount
A visual effect created on lettering by the addition of a second identically sized letter, of fset slightly to give the
Delaminating appearance of a shadow, thus making two -dimensional lettering appear to be three -dimensional. D-E
The separation of layers in a laminated substrate. The main cause of delaminating is adhesive failure.
E
Descaled stainless steel
Sheet stainless steel, mill rolled to standard thicknesses and descaled but having no other surface treatment, ready Earth-leakage protective device
for painting. 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
Descender protective switch. The functions of a sensor and protective switch may be combined in one unit.
In a given typeface, the portions of the lowercase g,j,p,q,y and sometimes the uppercase J that extend below the
base line. Edgelit sign
An illuminated sign with the light source positioned along the top and/or around the sides and the light transmitted
Dimensional Letter into the panel. Text or graphi cs can then be either engraved or applied, giving a much slimmer sign than a full
A specification description of a letter, logo or symbol, either cut out, cast, molded or fabricated in material such as signcase.
metal or plastic to create a raised condition.
Egg Crate
Directional Sign A patterned piece of plastic installed at the bottom of the arch and below the light source in illuminated awnings to
Signs designed to provide direction to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. protect the tubes, keep them clean, and help soften the light.

Directory Sign Electric Sign
A sign that identifies the names and locations of tenants in a multi -tenant building or in a development made up of a Any sign containing or using electrical wiring.
group of buildings.
Electronic Message Center
Die-cut A variable message sign that utilizes computer -generated messages or some other electronic means of changing
Refers to a cut made with a steel rule die manufactured for the purpose of cutting out a particular shape or job. Die- copy. These signs include displ ays using incandescent lamps, LEDs, LCDs or a flipper matrix.
cutting is commonly done when a large number of items - such as decals - are to be cut, or the shape consists of
something other than straight lines. Electrode
A device fitted at either end of a tube to allow the electrical discharge within the tube to be connected to an external
Dimming circuit. When an electrode is connected to the negative pole of a supply, it will emit electrons and is called a cathode.
The process of reducing the light output of a lamp or lamps from a high value to a low value. The term is also used for When it is connected to the positive pole of a supply, it will receive electrons and is called an anode.
increasing the light output from a low to a high value.
Electrode Shell
Directional Sign Refers to the metal cylinder inside the glass envelope of the electrode. It is the source of the electric discharge in the
One including text and/or arrows which direct traffic to (or within) a facility. neon lamp.

Directory Sign Electro-mechanical sign
An on-premise sign that identifies the names and locations of tenants in a multi-tenant building, or in a development A matrix or seven-bar sign in which a disc or bar is turned electro-mechanically to display either of its two faces. One
made up of a group of buildings. The information in a directory typically may include company logos, but no face is colored to blend into the background and the other is colored to contrast with the background. These are most
advertising copy. commonly found in price display signs on petrol forecourts.

Double faced Electronic display
A sign with two parallel but opposing faces; a back-to-back sign. A general term referring to any type of electronic programmable display.

Double-Faced Sign Elevation
A sign with two parallel opposing (back -to-back) faces. A plan or drawing made from ground level showing the features of one side of a structure or sign.

Double line Embassy letter
Two neon tubes running parallel to each other, often used for outlining or borders. 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.
Double-back
A 180° bend used in neon tubes to produce such letters as R,E,F and G. Often used to describe the technique and
placement of the electrode on the rear of a neon tube.

EF

Embassy Royal letter Fabricate -Flush mount
Similar to an Embassy letter but with outward sloping returns. To manufacture a sign or major sign components from raw materials or parts.
E-F
Emboss Facade
The process of producing raised letters, particularly those produced by engraving dies or plates. To architects, this usually means the front or the most prominent "face" of a building. In the sign industry, its meaning
extends to any area of a building where a sign may be installed effectively.
Embossing
Design features of a sign face which are raised; that is, which protrude outward from the surface. Face
(1) The decorated surface of a sign the area on which the copy and art is placed.
Engraving (2) Traditionally the printed surface of any type character. It now means the group or family to which a particular type
Method of marking metal, plastic or glass in shallow, negative relief utilizing a bit or graver. Engraving may be done of design belongs. (See also Typeface).
freehand, using a pantograph or computer-driven equipment. The engraved area may be filled to create greater
contrast. Fair Market Approach
One of three appraisal approaches. The highest price at which a property could be sold given a reasonable exposure
Ensuring electrical safety period in the market. The price is arrived at by a willing seller and willing buyer, neith er being under duress to act.
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 Fascia sign
reading correctly. A sign which is fixed on vertical surfaces such as a wall. It will not normally have a significant projection from that
wall. It is intended to be viewed from a position opposite to the mounting surface.
Entrance canopy
A canopy or awning attached to a building's facade to provide protection and/or lighting above the main entrance Fasteners
doorway. Items that help hold a sign together and/or in position, including nuts and bolts.

Epoxy Feature joints
A common form of glue that cr eates a strong adhesive between substances. A joint in metal or plastic panels which may be recessed. Sometimes referred to as an expressed joint or shadow joint
or gap.
EPS
Encapsulated post script file, a standard graphics file format based on vectors. Fibre optic sign
A sign in which light is transmitted through optical fibres, the ends of the fibres being arranged to form either the dots
Erect of a matrix sign or the outline of a message.
To place a sign in its final location; install.
Filament lamp sign
Exterior Illuminated Sign A power illuminated sign that uses tungsten filament lamps.
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. File format
The way in which a program saves data to work with others using different applications.
Exploded view
Type of sketch where the components of the sign are shown separately or in groups, rather than as a whole. Fill Pressure
However, the segments are arranged to show their relationship to each other. The pressure of inert gas that is put in a neon lamp after processing.

Exposed tubing Finger post sign
Sign where the surface of the tube(s) (normally neon) is visible. A post mounted sign that functions as a direction sign and has one or more sign planks that point in the general
direction of the destinations.
Externally illuminated sign
An illuminated sign in which the light source is placed in front of the sign face. Fireman switch
Part of the statutory requirements for the installations of electrical signs.
Extruded Aluminum
Used extensively for sign boxes, retainers and divider bars, the name comes from the formation process in which First Surface
aluminum is forced (extruded) through a die. The most external surface of a sign face; the surface most exposed to th e elements.

Extrusion Flange
A linear profile produced by forcing a raw material (usually aluminum or a plastic) through a di e to create a particular, A frame for the sign or letter face. This usually consists of a thin strip of metal, attached at 90° the return of the sign
and is designed to retain the plastic face.

F

Flasher Font -Flush mount
A device for switching one or more lamp circuits on and off . Although flashers may be constructed to provide any A set of letters, numerals, and shapes, which conform to a specific set of design criteria. Refers to the style of a
animation sequence, certain popular sequences are available. These include flashers to provide border chasing and particular typeface designed of letters, numbers and symbols, such as Helvetica Bold or Times Roman. Until the F-G
spelling effects. development of the computer and scaleable fonts, references to fonts also included the size, such as 10 point.

Flashing sequence Footing
The order in which the contacts (or semiconductor switches) of a flasher are operated and the time intervals between The projecting base of a sign pole or pylon, including the portion that is buried in the ground.
their operation.
Footing or Foundation
Flat face(d) letter The concrete substructure of a ground-mounted sign. When of cube shape, it is referred to as a block foundation.
A non-illuminated individual letter or character, normally constructed from metal, with a flat front and perpendicular When round or tube-shaped, it`s called a caisson.
returns. [Click here to view example]
Formed
Flex Face Refers to a plastic face or letter that has been heated and shaped to give it dimension.
A sign face made of a flexible vinyl material reinforced with a fabric and then stretched over a frame.
Freehand
Flexible face material To draw without the use of measurements or instrumen ts.
Thin translucent sheeting, usually of PVC or polyester material, reinforced by internal fibres, which may be used as a
sign face and decorated by a legend. The material has the advantage of being able to cover large areas in one piece. Freestanding Sign
A sign that is not attached to a building.
Fluorescent
Having the quality of appearing to take in radiation and send it back out as visible light. Refers to the appeared on Frequency
some specialty colors of paint, vinyl or screen printing ink. The average number of times an individual has the opportunity to see an advertising message during a defined
period of time. Typically measured over a four -week period.
Fluorescent lamp or tube
A type of lamp in which the light is produced by the fluorescence of a phosphor coating in the tube. In a fluorescent Front Lighted Letter
lamp, the tube is coated with phosphors and then filled with a mix of argon gas and mercury. When electrical current An illuminated channel letter with translucent face.
passes between the electrodes, the gas mixture emits ultra-violet (UV) light. The UV is absorbed by the phosphors,
which then radiate the energy as visible light. A starter ballast help reg ulate the current and voltage necessary to Full Service Sign Companies
ionize the gases in the tube. Fluorescent lamps are more efficient than incandescent bulbs and are a popular source Sign companies that complete the entire signage project, including surveying, designing, engineering, permitting,
of illumination for many signs. manufacturing, installing, and maintaining signs.

Fluorescent tube sign G
An illuminated sign that uses tubular fluorescent lamps.
Gauge (swg)
Flush A method for measuring the thickness of sheet metal. In the sign industry, most sheet metal ranges from 10 -26 swg,
A way of arranging lines of copy in which they are aligned perpendicular to the right (flush right) or left (flush left) where 10 swg is approximately 3mm thick. The higher the gauge number, the thinner the sheet.
margins or with both (full flush) margins. Also known as justification.
Gilding
Flashing Sign Considered by many traditionalists to be the highest form of sign art, gilding is the application of thin metal sheets
A sign with an intermittent or flashing light source. Generally, the sign's message is constantly repeated, and the sign (see gold leaf) to glass, signs and vehicles. After the work surface is clean and the design is marked out, a gelatine
is most often used as a primary attention-getting device. Government highway departments frequently use flashing sizing is brushed on the area to be gilded. The gold leaf is then carried to the work site through the use of the gilder`s
signs to improve highway safety. tip and static electricity. After the entire area is dry, the gold leaf is burnished and holes and imperfections in the gild
are filled. The final step is painting the backs of the letters (and an outline) if the gild is reversed on a window, or
Flat Cutout Letter outlining them if it is a direct gild.
A dimensional letter cut from sheet or plate stock.
Glare
Foam board Glare results from areas of high brightness in the visual field and can cause discomfort, irritation and obscuration of
A type of lightweight, rigid board used for interior signs. Foam boards consist of a foam center sheet laminated on the message.
one or both sides by a variety of substrates.

G Halo -Flush mount
A ring of light. In sign making, the effect achieved by reverse channel letters, which appear to be r inged by light
Glass sleeves because the lights source is reflecting on the background from which the letters are pegged -out. G-I
On some older neon tube installations, clear glass units designed to add insulation to the electrodes and other wiring.
Halo letter
Gloss A type of sign construction where the light generated within the letter or emblem is allowed to floodlight the surface on
This shine on a smooth surface, such as paint or vinyl. (See also matt). which the sign is mounted. The letter or emblem appears as a dark shape against a lit background. [Click here to
view example]
Gold leaf
Literally, gold manufactured into thin leaves; the gold used in gilding. Gold leaf comes between sheets of tissue, with Hanging sign
each leaf 3 3/8" square. The leaves are packaged in books of 25, and a cardboard box of 20 books is sold as a pack. A double-faced sign which hangs from a bracket or support and projects from a wall, building or pole. Also called a
Gold leaf comes in a range of colors and carats, with 14-18 carat for use on interior applications such as glass. The projecting sign.
best gold leaf, 23 carat, is reserved for exterior work on vehicles and signs.
Header
Grid tubes A separate board above the rest of a sign that gives it a headline or contains a different advertising message for the
Neon tubes laid out in parallel or concentric lines for lighting translucent signs or channel letters. same product. Most often seen with point-of-purchase advertising.

Ground Sign H Channel Letter
A freestanding sign with no visible support structure. A dimensional letter with baffles at the center of the cross-sectional shape for support of neon tubing and mounting of
transformers.
Grommet (1)
A rubber (or similar) eyelet fitted to the inside of the cable entry hole on the rear of a sign to protect the cable from High voltage
chaffing against the metal edge of hole and, where appropriate, prevent ingress of water. A voltage exceeding 1000 V a.c. or 1500 V d.c. between conductors, or 600 V a.c. or 900 V d.c. between conductors
and earth. Cold cathode or neon signs operate at up to 10,000 V.
Grommet (2)
A reinforced metal eyelet found in banners used to receive cords or other fasteners. High-reactance transformer
This is sometimes called a "stray-field transformer". It includes a construction which combines the function of a step -
Ground clearance up transformer and ballast.
The shortest distance between the lowest portion of a sign or awning and the ground.
High-Rise Sign
Ground sign A tall freestanding sign.
A free-standing sign that is mounted on poles or braces, without any secondary support.
Hot cathode
GTO Cable An electrode which, during normal operation, has its temperature raised to a red heat. It is coated with an emissive
Electrical wire specifically designed to carry the high voltage of a neon transformer. material and emits electrons by a process known as thermionic emission. Fluorescent tubes are hot cathode.

Guardian letter Hot cathode lamp
A built up, metal letter w ith a curved face from highly-polished stainless steel can be either non -illuminated or have A lamp that uses coils and a ballast such as fluorescent light bulbs.
halo illumination to add night-time impact. [Click here to view example]
I
H
Identification sign
Hairline joint A sign giving the business`s name only for purposes of identifica tion. An identification sign can also be one provided
Smallest possible joint between two edges. by an advertiser with his name and/or slogan, as well as that of the business displaying the sign.

Halation Illuminance
An effect caused by extreme contrast between the illuminated and unilluminated portions of a sign and which affects The luminous flux density at the surface being lit, usually measured with a light meter. T he unit is the lux, one lumen
the ability of the eye to focus on that sign. The effect is a lso dependent on color. per square meter.

Halftone
In screen printing, the process of converting images into dots of various sizes with equal spacing between centers.

I

Illuminated sign Invertors -Flush mount
A sign that emits or reflects light from either an internal (electric) source or external floodlights. An electric energy transducer that converts unidirectional current to alternating current .It may also include means of
transforming the supply voltage and arrangements which help provide the starting voltage, prevent cold starting, I-L
Illuminated sign case reduce stroboscopic effects, correct the power factor and/or suppress radio interference.
A sign consisting of a cabinet containing a light source surroun ded by one or more translucent faces which may be IP ratings
illuminated for visibility. The IP rating system provides a means of classifying the degrees of pr otection from dust, water and impact.
ISA
Impulse Buying International Sign Association.
An unplanned or shifted purchase. Italic
Alphabet that consists of sloping characters.
Incandescent Bulb
A lamp that produces light through the application of electrical energy to a wire filament, which glows as it is heated. J

Interior Signs Just Compensation
Signs that are located inside a building or other facility. The full monetary value to be paid for property taken by the government in accordance with the Fifth Amendment of
the U.S. Constitution. Just compensation is generally determined by obtaining an appraisal.
Internally Illuminated Signs
A sign that is illuminated by a light source that is contained inside the sign. K

Incandescent Kickers
The common form of electric lamp; which unlike fluorescent or neon, generates light from a heated filament in a Supports that jut out from behind a sign or structure to give it more support; another point of attachment
vacuum.
L
Incandescent bulb
A lamp that produces light through the application of electrical energy to a wire filament, which glows as it is heated. Lacquer
The average household light bulb is an incandescent bulb. It remains a popular light source for many signs. A type of clear finishing material similar to varnish and preferred by sign makers because of its abilities to dry quickly
and not be affected by the presence of dust.
Inert Gas
A gas that does not react with other substances. They include neon, argon, helium, krypton and xenon. They are also Lambert
referred to as noble or rare gases. A unit of measure of light luminance.

Initial lumens Laminate
The lumen output of a lamp, measured after an agreed ageing period - (1 hour for incandescent and 100 hours for A process by which different materials are layered and then bonded together using adhesion. The end result may be
discharge lamps) under standard test conditions. the creation of a substrate such as medium density overlay (MDO) or the protection of the underlying surface, as
when a clear plastic film is laminated to a decorated surface.
Input end (low-voltage circuit)
Refers to the part of the device between the feeding point and the input terminals of the transformer, converter or Lampbank
invertors. Columns or rows of lamps. Also used to refer to the part of larger message centers tha t the public sees; columns and
rows of lamps.
Installer
The person, qualified in sign installation practice, who takes responsibility for the quality of the installation and its
testing.

Insulating sleeve
Insulation designed to be placed over the exposed high-voltage connections at tube electrodes or over cable-end
insulators. Some types of insulating sleeves were previously called "bell glasses".

Intensity
The density or opaqueness of a color. Also, the amount of light put out by a lamp.

Internally illuminated sign
An illuminated sign in which the light source is placed within the sign.

L Listed Sign -Flush mount
A sign labeled to indicate that the manufacturer of the sign is identified in a list published by a National Recognized
Lamps Testing Laboratory as producing signs in conformance with the applicable American National Standard. L
Light is produced by lamps but, because of they are made as long thin tubes, most discharge lamps used by the sign
industry are referred to as "Tubes". Liquid crystal display
(See LCD).
Landscape format
Proportion of a sign in which height is appreciably shorter than width. Live
An electrical circuit which is electrically charged.
Lap joints
Method of making overlapping vertical joints in acrylic panels. Usually used with supporting clear reinforcement. Live part
A conductor or conductive part intended to be energized in normal use, including the neutral conductor but, by
Laser convention, not a P.E.N conductor.
Stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. An intense light beam with a very narrow band
width gaining popularity as a tool for engraving and cutting. Logo
A design that represents goods, identity or service. Traditionally, any group of type characters (3 or more characters)
Layout such as a company name or product name linked or grouped and displayed in a fixed format and not to be confused
The total arrangement of a sign`s graphics. Shows the overall plan of how the artwork and copy will be arranged on with company symbols, abstract or pictorial. The term is currently used to describe any design or symbol, with or
the face. without supporting lettering, prepared for a corporation or organization which forms the centerpiece of its corporate
identity.
LCD (liquid crystal display)
A type of electronic sign utilizing liquid crystals that become opaque or clear when exposed to a controlled voltage. Low voltage
Although LCD`s are most common in calculators and digital watches, they are also used in some time and A voltage normally exceeding 50 V a.c. or 120 V whether between conductors or to earth, but not exceeding 1000V
temperature displays. a.c. or 1500 V d.c. between conductors, or 600 V a.c. or 900 V between conductors and earth.

Lead coated Steel Lower case letter
Sheet steel treated with a lead coating and once used extensively in the sign industry for its rust resistance and Letter in an alphabet other than an upper case (capital) letter.
soldering qualities. Not used in large quantity today because of the same lead coating.
Lumens
Lead glass The standard measure of light radiation. (For example, one candle emits 12.5664 lumens).
So called because it contains around 25% lead oxide and popular in most parts of the world for use in the
manufacture of cold cathode tubes and in particular the electrodes. Luminance
A measure of the brightness of a sign. It is usually applied to signs with a significant surface area (not point sources)
LED (light emitting diode) and is expressed in terms of Candelas per Square Meter.
A type of electronic sign that utilizes hundreds of light emitting diodes electronic chip a nd colored lens assemblies in
single and tri-color matrixes. LED`s are physically flexible and inexpensive to operate when compared to other Luminance Ratio
message centers. Any sign face will have parts which have a higher luminance than other parts. The ratio of the luminance of the
brighter parts to that of the less bright parts is called the luminance ratio. If this is too large, the illumination of the sign
Legibility face will appear patchy.
The characteristics of letters, numbers, graphics, or symbols that make it possible to differentiate one from the other.
See Conspicuity. The quality of a sign`s typefaces that allows it to be easily read and deciphered. (See readability). Luminescence
The quality of giving off light by the absorption of radiant energy. Used to describe any cold light.
Letter space
Horizontal space between characters. Luminous (discharge) tube
Another name for a neon tube. A luminous tube consists of a sealed glass vacuum tube with an electrod e at each
Light emitting diode end containing a specific gas. As an electrical current is passed between the electrodes, the gas is ionized and emits
(See LED). light. The color of the light is determined by the gas and phosphor, which the tube contains.

Light Output Ratio Luminous efficacy
The ratio of the total light emitted by a luminaire (light fitting) to the total light output of the lamp or lamps it contain s. It The lumen output of a lamp per Watt of power it consumes.
is always less than 1.

Line space
Vertical space between adjoining lines of text.

M

Maintaining electrical safety Mercury -Flush mount
The process of "Ensuring electrical safety" followed by the application of means to ensure that circuit cannot A heavy, silver -white metallic element, liquid at room temperature. When heated to a vapor through which an electric
inadvertently be made live again. current is discharged, it produces a bluish-green light. It is mixed with rare gases typically argon, to produce M-O
ultraviolet light necessary to excite phosphors in neon and fluorescent lamps.
Mall Signage
A wide variety of typical on-premise sign types located within the interior of a multi-tenant building or mall. Mercury tube
A low pressure discharge tube containing mercury vapor to assist electrical discharge. Tubes usually contain either
Manual On Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTC D) argon or a neon/argon gas mixture.
This manual establishes minimum standards of placement that a sign must achieve to accomplish readability and
conspicuity. The manual covers a range of traffic control devices; specifically signs, which it breaks into three Mild steel
categories-guide signs, warning signs, and directional signs. It is based on the principle that signage deficiencies A low carbon alloy of iron and carbon, most commonly used in angle and chan nel form to provide structural strength
cause traffic accidents. and rigidity for signs and structures.

Marquee Monument sign
A permanent canopy often of metal and glass projecting over an entrance. A free standing sign sitting directly on the ground or mounted on a low base.

Marquee Sign Mottled
1) a sign mounted on a permanent canopy, A surface finish that is rough or uneven; to mark or pattern with irregular patches of color.
2) a traditional industry term for the variable message section of a canopy sign,
3) an integral sign and permanent canopy. Molded letter
An individual letter or character formed by plastic or acrylic sheet being heated and then shaped over a mould. After
Manifold cooling, the sheet retains the shape of the mould and after trimming the molded piece is then either used as a shaped
The part of the neon pumping system to which the tubes are attached for pumping. The manifold is a system of letter face or as a letter on its own. [Click here to view example]
vacuum tight tubing arranged so that one or more tubes can be attached to it, evacuated with a vacuum system, and
filled with rare gases. Molding
The material usually wood, framing a signboard.
Margin
Space between the message zone or symbol and the outer edge of a signboard,margins and any border. Sometimes N
refers to original control area.
Neon
Marquee Glass tubing filled with fluorescent gases when exposed to electricity glow causing a lighting effect.
A projecting structure permanently attached to, but not a part of the roof. Also known as a canopy.
O
Masking
In painting or screen printing, the process of covering usually with tape or paper areas to protect them from receiving Off-Premise Sign
subsequent layers of paint or ink. Any sign that is not appurtenant to the use of the property, a product sold, or the sale or lease of the property on
which it is displayed, and that does not identify the place of business as purveyor of the merchandise, services, etc.,
Matrix sign advertised upon the sign. Also known as Outdoor Advertising.
A variable sign on which messages are formed by the controlled display of individual units of dots, bars or other
shapes arranged on a pre-determined grid. On-Premise Sign
A communication device whose message and design relates to a business, an event, g oods, profession or service
Matt being conducted, sold or offered on the same property as there the sign is erected.
Having a dull surface, not shiny. (See also gloss) .

Menu board
A changeable point of purchase advertising display that allows the retailer to list products and prices. A variable
message sign that allows a retailer to list products and prices. For example, the bill of fare for a fast food restaurant.

Message Center
Any sign that displays changeable copy through electronic or mechanical means.

O Pan Face -Flush mount
A plastic sign face molded into a three dimensional shape. Also called molded face, molded and embossed face,
Open Channel Letter molded and dembossed face. O-P
A dimensional letter that has no face and, if illuminated with the light source visible. A clear face for physical
protection of internal components may be used. Parpaet Sign
A sign mounted on top of the parapet of a building. (See building mounted sign.)
Opaque
Means the opposite of transparent, and may refer to the substrate itself or to painted and pigmented areas of a face Perceived size
panel which block light. Some plastics are translucent; that is, somewhere between opaque and transparent. Size that a character or symbol appears to be because of its relationship to its surroundings, as against its actual
size.
Open-circuit protective device
A device which will disconnect the mains supply to a transformer or transformers in the event of an interruption of the Permanent Sign
secondary high voltage circuit. A sign attached to a building, structure, or the ground in a manner that enables the sign to resist environmental loads,
such as wind, and precludes ready removal or movement of the sign.
Output end (lamp circuit)
Refers to the part of the device between the output terminals of the transformer, converter or invertors and the Permit
discharge tubes inclusive. A license granted by the appropriate authorities to allow a sign to be erected. (See also Planning Permission)

Oven pumping Perspex
A process whereby the temperature of the tube is raised during pumping by placing it within an oven. The electrodes A trade name for a brand or acrylic sheeting, often used as a generic term for a crylic.
are usually separately heated by means of a high frequency induction heater.
Phosphor
Overlap A fine powder which is coated on the inside of tubing and has the property of emitting visible light when irradiated by
Amount of material either cut or printed in one panel (or tile) that duplicates what`s done in the panel (tile). The ultra-violet energy. Different phosphors emit light of different colors.
overlapped image allows for alignment when assembling and installing a larger image.
Phosphorescent sign
P A sign that uses phosphors as a pigmentation and emits light for a period of time after the energy source has been
removed.
Paint
A liquid coating made up of pigment suspended in a vehicle or binder. Common paint vehicles include resin dissolved Phosphors
in solvents or water. Paint may be brushed, sprayed or rolled on a substrate. It dries to a hard film that bonds the Chemical powders used to coat the inside of fluorescent tubes. They can become excited when subjected to ultra -
pigment to the surface and may often be stove enameled to enhance its durability. violet light produced by the discharge in a luminous tube. A range of phosphors is available and is capable of
producing a large variety of colors and whites.
Painted Wall Sign
See building mounted sign. Pictogram
A pictorial symbol commonly found in environmental graphics and regulatory (traffic) signs.
Panel
(1) The part of a sign fitted to a signcase to become the front most, continuous surface. Pictorial
(2) A sub -division of a large sign resulting from constraints in raw material sheet size or the working area of a A picture on a sign that does not involve animation. Common pictorials can range from one color graphic symbols to
machine, such as laser or router. full color scenics and portraits, such as those found on pub signs.

Pantone Matching System (PMS) Pigment
Standardized series of thousands printing ink of colors, each with specific color formulations and identification A compound used to color other materials, such as paints and inks. Pigments are i nsoluble, finely ground particles
number. PMS colors are duplicated in swatch books and in computer graphics programs to allow exact duplication of and may be organic or inorganic.
colors in printing and other marking processes, such as sign making. However, in sign making where colors are often
viewed with transmitted rather than reflected light, a precise match can seldom be made. Beware apparent color Planning Permission
differences between coated and uncoated variations when trying to match to other media such as paints. Authorization required from the Local Planning Authority to install an illuminated sign or billboard. (For details of the
regulations which apply in the UK, click on Planning on the menu bar above).
Pan Channel Letter
A dimensional letter that is constructed with side walls, back and a face making the letter a solid integral unit with the Plastic
side walls and back having a pan-shaped cross section. A generic term for a wide range of synthetic materials which consist of long chains of polymers that are moldable and
soften when heated. Plastic used in the sign industry are typically of the thermoplastic variety, which means they can
melt and solidify repeatedly.

P Portable Sign -Flush mount
An on-premise sign which is capable of being repositioned without the need for specialist help. These could include
Plastic Faced Letter free-standing signs or notices as well as point-of-purchase signs. P
Channel letter in which the front of the channel is covered by a plastic face, hiding the neon tube from view. (See also
Regency and Embassy letters). Portrait Format
Proportion of a sign in which height is appreciably longer than width.
Plexiglas
A trade name for a brand or acrylic sheeting, often used as a generic term for acrylic. Post mounted sign
A sign that is fixed to one or more sign poles.
Plotter
Device that interprets information sent from a computer and moves a drawing device or tool head to a series of co- Poster
ordinates based on the device`s X and Y axes. Sign makers use a plotter equipped with a knife to cut vinyl, with the X A series of paper sheets printed for use on a billboard. Also, a sign typically printed on paper and intended for indoor
and Y co-ordinates forming an outline that can be weeded and installed on a surface. Sign-cutting plotters can be use. Other substrates used for posters include plastic and cloth.
flatbed, where the knife-head is in a mobile gantry that moves to X and Y points; or drum, where the material is
moved to find X co-ordinates and the knife drawing device or head moves to Y points along a stationary gantry. Powder coating
(See Polyester Powder Coating).
Plywood
A common type of wood product sold in 4' x 8' sheets. Plywood is made of a number of thin sheets of wood laminat ed Power-factor correction
together with the grain of the adjacent layers perpendicular, except for the two outside plies, which are parallel to A method of reducing the supply current of a reactive circuit to a value which is close to that which would be expected
provide stability. from the power of the circuit. With inductive circuits, this will usually be achieved by connecting a suitable capacitor
across the supply terminals.
Point-of-Purchase Sign
Signage that advertises a product at its point of sale, or "point of purchase" location. Pressure-Sensitive
An adhesive that reacts when pressure is applied to the surfaces it is between. Sometimes used to refer to vinyl with
Pole or Pylon Cover a pressure-sensitive adhesive.
An enclosure for concealing and/or for decorating poles or other structural supports of a ground sign.
Primary colors
Pole Sign The three colors from which all other colors can be created. In painting, the primary colors are yellow, red and blue. In
A freestanding sign with visible support structure. A free standing sign, usually double -faced, mounted on a round process color, the three are yellow, magenta (red) and cyan (blue). In light, the primary colors are red, green and
pole, square tube or other fabricated member without any type of secondary support. blue.

Polished stainless steel Primary wiring
Stainless steel with a highly polished, almost chrome-like, front surface. Electrical wiring that directly connects a transformer to the breaker box.

Polycarbonate Prime
A plastic material with greater impact strength than acrylic. Exampl es of trade names for polycarbonate include To coat a subs trate prior to the application of paint or adhesive. A primer coat prevents subsequent coats of paint or
Makrolon and Lexan. adhesive from being absorbed. The process is intended to improve the performance and life of the product.

Polyester powder coating Projecting Sign
An alternative to a paint finish in which the Polyester powder is given a negative charge and applied to a surface with A sign which projects at right angles to a wall and is designed to be viewed from up or down the street. Projecting
a positive charge, using a spray gun, before oven baking at a high temperature. signs usually have graphics on either side. A building mounted sign with the faces of the sign perpendicular to the
building fascia.
Poly-methyl methacrylate (Acrylic)
A very stable plastic material, widely used in sign manufacture. Examples of trade names for acrylic plastics include Protective switch
Perspex, Plexiglas and Altuglas. That part of a protective device which disconnects the mains supply to a transformer or transformers. It is operated by
an electrical signal obtained from a sensor.
Polypropylene
A type of plastic used in banners, noted for its flexibility at low temperatures and its resistance to chemicals. Prototype
A full-sized example to serve as a model from which other similar or identical signs will be produced. A trial model.
Polyurethane
A type of hard foam product used in sign production. It has the density and characteristics of wood, but only one -third Pulltrusion
of the weight and can be used for carving and sandblasting signs much like wood. A manufacturing process for producing continuous lengths of reinforced plastic structural shapes. Raw materials are

P

Pumping Raceway
A process to remove all air and other impurities from the tube, before it is filled with the desired gases. The process is An electrical enclosure that may also serve as a mounting structure for the sign.
usually combined with heating the tube to ensure that all impurities are released from its compon ents.
Readability
Pumping system (Also conspicuity.) The quality that enables the observer to correctly perceive the message. In transportation
In neon tube production, the pumping system is used to remove impurities from the tubes and fill them with rare engineering, this word is being replaced by conspicuity.
gases. A pumping system typically consists of a manifold, vacuum pump, rare gases, a bombarder and electrical
controllers. Recall
In signage, this refers to the ability of a viewer to remember the message even when they are not viewing it.
Push-through
A letter or graphic which is cut out, then pushed through a corresponding space that has been removed from the sign Recognition
substrate. The push-through is typically a different color and/or material than the rest of the sign. Refers to the ability of a viewer to identify the message.

PVC Regulatory Sign
Polyvinyl chloride, the most common plastic in use in the world. PVC is extruded or cast as sheets in a variety of A sign having the primary purpose of conveying information concerning rules, ordinances or laws.
colors and thicknesses which are weather and chemical resistant.
Retainer
Pylon A framing member mounted around the perimeter of a sign face, and attached to the sign cabinet structure. It is
Any free standing sign that is not a pole or ground sign. designed to attach the face to the cabinet and/or intended to provide a decorating trim piece.

Pyrex Return
A type of glass used in the production of lamps, fluorescent and cold cathode, in parts of Europe and particularly The sides of a channel letter.
France. Not used widely elsewhere because of the higher temperatures needed to form it but is less susceptible to
thermal stress. Reveal
An indented detail on a sign.
Pylon Sign
A freestanding sign with visible support structure or with the support structure enclosed with a pole cover. Reverse Channel Letter
A fabricated dimensional letter with opaque face and side walls.
Q
Roof Sign
A building mounted sign erected on the roof of a buil ding.

Quality Assurance S -Flush mount
All those planned and systematic actions necessary to provide adequate confidence that a product or service will
satisfy given requirements for quality. Sidewalk/Sandwich Sign P-S
A moveable sign not secured or attached to the ground or surface upon which it is located, but supported by its own
Quality Control frame and most often forming the cross-sectional shape of an A.
The operational techniques and activities that are used to fulfil requirements for quality.
Sign
Quality Management Any visual display with words or symbols designed to convey information or attract attention.
That aspect of the overall management function that determines and implements the quality policy.
Sign Band
Quality Policy A horizontal area above a multi -tenants' building's entrances, architecturally designed to accommodate signage in a
The overall quality intentions and direction of an organization as regards quality, as formally expressed by top signcentric manner.
management.
Sign Face
Quality System The area of a sign on which copy is intended to be placed.
The organizational structure, responsibilities, procedures, processes and resources for implementing quality
management. The requirements for a quality system are given in ISO 9000. Signage
A system of signs.
R

S Thumbnail -Flush mount
A type of rough sketch. Some sign artists prepare several thumbnail sketches of a job, varying their layouts and fonts,
Signature Building before preparing one or two more complete ideas to take to a client. S-T
Architectural design of a building or structure that reinforces signage.
Tiff
Signcentric Design Tagged image file format, a standard graphics file format used for scanned bit -mapped images.
Building architectural design which makes the signage the prominent visual feature.
Time and Temperature Display
Single-Face Sign A variable message sign which displays current time and temperature i n a stationary or alternating manner. Some
A sign with only one face plane. also display simple messages.

Stationary Sign Time, Place, and Manner Regulations
A sign with a power-cord for attachment to a source of electrical power that is not readily moveable or portable. Consistently applicable non-discriminatory sign regulations that specify, without reference to the content of the
message, when, how and where a sign can be displayed, with physical standards, such as but not limited to height,
Street Furniture size and location, that allow the sign to be readable.
Advertising displays, many which provide a public amenity, positioned at close proximity to pedestrians for eye -level
viewing or at a curbside to reach vehicular traffic. An example is a bench sign. Time-Switch
A switch which utilizes a clock or timer to automatically turn on and off electric signs at set times each day.
T
Tint
Tack A color made lighter than the original by adding white to it.
The stickiness of an adhesive under a given condition. Some adhesives require a particular temperature range for
maximum tack. Tone
The effect on a color brought about by blending it with another color.
Tactile Sign
A sign -- or area within a larger sign -- that conveys its message through raised or engraved art, making it accessible Trade Area
to the visually impaired. Most retail businesses have a relatively fixed area that customers come from to do business at their store In general;
the trade area is either the living or work locale for the customer. The selling zone of place -based retail business will
Target Audience be dynamic for two reasons; the customer is moving residences or jobs or the customer is passing through on a trip
The profile of the most desired consumer prospects for a product or service, listed by characteristics such as that intersects the trade area. The trade area for most small businesses is 3 to 5 miles.
demography, lifestyle, b rand or media consumption, purchase behavior, etc. This is common to all media.
Trademark
Template Used by a business to distinguish itself and its products from the competition. A trademark may include a name,
A pattern, often made of thin metal or wood. Often used in drawing and woodworking. symbol, word or combination of those. Protected by the federal government and considered to have financial value.
The circled "R" or "Reg. T.M." printed with the mark indicates that it is a registered trademark. See United States
Temporary Sign Trademark Act 15 U.S.C. Section 1127 (1988).
Any sign not intended for permanent installation, such as banners and signs at construction sites. They may be
incidental or miscellaneous in nature, such as political and real estate signs. Traffic Count
The recording of the vehicles and pedestrians passing a given point, usually in a day.
Text
Message conveyed in characters only. Transformer
Electrical equipment that converts input voltage and current to a different output voltage and current. In general, a
Thermoforming transformer is any apparatus that continuously increases or decreases the voltage of a power supply. They are an
Any process of forming thermoplastic sheet which consists of heating the sheet and forcing it onto a mold surface. important element in all neon signs, due to the high voltage required. (Fluorescent lamps require a specialized type of
Also known as pan forming. transformer unit called a ballast.)
Three D (3D) engraving
Routing procedure where the tool bit can be moved independently along the up and down Z axis while still traveling Translucent
an X/Y axes tool path. Based upon the tool bit`s shape and width, 3D engraving can create reliefs and hand -chiseled The property of a substrate, vinyl, paint or ink to allow the passage of some light through it without being transparent.
looks when removing material from a substrate. Internally illuminated signs rely on translucent acrylics, paints and vinyls.

T

Trough Letter Variance -Flush mount
A metal channel letter with an exposed cold cathode tube in the trough for illumination. [Click here to view example] Special administrative procedure by which one may obtain an exception to zoning rules such as height, setback and
type of use. (See the “Legal Considerations” section.) T-W
Tube Colors
Tubing for neon signs is produced as a clear glass, or in colors. Different tube colors serve as filters that only allow Variable Message Sign
the desired color to shine through. In many cases the only way to achieve rich primary colors is through colored A sign on which the canopy can be changed, either manually through the use of attachable letters (usually plastic) or
glass. electronically using incandescent bulbs or light emitting diodes.

Tube Diameter Variable Plank Sign
The standard measurement for neon tubes, expressed in millimeters. A variable sign that consists of a frame within which pre -printed sign planks can be assembled.

Tube Supports Variable Sign
Insulators that support a neon tube, as well as hold it away from the background surface and provide some impact Sign where the message may be changed readily.
resistance.
Video Matrix Sign
Typeface A matrix sign in which the individual dots are formed from cathode ray tubes.
Set of characters derived from one basic design.
Video Sign
U A variable sign displayed on a television screen.

UL Vinyl
An abbreviation for Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory. Polyvinylchloride (PVC) film that, in sign-making, is backed with an adhesive that will create a strong bond to a
surface when pressure is applied.
Under-Canopy Sign
A sign designed to be mounted underneath a canopy. Visible
Capable of being seen by the human eye. A sign may be visible without being readable or legible .
Ultraviolet Light (UV)
UV has both a negative and positive influence on the sign industry. When UV strikes certain surfaces, such as the Visibility
phosphors in neon and fluorescent tubes, it is transformed into visible light. UV is also used for curing some screen The quality of a letter, number, graphic, or symbol, which enables the observer to distinguish it from its surrounds or
printing inks. On the other hand, ultraviolet light is the prime cause of pigment failure (fading) in some paints and background.
vinyls, especially red ones.
Vitreous enamel
Upper Case Letter A hard, brittle glass coating applied to steel by firing at high temperature in an oven. Some limitations to panel size
Capital letter in an alphabet. and complexity of shape due to distortion at temperature but is very hard wearing.

V W

Vacuum Forming Wall mounted
Method of forming sign faces in which a plastic sheet is clamped in a stationary frame, heated and forced down by a A single-face sign intended to be mounted on a wall. Another name for a fascia sign.
vacuum onto a mold.
Wall sign
Vacuum Pump In the most literal sense, a sign that is painted on a wall. The term is often expanded to include flat signs that are
A device used by a neon shop to draw a vacuum on the inside of a neon lamp. placed on or attached to the wall of a building. (See also fascia sign). A building mounted sign. (See also Fascia
sign.)
Value engineering
Assessing a sign that is based on the cost of its materials, design, installation and maintenance, with the goa l of Water resistant
getting the best value for the money. A face that has had some treatment to make it resistant to the damage or deterioration caused by water. A face that
is water repellent.

W -Flush mount

Wayfinding W-Z
A word that has gained popularity with th e adoption of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In its most literal
sense, wayfinding is the ability of a person to find his or her way to a given destination. While the words and graphics
on a building`s signs are important to the process, wayfinding also depends on the information inherent in a building`s
design. To create truly successful wayfinding, architects and environmental graphic designers need to work in close
partnership to integrate both elements.
Windload
The basic term for describing the design strength of a sign. Standard windload is 30 PSF (pounds per square foot),
which can withstand winds up to approximately 90 MPH. Heavy windload is 55 PSF, which can withstand
approximately 110 MPH.
Window sign
A sign that is displayed in a win dow. A sign that is mounted for display on a window, and intended to be viewed from
the outside.
Word space
Horizontal space between words.

X

X Axis
Theoretical horizontal line providing a lengthwise reference point for plotters and routers.
X Height
In a given typeface, the height of the lowercase letters which do not have ascenders or descenders.

Y

Y Axis
Theoretical vertical line providing a longitudinal reference point for plotters and routers.

Z

Z Axis
Theoretical line providing a depth reference point for routers.

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