How Neon Signs Work
The simplest explanation of how neon signs work is that a current passes through a glass tube containing an inert gas - typically argon or neon - and causes the gas to glow. The resulting stream of light is an alternating pattern of colours. Different sections of the sealed tubing are lit at various times with a simple timer to create the illusion of movement. The unlit tubes are illuminated and disappear into darkness while the lit ones appear bright with a characteristic glare. Read more on neon signs The ionised atoms of neon return to a neutral state and emit a photon. This causes the resulting glow, so it is important to cut off the electricity supply to a neon sign if you want to use it outdoors. While it is possible for a fire to start from a burning neon sign, there is little risk of a neon sign igniting. However, it is important to know the safety and installation guidelines when using it in the workplace. Large neon signs consist of multiple layers of glass tubing. The...