Manufacturing

GOB LED

GOB (Glue on Board) is a protective coating technology that covers SMD LED modules with a layer of transparent epoxy or optical resin. This coating shields LEDs from moisture, dust, and physical impact, effectively converting standard indoor panels to IP65+ protection levels while also improving contrast ratio through reduced surface reflections.

GOB LED Protection Technology

GOB (Glue on Board) represents a protective enhancement to standard SMD LED displays, adding durability and weather resistance without fundamentally changing the underlying technology.

How GOB Works

The GOB process applies after standard SMD module assembly:

1. **Surface Preparation**: Module surface is cleaned and prepared for adhesion 2. **Coating Application**: Transparent optical resin is applied in a thin, uniform layer 3. **Curing**: The coating hardens through UV exposure or thermal curing 4. **Inspection**: Optical quality and uniformity are verified

The result is a sealed surface with SMD LEDs encapsulated beneath a protective layer.

Protection Benefits

Moisture Resistance: Sealed surface prevents water and humidity ingress, enabling outdoor use

Dust Protection: Particles cannot accumulate on LED surfaces or in package gaps

Physical Protection: Coating absorbs minor impacts that would damage exposed SMD packages

Anti-Static: Surface coating reduces static electricity buildup

IP Rating Improvement

Standard SMD panels typically rate IP20-IP40. GOB treatment can achieve:

  • **IP54**: Dust protected, splash resistant
  • **IP65**: Dust tight, water jet resistant
  • **IP67**: Immersion resistant (with proper cabinet sealing)

Optical Considerations

Contrast Improvement: Some GOB formulations use black-tinted or matte coatings that absorb ambient light, improving contrast ratio by 20-40%.

Viewing Angle: Quality GOB maintains full viewing angle; poor applications can narrow the effective viewing cone.

Color Accuracy: Optical-grade GOB materials should not shift color temperature. Low-quality coatings may show yellowing over time.

Comparison: GOB vs AOB

GOB (Glue on Board):

  • Thicker coating (0.2-0.5mm)
  • Full encapsulation of LED surfaces
  • Higher protection level
  • More impact on repairability

AOB (Adhesive on Board):

  • Thinner treatment
  • Strengthens LED-to-PCB bond
  • Moderate protection improvement
  • Less impact on repair access

Use Cases

GOB technology is particularly valuable for:

Rental/Touring: Panels subjected to frequent handling, transport, and varying venue conditions

Outdoor Events: Temporary outdoor installations requiring weather protection

High-Traffic Areas: Displays at risk of accidental contact

Humid Environments: Venues with poor climate control

Cost Considerations

GOB treatment adds 15-30% to panel costs but can significantly extend panel life and reduce maintenance needs. For rental inventories facing aggressive use conditions, GOB typically provides positive ROI through reduced repair costs and extended service life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does GOB affect image quality?

When properly applied, GOB should have minimal impact on image quality. High-quality GOB uses optically clear materials with anti-reflective properties. Some early GOB implementations showed slight brightness reduction, but modern formulations maintain 95%+ of original brightness.

Can GOB panels be repaired?

GOB panels are more difficult to repair than standard SMD panels. The coating must be carefully removed to access failed LEDs, then reapplied after repair. Many rental companies treat GOB modules as non-serviceable, replacing entire modules when issues occur.

What is the difference between GOB and COB?

GOB is a protective coating applied to standard SMD LED modules after manufacture. COB is a completely different manufacturing process where bare LED chips mount directly to the PCB. COB is inherently protected; GOB adds protection to SMD.

Related Terms

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