HiperWall 3.0 Brings New Features to Multiscreen Content Control
By Chris Chinnock Senior Analyst and Editor, Insight Media
Last week I had a web-based demonstration of the newest release of Hiperwall 3.0, which is a control software package for controlling content over a variety of screens. This new version adds animation capabilities to content that can be displayed on multi-screen display solutions. That doesn’t sound like such a great innovation, but when you see what it adds to the visual impact, you clearly understand the value. And, more importantly, Hiperwall 3.0 allows users to do this very quickly and in real-time — a major change from the pre-rendered approach used today. As far as we (and Hiperwall) know, this is the first time such a capability has been demonstrated.
Hiperwall was founded by Jeff Greenberg and launched about four years ago. It is a completely PC-based solution for managing content on multiple screen solutions. These multiple screens can be configured as video walls, as a series of discrete displays, as blended projectors or even combinations of these. The key to using the Hiperwall software, however, is that each display must have its own PC embedded in it. In this way, the control computer can send a very large scale image to each display using standard LAN-based equipment and cabling. No costly image processors or scalers are needed.
Samsung and NEC already offer flat panel video wall monitors with embedded PC to support the Hiperwall solution.
Greenberg took us through a demo using Go-To-Meeting. Two images were visible on my monitor, as shown in the photo. On the right side is a screen capture of the control monitor showing the Hiperwall 3.0 software. On the left side is a video image of a 4×5 Samsung video wall at Greenberg’s offices in Irvine, California.
Greenberg initially showed the capabilities of the 2.0 version of the package, highlighting the manipulation of static jpeg images. For example, the 2.0 version allows an image to be scaled using a mouse to cover the full 4×5 video wall, or just a part of one monitor. Images can have their transparency varied and be rotated about an axis. New in the 3.0 version is the ability to convert color images to black and white and to add a mosaic filter to these images.
The 2.0 version also allows multiple sources of content to be manipulated in this way over the full display surface. For example, Greenberg was able to show a live data feed from a Microsoft site, a live video feed of himself in his office, a video of an aquarium and a series of static jpeg images – all which can be manipulated.
The 3.0 version now allows the features described above to be animated. To illustrate this, Greenberg took a static image, placed it in the top left corner of the 4×5 wall. Then he moved it to the bottom right and up popped a control screen that gave him options for how this image was to transition between these two positions. He selected a 720 degree rotation and applied a mosaic filter. This was tested immediately and displayed on the video wall. I then asked him to add a 3 second hold time in this spot, which he was easily able to accomplish. Several other moves were added to the animation and the whole task was completed in a couple of minutes. On screen, the movement added a lot to an otherwise static display.
What is particularly compelling about this capability is that to do this simple animation today typically requires a program like Final Cut, and it requires a script, a rendering step and review, with modification to this process to get the animation just right. Hiperwall 3.0 allows real-time animation using the defined features of the program.
And just as importantly, the animation uses elements that are object based. That means that it is easy to change the images used in the animation.
Greenberg also says they have also developed an API for Hiperwall 3.0 that allows external programs to control the screens. He demonstrated this with a giant version of the game Pong (see photo), with the Moon as the ball and the Earth centered over the screen with a star field background. So, imagine sitting in a sports bar or arcade sharing a beer and playing a game of Pong, watching the results on a giant 4×5 video wall with 6830×3072 resolution. Cheers!
Chris Chinnock is a senior analyst and editor for Insight Media. Reach him at chris@insightmedia.info
Research Indicates Digital Signage Is On The Right Track
By David Little Director of Marketing, Keywest Technology
The following is reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA). For more information, go to http://www.digitalscreenmedia.org.
New research from IHS iSuppli indicates growing adoption of digital signage around the world as professionals in the retail, hospitality, healthcare, corporate and government sectors look to the medium to communicate to audiences on the go.
Political watchers probably are familiar with that often-asked question — and even more often asked in an election year: Is the country on the right track or the wrong track?
I would propose that those who make their living communicating marketing messages, ads, information and even entertainment on digital signs should frequently ask themselves a similar question. Is digital signage on the right track or wrong track? In other words, is digital signage a growing, vibrant communications medium that is headed in the right direction as a viable communications choice? Or, is it losing favor?
A new forecast from display market research specialists IHS iSuppli suggests that, indeed, digital signage is on the right track, at least if its adoption is any indication. According to the forecast, digital signage will see impressive growth. Worldwide shipments of signage and professional displays this year will reach 17.2 million units, up from 15.4 million in 2011 and 13.5 million in 2010. For the year, the unit shipments will reach 12.6 percent, and by 2016 they are expected to reach nearly 26 million units, IHS iSuppli forecasts.
The research firm attributes the healthy growth to a few factors, including a greater need for digital signage in public spaces and the rapidly declining price of LCD panels.
The IHS iSuppli forecast also identifies the largest digital signage markets for 2011. They include retail, hospitality/healthcare and government/corporate. The forecast also finds the education, outdoor and control room/simulation markets to be important.
So why are those with a message to communicate increasingly adopting digital signage? A few reasons are clear. First, digital signage has the unique ability to reach the public with clear, impactful communications when they are on the go.
Second, because it's a place-based medium, digital signage communicators can identify areas to locate signs that likely will be frequented by their target audience. For example, a restaurateur has a pretty good idea that the people entering the restaurant have eating on their minds, and the registrar of a college knows students entering the administration building at the beginning of the semester are likely interested in class registration information.
Third, digital signage offers communicators the chance to change messaging frequently — at little to no expense — which makes the medium responsive to rapidly changing requirements.
For all of these reasons and several others that have been well discussed in this space in the past, digital signage increasingly is being selected as an important part of an overall communications strategy.
As this nation enters the political season, journalists surely will report on the public's response to the right-track-wrong-track question. I'm sure each time I hear one of those stories, I am will be reminded of this column and the clear evidence from IHS iSuppli that digital signage is indeed on the right track as a communications medium.
While prognosticating about the results of any of this political season's races is a craps shoot, one thing is predictable. Digital signage as a communications medium will remain on the right track as long as professional communicators need to reach people on the go with their important messages.
Mainstream gesture-based technology for digital signage may take another step forward with the introduction of the Leap, an iPod-sized 3-D motion control device that lets users control their computers by gesturing with their hands instead of using a keyboard or mouse and is slated for release this winter for a retail price of only $70.
David Holz, CTO, and Michael Buckwald, CEO, co-founders of San Francisco-based startup Leap Motion, claim the Leap is accurate to within 1/100 of a millimeter and 200 times more sensitive than existing motion-sensing technologies.
"The biggest thing that other technologies can't do that we can, is track fingers and track them really accurately. Doing that requires deep, sub-millimeter tracking with multiple fingers and there's just no other technology in the world that's capable of doing that," Buckwald said in an ABC News interview.
Though the device was designed for desktop and laptop computer displays, we wonder why it couldn't be incorporated into place-based digital screens or kiosks, making them not only touch-free but also contamination-free.
We realize other touch-free technologies exist and are already in use on digital signage, but none of the devices we've seen is as compact as the Leap. We would also be surprised if any of these technologies matches the Leap in price.
This article was reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.
Samsung Kills Two Birds With One Stone With Smart Dual View OLED TV
By Ken Park and Yoongsung Chung DisplaySearch
Samsung and LGE spent much of last year fighting over 3D technology, with LGE aggressively promoting its passive FPR (film patterned retarder), with claims that it was better than Samsung’s SG (shutter glass) 3D TV, as its FPR enables a flicker-free, light and cheap 3D TV solution compared to shutter glasses. Samsung counterattacked by highlighting the lower resolution of FPR 3D TV, but generally avoided a direct battle in 3D TV, and jumped into promoting Smart TVs instead.
This year, with OLED TV showcased at CES, Samsung faced a similar battle with LGE about OLED techonology; Samsung has been developing RGB patterning (in which red, green and blue organic emitters are deposited into each sub-pixel), while LG has been pursuing white with color filter. Like 3D, OLED is an immature technology for TV so that there is plenty of room for Samsung and LGE to attack the weak points of each others’ technologies and to use them as a marketing tool for their TVs.
There are still several rumors that Samsung may adopt FPR 3D and white OLED like LGE, but Samsung presented a different focus at the “2012 Samsung Premium TV Showcase” last Thursday in Korea, intended to reinforce the message that Samsung is the leader in OLED TV. Perhaps the most interesting potential impact to emerge from this event was the “smart dual view” OLED TV, which uses the fast switching speed to show two channels simultaneously.
“Smart dual view” is not a particularly new idea. This technology originally come from shutter glass 3D, and was often used as a gaming feature allowing two-player game views. However, it could also enable consumers to watch two different programs simultaneously. For example, one member of the family can watch a drama while another enjoys a baseball game, on one TV at the same time. In the past, the “picture in picture” function enabled viewing two channels, but the secondary channel was in a greatly reduced format and without sound.
While plasma and LCD can also enable “smart dual view,” it is not likely that Samsung would feature it on these technologies. Many in the industry see OLED TV as a chance to save a saturated TV market but also worry at OLED TV is not differentiated enough from LCD TV. If Samsung succeeds in driving OLED TV with “smart dual view”, shutter glass 3D may attach itself to OLED TV, while making FPR 3D an old feature associated with LCD TV. Samsung’s new OLED TV even comes with two pairs of shutter glasses to reinforce the message that shutter glass 3D will prevail over FPR.
This article was reprinted with permission from DisplaySearch and originally appeared here.
Peerless-AV Debuts New 3×3 Universal Video Wall Cart
Peerless-AV announced recently the launch of a 3×3 Universal Video Wall Cart, the DS-VWC655-3X3. Aimed at the rental and staging markets, but perfectly positioned for portable digital signage applications, the DS-VWC655-3X3 can hold nine flat panel displays measuring 46 to 55 inches. The cart features a covered shelf that effectively hides media devices and upright channels to organize cables. Lockable 5" casters support up to 1,000 lbs. of flat panel displays and can swivel 360 degrees for maneuverability. The company has included mounting hole patterns up to 400 mm vertically while a unique positioning feature enables simple flush alignment without tools.
RGB Spectrum Intros New H.264 Codec for Streaming Video
At InfoComm, RGB Spectrum will introduce a new form of an H.264 codec for streaming and recording of graphics and HD video over the network. The DSx 264 codec, an H.264 compatible codec that encodes and streams graphics and HD video at up to 1920×1080 and 1600×1200 resolutions, claims one exclusive feature not found on other streaming media products, which is the capability of concurrent recording and streaming. The codec's recording and replay option offers storage to a local USB storage device or external NAS, such as RAIDs or servers.
Extron Announces New DisplayPort Switcher and Distribution Amplifier
Extron today launched the SW2 DP two-input DisplayPort switcher, as well as the DP DA2 two-output DisplayPort distribution amplifier. They are HDCP compliant and support data rates up to 10.8 Gbps and computer resolutions up to 2560×1600 at 60 Hz, including HDTV 1080p/60. The SW2 DP and DP DA2 feature EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices for reliable video content display. The DP DA2 also features Key Minder, an Extron-exclusive technology that continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays. Additionally, dual-mode support on the DP DA2 allows source signals to be distributed to multiple HDMI, DVI, or VGA display devices with appropriate adapters.
The addition of the SW2 DP and DP DA2 to Extron's expanding line of DisplayPort products allows the integration of this technology into a wide variety of AV applications, including conference areas, houses of worship, and rental and staging environments. The SW2 DP and DP DA2 are ideal for AV systems that require reliable switching and distribution of DisplayPort signals.
The Digital Signage Federation has created a four-part Digital Signage Expo (DSE) Digital Signage Fundamentals Seminar Program, designed specifically to prepare those investing for the first-time to deal with initial planning and execution challenges. It's now available for viewing on the DSF website.
The Digital Signage Fundamentals Seminar Program was presented in Las Vegas last March at DSE 2012, as part of DSE’s eight-track Educational Conference, which is now available for general market purchase as part of DSE’s post-show “education package” for a cost of $445 – but is free to all DSF members.
Designed specifically for those DOOH network operators of both revenue and non-revenue generating systems, digital signage (DS) end-users, systems integrators and installers who are relatively new to the industry, this educational track is intended to provide an introduction to the DS industry by promoting a better understanding of the seven elements that comprise a DS system. Topics that are covered include:
Introduction to Digital Signage: A Roadmap for Success
Emerging Digital Media Trends
Key Considerations for Successful Digital Signage Project Execution
Everything You Need to Know About Making Digital Signage Content
Each session was led by professionals who shared their experience and come from a variety of disciplines within DOOH Networks, as well as end-users from the restaurant and financial fields, along with knowledgeable industry consultants and technology providers.
DSF members can view the Fundamentals Track Seminar Program or any of the DSE 2012, DSE 2011, and DSE 2010 educational conference seminars online at www.digitalsignagefederation.org. Viewings of all sessions are free for DSF members. These sessions are also available on a pay-on-demand basis at www.digitalsignageexpo.net at a cost of $445.
Chief Launches New Freestanding Video Wall Solutions
Chief is now shipping its Fusion Series freestanding video wall solutions. The new LVM mounts make it possible to construct video walls in prominent locations for temporary situations or when wall-mounting is not an option.
Available in standard 2×2, 3×2 and 3×3 configurations, the new freestanding solutions can be combined with accessories to achieve video walls up to three displays high and any length. The LVM2X2U can accommodate displays up to 65” and 125 lbs. (56.7 kg), while the LVM3X3U and LVM3X2U are compatible with displays up to 55” and 100 to 125 lbs. (45.4 to 56.7 kg), respectively. This latest addition to Chief’s Fusion Series of mounting solutions features ControlZone micro-height and leveling capabilities, plus plumb and lateral shift adjustments to simplify alignment. Fully integrated cable management aides in a clean installation and smooth rolling casters allow for easy positioning.
The models are:
LVM2X2U – 2×2 freestanding solution
LVM3X2U – 3×2 freestanding solution
LVM3X3U – 3×3 freestanding solution
FCA2X1U – Accessory converts 2×2 configuration to 2×3
FCA3X1U – Accessory converts 3×2 configuration to 3×3
Philips MMD To Launch New Interactive Touch Displays at InfoComm
The new Philips Touch Series consists of 10 different products developed for the retail, quick service restaurant, hospitality, healthcare and transportation industries. Available in 32”, 42”, 46”, 55” and 65” sizes, according to MMD, each model is designed for 24/7/365 operation and use commercial-grade displays.
The new Philips Touch Series include either one of these two technologies:
Optical Sensing Dual-Touch: The Optical Sensing Dual Camera system allows for 2 simultaneous touch points at the same time.
Infrared Sensing Multi-Touch: The Infrared Sensing Multi-Touch technology allows for multiple simultaneous touch points at the same time.
The Philips Touch Series all include Intel’s Open Plugable Specification (OPS), are native 1920×1080 resolution, include RS232 and IP control and have a mode called SmartPower to reduce power consumption up to 50 percent in different lighting conditions.
The optical sensing, dual-touch displays are:
32” Dual-Touch HD LCD Display (BDL3245DT/27)
42” Dual-Touch HD LCD Display with OPS (BDL4245DT/27)
46” Dual-Touch HD LCD Display with OPS (BDL4645DT/27)
55” Dual-Touch HD LCD Display with OPS (BDL5545DT/27)
55” Dual-Touch HD LCD Display (BDL5571DT/27)
The infrared sensing, multi-touch displays are:
42” Multi-Touch HD LCD Display with OPS (BDL4245AT/27)
46” Multi-Touch HD LCD Display with OPS (BDL4645AT/27)
55” Multi-Touch HD LCD Display with OPS (BDL5545AT/27)
55” Multi-Touch HD LED Display (BDL5530AT/27)
65” Multi-Touch HD LCD Display (BDL6531AT/27)
All the displays will officially debut at InfoComm.
The annual DSE APEX Awards honor innovation in the development and deployment of technology in the global digital out-of-home industry. All nominated content will be judged on the following criteria:
1. Challenge
2. Solution
3. Result
Finalists in the 11 Apex Awards categories will be announced prior to Digital Signage Expo 2013. Gold, Silver and Bronze winners will be announced at the Digital Signage Expo 2013 Awards Dinner, to be held February 27, 2013, in Las Vegas.
The annual DSE Content Awards honor innovative and compelling content created for digital signage and digital out-of-home networks. All nominated content will be judged on the following criteria:
1. Creative Relevance
2. Production Quality
3. Intended Mission
Finalists in the 11 Apex Awards categories will be announced prior to Digital Signage Expo 2013. Gold, Silver and Bronze winners will be announced at the Digital Signage Expo 2013 Awards Dinner, to be held February 27, 2013, in Las Vegas.
X2O Media's Portal Now Fully Integrated With Polycom RealPresence Media Manager
X2O Media recently announced that as part of the company's new "Open Content Management Framework," the X2O Portal is now fully integrated with the Polycom RealPresence Media Manager. Users can access video assets stored in the RealPresence Media Manager directly from X2O's cloud-based content management tools, then schedule and deliver them to digital displays.
The Polycom RealPresence Media Manager is designed to streamline the processes, devices, and technology required to produce and distribute media effectively over existing IT infrastructures. The automated, end-to-end solution supports the complete content lifecycle of all video assets — from video capture and content management to viewer access and delivery across networks — regardless of source or format.
The X2O Portal is a comprehensive, cloud-based platform for managing and scheduling all content — including images, videos, graphics, and live data — from social media and other sources on digital signage networks of any size.
Altinex Ships Another 1×2 VGA Distribution Amplifier
Altinex has started shipping the DA1907LX Ditto-Amp, which is a one-input, two-output VGA distribution amplifier. It uses female 15-pin HD (VGA-type) connectors on all input and output connectors, with both outputs buffered. The DA1907LX is compatible with RGsB, RGBS and RGBHV signal types and the female 15-pin HD input features native Plug & Play compatibility with Output 1 (passes ID bits). An internal Plug & Play memory option may be selected at purchase for applications where using the Plug & Play feature of the remote device is not desired. Another notable feature of the Altinex DA1907LX includes VESA DDC (EDID) pass through on output #1.
Premier Mounts is shipping a new tilting flat-panel cable mount that makes hanging a flat panel as easy as hanging a picture frame. Using the patented MagnaGuide feature, the plates behind the display are easily aligned and set in place using strong magnets. This makes it easy for the installer to secure the flat panel in the right position without having to see where the mounting base is located on the wall.
The CMT also provides a notable tilt feature. High tensile braided cable allows the mount to smoothly and securely tilt to the desired angle. Other features include large wire loops for easy leveling, a dual kickstand to provide full accessibility to the display, and collapsible stand off legs that easily connect any A/V component. The V-shaped 6"x3" back-plate mounts easily on a single stud and is designed to hold flat panel displays up to 65 lbs. with a VESA mounting pattern ranging from 200x200mm to 600x400mm (the four flat-panel anchors install to the back of the display).
An in-wall box, such as the GB-INWAVP, can also be added for additional equipment storage and to hide power cables behind the display.
Premier Debuts Articulating Mega Mount for 500-Pound Displays
Premier Mounts just debuted the AM500, another in the Mega Mount family (which are capable of supporting displays up to 500 pounds). This mount is an articulating wall mount for extra large displays ranging from 65" to 103” and above with a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds (226.8 kg). It offers full forward extension of over 15" (381 mm) from the wall to access displays for service and alignment, plus keeps cables and electrical components organized behind the mount itself.
The AM500 provides a full range of motion, including a full left to right pivot movement thanks to its double, articulating elliptical-tube arms. It also features both a positive and negative tilt adjustment and allows for displays to be rotated and positioned in landscape, portrait or any other arbitrary angled orientation with a 360° rotating mounting head.
NEC Display Solutions' Pierre Richer Adds CEO to Title
Gary's Note: I have known Pierre for more than a dozen years, and I can safely say that he's one of the top five most creative people in AV. He is a visionary and has passion for this market that is unmatched in his position. He's perfect to steer the NEC ship (and, he's one of the best dressers in AV – no lie. That guy has the most creative shirts I have ever seen). Congrats, Pierre!
NEC Display just promoted President Pierre Richer to CEO, the company announced today. Richer has guided NEC to strong growth, product innovation and channel development over the last five years.
In his new role, Richer will continue to shape the vision of the company, which has enabled NEC to enhance its standing as a projector and LCD market leader, while capitalizing on the growing Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) advertising market through VUKUNET.
“Pierre has continuously achieved company goals through his tremendous commitment, credibility and creativity, which have translated to a leading market position and revenue growth,” said Nick Akagi, president of NEC Display Solutions Worldwide. “His leadership has been instrumental in transforming NEC Display Solutions into a profitable and premier solutions company.”
“It is an honor to assume the CEO position at NEC Display Solutions, a company that accomplishes extraordinary results with quality employees and products,” Richer said. “I have worked with some very good companies throughout my career, but I have never heard customers and channel partners so often say that we are the best and easiest company to work with. It’s truly a testament to our people who live by our NEC motto of ‘achieving greatness’ by doing amazing things for those same customers and partners.”
Richer has been with NEC since 2003, where he was responsible for sales partner initiatives, marketing and service offerings, as well as introducing new revenue opportunities through the channel. He also played a key role in the successful merger of the projector and plasma business units with the desktop and large-screen LCD business units.
Extron has started shipping its new HDMI DA2, a one-input, two-output HDMI distribution amplifier. The HDMI DA2 supports HDMI specification features including data rates up to 6.75 Gbps, Deep Color up to 12-bit, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. The HDCP-compliant distribution amplifier supports all HDTV rates including 1080p/60 and PC resolutions up to 1920×1200. Extron says it features two exclusive technologies: EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices and Key Minder, which continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays.
The HDMI DA2 features include automatic input cable equalization, automatic color bit depth management, selectable output muting and indicators for monitoring and troubleshooting. Input cable equalization restores and reshapes incoming HDMI signals, reducing the need for additional signal conditioning equipment by compensating for weak source signals or signal loss from a long input cable. The HDMI DA2 automatically adjusts color bit depth based on the display EDID, preventing color compatibility conflicts between source and display. Outputs can be muted independently via RS-232, allowing content to be previewed on a local monitor. Additionally, the distribution amplifier provides immediate visual confirmation of EDID status, HDCP authentication, and signal presence confirmation for each port via front panel LED indicators.
Exponation (the people who bring you the DSE show each year) has just announced the launch of its new Digital Place-Based Network Showcase, an event designed specifically to give brand marketers and advertisers the opportunity to meet with a cross-section of digital place-based networks all in one place for the purpose of better understanding this new media phenomenon.
The half-day setting, to be located in mid-town New York early this fall, will allow decision-makers who want better advertising efficiencies and more effective ways of getting their messages in front of hard-to-reach target audiences. They will also get the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a variety of digital network operators to assess alternatives and see how their peers have been using the medium successfully to promote their brands.
At the same time, digital place-based network operators will have the opportunity to showcase best practices of brand leaders by industry, provide coverage, demographic and audience metrics, as well as demonstrate how their networks can best address each brand marketer’s challenges.
Tourism Montérégie's Digital Content Strategy Enriches Visitor Experience
Tourism Montérégie, located in the Quartier DIX30 Lifestyle Centre in Brossard, Québec, Canada, wanted to reinvent the traditional concept of the tourism office and showcases how technology, marketing strategies, client service and interior design can be combined into an integrated concept that truly enriches the visitor experience. The space includes 23 screens, seven of which are interactive, positioned in five distinctive zones — lobby experience, lounge and themes area, local products, hotel and restaurant reservation center and public spaces (hallway, restrooms). It turned to Arsenal Media to achieve its goals for the digital display's content.
CHALLENGES
Here are some of the challenges Arsenal faced:
The client wanted to create a unique experience that distinguished the destination from all other concepts in the tourism industry
This was a new media for the client and Arsenal had to start from scratch from a strategy, content guidelines and content production perspective
The content strategy and production had to be repurposed on multiple platforms, which limited the cost of such initiatives
SOLUTIONS
Solutions included:
Arsenal established a methodical planning phase to link the digital network concept with the interior design of the space, the marketing strategy and the client service approach
The team developed a very structured content strategy with clear content guidelines (graphic, technical, editorial) to facilitate management and updates but also to ensure unity throughout the content programming
Arsenal trained internal staff and involved them in the daily production process to ensure long continuity of the network and to efficiently manage budgets and costs
Arsenal closely linked the content strategy to Tourism Montérégie's unique marketing approach, creating targeted zones and experiences
The team integrated the content guidelines and the production workflow with the client in an approach to accelerate/facilitate the multipurpose use of the digital content produced
RESULTS
Results reported by Arsenal:
Enriched brand perception by establishing the region as an innovative organization
Created internal enthusiasm and staff engagement to a new vision of tourism client service
Received excellent feedback from members of the association and government officials
Generated unprecedented press coverage for the project (TV, web, radio, publishing)
Generated a 300 percent increase in visitor traffic
Increased the average dwell time by 60 percent
Created new revenue channels for the organization
Established a solid base for a long term strategy and a model for future hospitality installations
This case study was reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.
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% 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).
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Last week I had a web-based demonstration of the newest release of Hiperwall 3.0, which is a control software package for controlling content over a variety of screens. This new version adds animation capabilities to content that can be displayed on multi-screen display solutions. That doesn’t sound like such a great innovation, but when you see what it adds to the visual impact, you clearly understand the value. And, more importantly, Hiperwall 3.0 allows users to do this very quickly and in real-time — a major change from the pre-rendered approach used today. As far as we (and Hiperwall) know, this is the first time such a capability has been demonstrated.
The following is reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association (DSA). For more information, go to 
Mainstream gesture-based technology for digital signage may take another step forward with the introduction of the Leap, an iPod-sized 3-D motion control device that lets users control their computers by gesturing with their hands instead of using a keyboard or mouse and is slated for release this winter for a retail price of only $70.
Samsung and LGE spent much of last year fighting over 3D technology, with LGE aggressively promoting its passive FPR (film patterned retarder), with claims that it was better than Samsung’s SG (shutter glass) 3D TV, as its FPR enables a flicker-free, light and cheap 3D TV solution compared to shutter glasses. Samsung counterattacked by highlighting the lower resolution of FPR 3D TV, but generally avoided a direct battle in 3D TV, and jumped into promoting Smart TVs instead.
Peerless-AV announced recently the launch of a 3×3 Universal Video Wall Cart, the DS-VWC655-3X3. Aimed at the rental and staging markets, but perfectly positioned for portable digital signage applications, the DS-VWC655-3X3 can hold nine flat panel displays measuring 46 to 55 inches. The cart features a covered shelf that effectively hides media devices and upright channels to organize cables. Lockable 5" casters support up to 1,000 lbs. of flat panel displays and can swivel 360 degrees for maneuverability. The company has included mounting hole patterns up to 400 mm vertically while a unique positioning feature enables simple flush alignment without tools.
At InfoComm, RGB Spectrum will introduce a new form of an H.264 codec for streaming and recording of graphics and HD video over the network. The DSx 264 codec, an H.264 compatible codec that encodes and streams graphics and HD video at up to 1920×1080 and 1600×1200 resolutions, claims one exclusive feature not found on other streaming media products, which is the capability of concurrent recording and streaming. The codec's recording and replay option offers storage to a local USB storage device or external NAS, such as RAIDs or servers.
Extron today launched the SW2 DP two-input DisplayPort switcher, as well as the DP DA2 two-output DisplayPort distribution amplifier. They are HDCP compliant and support data rates up to 10.8 Gbps and computer resolutions up to 2560×1600 at 60 Hz, including HDTV 1080p/60. The SW2 DP and DP DA2 feature EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices for reliable video content display. The DP DA2 also features Key Minder, an Extron-exclusive technology that continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays. Additionally, dual-mode support on the DP DA2 allows source signals to be distributed to multiple HDMI, DVI, or VGA display devices with appropriate adapters.
The Digital Signage Federation has created a four-part Digital Signage Expo (DSE) Digital Signage Fundamentals Seminar Program, designed specifically to prepare those investing for the first-time to deal with initial planning and execution challenges. It's now available for viewing on the DSF website.
Chief is now shipping its Fusion Series freestanding video wall solutions. The new LVM mounts make it possible to construct video walls in prominent locations for temporary situations or when wall-mounting is not an option.
The new Philips Touch Series consists of 10 different products developed for the retail, quick service restaurant, hospitality, healthcare and transportation industries. Available in 32”, 42”, 46”, 55” and 65” sizes, according to MMD, each model is designed for 24/7/365 operation and use commercial-grade displays.
The annual DSE APEX Awards honor innovation in the development and deployment of technology in the global digital out-of-home industry. All nominated content will be judged on the following criteria:
The annual DSE Content Awards honor innovative and compelling content created for digital signage and digital out-of-home networks. All nominated content will be judged on the following criteria:
X2O Media recently announced that as part of the company's new "Open Content Management Framework," the X2O Portal is now fully integrated with the Polycom RealPresence Media Manager. Users can access video assets stored in the RealPresence Media Manager directly from X2O's cloud-based content management tools, then schedule and deliver them to digital displays.
Altinex has started shipping the DA1907LX Ditto-Amp, which is a one-input, two-output VGA distribution amplifier. It uses female 15-pin HD (VGA-type) connectors on all input and output connectors, with both outputs buffered. The DA1907LX is compatible with RGsB, RGBS and RGBHV signal types and the female 15-pin HD input features native Plug & Play compatibility with Output 1 (passes ID bits). An internal Plug & Play memory option may be selected at purchase for applications where using the Plug & Play feature of the remote device is not desired. Another notable feature of the Altinex DA1907LX includes VESA DDC (EDID) pass through on output #1.
Premier Mounts is shipping a new tilting flat-panel cable mount that makes hanging a flat panel as easy as hanging a picture frame. Using the patented MagnaGuide feature, the plates behind the display are easily aligned and set in place using strong magnets. This makes it easy for the installer to secure the flat panel in the right position without having to see where the mounting base is located on the wall.
Premier Mounts just debuted the AM500, another in the Mega Mount family (which are capable of supporting displays up to 500 pounds). This mount is an articulating wall mount for extra large displays ranging from 65" to 103” and above with a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds (226.8 kg). It offers full forward extension of over 15" (381 mm) from the wall to access displays for service and alignment, plus keeps cables and electrical components organized behind the mount itself.
Gary's Note: I have known Pierre for more than a dozen years, and I can safely say that he's one of the top five most creative people in AV. He is a visionary and has passion for this market that is unmatched in his position. He's perfect to steer the NEC ship (and, he's one of the best dressers in AV – no lie. That guy has the most creative shirts I have ever seen). Congrats, Pierre!
Extron has started shipping its new HDMI DA2, a one-input, two-output HDMI distribution amplifier. The HDMI DA2 supports HDMI specification features including data rates up to 6.75 Gbps, Deep Color up to 12-bit, 3D, Lip Sync and HD lossless audio formats. The HDCP-compliant distribution amplifier supports all HDTV rates including 1080p/60 and PC resolutions up to 1920×1200. Extron says it features two exclusive technologies: EDID Minder, which maintains continuous EDID communication between connected devices and Key Minder, which continuously authenticates HDCP encryption between all devices, ensuring the simultaneous distribution of source content to both displays.
Exponation (the people who bring you the DSE show each year) has just announced the launch of its new Digital Place-Based Network Showcase, an event designed specifically to give brand marketers and advertisers the opportunity to meet with a cross-section of digital place-based networks all in one place for the purpose of better understanding this new media phenomenon.
Tourism Montérégie, located in the Quartier DIX30 Lifestyle Centre in Brossard, Québec, Canada, wanted to reinvent the traditional concept of the tourism office and showcases how technology, marketing strategies, client service and interior design can be combined into an integrated concept that truly enriches the visitor experience. The space includes 23 screens, seven of which are interactive, positioned in five distinctive zones — lobby experience, lounge and themes area, local products, hotel and restaurant reservation center and public spaces (hallway, restrooms). It turned to Arsenal Media to achieve its goals for the digital display's content.
