Flat Glowing Panels.
Any Shape. Any Size.

Parallel Electrode panels have a single continuous rear electrode — the whole panel glows as one zone from a single 2-wire connection. This is the configuration used in all pre-cut standard shapes. Split Electrode panels divide the rear electrode into two electrically isolated zones, each controlled independently with its own inverter or inverter channel. Split electrode is ideal for automotive instrument panels and animated multi-zone effects where different sections of the panel need to activate, dim, or flash independently.

Yes — EL Panels can be cut to virtually any shape. The panel material cuts cleanly with scissors or a sharp blade. After cutting, the exposed edges must be sealed with Edgeguard EL Sealant to prevent moisture ingress and short circuits at the cut edge. For complex shapes, logos, or large-format panels, we offer a custom fabrication service — contact us with your artwork or dimensions and we'll quote it. We also offer a laser-cut custom panel service for precision shapes.

The right inverter depends on the total panel area you're powering. EL Panel area is measured in square inches. A 9V battery pack inverter typically powers up to 60 square inches. Our AA battery pack inverter handles up to 24 square inches. For large panels or multiple panels in parallel, our USB-rechargeable inverters can handle significantly more area. Use the Panel Area & Power Calculator above to match your panel area to the right battery pack — EL Panels and EL Tape draw the same amount of power per square inch.

EL Panels have a rated lifespan of approximately 5,000–7,000 hours at standard brightness. Unlike LEDs that fail suddenly, EL technology dims gradually — by the halfway point you may notice roughly a 50% reduction in brightness compared to when new. For astrophotography flat frames and scientific applications where consistent brightness matters, it's worth recalibrating your exposure settings periodically as the panel ages. For costume and display applications where brightness consistency over years isn't critical, the gradual dimming is usually not a concern.

Standard EL Panels are rated for indoor use. For outdoor applications, the panels and all connections should be sealed with Edgeguard EL Sealant to prevent moisture damage. IP68-rated custom EL Panels are available for fully weatherproof outdoor installations — contact us about outdoor panel requirements. EL Panels operate on AC current from an inverter (typically 100–120VAC at very low wattage) so standard outdoor safety precautions apply to all connections and the inverter housing.