Deadfront Graphics

Benefits of Deadfronts

• Visible only when you want it to be. It can conceal an LED or a printed message on a display window, such as a warning light or a caution light that might go unnoticed if the normal transparent LED were visible at all times.
• Blends in with the background.
• Attracts users' attention and causes them to act only when it is lit.
• Deadfronting "cleans up" the appearance of the panel and avoids end user confusion during operation.

Deadfront Applications

As with any transparent color, there are differing degrees of deadfronts and applications. Examples include:
• PPS DF-0500 – More transparent and only slightly dull.
• PPS DF-1000 – Less transparent, blends in with the background and is almost completely invisible when not lit
• Standard deadfront color – Achieves an even greater variety on your overlays when used with any of our standard transparent colors.

The transparent deadfront is printed on the second surface of the substrate after the main background color has been printed and/or any graphics that go in the display window or LEDs. To achieve a successful deadfront, the background color or border color surrounding the deadfront area should be black. This allows the deadfront to blend in and be concealed until you want it lit. If the background or border color is light, it will defeat the whole purpose of the deadfront.

Selecting a Deadfront

Call PPS today to get your own deadfront selector tool! (800) 466-0626

Use the Deadfront Selector to make comparisons:

• The same transparent color has been used behind each of the four deadfront windows on the deadfront selector as well as on the top row. This allows you to compare each transparent color in its natural state and see what effect each deadfront has on it.
• By putting the Designer's Guide Selector over your light source, you will be able to choose the one that will work best for you.
• Split-textured windows enables you to compare the difference between the clear glossy surface and the textured surface.

Now you can make a choice at the design stage and not just guess.

Typical Applications

• Display Off
• Display On

When you are designing your next overlay and a deadfront window or LED, follow these steps:

1. Check your PPS Designer's Guide and use the Deadfront Selector.
2. Just put the selector over the light source that will be behind the overlay or front panel you're designing.
3. Pick the deadfront that is best for your use.
4. Put that deadfront number on your blueprint.

By taking these steps, you'll know exactly what you'll get on your overlay scan and take the guesswork out of your job.

Important Design Considerations

PPS produces custom overlays and panels – each part is unique. Here are considerations to keep in mind:

    * Selection – When selecting or checking deadfronts, always do so over your light source so you can check readability, optical clarity, etc.

    * Layout – The deadfront area must either be located in a black background field or be surrounded by a black border for optimal results.

    * Texture – The split-textured windows show you the difference the texture makes on the readout or display.

    * Design – Coordinate transparent colors, LED bulbs and deadfronts for optimum light characteristics.

    * Consistency – Standard deadfronts provide the greatest consistency from run to run. Special deadfronts can also be produced to your specifications.

    * Adhesive – If the part is adhesive backed, the adhesive must be "zoned" away from the transparent deadfront areas.

    * Color – Use the PPS deadfront color number when specifying a color. Deadfronts can be used alone or in conjunction with transparent colors.

We will be happy to consult with you during the design stage. Call us at 913-791-9595 or toll free at 800-466-0626.