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GOB LED Display Technology

LED display technology that enhances the durability of SMD modules by coating them with transparent resin, striking a balance between cost and protection.

What Is GOB LED?

GOB (Glue on Board) is a protective method in which a transparent and flexible resin layer is applied over surface-mounted LED chips. The production process is based on an SMD module; the resin coating is added to this module as an additional step.

The purpose of this method is to address the surface sensitivity of SMD modules, which is their weakest point. The coating layer protects the chips against moisture, dust, and impact while largely preserving the module’s optical properties.

What Need Does GOB Address?

While SMD modules are cost-effective, their chip housings protrude from the surface, leaving them vulnerable to contact. COB modules, on the other hand, provide high protection but come at a significantly higher cost. GOB strikes a balance between these two approaches: since the existing SMD production line is retained, the cost increase remains limited, while the protection rating approaches IP54.

TechnologyProtection ClassTypical Pixel PitchKey Feature
SMDIP20 – IP30P1.5 and aboveThe most common and economical packaging method
GOBAround IP54P1.2 and aboveA resin-reinforced version of the SMD module
COBIP54 and aboveP0.9 – P1.9Provides the highest image quality at close viewing distances

Important note: Resin quality is a key factor in GOB modules. Low-quality coatings may yellow over time or become dull due to UV exposure, which negatively affects color accuracy and brightness.

Advantages of GOB LED Technology

Impact resistance

The flexible resin layer absorbs mechanical impact. Chip loss during transportation, installation, and maintenance is significantly reduced.

Moisture and Dust Protection

Since the coating seals the module surface, service life is extended in humid environments and dusty areas.

Cost-Effectiveness

Since production is based on SMD technology, the cost remains more affordable compared to COB modules.

Cleanable Surface

The smooth, sealed surface can be cleaned with a damp cloth. It is suitable for food service areas and high-traffic common areas.

Light Diffusion

The resin layer diffuses the light to some extent, reducing the grainy appearance at close range.

Ease of Maintenance

Since individual chip failures are reduced, the need for on-site intervention and the consumption of replacement modules are minimized.

Applications

  • Common areas and hallways with heavy foot traffic
  • Gyms and spaces with a risk of physical contact
  • Indoor areas with high humidity
  • Modular systems that are frequently moved and reinstalled
  • Screen surfaces close to the floor that are accessible from ground level

In fixed installation projects, technology selection is based on the space’s usage intensity and viewing distance. COB and SMD pages can be reviewed for comparison.

GOB Coating Process

In the GOB application, transparent resin is poured over a pre-made SMD module and cured under controlled conditions. The curing time and temperature determine the optical clarity and flexibility of the coating. Improperly cured coatings may result in surface rippling or cloudiness.

Coating thickness also affects the result. A layer that is too thin does not provide impact protection, while a layer that is thicker than necessary reduces light transmittance, leading to a loss of brightness. In high-quality production, this value is standardized according to the module type.

How Is Resin Quality Evaluated?

The long-term performance of GOB modules depends largely on the quality of the resin. The following points must be checked during the procurement phase:

Inspection ItemExpectedSign of a Problem
UV resistanceUV-stable resin certificationYellowing over time and color temperature shift
Light transmittance90% and aboveNoticeable decrease in brightness compared to uncoated modules
HardnessFlexible, impact-absorbing structureBrittle surface, cracking after impact
Temperature rangeRange covering the operating environmentSoftening or deformation at high temperatures
Surface treatmentMatte or semi-matte finishReflection of ambient light on a glossy surface

Request a sample. The resin quality cannot be fully understood from the technical data sheet alone. Measuring surface hardness and gloss on a sample module prior to procurement prevents yellowing and dulling issues that may arise later.

When Should GOB Not Be Used?

  • In applications where the viewing distance is less than two meters; COB modules offer higher resolution in this segment.
  • In high-mount installations where budget is a determining factor and there is no risk of contact; standard SMD modules provide sufficient results.
  • In outdoor applications exposed to direct sunlight; fully sealed outdoor enclosures are used for these conditions.
  • In temporary setups where frequent module replacement is anticipated; individual pixel repair is limited in coated modules.

Application with Koz Teknoloji

At Koz Teknoloji, we verify the resin quality and the module’s protection class during the procurement phase for projects using GOB modules. We manage the entire process—from site survey and product selection to installation and commissioning—and provide post-installation service support.

You can explore our LED display solutions or browse our LED display products.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common technical questions about GOB LED Display Technology, answered briefly.

Ask our engineers
GOB modules are based on SMD manufacturing, and a transparent resin is applied to the chips afterward. In COB modules, however, the chips are mounted directly onto the circuit board and then encapsulated. While COB allows for a finer pixel pitch, GOB remains more cost-effective.
Thanks to their resin coating, GOB modules generally offer protection close to the IP54 rating. The exact rating varies depending on the module manufacturer’s certification.
No significant yellowing is expected in modules made with high-quality resin. In low-quality coatings, UV exposure may cause the surface to become dull and the color to fade.
In high-quality resins, light transmittance is 90% or higher; the loss of brightness is negligible. A noticeable decrease may be observed in low-quality or excessively thick coatings.
In applications where the viewing distance is less than two meters, COB modules are more suitable, while standard SMD modules are more suitable for high-mount installations where there is no risk of contact.
The protection class is tested and certified by the manufacturer. It is recommended to request the certificate during the procurement phase and verify that it matches the module type.

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