How Do Variable Message Signs Work?

By Author: Axel Joshua
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How Do Variable Message Signs Work?

Variable message signs, also known as VMS, are a type of unidirectional messaging system between owners and road users, both drivers and pedestrians. These light-emitting signage systems can display texts or pictograms. They are becoming an increasingly prevalent way of helping reduce traffic and managing road congestion. These signs are a part of vehicle access control systems and have numerous benefits. Here’s how they work.

How VMS work

Variable message signs come in two modes: static and movable models. Static VMS is the most common type you will find, and as the name suggests, they are fixed to one location. Think of the signs you see fixed on roads, junctions, or parking structures. Movable variable message signs are mobile and are better suited for ad-hoc usage. A great example is the signs used to alert road users of accidents or traffic.

These message signs are controlled using a local network link or radio signals that transmit the intended message from a control center. The link between the VMS is instant, making it easy to display real-time ...
... messages, which is quite handy in many situations. By providing road users with real-time information, these signs help them make the necessary adjustments to avert or better manage the situation.

VMS can display up to 3 lines of text at a time and are great for scrolling through longer messages. Each set of lines will be displayed for about 5 to 10 seconds before the next section is shown. Long messages are run on a loop, so drivers have enough time to read the whole message.

Key functions of VMS

The aim of using variable message sign hire is to provide users with either mandatory or informational information. For instance, they can be used to offer help by alerting road users of diversions or accidents. Alternatively, you can give notice or provide information such as giving directions, etc.

What's great about them is they are simple in design and are adaptable. They are easy to read since the information is concise. Additionally, you can change the messages displayed, which makes them more useful than traditional signage, which only has fixed information.

These signs work in any weather and are especially useful in poor light and where there's low visibility since it would be extremely hard to see typical road signs. They don’t consume a lot of power, and as long as they are maintained well, they can work for years requiring very little upkeep.

While they are mostly utilized in road work and construction, you can hire a variable message sign for other uses such as parking signage, natural disaster management, and industrial and commercial signage. The signs are highly customizable and can be used virtually anywhere to display messages. As technology advances, the tech utilized to make VMS is evolving, helping them stay relevant even in the years to come.