I ask this because during the coronavirus crisis, there has been a portable VMS on Ocean City, MD's boardwalk flashing messages re masking and distancing.
Yesterday tougher masking regulations took effect in Maryland at 1700h. The aforementioned VMS had one of its pages changed from "face coverings recommended" to "face coverings required 8am to 2 am" by nightfall.
If you're reading this on 08.01.2020, you can see the time lapsed loop for 07.31 at https://oceancitylive.com/ocean-city-webcams/ocean-city-boardwalk-shark-eye-cam/ . The VMS is in the lower right corner. If you're reading this on 08.02 or later, you're out of luck because the time lapses aren't archived.
Now this time lapse shows no sign of any workmen on the scene adjusting the sign to show the new more restrictive message. My question is, are portable VMS messages changed from a remote location? I'm sure where there are permanent VMS's it is done from the state highway offices.
ixnay
Yes, some have remote capabilities to be changed remotely. As the costs of remote connectivity has come down, the more likely the more current ones in use have them.
I know reading some of the bid specs for NJDOT projects, sometimes remotely programmed VMSs are required for their projects.
Yes, PVMS can be changed remotely if the unit has the proper hardware and software.
Source: I used to work in a job (circa 2011-2012) that included updating messaging on PVMS from a remote location. :)
When working for TxDOT 2001-2007, I set up a portable message board. They told me "dont worry about message, we'll program it by telephone" How that worked, IDK