Selecting a Large Display Scoreboard for Your Club

A scoreboard changes the atmosphere of an event. When the audience and competitors see the time and placing in real time, the event feels professional. But choosing a board is more than size — here are the key criteria.

Size and viewing distance

Digit height determines how far away it can be read. Rule of thumb: about 25 mm of digit height for every 10 metres of reading distance. If the back row of the stand is 50 metres away, you need digits at least ~125 mm tall. On large arenas a bigger board pays for itself in legibility.

Brightness and outdoor use

Outdoor use needs a bright LED board visible even in sunshine. Indoors, lower brightness suffices, but adjustability is a plus so the board doesn't dazzle in a dark riding hall. Check the IP rating for outdoor use.

Content and fields

Consider what the board must show: just a running clock, or also faults, competitor number and placing? In equestrian and agility a real-time clock is often enough, but a multi-field board serves more broadly. Confirm compatibility with the software.

Wireless control

The best solution is a board that takes the time straight from the wireless FDS system without separate cabling across the arena. This keeps setup fast and clean. Check that the board's radio is compatible with the timing.

Power and portability

A large board consumes power — find out whether a battery lasts the competition day or whether mains power or a generator is needed. For portable boards, account for weight, stand and transport.

Summary

Size the board to the stand, choose adequate brightness for outdoor use and ensure a wireless link to the timing. Eqilo helps size the right board for your arena and budget and ships it ready to install.