LCD devices have revolutionised the TV and display world. Flat panel screens are no longer just a device found in living rooms and TV parlours but is used for computer displays, digital signage and even on the shopfloor in factories and industrial locations.
The reason for the success and widespread use of LCDs is two-fold; firstly, LCDs have plummeted in price and are now far cheaper a device than the former CRT based TVs ever were. Secondly, LCD TVs are flatter and lighter than their predecessors so they take up less space and are easier to install on walls or mounts.
Challenges
There are still many challenges to be faced when taking a device, which has been primarily designed for office and home use, into an industrial location. Factory floors and other locations are full of harmful elements that can damage, disable and even destroy an LCD screen.
Dust is a common problem in these types of areas and this can cause a myriad of problems including over-heating and short circuits. Dust can clog up air vents and as the static charge will attract it, the screen will quickly be covered in dust and be therefore dimmed.
Water is another problem for LCDs in factory location, especially wash down areas where water is hosed or pressure washed about. A normal, unprotected LCD won’t last long in an area where water and liquids are used liberally.
Impacts too are common in industrial locations. Accidents with forklifts, pallet trucks and other heavy machinery are commonplace and if a screen gets clouted then it probably won’t survive.
Protection
While some LCD devices are rugged, or designed to be waterproof, often this is not enough for many factory locations – not to mention the fact that these types of screens are incredibly expensive.
For true all round protection in harsh environments like these, an LCD enclosure is by far the best option. They are usually made from steel, so can withstand impacts; are waterproof and dustproof, have climatic controls to ensure the correct operating temperature inside the enclosure; and best of all, an LCD enclosure housing a standard TV device will be far more cost effective than expensive rugged, waterproof or outdoor televisions.
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