ES-1J Electrical Signs / Outline Lighting
Journeyman Exam –Questions And Correct
Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales
2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the maximum voltage typically used for neon outline
lighting in commercial signs?
A. 120V
B. 240V
C. 15kV
D. 480V
Neon outline lighting operates at high voltages, often in the
range of several thousand volts, to ionize the gas and produce
light.
2. When installing a metal raceway for sign wiring, the primary
consideration is:
A. Aesthetics
B. Electrical grounding and protection
C. Color matching
D. Ease of painting
Metal raceways must be grounded to prevent electrical shock
and protect wiring from physical damage.
,3. Which type of transformer is commonly used for low-voltage sign
lighting?
A. Autotransformer
B. Isolation transformer
C. Step-up transformer
D. Step-down transformer
Step-down transformers reduce line voltage to a safe, low
voltage suitable for small neon or LED signs.
4. What NEC article covers the installation of signs and outline
lighting?
A. Article 600
B. Article 250
C. Article 310
D. Article 600 and 605
NEC Articles 600 (Signs) and 605 (Outline Lighting) provide
installation and wiring requirements for these systems.
5. The purpose of a ballast in a neon sign is to:
A. Increase brightness
B. Regulate current
C. Reduce color temperature
D. Convert AC to DC
A ballast controls the current through the neon tube, preventing
it from overheating or failing prematurely.
6. What is the typical spacing for supports on exterior neon tubing?
A. Every 12 inches
B. Every 24 inches
C. Every 18 inches
, D. Every 36 inches
Proper spacing ensures the tubing is supported without sagging
while allowing for thermal expansion.
7. A UL listing on a sign indicates:
A. The sign is energy efficient
B. The sign meets safety standards
C. The sign is waterproof
D. The sign is made in the USA
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification ensures the product
complies with safety standards.
8. What type of wire is commonly used for outdoor neon sign
connections?
A. THHN copper wire
B. THWN copper wire
C. Romex 14/2
D. Aluminum feeder wire
THWN is rated for wet locations, making it suitable for outdoor
neon sign wiring.
9. When installing outline lighting on a building facade, the minimum
clearance from combustible materials is:
A. 1 inch
B. 2 inches
C. 3 inches
D. 6 inches
Maintaining proper clearance prevents heat-related fires and
complies with NEC requirements.
Journeyman Exam –Questions And Correct
Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales
2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the maximum voltage typically used for neon outline
lighting in commercial signs?
A. 120V
B. 240V
C. 15kV
D. 480V
Neon outline lighting operates at high voltages, often in the
range of several thousand volts, to ionize the gas and produce
light.
2. When installing a metal raceway for sign wiring, the primary
consideration is:
A. Aesthetics
B. Electrical grounding and protection
C. Color matching
D. Ease of painting
Metal raceways must be grounded to prevent electrical shock
and protect wiring from physical damage.
,3. Which type of transformer is commonly used for low-voltage sign
lighting?
A. Autotransformer
B. Isolation transformer
C. Step-up transformer
D. Step-down transformer
Step-down transformers reduce line voltage to a safe, low
voltage suitable for small neon or LED signs.
4. What NEC article covers the installation of signs and outline
lighting?
A. Article 600
B. Article 250
C. Article 310
D. Article 600 and 605
NEC Articles 600 (Signs) and 605 (Outline Lighting) provide
installation and wiring requirements for these systems.
5. The purpose of a ballast in a neon sign is to:
A. Increase brightness
B. Regulate current
C. Reduce color temperature
D. Convert AC to DC
A ballast controls the current through the neon tube, preventing
it from overheating or failing prematurely.
6. What is the typical spacing for supports on exterior neon tubing?
A. Every 12 inches
B. Every 24 inches
C. Every 18 inches
, D. Every 36 inches
Proper spacing ensures the tubing is supported without sagging
while allowing for thermal expansion.
7. A UL listing on a sign indicates:
A. The sign is energy efficient
B. The sign meets safety standards
C. The sign is waterproof
D. The sign is made in the USA
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification ensures the product
complies with safety standards.
8. What type of wire is commonly used for outdoor neon sign
connections?
A. THHN copper wire
B. THWN copper wire
C. Romex 14/2
D. Aluminum feeder wire
THWN is rated for wet locations, making it suitable for outdoor
neon sign wiring.
9. When installing outline lighting on a building facade, the minimum
clearance from combustible materials is:
A. 1 inch
B. 2 inches
C. 3 inches
D. 6 inches
Maintaining proper clearance prevents heat-related fires and
complies with NEC requirements.
