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Volume 4, Issue 12 — December 13, 2012
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Ultra-Thin Display Technology
By Paul Flanigan
Vice President of Communications, Pro-Motion Technology Group  The following is reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA). For more information, go to http://www.digitalscreenmedia.org.
Sony, Toshiba, and Hitachi have put together their techno-wizardry to come up with ultra-thin displays that can be used pretty much anywhere, even in car dashboard displays.
I find this absolutely fascinating. One of the ever shifting challenges with screens is… well… the screen. Wireless connectivity is conquered. And we’re seeing more and more application of wireless power in various formats. But the screen itself remains what it is with the world adopting a wide-screen aspect ratio.
What place does this have in our world? Imagine in retail, where so much time and effort is being put into the design aesthetic of the space. Traditionally, screens were added onto fixtures, or at best fixtures were constructed with screens in mind, but often with standard shapes, sizes, and depths. Too often we see situations where the screen seems like an afterthought.
Now imagine putting this on any surface, even or uneven, with any size, capable of amazing definition and clarity. Imagine how soon in the design phase of an experience that digital screens now live – way sooner than ever before, because they could have the physical properties of printed signage (posters, paper, etc.)
Very cool indeed.
Click here to see the YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yGsWT9wfck
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Shoppers Vote With Their Feet
By Stuart Armstrong
President Americas, ComQi  For as long as I can remember, the Holy Grail in retail has been to increase purchase conversion rates by gaining a better understanding of the way shoppers actually shop a store. What is the path of their shopping journey? Where do they dwell in the store? What merchandising techniques are most successful in moving shoppers to traverse more of the store? To approximate an answer, a variety of methods, ranging from simple people counters to video cameras and physical shop-alongs still remain common fare for retail researchers. Yet the results from these methods don't adequately satisfy the marketer's desire to do what is ultimately intended — enhance the shopping experience while driving increased conversion.
For a moment, let's move from bricks to clicks and examine the Web for some answers. Analogous to a physical store, an e-commerce site captures the virtual shopping journey. It knows how you travel the site, how long you are there and how promotions and product messaging can link you to travel more of the site. Analytics, both individual and aggregate, come out of this process and can trigger content changes based on patterns in the data. These data-triggered content changes create relevancy. The more relevant and timely the content, the more likely it is to generate desired behavior changes. In short, sales will increase.
One case in point, Williams-Sonoma has launched a new e-commerce site featuring personalized gifts and accessories while also adopting a new targeted marketing model that incorporates shopper behavior. This is being seen as an important contributor to their online sales increasing 16.7 percent, while total store sales grew 8.9 percent.
Ironically, the virtual shopping experience has become more personal than a store visit. The good news is that there are proven marketing technologies, which have been evolving for over a decade, that afford brick-and mortar merchants the same advantages that smart e-retailers have.
It starts with in-store digital signage but not your everyday "run-through-a-pre-scheduled-playlist" signage, but instead smarter data-triggered digital signage. As president of ComQi, a leading supplier of smart digital signage software called EnGage, I am well aware of examples where digital signage is designed to deliver maximum results by being contextual aware and picking up digital cues from its surroundings:
- Digital signage at a quick serve restaurant "listening" to the weather and promoting hot soup the minute temperatures slip below 60 degrees
- Signs inside department stores listening to car traffic on the highway, promoting lunch at their café while there's a traffic jam outside that will not clear for an hour
- A sporting goods retailer listening to the PGA leader board and promoting Callaway apparel as Phil Mickelson battles for a win; also listening to the inventory data to promote only those products that are in stock at that store
- And, a consumer electronics retailer listening to the ePOS system to promote the latest featured price for a product their shoppers are interacting with on their mobile smart phones (showing promotional videos and loyalty benefits)
This is today's merchandising: using signage with relevant, interactive, just-in-time content that alters shopping behavior and drives same-store sales increases. But, how do these examples bring us any closer to emulating web-based eCommerce for a store environment? The last example that involves the personalization of content triggered by a shopper's smart phone brings us closer to Web shopping.
One UK shopper analytics company, Path Intelligence, is doing this brilliantly, and answers many of the questions we posed at the beginning. They do that by collecting shopper pathing data continuously, passively and anonymously through the unique pings of every shopper's mobile phone (regardless of model). For privacy purposes, those pings do not contain the user's name or phone numbers. However if the user wants to opt in, then individual permission-based data can be captured, typically in exchange for shopper incentives. Check out the video from PI for a visual description of this robust technology.
ComQi and Path Intelligence are bringing together smart digital signage and real-time shopper pathing data, by department or section. This will allow retailers to gain sharper insights into the effectiveness of content, and subsequently use those insights to make instantaneous changes to their content. For example, let's say a major department store is running a holiday promotion on children's apparel. Located in the department is a digital sign promoting great deals on the clothing and cross promoting their toy assortment. The digital sign is continuously listening to the ePOS and inventory system to make sure that the items promoted are in-stock and the promotional price is up-to-date. Additionally, it allows the shopper to opt in through his smartphone using a QR code or NFC (near-field communications) to receive a wayfinding map to the toy section as well as a 20 percent coupon intended for same day use. The Path Intelligence platform (from their "FootPath" solution) provides amazingly valuable data. - How are shoppers moving through the kidswear department and how long are they there?
- How many shoppers remain within viewing proximity of the digital sign, and for how long?
- What percentage of shoppers has opted in?
- What combination of content and incentives drives the most traffic to the toy department?
Based on the Path Intelligence insights, content can be optimized to display the most effective promotions on an individual store basis without any human intervention by the retailer. The Path Intelligence system can get even more granular by anticipating what, where, and when (down to the day of the week and hour of the day) the content should be shown. Without the high cost of additional staff, the combination of digital signage and smart phone technology takes on the role of a personal shopping assistant.
It is often said that "content is king", but content does not tell the whole story. Content that is relevant and timely is what makes this king powerful. So if you are buying digital signage, or advising on how it should be used, first consider a system that has an astute sense of its surroundings and can trigger content intelligently. When you do that, your system will deliver a sizable return on investment, starting with a measured increase in purchase conversion.
Reprinted with permission from Comqi
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Customer Engagement Technology World (CETW) to Make New York Home in 2013
By Larwence Dvorchik
General Manager, CETW  The following is reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA). For more information, go to http://www.digitalscreenmedia.org.
As we have done for over 17 years, CETW is dedicated to providing the most valuable face-to-face experience that we can for our attendees, exhibitors and other stakeholders. It is critical that we concentrate on and understand how they prefer to engage with customers, service providers and other industry professionals. With continued year-on-year growth of registrants, our attendees have demonstrated a preference for CETW to be held annually in the fall. It is with that in mind that we have made the decision to focus exclusively on CETW New York in 2013. Taking place Nov. 6-7, 2013 in New York City, the thousands of technology, communications and business professionals attending CETW’s spring and fall conferences will now experience the innovation, idea generation and collaboration synonymous with the shows at one convenient event. We believe that we owe it to the thousands of brand marketers, agencies, digital-out-of-home networks, integrators and resellers that have made CETW their preferred destination to take action based on their needs. As always, we remain committed to providing the best experience we can, from networking and sales opportunities, to education and creative design and development forums that showcase the use of technology in the customer engagement process Our decision to shift from two shows to one was not based on location, but what our attendee feedback and show data told us. The fall show in New York City has consistently demonstrated year-over-year registrant growth and we believe cultivating that growth creates the best possible opportunity to deliver the highest quality and highest value show for our attendees. We firmly believe our decision to concentrate our year-round efforts on our fall show in New York City helps us continue to deliver on our commitment to our attendees, and hope that everyone will join us at CETW 2013 in New York City!
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MultiTouch Adds New Interactive Displays Integrated With Windows 8  MultiTouch just added a 42” and 55” to its MultiTaction line of displays integrated with Windows 8. The new 42” (MT420W8) and 55” (MT550W8) offer interactive displays supporting simultaneous use of unlimited touch, Windows 8 native pen tracking and real-life object interaction.
With the Windows 8 compatibility, MultiTaction displays are basically giant Windows 8-like computers that run applications from the Windows 8 store, the same applications that run on smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop PCs. In addition, developers can also use their preferred development platforms using industry standard interfaces such as TUIO and XML streams. MultiTouch’s proprietary Cornerstone SDK is also fully supported.
Both are CFL-based 1080p native LCDs and are 20 centimeters (8 inches) deep, have VESA mounting patterns and use a frameless thin bezel design with smooth edge-to-edge front safety glass.
These displays are not on MultiTouch's website yet, but when they are, they'll be here: http://www.multitaction.com/products/
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The Gores Group Buys Harris Broadcast Communications for $225 Million  Remember earlier this year when The Gores Group acquired ELO Touch Solutions for $380 million?
Now The Gores Group will buy the Broadcast Communications division of Harris Corporation for $225 million. The price includes $160 million in cash at closing, a $15 million subordinated promissory note and an earn-out of up to $50 million based on future performance. The transaction, expected to be completed in early calendar year 2013, is subject to customary regulatory review (and closing conditions).
"The sale of Broadcast Communications reflects our strategy to optimize our business portfolio and focus on our core businesses," says William M. Brown, president and CEO of Harris.
The Broadcast Communications group of Harris holds far more than Digital Signage, but Harris is a significant DOOH player helping companies like 7-Eleven TV across 4344 stores.
The Harris Broadcast division will retain the Harris name for another three years while it transitions to a new brand. No products or product lines are being targeted for discontinuation. In broadcasting, the latest Versio release — introduced at IBC — is on track to ship this month. A major product announcement in the workflow, infrastructure and networking space, or WIN, is in the works.
Accounting at Harris broke out $447.6 million as a write-down for Harris Broadcast Communications in its last fiscal.
"In Harris Broadcast Communications, we are investing in a proven technology leader with great products and a great team. We are excited to provide the capital and support to transition this division to a strong and independent company further enabling it to continue developing and delivering market leading technologies to its customers," says Ryan Wald, managing director of The Gores Group.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, The Gores Group, LLC is a global investment firm with approximately $3.3 billion in assets under management. The Gores Group portfolio ranges from textiles to technology, including Siemens Enterprise Communications, Equinox payment terminals, ELO Touch Solutions and others.
You can find the Gores Group here: http://www.gores.com/
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FSR Intros Top Shelf Equipment Rack  FSR's new Top Shelf is a wall-mounted equipment rack that mounts to a wall close to the ceiling in locations without drop ceilings, or where space above the drop ceiling is limited. Top Shelf (model: TS-400) holds up to four RU of equipment with multiple mounting locations for power as well as signal connections. The unit’s steel frame ensures the equipment will be securely mounted and a plastic cover allows wireless signals to pass in and out of the enclosure unobstructed. The cover can be painted to match the room décor, and the box can be mounted in the best location to ease wiring and visual impact.
Top Shelf includes a three position rack depth adjustment, has an optional fan that offers up to 110 watts of equipment cooling, includes an assortment of cable clamps and has a 50-pound equipment capacity. The steel cover still allows Wi-Fi and other wireless devices to pass through.
Here are all the specs: http://www.fsrinc.com/products/ts-400.htm |
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Flypaper Adds New Flypaper Connect for Google Calendar Tool  Flypaper Studio, Inc. has added Flypaper Connect for Google Calendar to its family of digital signage software components. Flypaper Connect for Google Calendar allows users to access and update event information stored in a Google Calendar and deliver content to displays without republishing a Flypaper project.
Flypaper Connect for Google Calendar lets anyone manage and maintain data-based event and appointment content for digital signage programs easily. Users can set up a Google account to access the free Google Calendar feature. Users then can update their displays with the latest events, appointments and more directly from Google Calendar, without republishing the Flypaper content or requiring advanced technical skills.
Flypaper Connect for Google Calendar joins a family of three bundled Flypaper Connect components, including Flypaper Connect for Google Docs, CSV (Comma Separated Values) and Advanced Data Grid. Each Flypaper Connect component offers a unique way to send real time, dynamic data and information to digital displays without republishing Flypaper content.
For more information, click here: http://www.flypaper.com/product/flypaper-connect
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Marshall Intros New Room Sign Line  Marshall Electronics has introduced two new room signs — the DP-1203K with a built-in processor and the DV-1202K monitor.
Marshall’s DP-1203K is a 12.1” digital sign featuring a built-in Atom processor with an Intel board; it lists for $1,499.95 for both surface and flush mount units.
The DV-1202K is a monitor featuring both HDMI and VGA inputs to run content from a variety of external sources. It can act as a stand-alone room sign via RS232 control. It lists for $899.95 for both surface and flush mount units.
Here are the full specs: http://www.marshalldigitalsignage.com/
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DSE Adds Education Track for Network Owners and Systems Integrators  Digital Signage Expo (DSE) announced this week it will present an all-new comprehensive four-part Network Design, Management & Operations Seminar Program designed specifically to prepare those who are planning to design, manage and operate or are now managing and operating Place-Based or Out-of-Home networks.
The program, to be presented in Las Vegas Feb. 27-28, 2013, is part of DSE’s eight-track Educational Conference and is designed specifically for network operators of both revenue- and non-revenue generating systems, digital signage (DS) end-users and systems integrators and installers who participate in or are responsible for design, management and operations. This educational track is intended to provide insights into the planning and initial deployment stages, as well as identify the team skill sets necessary to support a successful installation. Topics to be covered include:
- Planning for Success: The Value of Building a Digital Signage Team
- The Whole Nine Yards of Digital Signage Success: From Pilot to Operational Management
- Using Data for Front-end and Back-end Network Management
- Essentials for Digital Signage and Emergency Management System Integration
Registration for the DOOH Networks Seminar Program, or any of DSE 2013 educational conference seminars is now open at http://www.digitalsignageexpo.net
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MultiTouch Announces New Remote Management System for Interactive Displays Deployed Worldwide  MultiTouch has just announced a new remote management system called MultiTaction Management Suite, and its first app, MultiTaction Site Manager. The MultiTaction Site Manager enables system integrators, IT managers and content providers to manage thousands of globally dispersed, network connected interactive systems (translation: to manage digital signage systems).
This is a great option for AV integrators as it allows for recurring revenue for proactively managing and monitoring DS systems as the MultiTaction Site Manager brings the management of DS displays to the desktop of system integrators. Features include:
- Setting up and configuring displays individually or as multi-display video walls or tables
- Monitoring the status of every display in the network
- Managing the content and applications in real-time on each display or as a group
With MultiTaction Site Manager, interactive displays are transformed to a remotely manageable IT system. This eliminates the need for most on-site tasks and results to considerable cost savings. Reporting the status of each display within the network in real-time allows immediate responses to system changes and improved end user satisfaction. The application also allows content providers to remotely manage the applications and the information that appears on thousands of displays, guaranteeing the immediacy and the effective use of digital signage and other content delivery.
More details about the comapny can be found here: http://www.MultiTaction.com
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Torus Ships AVR2 Power Conditioner  Torus Power's new flagship power conditioner is now shipping. The AVR2 Series of power conditioners include features such as surge protection; voltage stabilization; Web-based control that includes scheduling, monitoring and real-time control; and RS232 control. It also provides noise attenuation from 2 kHz to beyond 1 MHz.
AVR2 series provides multiple IP-addressable duplex outlet zones that can be separately turned on or off through the Web browser, and/or remotely scheduled. It offers individually addressable outlet zones (five individual zones in 15-amp and 20-amp models, and eight individual zones in 60 and 100 amp models.)
AVR2 series provide voltage stabilization that keeps equipment in the optimal voltage operating range (in North America +/– 5V, in Europe/Asia/Australia +/- 10V) of nominal operating voltage, regardless of fluctuations in line voltages. The front panel display shows voltage conditions (input/output voltage), current draw and IP address.
Here are the full specs: http://www.toruspower.com/north-american-custom-installed/
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Extron Intros Compact HDMI Fiber Optic Extender  Extron's new HFX 100 HDMI Fiber Optic Extender is being promoted as an economical transmitter and receiver set for long distance transmission of HDMI video and embedded multi-channel audio signals over a single fiber optic cable. It extends HDCP-compliant HDMI signals over a multimode cable at lengths up to 300 meters (984 feet). The compact extender uses all-digital technology to deliver perfect pixel-for-pixel transmission of images up to 1920×1200, including HDTV 1080p/60.
The HFX 100 supports HDMI specification features, including data rates up to 6.25 Gbps, 12-bit Deep Color, HD lossless audio formats and CEC. Extron's HDMI cables are attached to the transmitter and receiver, allowing direct connection with source and destination devices. The HFX 100 transmitter and receiver are housed in compact 1U, one-eighth rack width enclosures.
Here are all the specs: http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=hfx100&search=hfx%20100
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European Debut for Mitsubishi Electric’s 70” LCD Monitor  Mitsubishi Electric’s MDT701S will make its European debut at ISE 2013.
The flagship 70” edge-lit LED display is the largest professional LCD monitor ever offered by Mitsubishi, suited for public display or corporate settings.
Its LED illumination means reduced power consumption and slimmer profile, while delivering a 5000:1 contrast ratio and increased color gamut. Lifespan is also increased and LEDs create less environmental impact at end of life.
Versatility is a key feature of the MDT701S: the maker cites "quick and easy deployment in any application." An Open Pluggable Standard (OPS) slot allows it to be used with a large number of vendor add-ins, such as single-board PC’s, 3G and SDI cards (which make it well-suited to digital signage networks).
The MDT701S also features a built-in plug 'n' play USB hub that allows up to five USB hubs to be cascaded to a maximum of 16 USB inputs. MDT701S also supports LAN connections and is compatible withAMX Device Discovery and Crestron Roomview enabling it to be monitored, managed and controlled across the network or from an Apple iPhone, iPad or Android devices via Crestron’s Fusion RV software.
The Full HD, narrow bezel MDT701S is equipped with dual light sensors, which allows a more accurate auto-brightness adjustment and optimized power consumption. Sophisticated power scheduling features also help to minimize energy usage and the monitor can be safely operated in both landscape and portrait formats. The internal speakers throw downwards rather than to the rear, meaning less unwanted vibration.
The Mitsubishi Electric stand at ISE 2013 will feature its full range of LCD displays, plus its latest projection, rear projection, digital signage and control room solutions.
Here are more details: http://displays.mitsubishielectric.eu/
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Chief Debuts Extra Large Flat Panel Cart  Chief is rolling out a cart designed for extra large displays. Dubbed the FUSION Mobile Solution for Extra Large Screens, the new rolling cart has the capability of making HDTVs and Digital Signage displays from 90 and 105 inches mobile.
The universal bracket design matches multiple display patterns and holds up to 500 pounds (226.8 kilograms). The large rolling casters make for easy positioning and include one locking caster per leg. Integrated cable management provides a clean installation, and leveling feet are available for more permanent installations.
Here are all the specs: http://www.chiefmfg.com/Products/XVM1X1U |
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World Famous Cyber-Illusionist to Keynote ISE in Amsterdam  Globally renowned cyber-illusionist Marco Tempest will present the Keynote Address on the eve of ISE 2013.
From standing ovations at TED Global to top level corporate gigs at Cisco, Symantec, Qualcomm and others, his talent has been recognized with a number of prestigious international awards including the prestigious New York World Cup of Magic.
Marco Tempest has been featured in his own theatrical shows and as part of numerous TV specials enjoying well in excess of 500 million cumulative viewings across the world. Marco’s award winning television series The Virtual Magician is currently airing in 48+ countries.
Titled Inventing The Impossible, Tempest’s presentation at ISE 2013 will address the use of illusion as a creative tool and how it can be used to bring seemingly impossible scenarios to life. Using examples of the magical illusion work Tempest has designed in collaboration with engineers, animators and programmers, the Keynote will focus on the envisaging of future technologies, the value of open-source projects and how illusion can provide an inviting gateway to social-media interactivity.
“Marco Tempest has a worldwide reputation as an inspirational speaker whose use of computer-based imagery, augmented reality and other visual technologies is as original as it is breathtaking,” said Mike Blackman, managing director, Integrated Systems Events.
“Whether they are combining multiple projected images to create a single animated canvas, building interactive kiosks for retail spaces or visitor attractions, designing multi-channel sound systems or simply providing multimedia content for installed or live applications, ISE attendees are in the business of adding value by persuading people to suspend their disbelief.
“Marco Tempest’s unique take on the use of illusion as a creative tool fits perfectly with ISE’s business and technology landscape, while his commitment to collaboration, creativity and enterprise could hardly be more topical.”
Tempest, a Swiss-citizen based in New York, adds, “My interest in computer-generated imagery is what led me to incorporate video and digital technology into my work as a magician, and develop a new form of contemporary illusion. The expansion of the internet and social media has provided more opportunities for digital illusions and interacting with audiences, and in Amsterdam I hope to show that using these influences in smart, creative and compelling ways can indeed allow us to ‘Invent The Impossible.’”
Tempest’s Keynote Address will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Mon., January 28, 2013, and will be located in the Forum of ISE’s Amsterdam RAI show venue.
The Keynote will be followed at 7:00 p.m. by ISE’s 10th Birthday Party, to be held in the adjacent Forum Lounge. Admission to both events is free of charge to all ISE attendees.
Mike Blackman says, “We are delighted that Marco is coming to Amsterdam to present ‘Inventing The Impossible’ on the eve of ISE 2013, and look forward to a presentation that will amuse, entertain and inspire Europe’s professional AV community in ways they could not have imagined.”
You can learn more about him here: http://www.marcotempest.com/
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Flypaper Studio Announces New Digital Signage Tool to Make Static Content Dynamic  Flypaper Studio's new Flypaper Connect for PHP accesses database information via Web services written in PHP to update Flypaper content, making it easy for users to keep content updated without republishing a project.
Flypaper Connect for PHP enables users to update digital signage content quickly by accessing a database and sending the information instantly to a digital signage display. Flypaper offers assistance for organizations that would like help creating the necessary web services or Flypaper content to use with this component.
Flypaper Connect for PHP is the fifth component to join the bundled Flypaper Connect family. Other Flypaper Connect components include: Flypaper Connect for Google Docs, Google Calendar, CSV, .Net and Advanced Data Grid. Each Flypaper Connect component empowers users to easily update digital signage content using a variety of tools, without republishing Flypaper projects.
To purchase Flypaper Connect, visit the Flypaper Marketplace, accessible through Flypaper 3.7 and Marketplace.Flypaper.com
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NEC Launches VUKUNET in Europe  NEC Display announced today the launch of VUKUNET, an ad serving platform for Digital out-of-Home (DOOH) networks, in the European market. All that the VUKUNET platform requires to transform screens into advertising media is an Internet connection. The new solution from NEC connects DOOH network providers to media agencies to simplify the entire working process for digital out-of-home campaigns. The platform is independent of all hardware and software, enabling seamless communication with VUKUNET for all content management systems and requiring no changes to existing infrastructures.
Germany and the UK are the first European markets to introduce NEC VUKUNET. Selected partner companies have already been testing the ad serving platform and the positive feedback so far from customers and European media experts will help drive the global spread of the solution.
OMG Outdoor, the Omnicom Media Group agency specializing in all out-of-home media, has already launched the first advertising campaign on VUKUNET in Germany. The customer is BRIGITTE, Germany's leading women's magazine. More than 607 branches of the supermarket chain EDEKA are now showing BRIGITTE ad spots across the country. Placed at entrances and tills or centrally positioned in the supermarket, the strategically placed monitors show the BRIGITTE ads via the VUKUNET system directly where purchase decisions are made. The ads borrow their design from the magazine's own ad campaign.
The DOOH set-up for BRIGITTE gave cooperation between OMG Outdoor and Neo Advertising in marketing a DOOH network at more than 607 EDEKA branches throughout Germany.
Wonderworks Walkway Media Ltd. is VUKUNET's first partner in the UK. The company operates a wide-ranging digital out-of-home network of more than 30 shopping centres across the country. Wonderworks Walkway Media Ltd. aims to have one of the largest DOOH portfolios in the country's malls by the end of the year.
To see a video with more information on VUKUNET in Europe, click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKjgYjzvlkw
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Global Display Market worth $164.24 Billion by 2017  According to a new market research report, Global Display Market (2012 – 2017) published by MarketsandMarkets, the total global display market is expected to reach $164.24 billion by 2017, at a CAGR of 3.1 percent from 2012 to 2017.
The global display market encompasses many technologies: E-ink, OLED, TFT-LCD, LED-LCD, LED, DLP, LCoS, and Plasma.
OLED display, for example, also has a huge market share in smartphone and related applications and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 31.2 percent with revenue worth $5.10 billion in 2017.
The major technologies that will contribute more to the global display market are OLED, E-ink, DLP, LCoS—together expected to grow from 2012 to 2017 at a CAGR greater than 30 percent while TFT-LCD and LED technologies will grow less than 20 percent.
The types of display include conventional display, flexible display, transparent display, and 3D display. Among these, flexible display type is projected to increase its market share in next 5 years. While transparent display will not see any growth until 2013 because of it being in development stage, it will catch up in late 2014-15, growing at a CAGR of 91.1 percent (increasing demand only after it is commercially successful). 3D display has made its point and will continue to fulfill display needs in vertical markets such as healthcare application and will grow at a CAGR of 26.1 percent from 2012-2017.
From 2012 to 2017, consumer application will contribute to the global display application market with a share of 62.71 percent in 2017 from 64.27 percent in 2012, a decline of 1.58 percent.
No. America is the leading region in the overall display market– followed by Europe and APAC. In ROW, Middle East and Africa are the largest contributors.
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Sony’s New 4K Ultra HD Video Player  Sony Electronics unveiled this month the new 4K Ultra HD Video Player, a hard-disc server that connects to Sony's 84” 4K LED TV (XBR-84X900), allowing consumers to view 4K resolution movies and short form 4K videos.
Available now in the U.S. as a bonus to customers purchasing the Sony 4K LED TV, the video player comes loaded with content, including both full length Hollywood features and a gallery of videos, creating the first true home 4K experience.
As a standalone unit, the Sony XBR-84X900 TV already upscales all video inputs, including the more than 7,000 Blu-ray Disc titles currently in distribution, to a near-4K resolution through the use of Sony's proprietary 4K X-Reality PRO three-chip picture engine. Now, with the new video player, consumers can for the first time enjoy 4K Ultra HD video in the home.
The company's 4K Ultra HD Home Experience includes the 84" 4K LED TV, the Video Player, and an Xperia™ Tablet S that serves as a remote control through an app. Pre-loaded onto the Video Player will be the first ever collection of 10 full-length feature films presented in native 4K for the home (all from Sony Pictures, of course).
In addition to the full length features, the Video Player will come pre-loaded with a gallery of 4K video shorts, including Red Bull Media House's exclusive 4K videos. Additionally, Sony's 4K Ultra HD delivery solution is designed to be updated with additional 4K titles and video clips.
Want more info? Go here: http://www.sony.com/index.php |
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Wireless Ronin Stock Still Listed on NASDAQ… For Now  Digital signage provider Wireless Ronin Technologies (NASDAQ: RNIN) announced yesterday that it has received the decision of the Hearings Panel of The NASDAQ Stock Market, notifying Ronin that it has granted the company’s request for continued listing of its common stock, subject to certain conditions. The decision followed the company’s failure to comply with the minimum bid price requirement for continued listing set forth in NASDAQ Listing Rule 5550(a)(2) and the company’s appeal to the Hearings Panel of the staff’s determination to delist. In accordance with the Hearings Panel’s decision, on or before December 31, 2012, the Company must evidence a closing bid price of at least $1.00 per share for a minimum of ten consecutive business days. If Ronin’s common stock does not continue to be listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market, its shares would become subject to certain rules of the SEC relating to “penny stocks.” Such rules require broker-dealers to make a suitability determination for purchasers and to receive the purchaser’s prior written consent for a purchase transaction, thus restricting the ability to purchase or sell the shares in the open market. In addition, trading, if any, would be conducted in the over-the-counter market in the so-called “pink sheets” or on the OTC Bulletin Board, which was established for securities that do not meet NASDAQ listing requirements. Consequently, selling the shares would be more difficult because smaller quantities could be bought and sold, transactions could be delayed, and security analyst and news media coverage of the company may be reduced. These factors could result in lower prices and larger spreads in the bid and ask prices for the shares. There can be no assurance that Ronin’s common stock will continue to be listed on The NASDAQ Capital Market.
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WSJ Reports Dell and Intel May Buy or Invest in Sharp – And Sharp Debuts 4K IGZO Display  According to a recent Wall Street Journal story, Intel and Dell Computer are considering either buying or investing in Sharp Electronics. For now, the two companies are apparently readying an investment of over $240 Million in exchange for some corporate equity or stock exchange. In addition, San Diego-based Qualcomm is considering an investment as well. There's no question that Sharp's in big trouble financially and it needs to get out of debt — and sell higher margin stuff. Sharp dominated the flat-panel market for years in the mid-1990s and early 2000s, but the company's late jump over to DLP-based projection and LED-based LCD slowed its growth in both consumer TVs and the digital signage markets. In fact, the company isn't even ranked in the top five in digital signage integration. Recently, Sharp's losses included a 16 percent decline in sales from 2011 to 2012, amounting to a nearly $470 Million loss. Sharp, however, is the primary display manufacturer for Apple's iPhone 5 and iPads and its new IGZO technology is impressive. IGZO is made from a mix of indium, gallium, zinc and oxide and allows for very thin active LCD displays, such as those on the aforementioned tablets and phones. It's used for Apple's retina displays. Sharp has now also debuted a 4K (3840×2160) LCD monitor using IGZO, the PN-K321, which will deliver in February 2013 and will likely list around $5,500. It's also only 3.5 millimeters thick. Here are those specs (use Google Translate to read this page): http://www.sharp.co.jp/corporate/report/4k2k/index.html
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NEC Introduces 32-Inch Digital Signage Display and Bundle  NEC Display Solutions announced today its next-generation 32-inch V322 commercial-grade LCD display. NEC has also launched the V322-AVT and V322-PC bundles with an integrated tuner and single board computer, respectively. This digital signage display suits a variety of environments, including retail stores, restaurants, training facilities and corporate boardrooms.
The V322 offers a native resolution of 1366×768, a specified 3,000:1 contrast ratio and a maximum brightness of 450 cd/m². It features an Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) compliant expansion slot, digital loop-through capability and integrated 8-watt speakers. Connectivity options include HDMI, DisplayPort and DVI-D, as well as RS232C, LAN, IR and DDC/CI for control. The V322 is comprised of commercial-grade components, including a public display-grade panel to protect against permanent image retention. Finally, it has a built-in ATSC tuner for HD broadcast capabilities (V322-AVT only).
The V322, V322-AVT and V322-PC will be available this month and have minimum advertised prices of $619, $719 and $1,479, respectively.
For more information on the V322, click here: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/v322
For more information on the V322-AVT, click here: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/v322-avt
For more information on the V322-PC bundled solution, click here: http://www.necdisplay.com/p/v322-pc
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MultiTouch Adds Hybrid Tracking, Claims to Solve Issues With External Light  MultiTouch has announced its new Hybrid Tracking technology, which is integrated with the company's MultiTaction interactive displays with optical multi-touch technology that's immune to external lighting conditions. The Hybrid Tracking system works by capturing the shadows from external infrared light and combining that information with the reflections that are recognized by the infrared sensors through the LCD display. Rather than blocking the infrared light emitted by external sources, the display seizes the light and completely eliminates any interference caused by ambient light. This makes the MultiTaction cells with Hybrid Tracking ideal for clients in the market for multi-user touch displays where external light sources may have an effect on the performance of touch displays.
“The ability of our displays to understand and adapt to its environment reinforces the various ways that MultiTouch is addressing the growing industry,” says Tommi Ilmonen, CTO of MultiTouch. “With Hybrid Tracking, public installations can offer and achieve the same performance and interaction as installations that are in environments with controlled light sources. We strive to be the leader in touch technology and the Hybrid Tracking supports our mission to produce the most technologically advanced displays in the industry.”
CTO Tommi Ilmonen explains how the technology works in this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RrIasnAciMg
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LocPad Turns iPad Into Interactive, Self-Service Kiosk for Events  Bloomfield Knoble Inc., Harbor and StreamZap teamed up to create software that would enable the iPad to be used as a self-service kiosk for end users across a series of events. The primary goal was to have the iPad serve as digital signage, but enable users to click through the modified iPad for additional information.
The LocPad solution for Central Kansas Revival (CKR) was a self-service kiosk, although it was set up for multiple purposes, such as for digital signage by pointing people to locations such as bathrooms, which seemed to be the most common use.
CKR used the LocPads as map locators for self service; digital signage to point people to various locations (it was a big revival); digital signs announcing the event for a particular location (time and name of event — like meeting room signage) and as a self-service donation station (3G iPads were used so people could make credit card donations). Volunteers also used LocPad iPads for internal communication, scheduling, emergencies, etc.
Bloomfield Knoble Inc., Harbor and StreamZap teamed up to create software that would enable the iPad to be used as a self-service kiosk for end users across a series of events.
 CHALLENGES
The biggest challenge was working within the constraints of the iPad itself. It is "easy" to create an application for the iPad, but the LocPad application needed to eliminate the ability of the user to leave the confines of the intended presentation (launching a different application, for example).
SOLUTIONS
Bloomfield Knoble Inc., Harbor and StreamZap created the platform named "LocPad" to enable administrators to whitelist the files they wished users to view while disabling all other functions. This was achieved through unique code development and extending the application to the root functions of the iPad itself.
RESULTS
Representatives were able to place iPads in venues such as Central Kansas Revival (or hand directly to people) without fear of having people use them for unintended use. The event (and others that took place in 2011) showed that the LocPad can make the iPad multipurpose without having to create different types of inventory.
This case study was reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.
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So, that's rAVe DS [Digital Signage] for this month! Remember, we are here to HELP the AV market penetrate the DS market. Only 12 percent of the DS market is integrated by AV companies. The other 88 percent is IT-based. Now, there are AV publications and even an association that would like to draw those IT people in to AV (it would increase readers, right? And more readers means they can charge more for ads). That is NOT what we are doing. rAVe DS is specifically designed to pull AV into the DS market and teach AV companies how to take business away from the currently dominated by IT market. For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read a 100 percent opinionated ePublication that's designed to help AV integrators. We not only report the news and new product stories of the digital signage industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that's why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad). Don't like us, then go away — unsubscribe! Just use the link below. To send me feedback, don't reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I've been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don't think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition. Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GreenAV in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com To read more about my background, our team and what we do, go to https://www.ravepubs.com Back to Top
Copyright 2012 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: sara@ravepubs.com
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