DIP LED

DIP LED Technology Overview

DIP (Dual In-line Package) LEDs represent the original LED display technology, using discrete through-hole components that predate modern surface-mount manufacturing. Despite being considered legacy technology, DIP maintains relevance for specific outdoor applications.

Physical Construction

DIP displays use three separate LED components per pixel:

• **Red LED**: Individual through-hole component with cylindrical lens
• **Green LED**: Separate component positioned adjacent to red
• **Blue LED**: Third component completing the RGB pixel

Each LED inserts through holes in the PCB and solders on the reverse side, creating a mechanically robust connection.

Brightness Advantage

DIP's primary advantage is exceptional brightness:

Maximum Output: 8,000-12,000 nits, compared to 1,500-5,000 nits for typical SMD

Direct Viewing: Cylindrical lenses project light efficiently in the forward direction

Sunlight Visibility: Easily visible in direct sunlight for billboard applications

This brightness capability comes from larger LED chips and more efficient thermal paths through the through-hole mounting.

Durability Factors

DIP displays excel in harsh environments:

Mechanical Strength: Through-hole mounting resists vibration and impact better than surface mounting

Moisture Resistance: Cylindrical housings naturally shed water

Repairable: Individual LEDs can be replaced in the field with basic soldering skills

Viewing Angle Limitations

The cylindrical lens design that provides brightness efficiency also limits viewing angle:

• Typical horizontal viewing: 100-120 degrees
• Typical vertical viewing: 50-60 degrees
• Visible brightness drop-off beyond these angles

For billboard applications where viewers approach from limited angles, this is acceptable. For wide-angle indoor viewing, SMD is preferred.

Current Applications

DIP technology remains relevant for:

Highway Billboards: Maximum visibility from vehicle distance

Stadium Perimeter Displays: High brightness for outdoor sporting venues

Building Facades: Large-format outdoor architectural displays

Scoreboards: Sports venue displays viewed from 100+ feet

Pixel Pitch Range

DIP is practical only for larger pixel pitches:

• **P10 DIP**: 10mm pitch, common for medium-distance outdoor viewing
• **P16 DIP**: 16mm pitch, standard for highway billboards
• **P20 DIP**: 20mm pitch, for long-distance viewing applications
• **P25+ DIP**: Very large pitch for maximum distance visibility

Industry Trend

While DIP continues serving its niche, the technology is gradually declining as high-brightness SMD and outdoor-rated GOB displays offer better image quality with adequate brightness for most outdoor applications.