Understanding the Different Sizes of VMS Signs

In Melbourne and across Australia, VMS signs are widely used for event announcements, customer notifications, and commercial advertising. The reason different sizes are necessary is because each environment and purpose requires a tailored solution.

Smaller signs work well in low-speed areas or where space is limited, while larger signs are better for highways or areas with fast-moving traffic. The size affects how far away the sign can be seen, how much information it can display, and where it can be positioned.

There are different options when considering how many sizes of VMS signs are available. These electronic boards are available in different sizes and shapes, each designed to meet specific needs. In this blog, we will discuss different VMS displays, where you can install them and what are their specifications.

Different sizes of VMS boards are suited for various applications based on their visibility, readability and location. Here are some examples where distinct VMS sizes are used in various settings:

• Urban Areas

  In cities and densely populated areas, smaller to medium-sized VMS are often preferred. They are commonly used for:

  • Customer management at drive-thrus
  • Parking information in city centres
  • Sale announcements at malls and shops
  • Public transportation updates
  • Event notifications in downtown areas

• Rural Areas
  

  Larger VMSs are more common in rural settings where they need to be visible from greater distances. For businesses with regional reach, these larger boards can guide customers to stores, inform them about seasonal promotions, or direct tourists to destinations. Applications include:

  • Directional guidance for tourists to nearby businesses, restaurants, or hotels
  • Promoting special offers at regional shops
  • Information about business services in remote areas (e.g., petrol stations, truck stops, or local stores)

• Highways

  Large or extra-large VMS are more commonly used on highways and freeways. These signs are excellent for businesses seeking large-scale visibility, such as those running regional or national campaigns, or for directing traffic to business hubs. Common uses include:

  • Large-scale promotional campaigns
  • Alternate route suggestions during heavy traffic
  • New launches or store openings in commercial venues
  • Sale announcements and discounts in retail shops

• Local Roads

  Smaller to medium-sized VMSs are more appropriate for local roads where traffic moves at lower speeds. These signs are great for informing customers about offers, local promotions, or events. These signs are used for:

  • Local event information
  • Road work warnings
  • Notifying customers of limited-time sales or flash promotions
  • Business hours

• Special Event Management

  Different sizes of display boards assist in managing special events and large venues. You can find them at:

  • Parking lots
  • Entry gates
  • Marathons or road races
  • Festivals
  • Construction zones

When choosing a VMS for your brand, you should consider a few factors. These electronic advertising boards help with information to pedestrians and drivers. Therefore, their size and specifications can vary depending on the intended use and location. Here are some key considerations:

• Purpose and Location

  The location is important when choosing VMS signs. Identify the primary purpose of the VMS—whether it’s for customer guidance, event information, or advertising. Based on location, choose a sign that fits that role. This will help determine the size and type of display needed.

• Display Capabilities

  VMS signs can vary in colour and resolution which affects how effectively they communicate messages. VMS signs offer a range of display options, from basic mono-coloured to advanced multi-coloured units, with multi-coloured signs delivering the most visual impact. High-quality LED technology ensures brightness and clarity, making them visible in various weather conditions and times of day. Full-matrix LED signs support diverse content, including graphics, text, and animations, making them ideal for promotional events and visual impact.

• Speed Limits

  Speed limits directly impact how quickly drivers need to read and comprehend messages displayed on VMS signs. In areas with higher speed limits, larger signs with bigger characters are essential for ensuring that messages can be read in time.

• Viewing Distance

  The size of the VMS and the distance at which it can be read are directly related. A VMS that is too small will fail to convey its message in time. Choosing a VMS with the right character height for the expected viewing distance ensures drivers can easily read the message from a safe distance.

• Power Source and Maintenance

  Assess the power requirements and maintenance needs of the VMS. Many modern signs are designed for low power consumption and may offer solar power options, reducing operational costs. Additionally, consider the maintenance requirements; choose a sign that is durable and requires minimal upkeep to ensure long-term functionality.

• Branding and Customisation

  The digital boards should match your brand identity. Look for options that allow customisation in terms of colours, fonts, and logos to enhance brand visibility. The ability to create eye-catching animations or graphics can also help attract attention and convey your message more effectively. Ensure that the sign can be tailored to fit your branding strategy while remaining functional.

• Regulatory Standards

  Familiarise yourself with local regulations and standards regarding VMS signage. In Australia, specific guidelines dictate the sizes and specifications of VMS signs based on their intended use and location. Following these regulations ensures compliance and helps maintain uniformity on roadways.

These electronic traffic signs are used to convey information to motorists. Their specifications vary based on intended use and location. The key specifications of these signs include:

• Colour VMS Sign

  VMS units come in various colour options. Some LED message boards display only one colour, typically yellow or amber. More advanced models offer up to 5 colours—red, white, blue, green, and yellow—and often include pre-programmed simple graphics and animations. High-end VMS units enable full-colour displays, supporting videos and complex high-definition animations. These are ideal for advertising, events, or situations requiring a high level of visual impact.

• Board Size

  VMS sign boards are commonly categorised as size A, B or C. The choice of size depends on factors such as approach speed and the location of the parked VMS trailer.

  • Size A VMS

    This is the smallest standard size, suitable for urban areas or locations with lower speed limits. Size A VMS is ideal for 50-60 km/hr speed zones and can be viewed from 100 metres away. When programming text, the character height should be 200mm.

  • Size B VMS

    Medium-sized signs offer a balance between visibility and space efficiency. Size B VMS is suitable for speed zones ranging from 60 km/hr to 90 km/hr. These units can be viewed from around 200 metres away and should have a character height of 320mm for programmed messages.

  • Size C VMS

    It is the largest standard size, designed for maximum visibility on high-speed roads. Size C VMS is suitable for speed zones of 90 km/hr and above. They can be read from 300 metres away, and the programmed messages should have a character height of 400mm.

Do you need a digital board that runs 24 hours a day? Or colourful message boards that support graphics or texts? Trailer Signs can help you. We have different sizes of VMS signs suitable for your brand or project near Melbourne. You can Contact us or call us on 1300 735 534 or email at sales@trailersigns.com.au to get in touch.