Posts Tagged ‘advisory arrow’
Arrow Boards? What?
Never heard of arrow boards? An arrow board is a traffic message board or advisory arrow that you would typically see on the highway that informs incoming traffic. It could say “Ice, slow down” or “DUI checkpoint” etc.
There are different forms of arrow boards. Some are bigger than others, some just show arrows, and some even come with laptops! This equipment is not cheap, it can cost as much as $20k. There are many options and many types of arrow boards, so doing your research is always worthwhile.
Cost of Traffic Message Boards
Traveling down the highway you may come across these signs that are picture on the left. These can be called traffic message boards or arrow boards. They are used to inform drivers, for example, it could say “road work ahead” or “heavy traffic slow down.”
There are many different types of traffic message boards, so the cost can vary. There are solar powered boards, boards that come with laptop computers, and boards that simply travel on the back of trucks. The most expensive boards I came across retail at around $22,000 while the cheapest came to $5,000.
Features of Arrow Boards
This blog talks about the different features an arrow board has. Of course the features are going to depend on the brand, but I’ll try and stick with industry-wide features. Most arrow boards are made so that they can be towed by a truck. The newest trend seems to be solar, there are a lot of solar arrow boards out there now.
“trailer mounted arrow board” is the term for an arrow board that is pulled by a car/truck for use while the truck is moving. A lot of them have storage for other safety items, like roll up signs and holders for traffic cones. Most arrow boards can be offered with 15 or 25 LEDs.
Traffic Message Boards and Advisory Arrows
Traffic message boards are similar to advisory arrows, except advisory arrows are usually smaller, have less electronics, and usually cost less. Some traffic message boards have laptops that come with them to help operate them. Advisory arrows have a photocell dimmer that allows motorists to be able to see the arrow 24 hours a day.
Typical models have left arrow, right arrow, double arrow and caution bar. Split arrow style is also available. These can be mounted to trucks, and magnetic mount kits are available for this. Always research all types of advisory arrows and traffic message boards before purchasing.