Antivandal LED Screens How LED screens are protected against impact, tampering and damage

Antivandal LED screens are designed for environments where displays are exposed to physical contact, accidental impact or deliberate tampering. Rather than relying on a different type of LED chip, antivandal protection is achieved through screen design, surface protection and module construction.

Understanding how this protection works helps ensure the right level of durability is specified — without compromising image quality unnecessarily.

What Makes an LED Screen “Antivandal”?

An antivandal LED screen is not defined by the LED itself, but by how the LEDs and modules are protected.

Protection typically focuses on:

  • Preventing physical damage to LEDs
  • Reducing the risk of moisture or dust ingress
  • Protecting screens installed within reach of the public

The goal is to maintain performance while increasing resilience in high-risk locations.

Common Antivandal Protection Methods

Protective Surface Coatings

Transparent coatings are applied over the LED surface to protect against impact, scratches and dirt. These coatings are designed to allow light through while absorbing minor shocks.

They are commonly used in:

  • Indoor public areas
  • Transport hubs
  • Retail environments

GOB (Glue on Board) Technology

GOB involves applying a clear resin layer over the LED modules, fully encapsulating the LEDs.

This provides:

  • Strong impact resistance
  • Improved protection against moisture and dust
  • Reduced risk of LED damage from contact

GOB is widely used for fine-pitch indoor LED screens installed at low height or in public-facing locations.

AOB (Adhesive on Board) Protection

AOB is similar to GOB but uses a thinner adhesive layer. It offers a balance between protection and optical performance.

AOB protection:

  • Improves durability
  • Maintains high image clarity
  • Is suitable where moderate protection is required

Reinforced Module and Cabinet Design

Antivandal LED screens often feature:

  • Stronger PCB backing
  • Rigid cabinet frames
  • Reduced exposed LED surfaces

These structural measures help protect the screen from vibration, impact and handling damage.

Where Antivandal LED Screens Are Used

Antivandal protection is most commonly specified for:

  • Transport stations and platforms
  • Public walkways and urban environments
  • Low-mounted outdoor screens
  • Educational and healthcare facilities
  • Unsupervised installations

In these environments, physical protection is just as important as brightness or resolution.

Trade-Offs to Consider

Adding antivandal protection can involve compromises:

  • Slight reduction in brightness
  • Minor impact on viewing angle
  • Increased cost
  • Additional weight

For this reason, antivandal solutions should be risk-led, not standard by default.

When Antivandal Protection Is (and Isn’t) Necessary

Recommended when:

  • Screens are within arm’s reach
  • Installations are unsupervised
  • The environment is exposed or high-traffic

Often unnecessary when:

  • Screens are mounted out of reach
  • Installations are indoors and controlled
  • Physical access is restricted

Choosing the correct level of protection avoids over-engineering and unnecessary cost.

Antivandal Screens vs Standard LED Screens

Feature Standard LED Screen Antivandal LED Screen
Physical protection Minimal Enhanced
Impact resistance Low Medium to high
Image quality Maximum Very high (slightly reduced in some cases)
Cost Lower Higher
Public-facing suitability Limited High

Why Antivandal Design Matters

Physical damage is one of the most common causes of LED screen failure in public environments. Antivandal LED screens reduce downtime, maintenance costs and long-term risk, especially in locations where screens cannot be fully controlled or supervised.

Understanding how antivandal protection works ensures the screen is fit for purpose, rather than simply labelled as “rugged”.

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