If you want to highlight advertising or informational materials inside or outside your establishment, consider the light box. Used across many industries, this tool helps capture the attention of customers on-site or passersby driving or walking past. Learn more about light boxes, including the various types and their applications.
Definition of a Light Box
LED light boxes are presentation tools for showcasing commercial displays and art. Images are printed and enclosed within framing and highlighted with LED lights to provide illumination. Although the term “light box” might not ring a bell, chances are you’ve encountered these displays in various commercial settings like airports, retail stores, medical offices, museums and hotels.
LED light boxes are considered very energy-efficient and can last up to 100,000 hours, ensuring even and crisp lighting for a long time. They can also be designed with an ultra-slim profile so more focus goes to the graphic.
Components of a Light Box
The best way to explain a light box is by discussing its parts. There are several configurations for light boxes, as explored below. However, most light boxes will have the following:
- Frame and structure
- Lighting technology
- A translucent panel or other medium for display
- Power source and controls
For example, light boxes feature glass or acrylic panels housed in a metal frame. Inside the frame are lights. The print material rests against the panel, and the lights illuminate it for better visibility.
Types of Light Boxes
There are a variety of light boxes that can support a range of applications. Some of the most popular are stated below:
Backlit Light Boxes
Backlit light boxes are commonly used in advertising. As it sounds, multiple rows of lights are lined up in the back of the panel, behind the graphic. When graphics are illuminated from behind, LED light panel increases visibility for outdoor displays, where images are more subject to fluctuations in natural lighting.
Snap Frame Light Boxes
Snap frame light boxes have a frame around the perimeter of the display panel that makes it easier to swap out graphics. This is ideal for businesses that change their advertising frequently.
Edgelit LED Light Boxes
An Edgelit LED light box has an LED strip positioned along the edges of a frame to create even, bright lighting across its surface. Learn the difference between a Backlit and Edgelit LED Light Box.
Outdoor Light Boxes
Outdoor light boxes or hidden hinge light boxes perform the same function as indoor light boxes but require a more durable construction to withstand outdoor elements. For instance, they’re typically constructed with weather-resistant materials like aluminum. They also have a locking feature to ensure that the graphics stay put and aren’t adjusted by unwelcome parties.
Another consideration with outdoor light boxes is the impact of sunlight or stormy conditions. Businesses want customers to be able to see advertisements in the morning and night, whether rain or shine. The best light boxes for outdoor use will ensure an even distribution of lighting for maximum visibility. For this reason, a backlit light box is often the go-to for outdoor use.
What Are Light Boxes Used For?
Another part of what makes light boxes so popular is their versatility. From retail stores to healthcare organizations to museums, businesses across an array of industries benefit from light boxes. Light boxes are primarily used in advertising and marketing but can also enhance the customer experience by providing key information. Consider the following applications:
Retail Displays
We’ve all seen light boxes used in department and specialty stores. Retail businesses use light boxes to highlight new products, deals, and promotions. They can also illuminate brand advertising, which helps customers locate the brand’s offerings within the store.
Art Galleries and Museums
In museums and art galleries, light boxes serve an educational purpose. They may appear near exhibits to provide additional context. These attractions may also use light boxes for wayfinding so visitors can locate specific exhibits more easily. Finally, outdoor light boxes can highlight new or favorite exhibits to draw in tourists.
Medical Imaging and Photography
In Healthcare design, light boxes can play a pivotal role in fostering healing environments by simulating natural light through faux windows, promoting patient comfort and well-being. Simulated windows not only invoke a sense of connection to the outdoors, but also regulate circadian rhythms, alleviate stress and enhance relaxation, aiding patient recovery.
Additionally, the use of nonferrous lighting solutions, such as LED-based light boxes, ensures the safety of sensitive medical equipment while reinforcing the commitment to patient care and safety. Harnessing the therapeutic power of light, light boxes illuminate a path towards creating empathetic and healing-focused healthcare environments.
What Are the Benefits of Using Light Boxes?
From long-lasting use to enhanced visibility of advertising materials, there are many reasons to use light boxes. Some advantages include:
- Increased customer engagement: Light boxes can capture the attention of customers effectively to draw eyes to new products, services, or sales.
- Affordability: Light boxes are more affordable than other advertising tools, making them easier to fit into a budget.
- Durability: With a durable design, a light box will continue providing value to the business for many years.
- Energy efficiency: LED light bulbs are more energy efficient and have a longer life span than other lighting options without sacrificing visibility. This makes LED technology the preferred option for light box lighting.
Reliable LED Light Boxes at DSA Signage
For a reliable partner for light boxes, digital signage, and more, with DSA Signage. Our team designs, engineers, and builds custom, high-quality LED display products that last. Contact us to learn more about our LED light boxes or request a quote today.
