Retrofit / Cabinet Upgrades

Retrofit and Cabinet Upgrades for LED Signs

When your sign starts to fade, malfunction, or feel outdated, it doesn’t always mean you need to start from scratch. In many cases, you can save money and time with a retrofit or cabinet upgrade, which focuses on reusing your existing structure (such as a pole or monument base) while modernizing the technology inside.

What is a Retrofit?

A retrofit means upgrading an LED sign by installing a new display inside an existing structure. In most cases, this requires replacing the LED cabinet with a new one while keeping the foundation, support poles, or monument.

  • You replace the LED display with a modern cabinet that includes updated modules, power supplies, and controls.

  • You keep the structure (as long as it’s safe and in good condition).

  • You may need to modify the structure slightly so it fits the new LED cabinet correctly.

If your sign is built on the XIGNZ modular platform from LED Sign City or SignRack, you can go a step further — simply swap out internal components like modules and control systems without replacing the whole cabinet.

What is a Cabinet Upgrade?

A cabinet upgrade goes beyond just replacing the LED display. You can also:

  • Update or reinforce the cabinet (the enclosure that holds the LEDs, power, and wiring)

  • Refresh finishes such as paint, trim, or face panels

  • Improve weatherproofing and service access

This ensures both the appearance and the performance of your sign are brought up to modern standards.

Why Retrofit or Upgrade Instead of Replacing Everything?

  • Cost Savings: Reusing the foundation or structure reduces material and labor costs.

  • Faster Installation: No need to pour new foundations or set new poles.

  • Modern Technology: A new LED cabinet will be brighter, more energy-efficient, and easier to control.

  • Compliance: Retrofitting often avoids zoning issues that may arise with a brand-new installation.

When a Retrofit Makes Sense

  • Your support structure (pole, frame, or monument) is solid and in good condition.

  • You want to modernize the look and performance of your sign without a full rebuild.

  • You already have a XIGNZ modular platform, making it simple to swap out components.

When a Full Replacement is Necessary

  • The cabinet or structure is rusted, unsafe, or not code-compliant.

  • You want a different size, design, or location.

  • Your existing sign is not built on the XIGNZ modular platform, making a retrofit impractical.

The Bottom Line

Retrofit and cabinet upgrades are a cost-effective way to bring an older sign up to modern standards — as long as the structure is sound. In most cases, you’ll replace the entire LED cabinet while keeping your pole or monument. You won’t be sliding new parts into a different manufacturer’s cabinet.

If you have a XIGNZ modular platform, your options are even better: you can simply replace components as technology improves, without changing the cabinet at all.

For everyone else, a retrofit gives you the performance of a new LED sign while reusing the structure you already have.