Laser-dot pattern
Digitally varied dot density for custom outlines, prototypes, and flexible production runs.
Buyer Resource / Design Guide
How to Specify a Custom LED Light Guide Panel
A practical checklist for selecting panel format, optical process, light entry, electrical configuration, installation detail, and the drawings needed for an accurate quotation.
Start with the application
The panel is engineered around the final object, not selected as a generic sheet.
The useful starting point is the illuminated area, viewing distance, mounting space, desired surface finish, operating environment, and target light effect. These decisions determine the PMMA format, optical pattern, LED entry, diffusion stack, wiring, and support method.
Share a drawing whenever possible. A dimensioned PDF, DWG, DXF, STEP, or IGES file reduces assumptions and makes sampling more representative of the production assembly.
Light Entry
LED entry is selected by span, shape, brightness target, and visible-edge requirements.
One-side, two-side, three-side, or four-side entry can be used. The final choice follows optical review; larger spans and square formats commonly need additional entry sides to maintain uniformity.
LED pitch, power, guide pattern, diffusion, and thermal conditions are evaluated together.
Optical Method
Choose the manufacturing process after the size and visual requirement are clear.
Engraved line
Precision line processing for thin panels and large luminous surfaces within reviewed capacity.
Screen printing
Repeatable printed optical patterns for approved sizes and production quantities.
Project review
Uniformity, visible finish, tooling, quantity, and budget are considered before the process is confirmed.
Design FAQ
Common questions before sampling.
What files should I send for a custom panel?
A dimensioned PDF is useful for review. DWG, DXF, STEP, or IGES files are preferred when the outline, holes, edge details, or mounting features must be manufactured accurately.
How is PMMA thickness selected?
Thickness is selected with the panel span, structural support, light travel, machining detail, weight, and installation depth. FH Lighting reviews 3-10 mm PMMA options against the project drawing.
Can the LED strip be placed on one or several sides?
Yes. One-, two-, three-, or four-side entry can be configured. The selection depends on dimensions, shape, optical pattern, brightness target, and where edges may remain visible.
Can the panel use 12 V or 24 V DC?
Both can be considered. The electrical configuration is matched to panel size, LED type, cable length, control method, driver location, and the customer's system requirements.
How long does a custom sample take?
Sample production normally takes 7-15 production days after drawings and specifications are confirmed. Freight and transit time are separate.
What should be checked before approving the sample?
Check illuminated dimensions, uniformity, color, edge appearance, cable exit, mounting detail, surface finish, electrical control, and how the panel fits the final assembly.
Project Review
Send the drawing and the nine checklist items.
FH Lighting will review the optical structure, LED entry, electrical configuration, finish, and sampling approach for your application.
Request a Project Quote