Tips on Strobe Lights for Vehicles
Emergency vehicles depend upon high-visibility through all outdoor conditions. They must attract attention from other vehicles on the road as rapidly as possible. Studies have shown an effective way of doing this is through the use of strobe lights; and of the various colors, white attracts the attention quickest. This is why emergency vehicles such as police cars and ambulances are equipped with not only bar lights across their tops, but strobe lights on their side markers in the front and rear. Getting attention 360 degrees is especially important when driving through intersections or passing traffic.
Strobe lights often come as part of a complete kit, which include strobe tubes and a power supply, with sockets that can be connected easily by hand. Depending on the user, they may be installed in existing light housings, or put in hideaway locations, such as for unmarked police cars. These devices can come in various colors. White strobe lights are the most versatile; not only do they suit almost any type of emergency vehicle, they will also flash the color of whatever reflector lens they are placed behind. Installation fits almost any type of vehicle; either in existing housings with easy snap-in locks, or placed in preferred locations both internally and externally.
These lights sometimes have programmable flash patterns to instantly communicate various levels of emergency. Emergency vehicles need to be seen immediately. Internal strobes also command attention when a vehicle is parked. They can be mounted on the dash or visor. These units may also allow extra sockets for expandability.
Strobe lights are high-intensity and meant to be noticed. Strobe patterns sometimes feature Ethernet cable installations, that allow for customizable patterns which the operator can direct with a switch. The strobe effect increases when it's mounted on a higher vehicle, at eye-level with cars. The strobing effect is in danger of triggering physical side effects, such as epileptic attacks and nausea. Therefore it's incumbent upon the installer to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding the safe public use of the technology.
What should you consider when purchasing strobe lights?
- How bright and noticeable are they? How do the strobes compare to other types of lights, be they halogen, LED or Xenon?
- What's involved with installation? Can they be installed by hand, or do they need more professional servicing?
- How moisture resistant are they? How vibration resistant?
- What colors are required by the emergency vehicle?
- Are they replaceable in the field?
- Is there a warranty?
- Are they protected against short circuiting or false triggering? Are the power inputs and outputs regulated to minimize or eliminate variations in flash intensity?
