My LED Sign won't work - HELP!

-Deacon Wardlow

So you purchased an LED Sign from XYZ "manufacturer" online. Maybe they had a salesperson in the area who sold you on the system - maybe they were the lowest price or seemed to have a great system. Whatever the reason, you sold it and now (when there's a problem) that company is gone like the wind... What do you do?

We're all too familiar with this scenario. I got into the LED sign side of Digital Signage because people kept asking for my help with systems (both domestic and off-shore/Chinese displays) and I quickly learned there's not a lot of support out there. International trade and a lack of standardization in the LED Sign industry have left a HUGE GAPING HOLE allowing for easy entry to market. Anyone with 5 minutes and access to a web search engine can find off-shore companies willing to (cheaply) white-label product shipped to the USA and suddenly there's a new LED Sign company in the market.

If you're looking at this article, chances are you've taken that leap and landed in a hole. If you haven't yet purchased from a company selling (or reselling) off-shore product... take these words seriously - Check our articles on buying offshore vs. Domestic. I'm biased and would rather you bought from one of our LED Sign manufacturing partners, but really anyone domestic is likely going to be better than buying product sourced from a manufacturer outside of the USA. I know there are many of you who are out of the USA/North America and yes we do cost more than the Asian options... but you really get what you're paying for with technology in this industry. Word to the wise - CHECK - RE-CHECK - and Triple-Check your potential source for LED Sign Systems... Now, let's help you out.

First - checkout the previous blogs on troubleshooting and support I and Scott have put out there:
http://vantageled.blogspot.com/search?q=troubleshooting

More often than not, issues are fairly simple and can be quickly resolved without too much outside assistance. Back in the day, I needed to lean on translating A LOT of Chinese documentation and finding sources for parts - this isn't as big an issue these days. The increased amount of people buying direct from China/Korea/Taiwan (and companies buying from "manufacturers" who resell Chinese/other product) has spawned a backstage support industry as many of the reseller companies quickly disappear after a few years of opening their doors, leaving both end-users and sign companies to fend for themselves for any support and/or repairs required.

If you're stuck with a "black box" (dead LED Screen) - try some of these tips and hopefully it'll help you out.

Content

1. Have the client clear their existing schedule - create a new message (has to be new content - just a simple 'TEST" text message) and send it to the display. If it shows, it may be the content just timed out or there's some bad content in the system. 

2. If the display is working (showing TEST) then have the client redo their content as a message may have become corrupted or have a messed up asset (image/video/etc.).

Communications

Check the cable connecting the sign and/or computer to the network (or eachother if directly connected). It's possible a cable is damaged/misconnected - a radio isn't receiving power, or something got damaged causing the display to no longer communicate.

Power Issue

1. Sounds silly - but simple steps are often best to try first - turn off the power to the system, count to 30 and turn it on again. Sometimes there's a fault in the controller or the boards, or power and rebooting the system may (temporarily) clear the error.

2. Check the source power - is the system receiving a steady 120V (or 240V - whatever source power is)? If the voltage in is less than 110 - there may be a feed problem. This would have been noticed earlier with the sign "flickering" or going out at peak usage times (morning/afternoon/evening).

3. Check the power supply (PS) - most power supplies have an LED indicator which should be on. If the indicator is off or not visible, a quick check with a multimeter should show the PS is operational and what it's outputting for power.

4. Check the leads/connections on the power supplies to the controller and the main control boards in the system. Make sure the connections are clean (not rusted/oxidized) and if there's a connecting plug - unplug and re-plug it is to make sure the connections are secure.

Controller Problem

1. Check the control system. Start with the controller (it's either a small black box (PC) or a small black box (control card with power supply using an embedded control system). Disconnect power and reconnect. Check to see if the display "blinks" when reconnected and shows anything. If it (at least) blinks... that's a good sign.

2. Check the connections from the controller to the DVI/Video card (this will be a card connected to the controller with a video cable (likely DVI/VGA computer cable). It should have some small LED indicators - if so, is there a constant lit one and a blinking one? This means there's power and signal. If there's no indicator - move to the next card.

3. Check the next card (logic board aka distribution board aka hub card) - this should have a power LED (constantly lit) and a signal LED (blinking). If you have power, but no blinking - there's no signal and there's a problem with either the controller or the video card. If you have power and blinking (signal) - check the connections to the LED modules and check power to the LED modules. If there's no power or blinking - go back to the PS (Power Supply) and check it.

Note all posts - thoughts - writings- etc. are strictly the viewpoint of me and me alone and do not reflect nor speak for Vantage LED’s beliefs, attitudes, thoughts, etc. unless specifically noted. Direct emails can be sent to deacon@spectacularmedia.com for queries and/or assistance.

Digital Signage, Need to Know: Solving Problems and Raising the Bar

- Scott Hofheins

One of my favorite things about the sign industry is the creative problem solving required across the board. Static signage, outdoor LED signage, indoor digital boards, manufacturing, fabrication, installation, design, artwork and many more all demand a certain level of creative problem solving. The way in which solutions are found and  implemented can make a big difference for the end user experience.

A Platform

Having a good platform to provide solutions is very important. Some platforms, software, hardware, or otherwise, can be more workable than others. For example, a printed encyclopedia is a great resource and can be very useful, but it’s limited to the ink on the page, it cannot change unless re-printed, or minor notations made in the margins. A smartphone or tablet on the other hand, is an open platform for terabytes of encyclopedic information via the internet, apps, and local programs. Users can use, hack, and manipulate these platforms to do what they need, providing fertile ground for innovation and creativity.

There are many types of platforms. How do you keep track of your leads, quotes, support tickets? How do you educate and provide resources to your staff so they can in turn help existing or potential customers? Manage logistics for your trucks and crews? When these platforms are open and efficient, they empower you to make faster decisions and execute solutions much more effectively.

Balanced Approach

Finding a solution that a customer needs and what they want is sometimes hard to do. A customer may want a sign installed on an existing structure that may not be large enough to support it, but matches their branding or style. The professional knows the limitations, and will be able to suggest an alternate solution that still fits their design wants, but doesn't sacrifice on what’s needed.

Another good example is pricing. There is a certain level of “Sticker Shock” in the sign business that may be a bit more common than other industries. This can make it even more tempting to lower the pricing and component quality to compete. While some amount of flexibility is needed, educating the customer about getting what they pay for tends to work out better for all parties in the long run with a quality product at a fair price.

Education

Providing education in tandem with an effective solution generates powerful results. What is the fundamental purpose of your signage solution? How do you integrate it with existing branding, physical location, target market and demographics. Experienced sign providers can help guide their potential customers through these important variables.

Even a simple static sign on a pole will have site and size restrictions, budget considerations, fabrication options, and artwork needs. Helping a customer not only understand what solutions they should consider,  but why they should consider it is key. This speaks to not only your perceived authority on the subject, but your actual expertise and professionalism.    

The Team

Many start alone, but few finish alone. Having a solid team that can rely on each other is a significant factor in the success of any venture; personal or business. Growth is dependent on it, and problem solving is almost certain to be expedited with the combined knowledge and perspective of others.

While any team is bound to get on each others nerves, it helps when they are all in it for long term success. It helps to see the goal, the light at the end of the tunnel that everyone is striving for. A solid sales team means more business. A solid design/artwork team means more efficient sales, and better manufacturing/fabrication. Good manufacturing means a better product and experience for the install crew, project management and support team. A streamlined support team working with a quality product and platform, mean happy customers, more referrals, and more sales.

New technology, better materials and better communication are all making it easier for people to solve problems, and provide solutions in our industry and countless others. This doesn't necessarily mean problems will go away, but it does mean a continual increase in our expectations as end users, solution providers, manufacturers and business leaders. I have no doubt, the industry and the people and individuals who comprise it, will rise to the challenge.

-TSH

I hope this post has been informative and helpful. As usual, I welcome ALL constructive comments. Please feel free to comment and add anything I’ve missed, or additional tips you may have regarding this topic. Please visit www.vantageled.com for many other resources, white papers, and of course: Great looking LED Signs!

**All posts/thoughts/writings are strictly the viewpoint of me and me alone and do not reflect nor speak for Vantage LED’s beliefs, attitudes, thoughts, etc. unless specifically stated.

Digital Signage Need To Know: Your Customers Return The Investment You Make In Them

-Scott Hofheins

The outdoor LED sign industry has been plagued by a “sell it and forget it” reputation that many sign organizations must fight with on a daily basis. Some believe that doing “just enough” to close the sale, install the sign, and collect the check is the most profitable approach. But the good ones see the value in maintaining a supportive relationship with their customers before and after the sale. They invest in their customers, and their customers invest in them.

Why?

There are a variety of reasons why individuals or organizations practice either approach. Experience in the industry, general approach to business, organizational skills (or lack thereof), and quality of vision are all factors. But regardless of why, at the end of the day you have to ask yourself: Are you hurting, or helping the industry? Your customers? Your long term success?

Quality Success

By success, I mean real, honest, quality success. Not just big numbers, important as they are, but the the quality of your work. Do your customers stand by you; will they refer you to others, are you comfortable directing potential accounts their way without hesitation?

All organizations have their good days and bad days, smooth projects and rough projects. This is unavoidable, but the quality of your success, and the success of your customers relies heavily on how you learn from the bad days and improve on the rough projects. An important part of this is truly investing in your customer after the sale.

Knowledge and Support

Learn about and fully support the product you sell. That sounds like a no brainer, but unfortunately there are many in the industry who learn just enough to craft a sales strategy, then hit the road. I discussed this in my previous article about implementing a successful LED sign program. LED signs don’t go away after the sale. Your customers will see them everyday, for years and years. They should be thinking positive thoughts about your company every time they see that sign.

This will not happen if you cannot support your customer. A good partner/supplier is an essential part of your team; they can offer resources, sales support, and customer support your customers in addition to a quality product. However, you are the still the face the customer see’s when looking at the sign. You are the one they shook hands with and chose to do business with. The more you own that, the better your quality of success will be, long term.

This means investing some time and effort in training your personnel on the technology, customer service, and support for the LED sign. Auto mechanics had to learn about onboard computers to continue to compete in the market. Those who did not, ultimately failed. The same is true for LED signs. The technology is not going away, it is here to stay and will only get more sophisticated as time moves on. Adapt, Execute and Succeed.

Your Program

Develop a program for your customer after the sale. What happens after an installation? Are you taking care of them directly, are you connecting them with your partner? Who do they call for support, and do they have the number? Are you providing them documentation and support materials? Are you training the customer directly, or leveraging your partner? These are important things the you must not overlook. Have a plan of action and give your customer the tools, and people they need to succeed.

Raise the Bar

When you set the bar high, and let everyone know you’re doing it, you force the competition to do the same. They may not be as prepared as you are to make that investment. They may not have have a supplier that can back them up, and support their needs like you do. Go above and beyond for your customers, and don’t be humble about it. Share your experiences and let everyone know you are the go to guy for good service, and a quality experience. Build your business, improve the industry, and support your customers.

-SH

I hope this post has been informative and helpful. As usual, I welcome ALL constructive comments. Please feel free to comment and add anything I’ve missed, or additional tips you may have regarding this topic. Please visit www.vantageled.com for many other resources, white papers, and of course: Great looking LED Signs!

**All posts/thoughts/writings are strictly the viewpoint of me and me alone and do not reflect nor speak for Vantage LED’s beliefs, attitudes, thoughts, etc. unless specifically stated.

Digital Signage How To: Basic LED Sign Troubleshooting and Logic

- Scott Hofheins

One of our main goals for this blog is to be a resource to the industry, regardless of the manufacture. In keeping with that spirit I would like to go through some basic LED troubleshooting principles to help those who are new to LED signs, or have found themselves with a broken sign or a manufacturer who is difficult to work with.

Although the quality and design approaches are different between manufacturers, there are some general concepts that most outdoor LED sign systems will follow. They include basic operating components working together to create a full outdoor LED sign system. Deacon has a great post with some good notes on making sure you’re getting quality components for these systems.  

Basic Components

• Controller: This is the brain of the LED sign and is typically the junction point for the communications, temp/light sensors, and video input and output for the entire sign.
• PC Based (IPC): These are typically internal (sometimes external) industrialized computers running a secure operating system. They are more powerful and tend to give a bit more flexibility to the system with regards to video display, troubleshooting and customization.
• Embedded Controller: These will look more like a circuit board and are typically used in systems geared for static text and images. Many will play animations and some video, but the frame rate and storage space is limited.
• Video Board: This converts the video signal from the controller into a readable format for the sign hardware. This board is sometimes combined with an embedded controller, but it usually separated on an IPC based system. Terminology can include: DVI Board and Sender Card.
• Logic Board: These translate the video signal from the Video Board, to the individual LED modules on the sign, usually in rows or columns depending on the manufacturer. These are sometimes combined with embedded controllers on value systems. Terminology can include:  Turbo Boards, Receiver Cards, Hub Cards, Row Boards, and Ribbon Boards.
• LED Modules: These are the actual panels of LED’s that make up the entire sign. They can range is size from 8x8 pixels to 16x16 pixels and larger depending on the pixel pitch (how close the pixels are to each other). The rear of the Modules will typically have the power and data connectors integrated. Terminology can include: Driver Boards, Tiles and LED Panels.
• Power Supplies: These power the internal hardware for the LED sign. They will usually take in AC voltage, and output DC voltage to the components. They will typically power more than one component or LED module.
• Temperature Probe: These are typically used to get outside temperature readings to display on the sign. These have been standard equipment on LED signs since the early days, but are used less frequently now as owners focus more on content and targeted advertising.They vary in appearance, from simple metal probes, to white “finned” apparatuses.
• Communication Devices: Many signs use secured Wireless communication devices these days, but many still use traditional wired solutions like Fiber Converters, and hardwired Cat5/6 Ethernet cable. 

Troubleshooting LED Signs.

Follow the Data Chain

LED signs rely on a certain amount of “daisy chains” to get data from one component to the next. Generally speaking, it goes something like this:
User’s Computer --- Communication Device  on Building --- Communication Device on the Sign --- Sign Controller --- Video Board --- Logic Board (These are daisy chained to other Logic Boards across the sign) --- Rows or Columns of LED Modules Daisy Chained together.

 
Keep it Simple

Look at your symptoms, and find a logical place to start ruling out causes of the issue. For example, if the sign has a module out, you wouldn’t start testing the communication devices. You would start looking at the LED sign hardware (LED Modules, Data cables, etc...). 

Make the Issue Move
When you are physically troubleshooting components, you want to either fix the issue or make it move. If you can make it move then you can isolate the component and replace or repair it to fix the issue.

Re-boot
Electronic devices sometimes get locked up and require a reboot to get going again. Cycling power to the sign can sometimes fix issues. However, you shouldn’t have to do this constantly. If so, then look for the root cause of the freeze ups.

Specific Issues with LED Signs

Sign is Blank

• Verify Sign is powered within specs.
• Check the other side. If it’s working you may have a communication or power issue between the functioning side, and the blank side.
• Check your schedule. Is content scheduled to be playing? An expired schedule is a common cause for a blank LED sign.  
• Can you communicate to the display? If so, then you know the controller is working and you can check other parts of the system.
• If it’s a PC controller can you log in and verify the “player” is running? If it’s an embedded system it may have some diagnostic features that will allow you to see if it’s physically playing data.
• Check the Video Board. Is it getting power? Is it getting signal from the PC and sending it to the other components? Check the Data Cables.
• Check the Logic Board, and make sure it’s getting power and data. Unless you have a looped system, a bad Logic Board at the beginning of the data chain can cause the rest of the sign to go blank.

One or More Sections of a Face Blank

• Verify power is supplied for the first section not working.
• Check the Hardware (DVI Board, Logic Board) that is responsible for the first section in the chain that is not working.
• Check the power supplies in that same section.

One or more LED modules out or “scrambled”

• Always start at the first module in data chain that is NOT working. Make sure it’s getting power, and getting data from the previous data source (LED Module or Logic Board).
• Check the module next to it that IS working. Sometimes the output is bad, or the data cable between the two is bad. Swapping these boards can help isolate the issue.
• If the module is getting data from the Logic Board, check the data ports and cable. Swapping cables will help determine if it’s a port on the Logic Board, LED Module, or just a bad cable.

Line or Linear Errors Across the Entire Sign.

• Double check the content. Make sure your file doesn’t have errors.
• Check the Logic Board. This is responsible for whole rows, or columns of LED Modules.
• Check the first LED Module in the series. On a smaller sign, it may be sending bad data to the rest of the row or column.

Errors and Display Issues with the Entire Sign

• Double check the content. Make sure your file doesn't have errors.
• Check the Video Board. This board is responsible for the entire video signal to the rest of the sign. Make sure it’s getting good data from the controller, and good DC power from the power supply.
• Check the controller’s video output. Sometimes a loose cable can cause video issues that will affect the entire sign.

Issues can seem complicated and difficult, but if you remember to think linear, keep it simple, and take a step by step approach you will find that they can be isolated relatively quickly. Even the best LED signs will have issues now and then, but remember the quality of the manufacturers design, components and support play a huge factor in how often this happens and how easy it is to fix when it does.

-SH

I hope this post has been informative and helpful. As usual, I welcome ALL constructive comments. Please feel free to comment and add anything I’ve missed, or additional tips you may have regarding this topic. Please visit www.vantageled.com for many other resources, white papers, and of course: Great looking LED Signs!

**All posts/thoughts/writings are strictly the viewpoint of me and me alone and do not reflect nor speak for Vantage LED’s beliefs, attitudes, thoughts, etc. unless specifically stated.

Digital Signage Need to Know: US Based Support for LED Signs is More Than Phones and Technicians

- Scott Hofheins

Having access to local support is important for any electronic device, including LED signs, but getting good support requires more than just being able to call and talk to someone in the US. There are many aspects to supporting LED signs that aren't always just technical. Component control, manufacturing location, software development, documentation, representation, and marketing support are all factors that will affect a manufacturer's performance in this area.

Component Control

Having good quality components is obviously a must in this industry. But maintaining the design and quality control is key to a successful product. No technology is perfect, but how fast can a manufacturer implement a solution to a module design, or driver system? This depends on how much control they have over the components. Skilled in-house engineers and designers will be able to provide better solutions than those who rely on third party support based overseas.

Manufacturing Location

Where is the manufacturer building their systems? Systems that are built entirely overseas will typically take quite a bit longer to produce and deliver to the site. Information about the status of production can be slow and often inaccurate because of the distance, communication barriers, and little oversight of the actual production floor.

Manufacturers who produce in the US and balance their component sources correctly will be much better equipped to provide accurate information. They can also react and improve production processes much quicker than a company who is working with a third party.

Software and Documentation

In-house software development is one of the most underrated aspects of LED signs before the sale, yet becomes a top priority when the sign is installed and ready for use. Unfortunately many end-users are stuck with poorly designed software that is unlikely to ever be improved or updated. This can be avoided when a manufacturer develops the software in-house. The ability to innovate quickly and respond to the market with real solutions like cloud based management, customized solutions, and easy to use interfaces are what help separate the good from the great.

Documentation designed by the same people who manufacture the signs and work with the product directly in real world situations will always be a step above the rest in usability and accuracy. The long term support of an LED sign will often rely on the quality of the documentation.

Representatives

The factory can’t be located everywhere at once, so good manufacturers will have skilled representation across the country to support their dealers and partners. Having a local representative gives you a direct link to the manufacturer, someone you can talk to face to face. This helps close the gap between the manufacturer and dealer, and fosters a better partnership.

These representatives should be able to support you in sales and demonstrations, and be your “go to” people to help close LED sign projects. Having a factory rep and a demo on-site can really make a difference and promote a greater comfort level with potential buyers.   

Advertising Support

Local support means that your manufacturer knows the needs of the US market because they operate in the US Market. They can give you the tools to grow your business and help educate the public to make your job easier. This industry is full of mis-information, but there are good manufacturers out there who can provide you resources that will combat myths and mis-understandings; not just for the good of their products but for the good of the industry in general. Your manufacturer should be your partner in building your business, not just a supplier.

Support is so much more than calling a tech on the phone. The ability to provide quality support is directly related to the control the manufacturer has over their product, software, and people. The business culture of good manufactures promotes the health of their staff, dealers, and partners. They speak your language and have the ability to act quickly to address product, sales, or resource needs specific to you. Always remember, good manufacturers should be just as interested in your success as you are.

-SH

I hope this post has been informative and helpful. As usual, I welcome ALL constructive comments. Please feel free to comment and add anything I’ve missed, or additional tips you may have regarding this topic. Please visit www.vantageled.com for many other resources, white papers, and of course: Great looking LED Signs!

**All posts/thoughts/writings are strictly the viewpoint of me and me alone and do not reflect nor speak for Vantage LED’s beliefs, attitudes, thoughts, etc. unless specifically stated.

LED Sign Sales- Closing Technique Suggestions- 3 of 3

This is the final of 3 installment posts where I share with you suggestions on how to close an LED sign sale. So far, over the past couple weeks I’ve suggested 6 closing techniques and today I will meet my stated obligation of providing 3 more. Never being one to under-deliver I’ve upped the ante’ today with a 4^th suggestion to provide a nice round number of 10 total!

From these 10, pick a couple and practice them. If you don't care to use these suggestions just search online on "closing technique" to see dozens of others available to you! Continue to practice and look for new ways to influence others and share your ideas.

If you stop and think about exactly how involved an LED sign sale is, it’ll blow your mind. Perhaps we shouldn’t do it, but here goes:

•  A business opens through someone presumably having a skill or some product that they want to sell. Seed money is provided for start-up, a facility is acquired, licenses and legalities are muddled through and viola, a new member of the business community appears.
• Talent is required so associates are recruited.
• Competition is fierce so a solutions-oriented advertising method is required.
• You, the sign dealer is called. Also perhaps some of your competition.
• Sign options are discussed- sizes, colors, communication, functions.
•  Pricing is negotiated and terms are finalized.
• The LED sign contract is inked and the product ordered.
• Permits are obtained.
• The LED sign is built, shipped and received within the stated time.
• The LED sign is installed, tested, while the customer is trained. And the sales cycle is complete.

It is truly incredible and this example above has been “dumbed-down” considerably. But somewhere around number 6 or 7 above, the actual close comes into play. This is the “great meeting of the minds” where the wallet comes out and the marriage actually occurs. Perhaps these 4 suggestions will help deliver the LED sign sale to your company:

7. Harmony Close

Be empathetic. Try it, feel how they feel and spend a day in their world. Understand their situation and relate to it.

They will start to empathize with you and suddenly you are on their team!

Talk about the situation using “us” instead of “you”.

Become a match-maker by providing your excellent product to a most worthy customer.

Two examples:

I get it, I really do and it makes a lot of sense for us to buy this LED sign today with this financing plan.

You know what? This solution will work great for us!

This close works by relating to them. When you feel what they feel it’s likely they’ll come along with your ideas. Wait for the right moment and try “sharing the love” and that is why this close is also called the “Love Close”.

8. Opportunity Cost Close

Demonstrate the cost of not buying the LED sign and show them the actual out-of-pocket cost is not as high as it appears from the price.

To do this use the word: 'cost' in an expanded sense: hassle cost, customer cost, service cost, missed opportunity cost, time cost.

Two examples:

If you keep your existing static signs and the radio advertisement program what will be the costs? You have the high cost of radio ads that you can’t instantly update and you still have the faded sign. The cost of not changing your ad program up looks much higher than getting on board with an LED sign.

This LED sign really highlights your business and puts you on leading edge here on Main Street. Think of the other businesses with their old reader boards and how they must feel seeing your LED sign.

Every choice has some cost associated with it. In finance, business, advertising the frequently used phrase is “opportunity cost” for not taking action.

Make the word ‘cost’ your friend. It’s not just ‘cost’ as in money!

9. Specifications Close

Make a list of their stated specifications and requirements. Then promise to deliver each of these, item by item to close the sale.

Keep the document and revisit it. Amend it as required throughout the negotiation process.

Two examples:

Let’s talk about all your specifications! If we can find a way deliver this, it'll be ideal, won't it?

I’ve made a list of what you stated your LED project required. Let me show you how we can deliver this and more.

Make the conversation an open conversation but write down what they say as it helps define the document as being more formal rather than just verbal wanderings.

10. Trial Close

A Trial Close is a test to see if the person is ready to complete the sale. It really isn’t a closing technique in itself.

Try it after a presentation or after you’ve made a strong point or use it when you have answered objections. 

Pose the Trial Close as a tentative question.

Ask 'If...' questions that assume they’ve already purchased the LED sign.

After asking the Trial Close question be quiet, watch and listen carefully for their response.

'ABC' means “Always Be Closing” but you must be cautious because ABC can become annoying if they are nowhere near ready to buy!

Three examples:

You seem very interested in my proposal. Is that true?
Have you decided on full color or grayscale?
How would it look installed where the reader board is?

The Trial Close works by putting the idea of closure onto the table and  person's response will tell you how close they are to buying your great LED sign project!

These comments belong to me, Mike Prongue, and do not reflect the views, opinions, hopes or dreams of anyone else, anywhere else and this includes Vantage LED. I appreciate your constructive opinion which may be sent to me at michael@vantageled.com.