Spyder Base

Retrofit Solution for Message Boards

Engineered for direct replacement, the Spyder Base provides a universal platform for message boards, arrow boards, and other traffic control systems—returning equipment to service quickly after trailer damage incidents.

Product Overview

Adaptability. Protection. Longevity.

The Spyder Base extends the service life of message boards by providing a durable retrofit platform with protected wiring and out-of-reach battery placement—designed for reliable, low-maintenance operation in the field.

Products

Spyder Platform

Spyder Base

The Jeep

Spyder Legs (Jack Stands)

Tarsus Footplates

close up of spyder base in industrial gravel parking lot

System Architecture

Integration with the Spyder Base’s structural and power components facilitates the retrofit of any existing sign cabinet (PCMS or arrow boards). This design meets required industry standards for compliance, providing high wind-resistance and five-minute deployment performance.

Function

Structure

Performance

ROI

Installation & Labor Efficiency

• The Spyder Base integrates an existing sign cabinet into the Spyder Platform system, delivering immediate labor savings and minimizing unit downtime.

• Rapid Installation: Retrofitting an existing message board cabinet onto the Spyder Base takes approximately 1-2 hours, compared to the 6–8 hours (or more) required for traditional unit transfers.

• Deployment Speed: Once retrofitted, the unit maintains a 5-Minute Deployment capability using one cordless drill and one socket. This is significantly faster than the 30–45 minutes required for traditional boards.

• Theft Prevention: The design ensures that tires, axles, and trailer lights leave the job site with The Jeep, eliminating external component theft risk.

• Telemetry Integration: The Base is pre-wired to enable advanced remote functions, including Battery-Status Telemetry, Remote Controller Reboot, and Tip-Over/Accelerometer Alarms (requires a connectivity subscription tier).

Engineered Stability & Durability

• The Base replaces compromised or traditional trailer chassis with a structure built for unmatched stability on diverse terrain, providing a durable, long-lasting foundation.

• Universal Sign Cabinet Integration: Engineered to easily retrofit to the Spyder Base and accepts any existing sign cabinet, including message boards and arrow boards.

• Heavy-Duty Frame: Frame construction uses 3/16th” steel (equivalent to 7 gauge). This is structurally thicker than the 0.1196″ steel (11 gauge) used by many competitors.

• Unmatched Stability: The Base deploys a stable footprint measuring 11 ft x 12 ft.

• Terrain Capable: The unit is slope-capable to 33% and uses Tarsus Cleated Footplates for stable deployment on uneven, sloped ground.

• High-Capacity Jacks: Features swing-out jack stand Spyder Legs with a 29″ height extension and a 5,000 lb. capacity.

• Integrated Ballast: Includes 416 lbs of permanently installed ballast, which removes the need for sandbags during deployment.

Zero Maintenance Power Upgrade

• Retrofitting to the Spyder Base immediately upgrades the sign to a high-performance LiFePO₄ power system, eliminating manual maintenance and ensuring superior cold-weather readiness.

• 10-Year Battery Life: The integrated LiFePO₄ battery bank (1212 Ah capacity) has a 10-year lifespan (3000–6000 cycles). This is superior to traditional lead-acid batteries, which last 3–4 years (300–800 cycles).

• Zero Maintenance: LFP batteries require no watering, no corrosion, and no replacements during their lifespan.

• Cold Weather Readiness: The system includes heating blankets so the battery bank is able to charge at very low outside temp. This is crucial as standard LiFePO₄ is not allowed to charge below 0°C (32°F).

• Discharge Reliability: LiFePO₄ batteries retain 70–80% of rated capacity at –20°C (–4°F), minimizing capacity loss compared to lead-acid, which can lose up to 40–50% capacity at the same temperature.

Total Cost of Ownership Reduction

• The Spyder Base minimizes both initial labor and long-term operating costs, providing a cost-effective alternative to purchasing an entirely new message board.

• Lowest Operating Cost: The retrofitted unit achieves an Annual Operating Cost Per Unit of $150, which is substantially lower than the $1333 – $2760 annual range typical of Traditional Boards.

• Installation Efficiency: The 2-hour retrofit installation time provides immediate labor savings compared to the 6–8 hours required for traditional unit transfers.

• Deployment Savings: The 5-minute setup vs. 30–45 minutes saves hundreds of man-hours annually.

• Battery Cost Elimination: Customers eliminate replacement costs for 10 years, saving

800-

1,200 every 3–4 years versus lead-acid systems.

• Theft Prevention Savings: The design eliminates parts theft (tires, axles, etc.).

Applications

Message Board & Traffic Sign Retrofit

The Spyder Base provides equipment owners, fleet managers, and procurement specialists with a flexible retrofit solution for reusing undamaged sign cabinets (PCMS, arrow boards, or other traffic signs) after a trailer incident. This retrofit capability maximizes asset lifespan for rental fleets, government agencies, and contractors.

Traffic Control

Traffic crews rely on stable, high-visibility equipment that won’t slow them down. The Spyder Platform sets quickly, locks in place on uneven ground, and delivers clear messaging through every stage of the project.

Road Construction

Deployed for paving, bridge repair, and phased lane shifts where visibility and uptime are critical. The Spyder Platform withstands harsh conditions, anchors securely on slope, and delivers uninterrupted full-matrix communication.

Municipalities

Municipal teams manage alerts, infrastructure work, and long-term deployments across varied environments. The Spyder Platform supports daily operations with fast setup, intuitive operation, and maintenance-free performance crews can rely on.

DOT & Government

Overseeing high-visibility projects where compliance, reliability, and minimal downtime are essential. The Spyder Platform ensures operational continuity with MUTCD compliance, long-term durability, and tools for coordinated fleet management.

Equipment Rental

High-turnover rentals demand simplicity, durability, and low upkeep. The Spyder Platform deploys fast, requires no routine maintenance, and eliminates parts theft—reducing service calls and extending time in the field.

Events & Venues

Deployed at concerts, festivals, and stadiums to guide traffic, manage entry points, and direct crowd movement. The Spyder Platform provides fast setup, stable footing, and clear messaging across dynamic event environments.

Technical Overview

Specifications & Details

The Spyder Base provides a heavy-duty, universal foundation for PCMS retrofit and arrow sign deployments, making it an effective sourcing solution for heavy equiment assets.

5-minute deployment

Wind-resistant to 87 mph

Zero-maintenance power

3/16" steel frame

Model 100400

Dimensions & Deployment

12′ × 11′ deployed footprint
Max mast height: 182″
Transport height: 122″
Operates on slopes up to 33%
No sandbags required

Component Engineering

Main Frame: 2 inch x 4 inch x 0.180 inch HG Steel
Frame Gauge: 7 gauge steel
Hydraulic Mast Motor pressure: 3000 psi
LED Cabinet Material: Steel
LED Cabinet Door: UV-coated polycarbonate, 3.81 mm (0.150 inch)

Power System

4 LiFePO₄ batteries
1212 AH total capacity
SOTA 4-panel solar array (480W)
10-year battery life (3K–6K cycles)
Cold-weather charging support

Structural Design

Hydraulic lift mast
29″ swing-out jack stands
Cleated footplates for uneven ground
Pre-installed internal ballast (416 lbs)
Color: Highway Orange
Platform w/CMS + trailer: 3,832 lbs

Included Components

Pre-wired control enclosure with local access interface

All required wiring harnesses, connectors, and protective enclosures

Integrated ballast (factory installed)

Hardware kit for initial setup and field service

Documentation and system reference materials

Frequently asked questions

Spyder Base or Spyder Platform: What is the difference?

The Spyder Base is the core deployment unit, designed for retrofit applications that reuse an existing message board. It includes the platform, hydraulic mast, solar‑powered LiFePO4 battery system, Spyder Legs, and Tarsus Cleated Footplates.

The Spyder Platform is the complete system, combining the Spyder Base with a full‑size, full‑matrix Portable Changeable Message Sign (PCMS).

Will the Spyder Base allow for an arrow board install?

Yes. The Spyder Base frame is designed with a universal fit that can accommodate arrow boards and other signs of varying sizes.

For confirmation on fit and installation details, please contact us at 405.415.3002 — our team will be happy to assist.

Can an existing message board be retrofitted onto the Spyder Base?

Yes. Thanks to its universal frame design, the Spyder Base can accommodate message boards of varying sizes from different manufacturers.

It is an ideal solution for damaged or outdated trailers where the message board remains operational.

What is the projected lifespan of the Spyder Base?

The Spyder Base is engineered for a lifespan of 10 years, which is longer than the typical 6-year lifespan of traditional message board trailers being retrofitted.

Are special tools needed for retrofitting onto the Spyder Base?

No. The Spyder Base is designed for efficient retrofitting. Crews can mount existing message or arrow boards using standard hardware, without the need for specialized tools or complicated modifications.

How long does it take to retrofit a message board on the Spyder Base?

The Spyder Base is designed with unobstructed access and ease of connection, allowing a retrofit process that is efficient, with a typical installation time of about 2 hours.

Have Questions?

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Contact

(405) 415-3002