SM16703P Sign Modules: Set Letter Depth and Pitch Before Ordering
Module count alone cannot predict an even sign face. This guide uses the published 70×12mm body, DC12V, 0.96W and 20-module string to plan optical mock-ups, power zones and cascade order.
The failure begins when module pitch is copied between letters
A narrow stroke, broad cabinet and deep return do not spread light in the same way. Reusing one spacing value can create hotspots in shallow letters and dark centres in wide shapes.
Build the most difficult representative letter or panel with the real return depth and face. Compare centre brightness, corners and stroke transitions from the buyer's normal viewing distance before releasing the layout.
A 70×12mm body defines fit, not optical spacing
The published 70×12mm module envelope helps check access around curves, ribs and fasteners. It does not publish a beam angle or a universal centre-to-centre pitch.
Set spacing by moving modules on the mock-up until the face is acceptably uniform. Record edge offset, row spacing and corner treatment so production does not reinterpret the approved sample.
Build power zones from 0.96W, not the string count alone
At DC12V and 0.96W per module, nominal current is 0.96W ÷ 12V = 0.08A. Twenty modules equal 19.2W and 1.6A nominal.
These values are theoretical ratings. Actual input changes with scene, dimming and supply losses; one listed 20-module string is not automatically the maximum electrical branch or controller capacity.
Calculate each zone, include cable and connector resistance, then measure remote-end voltage under the demanding accepted scene. Parallel zoning also makes a failed connector or service action easier to isolate.
SM16703P requires a controlled cascade order
The published SM16703P architecture passes data through an ordered module chain. The four-wire red, green, blue and black male/female harness must be matched to the confirmed pinout rather than interpreted by colour alone.
Freeze controller compatibility, data direction, module order, first address and recovery behaviour. Label both ends of every fabricated string so site replacement preserves the programmed sequence.
IP67 applies to the module; the sign remains an assembly
IP67 is published for the module, but cut wires, plugs, power supplies, penetrations and drainage determine the installed boundary. A sealed module cannot protect an unsealed splice or trapped water inside a letter.
Approve adhesive or mechanical retention on the actual substrate, provide strain relief and access, and test the chosen joint method. Outdoor acceptance should inspect both illumination uniformity and water-management details.
Sign-module layout decision table
| Sign condition | Required proof |
|---|---|
| Shallow letter or translucent face | Reduce trial spacing and inspect hotspots on a full-scale sample. |
| Deep return or wide cabinet | Test centre fill; housing dimensions alone do not justify wider spacing. |
| One 20-module string | Use 19.2W and 1.6A as nominal planning values. |
| Long sign stroke | Create parallel power zones and preserve cascade order. |
| Field replacement | Label direction, pinout and module position before disconnecting. |
| Outdoor enclosure | Validate module, joints, cable exits, supply and drainage as one system. |
LIKELIGHT case: approve one representative sign segment
LIKELIGHT L-M-7012-SM16703P is published as a 70×12mm SMD5050 module using SM16703P, DC12V, 0.96W per module, four-wire male/female connectors, 20 modules per string and IP67.
It suits programmable sign and light-box layouts where the cascade can follow serviceable routes. Before bulk production, approve one difficult letter segment with final face, depth, spacing, connector orientation and the calculated 19.2W string load.
| Model | L-M-7012-SM16703P |
|---|---|
| Module / LED | 70×12mm; SMD5050 |
| Control / voltage | SM16703P cascade; DC12V |
| Published load | 0.96W/module; nominal 0.08A |
| Standard string | 20 modules; 19.2W and 1.6A nominal |
| Harness / protection | Four-wire male/female connectors; IP67 |
Information required before quotation
- Sign artwork, stroke widths and return depth
- Face material, colour and main viewing distance
- Proposed module pitch and quantity by letter
- Controller, cascade order and four-wire pinout
- DC12V supplies, cable lengths, zones and joints
- Mounting substrate, outdoor exposure, sample and schedule
These inputs combine letter geometry, optical spacing, cascade order and DC12V zoning into a representative sample that can be reproduced in production and checked on site.
FAQ
Does 70×12mm determine module spacing?
No. It defines mechanical fit; spacing needs the final depth, face and lit sample.
What is the load of 20 modules?
At published ratings it is 19.2W and about 1.6A at DC12V.
Can wire colours define the pinout?
No. Match red, green, blue and black conductors to the confirmed drawing.
Does IP67 make the full sign waterproof?
No. Joints, exits, supplies, enclosure and drainage remain separate design boundaries.
