Electronic Video Scoreboard or Digital?

Guide to Scoreboards

Digit Only Scoreboards

If you are new to electronic scoreboards, references to ‘digit only’ means a handful of LED
bulbs in the shape of an ‘8’     Digital
Digit only scoreboards are great for simple scoring where teams will always be ‘Home’ and ‘Away’.

Digit Scoreboard

Full LED Scoreboards

Full LED Scoreboards have LED pixels over the entire screen. They can display any content you want
(graphics, text and video). Full LED Scoreboards can be controlled via mobile phone apps or laptop
programs, depending on requirements and type of scoreboard.

Some benefits of a full LED Scoreboard are the ability to display;

  • team names (e.g. at a regional carnival where “Home” might not be playing)
  •  team logos
  •  personalized images (e.g. sponsors)
  •  video content, for example countdown timers or replays

scoreboard hire

Scoreboard Considerations:

There are a number of considerations when choosing the right scoreboard.

Location

Will your scoreboard be located indoor or outdoors? Outdoor scoreboards need to be more durable
and designed to cope with all weather conditions.

Digit v LED

As mentioned above, full LED is more sophisticated, hence more expensive.

Features

Do you require only basic features (e.g. timer and team scores) or would you like additional features
like team names, team logos, timer? A full LED scoreboard can also display videos, personalised
images for sponsors or announcements.

Power

Do you have access to mains power (this may involve digging trenches and running cables) or would
you prefer battery pack?

Portable v Fixed Scoreboards

Electronics scoreboards have become more affordable for Clubs and are a great choice for
community sports and teams.
Many sporting clubs often ask whether portable or fixed scoreboard will suit their requirements.
Below are benefits and limitation on both to assist with making an informed choice.

Benefits of Portable Scoreboards:

Flexibility
This is the biggest advantage to portable scoreboards. They can be easily moved between fields and
courts, making them a great choice if you have multiple fields or courts. Portable scoreboards can be
stored away when not in use, protecting them from vandalism and the elements.

Cost

Portable Scoreboards generally cost less than fixed scoreboards. They are a great option if you are
on a budget or if you need a second board for occasional use.

Simple Installation

Portable scoreboards are simple to set up.

Versatility
No need to be close to electricity outlets for portable scoreboards, with battery option. This is a
great choice where running power is not a viable option.
Portable scoreboards can be used for multiple sports. This makes them a versatile option for clubs
and schools that offer multiple sporting events.

Limitations of Portable Scoreboards

Size
Portable scoreboards are close to the ground, hence they may not be as visible to all spectators on a
large field.
Portable scoreboards have a size limit related to weight, trolley stability and storage limitations.

Mobility
Portables scoreboards require them to be mounted on some form of a trolley. Depending on the
size, the combined weight of scoreboard and trolley may be heavy. If the trolley is poorly designed,
the scoreboard will be difficult to manoeuvre, and may be unstable on sloping or uneven ground.
Well designed trolleys should have pneumatic tyres, with at least two tyres steering, appropriately
sized structural support, accessible handle, stowable legs and a low centre of gravity.

Power
If a portable scoreboard is over a certain size, there may be no battery option. The portable
scoreboard will be restricted to whatever power is available.

Benefits of Fixed Scoreboards

Size

There is no size limit for fixed scoreboards. The only consideration is the space available to install
one and your budget.

Viewing

If installed correctly, fixed scoreboards will be seen by all spectators, as they are generally installed
above the heads of players and spectators. They are also less of a hazard to spectators.

Power
Fixed scoreboards are likely to be installed and run from mains power, eliminating the need of
battery packs.

Limitations of Fixed Scoreboards

Installation Costs
Installation costs vary, depending on the scoreboard location, main power requirements, scoreboard
size, labour costs and any additional materials and costs. Installation costs are inevitably more
expensive compared to portable scoreboards.

Less Flexibility
Fixed scoreboards, given their static position, cannot be moved between fields or courts, nor can
they be stored away when not in use.

Security
Fixed scoreboards are more vulnerable to vandalism and accidental damage as they cannot be safety
storage or locked up between games.

We offer portable scoreboards for a range of sports. We also provide advice to assist you select the
best portable scoreboard for your specific needs and budget.