Frequently Asked Questions
experiences freezing weather?
GENERAL QUESTIONS
How will NEOS benefit me?
Inspiring laughter, exercise and strategic thinking, NEOS can help to improve every aspect of your health—physical, mental and emotional. The greatest benefit of playing NEOS is the chance to have fun with family, friends and schoolmates. Anyone can play. NEOS encourages you to run, jump and stretch. It gets your heart moving!
Am I really getting a workout?
The more you play NEOS, the more of a workout you'll get. According to an independent study by the Geisinger Center for Health Research, playing NEOS delivers a workout comparable to jogging or playing soccer, raising heart rates by an average of 20 percent.
That's because with NEOS your body is in motion the entire time as you race from one area to another, hitting flashing lights before they disappear.
Where can I play NEOS?
Your school, park or recreational center may have NEOS. If not, you may contact your school or park officials and your Playworld Systems representative to find out how to bring NEOS to your community.
How do I sign up for your newsletter?
You can sign up for news updates here.
PLAYERS
How many people can play at once?
Each NEOS playsystem is designed for multiple players, and most games have both one- and two-player modes. Visit our NEOS Products section for details. And don't forget: Spectators enjoy the games as much as the players!
How many games are there?
Each NEOS playsystem comes with multiple games, most of which have multiplayer options. Visit our NEOS Products section for details.
Is NEOS just for kids?
Adults find NEOS just as engaging as kids do. The games on NEOS are for people of all ages.
Who can play NEOS?
NEOS is designed for a range of ages and abilities. Lighted buttons provide visual cues for hearing-impaired players, and speakers located at each button provide auditory cues for visually impaired players.
How will kids know how to play?
An instructional sign is included with every NEOS unit. But the best way to learn is to jump right in! People learn quickly by watching others play. Visit our NEOS Products section to download printable instructions for each NEOS playsystem.
SPECIFICATIONS
What are the color options?
NEOS is available in a wide variety of color options. Visit our NEOS Products section for more details.
Can I adjust the volume of the sounds?
Yes.
Can I adjust the brightness of the lights?
Yes.
How do I control the hours of operation?
When NEOS has power, it will be on. If you would like to control the hours of operation, we recommend that you use a timer on the power supply. We can recommend one that will work for you.
May I put a coin machine on NEOS and charge for use?
No. This would make it into an amusement or gaming machine, and it is not certified or intended for such use.
INSTALLATION
What kind of surfacing should I put it on?
The users will be running back and forth and changing direction quickly. NEOS needs to be installed on a firm, durable surface. Concrete, asphalt, pour-in-place surfacing or a gym floor would all be suitable options. Grass and mulch are not recommended due to excessive wear and tear.
Do I need safety surfacing?
No, safety surfacing is not required by any playground safety guideline because there is no elevated play surface. You need a firm, durable playing surface.
Can I install NEOS on carpet?
No, we do not recommend NEOS be installed on carpet due to static charge. If you would like to install NEOS indoors, we recommend a tough, wear-resistant surface like concrete or standard gymnasium flooring.
What are my mounting options?
NEOS is designed to mount to a concrete base that is level with the playing surface. Recommended dimensions are available from your Playworld Systems representative.
Where should I put NEOS in my park?
Generally speaking, NEOS should be placed in a convenient location where the players and spectators will not interfere with other playground equipment. We recommend providing a clear space around the unit for players and spectators. Additionally, consider access and audience. If you want older kids to be encouraged to play, place NEOS near a skate park or another facility that may be popular with teens.
Is NEOS portable?
Yes, however your installer will need to use inserts or studs in the concrete when installing NEOS. Whenever you want to move NEOS, all you will need to do is loosen the bolt. The threads will still be in the concrete so they can attach again later.
Can I just stand NEOS on a flat surface without installing it?
No. NEOS needs to be properly installed and secured to prevent it from toppling over.
How much space do I need?
For specific measurements, please see the specifications for each NEOS playsystem in our Products area. Also keep in mind that additional clear space outside of the playing area for spectators is desirable.
I can't just put NEOS out in a public park, can I?
Yes. NEOS is designed to be as durable as traditional non-electronic play equipment.
Is NEOS vandal-resistant?
While nothing is 100% vandal-proof, NEOS is designed to be as durable as traditional non-electronic play equipment. The electronics for NEOS are housed in steel cases that may be padlocked for added security.
What is the warranty?
NEOS comes standard with a one-year limited warranty on its electronic parts. This includes free software updates. The steel cases carry a lifetime-limited warranty, and the plastic carries a limited warranty of 10 years. Extended warranties for parts only or parts and labor may be purchased. Consult your Playworld Systems representative for more information.
What if NEOS malfunctions?
NEOS is designed with a simple-to-operate, self-contained diagnostic system. If there is a problem, NEOS will tell you what it is, and it can be repaired quickly and easily the first time.
How do I receive the latest information about ADA compliance?
You can request this information from Playworld Systems here online, or by calling 800.233.8404.
TECHNICAL
How do I power NEOS?
NEOS runs on low-voltage power. The customer needs to provide a 12-volt power supply. This supply can be hard wired from a transformer or it can be a solar power supply.
How much power does NEOS consume?
A maximum of 96 watts during game play and only one watt during resting periods.
Can I get electrocuted?
No. NEOS runs on low-voltage power (12 volts), greatly increasing its safety. If you choose to use a solar power system, you will have a battery. You should exercise the same caution with that battery as you would with a car battery. The battery manufacturer can give you more complete safety information on their product.
Is it UL listed?
No. There is no UL standard that applies to NEOS because of the low voltage level.
I choose to use solar power instead of electric. Does Playworld Systems sell a solar power system?
We can recommend solar power systems that will work with NEOS but we do not sell them. We have found that it is more efficient to purchase these systems from a local vendor who can tailor your solar system to your site's specific needs.
Do I need to replace the bulbs if they burn out?
No, the bulbs do not need to get replaced. NEOS uses LEDs as a light source. LEDs are often used in applications like traffic lights due to their extremely long life, well over one million hours. The LEDs are also used in multiples, so if one burns out, the function of the product is not compromised.
What maintenance is required?
NEOS requires no special maintenance, but as with other park equipment, periodic checks are recommended to see that there are no hazards in the playing area.
Will upgrades be available?
We are creating new games for all NEOS playsystems. In the future, you will be able to change the games on your NEOS with a simple-to-install software/hardware upgrade.
WEATHER
What happens when it rains, snows or experiences freezing weather?
NEOS is completely weatherproof. We use waterproof wiring harnesses and connectors and potted electronic components to ensure that NEOS will withstand harsh weather conditions.
Is NEOS visible in daylight?
Yes, NEOS is intended to be used outside during the day. That said, we suggest that you orient the unit so that it does not face the sun directly during the hours when your site receives the most use. Placing NEOS in a shaded area helps to protect the unit and increases the comfort of the players.
SALES
How do I find a local representative?
Visit "Find a Representative," or call our home office at 800.233.8404
How do I contact the corporate office?
Click here or call 800.233.8404 or 570.522.9800.
How do I request catalogs?
You can order online or call 800.233.8404 or 570.522.9800.
ABOUT PLAYWORLD SYSTEMS
What products are manufactured by Playworld Systems, Inc.?
Playworld Systems manufactures and distributes commercial recreation equipment. Some of our products include playgrounds for pre-schoolers and school-age children, real-looking boulders for a challenging climbing experience, outdoor fitness systems for active, older adults and site amenities, like benches and tables.
What brands are part of the Playworld Systems organization?
Playworld Systems includes PlayDesigns® - playgrounds for pre-schoolers, Playworld® - playgrounds for school-age children, and LifeTrail® - outdoor wellness stations for active, older adults.