Backlit Sign Logo Led Light Luminous Letters for Advertising Display

How Backlit Systems Function 

The basic principle is simple - light shines backward instead of forward. Each letter consists of an aluminum shell with a solid face (usually acrylic or metal). LED strips mount inside, positioned to direct light toward the wall rather than through the face. 

When powered on, light bounces off the mounting surface and creates a glow around each letter's perimeter. The effect is sometimes called a "halo" because the letter appears outlined in light against the wall. 

This approach requires proper wall surfaces. Light-colored, smooth walls work best. Dark walls absorb too much light, reducing visibility. Textured or uneven surfaces create irregular halos that look amateurish. 

Some installations include separate backer panels - painted boards mounted behind letters to provide consistent light-colored surfaces regardless of the actual wall color. 

Construction Details 

Quality backlit letter systems use specific construction methods: 

Aluminum thickness - Most manufacturers use 0.080-inch aluminum or thicker for backlit letters. The solid faces and internal LED positioning create different structural requirements than frontlit designs. Thinner aluminum may warp, affecting how evenly light distributes. 

Face materials - Unlike frontlit letters, backlit systems don't require translucent faces. Common options include brushed aluminum, painted aluminum, or solid acrylic. The face just needs to block light from shining forward. 

LED positioning - Critical for even halo distribution. LEDs must be angled correctly and positioned at consistent distances from letter edges. Poor positioning creates bright spots and dim areas in the halo. 

Depth requirements - Backlit letters typically run 5-6 inches deep, sometimes more. The extra depth accommodates LED positioning and helps distribute light evenly. Shallow letters often have uneven halos.