Introduction to Sign Component Manual (SAM) and UL879

Due to the rapid emergence and development of LED technology, the lighting industry now has an accelerated evolution rate and requires constant adaptations in order to stay competitive. As part of the lighting industry, LED sign manufacturers are no exception. The development of a new LED sign requires at least the basic steps of R&D, sourcing, manufacturing, and safety certification. Since each step takes a considerable amount of time, the product may have lost its competitive edge to a newer technology by the time the product is ready for the market. With the SAM list (UL879), these development phases can be sped up or even skipped in order to shorten development time frame, reduce cost, and promote competitiveness of new products.

Sign Component Manual (also known as SAM) is a database that records all qualified components used in building electric signs. The SAM list products are tested with the UL879 standard to meet safety and installation requirements outlined by the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70. LED sign manufacturers can use the SAM as a buyer and designer’s guide. Directly choosing components out of the SAM can save valuable time in designing and sourcing of the LED sign components. The manufacturing process can also be streamlined since the Conditions of Acceptability for each component is clearly stated in the SAM. More importantly, if a sign is built with components from the SAM, then the sign is exempt from safety tests, and the UL certification process can be expedited significantly. For large sign installations, it is also possible for a local safety representative to conduct onsite inspection for compliance. This saves time and money by shortening the lengthy and cumbersome safety application and testing procedures.

MEAN WELL, as a leading manufacturer in LED drivers, is glad to introduce LED drivers that are listed in the SAM with evaluation and certification by the UL879 standards (Table 1). 

MEAN WELL also extends the coverage to include the NPF/PWM-40/60-12/24 product series into SAM. The NPF series is a very versatile product line that supports both Constant Voltage and Constant Current applications, and the PWM series is suitable for powering all kinds of LED strips with its high quality PWM output characteristics. Both the NPF and PWM series are high quality and high efficiency LED drivers that have IP67 ingress protection ratings for operation in dry, damp or wet locations. The NPF and PWM series also support 3-in-1 dimming with dim-to-off feature for maximum flexibility with any LED lighting or sign applications. 

Contact your MEAN WELL distributor or salesperson today for more information on UL879 and our LED drivers (info@meanwellusa.com; 510-683-8886).

This article was contributed by MEAN WELL.