Glue-on-Board LED technology for outdoor passenger information displays
Outdoor passenger information displays must deliver reliable performance, clear readability, and long operational lifetime in demanding environments.
Modern LED solutions combine different packaging and protection technologies to meet these requirements. Micro LED in Package (MIP) combined with Glue-on-Board (GOB) protection offers an effective approach for outdoor passenger information displays.
LED packaging technologies in context
Several LED packaging technologies are used in passenger information displays today, each optimized for different requirements.
SMD (Surface Mounted Device) is a widely used, cost-effective solution suitable for large displays and long viewing distances. MIP (Micro LED in Package) integrates smaller LED chips into compact packages, improving uniformity and efficiency. COB (Chip on Board) is typically used in specific high-end applications where cost is less critical.
Additional protection layers such as GOB can be applied to improve durability and environmental resistance.
MIP + COB
Improved visual performance
MIP technology uses smaller LED packages, creating a more uniform light-emitting surface compared to conventional SMD displays. When combined with a GOB layer, the surface becomes smoother and reflections are reduced.
The result is higher contrast, improved black levels, and better readability of text and symbols. These characteristics are particularly important in bright outdoor environments with high ambient light.
Efficiency and compact design
MIP technology enables a more compact display structure than traditional packaged LEDs. Smaller light-emitting elements require lower operating currents, improving electrical efficiency while maintaining outdoor brightness.
Measured performance shows that MIP combined with GOB protection can reduce power consumption by approximately 18% compared to traditional SMD solutions. Lower energy use also reduces thermal load and supports stable operation.
Robustness in outdoor environments
Outdoor displays are exposed to moisture, dust, pollution, temperature variation, and mechanical stress.
The GOB layer forms a sealed surface that protects LEDs and electronics from environmental exposure, including moisture, dust, and surface contamination. It also improves resistance to cleaning and general wear.
MIP technology uses flip-chip LEDs without wire bonding, reducing the risk of mechanical failure. Combined with encapsulation, this supports durable performance under demanding conditions.
Lifecycle efficiency and sustainability
Modern display solutions are designed to improve long-term operation and maintenance efficiency. MIP combined with GOB protection supports this by reducing energy consumption, simplifying service through module-level maintenance, and enabling longer replacement cycles.
In practice, this results in:
- Lower energy consumption, enabled by efficient LED integration
- Extended operational lifetime, supported by improved protection
- Reduced maintenance effort, with module-level replacement
- Lower material usage and waste, thanks to targeted repairs and longer replacement cycles
- Improved total cost of ownership, driven by savings in energy, service, and replacements
While SMD LED remains a reliable option in many large-scale applications, MIP and GOB-based solutions offer advantages where durability, contrast, and lifecycle performance are critical.
Choosing the right LED technology
The most suitable display technology depends on the specific application, environment, and viewing conditions. The table below provides general guidance.
| Use case / requirement | Recommended approach |
| Large displays with long viewing distances | Traditional SMD LED |
| High brightness requirements | Traditional SMD LED |
| Cost-sensitive, scalable installations | Traditional SMD LED |
| Close viewing distances | MIP + GOB |
| High contrast and readability in bright environments | MIP + GOB |
| Exposure to moisture, dust, and pollution | MIP + GOB |
| Risk of mechanical impact or vandalism | MIP + GOB |
| Reduced maintenance and long lifecycle requirements | MIP + GOB |
Find the right display solution for your needs
MIP combined with GOB protection improves visual performance, durability, and lifecycle efficiency in outdoor passenger information displays. It supports reliable operation while helping optimize total cost of ownership.
Have a specific use case or requirement in mind? Get in touch with our experts to discuss how we can support your project.
Micro LED in Package (MIP) combined with Glue-on-Board (GOB)
