Vivad offers both backlit and edgelit lightbox configurations. When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider factors such as lightbox size, required brightness, power consumption, transport logistics, and overall system cost. While both options are effective, they perform quite differently.
Backlit Lightboxes
Backlit lightboxes feature LEDs mounted behind the graphic, typically fixed to a honeycomb aluminium panel. These LEDs project light forward at a wide angle, delivering high brightness and very even illumination.
Because the light source sits directly behind the entire graphic, brightness remains consistent across the surface. Performance is also largely unaffected by size, provided the LED spacing is correctly configured.
Edgelit Lightboxes
Edgelit lightboxes operate differently. LEDs are positioned along the edges of the frame, emitting light at a narrow angle. This light is distributed across the graphic through internal reflection.
As a result, performance is more dependent on the size of the lightbox. As dimensions increase, brightness tends to decrease toward the centre. This is why edgelit systems can show greater variation in output compared to backlit solutions.
Edge lighting can be applied to any or all edges of the perimeter of the lightbox. Usually edgelighting is applied Top and Bottom, but for additional brightness illumination can be applied to the sides as well.
NB: the 80mm extrusion uses the same channel for the internal power supply as the LEDs so for edgelighting on all four sides consider the 100mm Single Sided extrusion.
The graph below illustrates the difference in brightness between backlit and edgelit lightboxes, with edge lighting applied on two sides only.
Extrusions
Vivad offers four different extrusions in the Vivalux range. Profiles are available 1 in clear anodised and some in black powder coated standard. Extrusions can be custom powder coated to as specified colour at additional cost.
50mm Profile
Backlit only, designed for high brightness in a slim format. It delivers approximately 50% more brightness than the Vivalux 80mm profile but consumes more power. LEDs are placed in a grid of 80mm x 80mm. Power supplies are mounted internally.
80mm Profile
Can be configured as either backlit or edgelit. The power supplies and LEDs share the same channel. This limits edge lighting to two sides when using internal power supplies. A visible 15mm shadow line is a characteristic of this profile that hides unevenness on the wall and exposes a 65mm side face.
100mm Single-Sided Profile
Features separate channels for power supply and lighting, allowing all four sides to be edge lit with internal power supplies integrated into the frame.
100mm Double-sided Profile
Designed specifically for edgelit applications, ideal for freestanding or double-sided displays.
The 100mm extrusions can also be used in Free-standing applications, we can fit flat and swivel feet for stability. We recommend limiting the height to 2400mm high unless adding returns or additional rigging.
Both 100mm Vivalux extrusions are compatible with Vivad’s Palisade Corner column, enabling clean 90-degree internal and external illuminated corners.
Quality Built In
Build quality is a key consideration. Vivalux lightboxes are engineered so that all circuits operate below 5 amps, reducing heat and enhancing safety. Power supplies are SAA compliant for the Australian market, and composite panels utilise a non-combustible honeycomb construction.
All Vivalux lightboxes are tested and tagged to meet installation requirements.
Packing and Transport
Transport requirements differ between the two systems:
Edgelit Lightboxes
Typically shipped as disassembled extrusion lengths forming the perimeter frame. With no rigid panels, shipping is more cost-effective. The bounce cloth and graphic can be folded and packed separately, reducing freight costs and simplifying handling.
Backlit Lightboxes
Require rigid aluminium panels with LEDs pre-mounted. Depending on size, units may be shipped fully assembled or in sections. Larger systems are usually packed with the extrusion frame separate from the panels, which are flat-packed and sometimes palletised.
Power cord
Power cords can exit the box either on the side or behind. When ordering, please specify where you would like the power cord to exit the box. Larger boxes may require more than one power cord.
Warranty and Serviceability
All Vivalux lightboxes are supplied with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty, covering parts and labour for the repair or replacement of any defective components. The warranty requires the lightbox to be returned to Vivad and does not include freight or installation costs.
In most cases, issues can be diagnosed and resolved on site by a suitably qualified person. Each lightbox is labelled with a unique job number, and Vivad maintains detailed records to support efficient servicing and maintenance.
Backlit vs Edge-lit Lightboxes: What to Consider
Which lightbox configuration is right for my project?