Troubleshooting Guide for Antenna and POE Connection on LED Sign
If you're experiencing connection issues with your sign, this step-by-step guide will help you identify and resolve common problems by checking the antenna, PoE adapter, and their cables.
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Remove the Bottom-Left LED Module
- Step 2: Understand the PoE Adapter Setup
- Step 3: Reset the Connections
- Step 4: Bypass to Test Power
- Step 5: Replace the PoE Adapter
- Step 6: Network Light Off? Try This
- Step 7: Final Steps
Step 1: Remove the Bottom-Left LED Module
Locate the bottom-left corner module—this is typically next to the antenna port. Gently remove this LED module to access the controller and PoE (Power over Ethernet) adapter.
Access the POE
Before you can see the POE, you’ll need to access it by removing the module that covers it. The controller is located at the bottom left of the sign.
If you're unfamiliar with how to remove the module, check out this detailed guide:
Module Removal: How to Identify the Holes to Lock and Unlock the Module.
Locate the POE
Once the sign is exposed, look to the right side of the controller. You should see the POE.


Install the POE
Remove the POE from the sign and replace it with the new POE. Make sure that the cables are plugged into the same places. Plug in the cable on top and the two Ethernet cables on the bottom to match.
Step 2: Understand the PoE Adapter Setup
The PoE adapter powers the antenna and serves as the network switch.
- Top of the adapter: Power cable
- Bottom of the adapter: Two Ethernet cables (one to the antenna, one to the controller)
Step 3: Reset the Connections
Slide the PoE adapter down to remove it from its bracket. Disconnect and reconnect all cables (PoE, LAN, and antenna).
Check for the Power (PWR) and LAN (L) lights on the antenna:
- Both lights on: Connection is good—try reconnecting to the antenna.
- No lights: Proceed to Step 4.
Step 4: Bypass to Test Power
Use a different Ethernet cable to connect directly from the PoE port on the adapter to the PoE port on the antenna.
- If the antenna powers on, replace the original antenna cable.
- If it doesn’t power on, replace the PoE adapter.
Step 5: Replace the PoE Adapter
- Slide the old adapter out of the bracket.
- Disconnect both Ethernet and power cables.
- Connect the cables to the new PoE adapter.
- Slide the new adapter into the bracket and reconnect the power.
- Check for power and LAN lights on the antenna.
Step 6: Network Light Off? Try This
If the power light is on but the network light is off:
- Unplug the LAN cable from the PoE adapter and plug it directly into the antenna.
- If that doesn't work, try replacing the RJ45 cable from the controller to the adapter.
Step 7: Final Steps
Once both lights are on and the antenna is functioning:
- Reinstall the removed LED module.
- Mount the antenna upright with the cable exiting from the bottom to prevent water intrusion.
If the issue persists, please contact LED Sign City Support for further assistance.