Volume 5, Issue 6 — June 21, 2013

OK, you’ve done your homework, strategizing and planning and making the best possible decisions to ensure your digital signage investment has the greatest chance for success. Now you just have to turn on the switch, sit back and let the content roll, right?

Wrong!

In case no one told you, digital signage requires an ongoing commitment of time and resources, and the road ahead is fraught with as many potholes as the road you just traveled to get your system in place. So, to make your journey a little easier, let’s talk about the top mistakes we see people make after they’ve bought a digital signage system:

Trying to do too much on the screen. Your software comes with a lot of options, but you don’t need to show everything at once. Remember that your goal is to deliver information. Your message can get lost if you have your screen packed with so much that viewers can’t pick out the different things you’re telling them. You’re better off using different features at different times to keep drawing people in and keep them interested.

Letting messages get stale. If you’ve left something on your playlist too long because you forgot about it, chances are your audience has, too. Keep it fresh by showing new content every day, and show things more often for shorter time periods versus running one thing on the screen all day long. New content is what keeps your audience coming back.

Not updating your software. In addition to keeping content fresh, you need to keep your content management software fresh as well. New software features will let you do more with your messages more efficiently. And don’t forget that you may need to update hardware once in a while, too.

Using audio where you shouldn’t. In public areas like lobbies, lounges or cafeterias, you may want to use audio on your screens for videos or TV channels you’re piping in. But if you’re running something with audio somewhere that people are working and need to concentrate — especially if it repeats a lot — you may end up annoying your audience more than attracting them.

Forgetting the call to action. Everything you publish should prompt the viewer to do something — and they can’t do that unless you tell them how. So make sure your messages direct people to where they can get more information or take the action you want them to. This will also help you with measuring return on investment (ROI).

Not publishing policies. You’re always going to have new people who come on board and need to know how to use the system. So once you’ve had it up and running for a month or so, write down policies and put them somewhere that everyone can see them, like on a website. Quite simply, you need to have guidelines so everyone’s on the same page about what they can and can’t do with your digital signage.

As marketing communications manager for Atlanta-based Visix Inc., Debbie DeWitt handles all of the company’s marketing and communications campaigns, including branding, advertising, newsletters, sales tools, web and event planning. She’s been with the company since 2004 and has more than 20 years of experience in the digital signage and audiovisual industries. Visix Inc. designs, develops and supports a suite of browser-based digital signage products that allows users to create, manage and schedule organizational communications from anywhere and to deliver messages and media to virtually any endpoint.

The company offers digital signage software, interactive wayfinding, meeting room signs and applications for targeted messaging to desktops and portable devices. For information related to the content of this article, you can contact DeWitt at marketing@visix.com.

This article was reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.

With its low cost of operation, and lower still failure rates, plus a hand full of other benefits from deployment, to ease of use, traditional consumer tablets are now being found in a host of digital signage (DS) deployments. First look no further than your neighborhood (OK big city) Apple Store to see tablets playing a key role as a digital signage information display.

Many are finding it is cheaper to us Apple iPads than a larger LCD monitor display from say–market leader NEC. And yes, price is the driving force in moving to tablets for many companies looking at this as an alternative. In Tabtimes.com an October 2012 article quoted traditional digital sign deployment at about $2K (+) for each sign, while a tablet (albeit much smaller) can cost integrators as little as $500 or four small tablet signs for every one large one.

Beyond cost, the flexibility (size, weight, mounting, et al.) of tablets offer huge advantages beyond deployment. In fact, some consider the big win for the technology coming from its ease of “interactivity” particularly in one-on-one retail selling, according to ABI Researcher Jeff Orr. He was quoted in Tabtimes stating “Flat-panel HDTVs provide more visible real estate, but are costly and best suited for a group [and we would say broadcast] setting. The size and price-points of media tablets make them more appropriate for one-to-one use,” Orr said.

Researcher Upasna Kesarwanl sees the use of tablets as a natural extension of our evolving interactive lifestyle where consumers are now dependent on the use of the smart devices in everyday life. He said in the recent white paper Digital Signage Using Tablets “…using similar devices for displaying marketing content comes as a natural next step for enterprises. Using Tablets isn’t a new phenomenon, but it has revolutionized the way companies use digital signage,” according to Kesarwanl. He goes on to list the benefits that include low cost, and built-in interactive features like video, audio, web browsers and robust touch displays. Plus, they are easy to maintain and can often times be cheaper to simply replace the entire unit than attempt to make repairs.

One good use of the iPad in a kiosk system was found in a product created by Harbor Industries used in a liquor store campaign created for distiller Brown Forman. The tablet is used to educate consumers on how to mix drinks, plan a party and even email details or print a shopping list for purchasing in the store. Harbor uses the display to enhance cross promotion that is booming in retail. The group reported that in 1995 displays were placed in secondary locations only 47 percent of the time, and now the practice is up to 60 percent in retail, where displays are located away from the home aisle. At the DS Expo in Las Vegas in February, Armodillo Display had a premium iPad kiosk / tablet display stand and said they work with Android and Windows based tablets as well. The group developed a Tablet Fit-Kit that allows multiple tablet support and tablet swapping based on the required O/S.

So the trends seem clear as digital signage is morphing and that is helping drive the industry growth for markets and applications with interactivity at the center of functionality. To get there in a cost efficient way, savvy integrators have turned to the tried and true traditional consumer tablet that may be just good (and cheap) enough to withstand the rigor of 24/7 operation, and if (or even when) they fail, are low cost enough to simply drop in a new replacement as needed.

Philips showed at InfoComm a new IP-addressable LED displays for digital signage, called the QL series. The idea behind these displays is basically to remove the signage player from the equation, taking the model of consumer content distribution technology (such as Apple TV, Google TV, etc.) and applying it to “IP signage.”

These displays were shown as a prototype at DSE earlier this year, where Philips got feedback from integrators, but now they are heading to production and expected to be available in Q3.

Integrators can still use any kind of digital signage software they want, which lives on and is controlled by a computer, and is then pushed to individual displays that have their own IP addresses. It works via the Internet, or closed Intranet (Philips demo’d the displays at InfoComm using its own Intranet.

Other specs on the displays include 350 nits brightness, edge-lit LEDs, an internal HTML 5 browser and a LAN port. They are also ENERGY STAR rated for low power consumption, and will be available in 32″, 42″, 46″ and 55″ sizes. Philips hasn’t set pricing officially, but said at InfoComm that they would be priced on the “lower end” of its display pricing structure.

The slogan Philips is using at the show here is “Future of Display Technology Arrives at InfoComm,” and it’s clear they think that in the digital signage market, the future means fewer media players. What do you think?

In the meantime, check out Philips Signage Solutions’ infographic about its IP addressable displays.

The variety of self-service touchscreen applications is boundless, which explains in part why kiosks have become a welcome addition to so many different types of organizations. However, the all-in-one appearance of an interactive kiosk belies the complexity of the unit, its installation and on-going operation. Avoiding the consequences of a hasty installation entails forethought, planning and most of all support.

The kiosk industry is a specialist one after all, and as such, advice, help and monitoring are necessary to ensure that your kiosk works for you. So, what should you look for as regards support for your kiosk?

1. Installation

The installation of the device is the first and foremost step in the larger picture, and troublesome installation will only cause issues down the road. Therefore, finding a company that can provide easy installation is a must. So, what should the process for installation be?

• Hardware — The installation of the kiosk itself and anything that’s necessary for its use should be done by professional people. Kiosks need additional items like mounting brackets and power, as well as potentially a number of other additions for security, safety and positioning.
• Software — A proper software installation will test all the peripherals to ensure they’re working and calibrated correctly on site and that all is working as it should.

2. Remote Monitoring

We live in a connected world, and so being able to monitor your kiosk remotely should not be an issue with the right software in place.

You should be provided with the capability to monitor stats, traffic and other information and data at a glance. In addition, the kiosk should allow for the monitoring of uptime, provide reporting on errors via email updates and SMS, and also allow for remote diagnostics and resolution of issues from elsewhere. This should all be capable of being accessed by the kiosk company, and it should have the capability to repair any issues remotely.

3. Maintenance Support

As some issues won’t be able to be fixed remotely, on-site support will be required. This could be vital depending on the industry you’re in.

Knowing you have a service level agreement in place that can offer you the choice of a 48-, 24- or even 8-hour fix can reduce downtime. This is something that’s essential if your kiosk is bringing in revenue to your business, such as issuing tickets at an out-of-hour’s kiosk.

As technical manager, Sam Pryor heads up the Protouch technical team and has overseen the installation and maintenance of hundreds of kiosks. Based in Camberley, Surrey, U.K., Protouch is a specialist touch screen and kiosk manufacturer whose solutions comprise software, hardware, installation and maintenance, giving the company extensive experience in all these areas. Protouch was acquired recently by Cammax, but the two entities are operating as separate business units, targeting different market sectors. For information related to the content of this article, contact Sam Pryor at s.pryor@protouch.co.uk.

This column was reprinted with permission from Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.

Building on the success of Visix’s APPOINT PowerPoint scheduling software for digital signage, the company has launched a niche version of the product – APPOINTwmv.

APPOINTwmv is tailored to clients who already have digital signage software that either isn’t easy to use, or who prefer to create content in PowerPoint. It allows users to publish their presentations as videos from APPOINTwmv and schedule them for playback in any content management scheduling system.

APPOINTwmv renders PowerPoint presentations faster than the PowerPoint export feature, and allows you to continue working in PowerPoint while rendering.

Users can also select templates from APPOINTwmv’s professionally-designed theme library, create messages from those templates and render them out as videos that can be imported into any signage application. APPOINTwmv includes everything in APPOINT with the exception of scheduling and player controls.

APPOINTwmv is priced at $299 for a single user license and can be purchased online here.

NEC Display just debuted its newest LED-backlit E Series commercial-grade displays — the 4th generation in this series. The 42-inch E424, 46-inch E464, 55-inch E554 and 65-inch E654 displays are aimed at educational institutions, corporations, quick-service restaurants, healthcare facilities and fitness centers. These displays are affordable and come with a three year warranty.

All 1920x1080p models in the E Series are specified at 4000:1 contrast ratio, have three HDMI inputs, include a built-in ATSC tuner and have Ethernet and RS232 control.

• The E424 is here.
• The E464 is here.
• The E554 is here.
• The E654 is here.

MultiTouch has announced a partnership with Ventuz Technology to create interactive display solutions on MultiTouch’s MultiTaction platform. Ventuz’s 3D real-time graphics content creation, authoring and playout control software is designed for high-end use in any area of audio visual content production. Ventuz’s customers include a large number of top-tier clients, such as Microsoft, Porsche and Adidas.

The partnership with MultiTouch will allow Ventuz to combine its leading-edge authoring applications with MultiTouch’s MultiTaction series of LCD displays. This leverages advanced interactive features such as IR pen and Enriched Reality technology, and supports deployment in scalable table or wall installations of any size. MultiTouch and Ventuz will showcase their partnership at InfoComm 2013.

MultiTouch’s MultiTaction displays include gesture and object recognition capabilities with the ability to accommodate an unlimited number of simultaneous users/touch points. They also offer unlimited stackability, while MultiTouch’s Enriched Reality technology enables MultiTaction Cells to react to real-life objects placed on the screen. Ventuz will use these features to demonstrate the newest generation of its software suite Ventuz 4.

MultiTouch’s MultiTaction is here.

Panasonic will launch a a new line of high definition LED LCDs for hospitality and digital signage, the LRU60 Series. Available in 32”, 39”, 42”, 50” and 65”, Panasonic’s new LED line will be aimed at the hospitality, digital signage and meeting room markets. Panasonic designed the Energy Star-rated LRU60 Series with functions that reduce power consumption, including a built-in ambient light sensor feature, C.A.T.S. (Contrast Automatic Tracking System), which automatically adjusts the television’s screen brightness and contrast to suit the lighting of the room. Panasonic says that feature not only optimizes picture performance, but it also helps to keep power consumption low – which should, theoretically, lengthen brightness display life.

The LRU60 Series incorporates a new thin glossy-finish bezel that gives the guest the appearance of more screen without taking up more counter space. The 65” model is designed with an ultrathin bezel and is ideal for lobbies, lounges and luxury suites – as they are integrated with built-in invisible speakers.

Each LRU60 TV features a built-in Pro:Idiom digital tuner for Pay-Per-View and Free-to-Guest programming support, and an integrated LodgeNet b-LAN terminal adaptor, eliminating the need for additional external boxes and decreasing the number of cable connections. With its USB slot cloning feature, television settings can be copied onto a USB and easily installed into other TV units, shortening the installation time. This is ideal for setting up channel line-ups, customized ‘welcome’ screen images, hotel guides and more. Additionally, with Centralized FTG channel management, hotel management staff can distribute channel information remotely from the head-end to the guest room televisions.

The 32” TH-32LRU60, 39” TH-39LRU60, 42” TH-42LRU60 and 50” TH-42LRU60 are available now and list for $535, $730, $855 and $1,080, respectively. The 65” TH-65LRU60 will be available in July at a suggested list price of $3,850.

Here are all the specs.

Here at InfoComm, Christie is launching the next generation of its Jumpstart and a new 55″ video wall using multiple FHD551-X — a 55″ LCD made with Corning Gorilla Glass, and the company’s first multi-touch video wall solution. An industry first with what Christie says is the smallest image-to-image gap of any bonded LCD monitor, the Christie Multi-touch Video Wall Solution comprises a 4-unit wide by 1-unit high row of portrait-mounted 55-inch LCD panels with bonded Corning Gorilla Glass, Christie Interactivity Kit, Christie Jumpstart, and the mounting hardware for a wall-mounted or freestanding display.

Christie Jumpstart now provides additional flexibility with six outputs (compared with four previously) and a 50 percent increase in resolution capability — now 15 megapixels. The content management system allows you to display multiple, high-bandwidth video files, graphics, Microsoft Windows applications, Blu-ray and DVD movies and text on a large-format video wall. Christie says it’s compatible with any digital display.

Christie JumpStart features a 3.6 GHz processor, 16 GB memory and 64-bit server for even faster performance and a more powerful workstation. Users can also send serial over IP commands to external devices by scheduling them at any point along the scenario timeline.

Christie FHD551-X with Corning Gorilla Glass is the first 55-inch super-narrow bezel LCD display for tiled video walls with bonded Corning Gorilla Glass.

Both the FHD551-X and the Jumpstart will ship in July and are here.

Shuttle Computer Group announced today its DS47 digital signage media player designed for harsh business environments, and is showing it for the first time at InfoComm.

No fan means that no grease or particles are drawn into the device, which makes for cleaner, more efficient, longer-lasting operation, especially in harsh working environments like fast food restaurants. The company says its industrial-grade solid capacitors also provide greater product stability and a longer life cycle.

The DS47 includes a high-performance processor made by Intel, which meets the demand of power-hungry digital signage or multi-media displays. The Celeron-based platform provides a high level of computing and graphics performance, so digital signage images and graphics are crystal clear, vibrant and fast-moving.

The player supports two displays simultaneously with 1080p resolution for the highest quality imaging and text. The DS47 has built-in HDMI and DVI-I dual display outputs, four USB 2.0 ports and built-in RS232/RS422/RS485 interfaces, so integrators have more installation options.

With soundless operation, the Shuttle DS47 consumes less than 90 watts of power at full capacity. It also offers the Shuttle proprietary high-efficiency heat-pipe cooling system for low power consumption and energy savings.

The DS47 is shipping this month. It is also available as a turnkey digital signage media player that includes software and content management services sold as the RTDS10.

For more information, click here.

Peerless-AV’s KioskBuilder eliminates the need to source components from multiple vendors, enables custom kiosk design without custom project cost, and reduces the time and expense of on-site systems integration for installers and end customers alike.

Now available at kiosks.peerless-av.com, the KioskBuilder application guides customers through a series of questions and options for designing a solution customized to their needs. Beginning with questions such as whether the kiosk will be indoors or outdoors, portrait or landscape,or free-standing or wall- mounted, the configuration menu also provides a choice of displays, touch technology, media players, cameras, content management software and more from industry-leading vendors. Customers also have the option to use their own components or request a specific product or service provider not on the list.

Turnkey Installation

Peerless-AV’s dedicated team of kiosk specialists then reviews the request, delivers a quote, purchases the components on the customer’s behalf, integrates and tests the system to ensure component compatibility, and ships the finished kiosk — completely eliminating individual component boxes and time-consuming on-site setup. Simply plug in the power, connect to the network, load the content and the kiosk is up and running — all in the same day.

New Kiosk Partner Program

As part of the new service, Peerless-AV launched a Kiosk Partner Program in late 2012 to establish an ecosystem of manufacturers whose products would be used to populate the KioskBuilder online application. Early partners include NEC Display Solutions, Samsung, Sharp, Panasonic, Philips Signage, AOpen, Tech Global, Touch Systems, Avnet Integration, Rise Display, Dynasign, SaddleRanch, NextNow and others.

Get more info here.

Flypaper Studio‘s latest version of the Flypaper CMS now includes everything from content creation to scheduled delivery. Flypaper CMS enables users to manage, schedule and monitor multiple digital display screens and networks from a single workstation.

Flypaper CMS consists of a three parts:

• Scheduler lets you specify when, where and which of your content will appear.
• Content does all the scheduling and can be prioritized for specified periods of time, allowing short-term promotions to take precedence over regularly scheduled content.
• The Dashboard is “control central.” From a single screen, you can control all your displays in a unified manner. You can also instantly see if any screens are experiencing abnormal conditions such as a loss of Internet connectivity or low disk space.

The FlyPlayer is installed on each of your screens and processes information sent from the scheduler. If the display loses its Internet connection, the player will continue to run the current content until the connection is restored. Then it will automatically check for updated schedules and content. The FlyPlayer is available in single or dual-screen format.

Flypaper CMS is resides in the Cloud, meaning it can be accessed through any standard web browser without the need to install or maintain expensive servers or infrastructure.

Go here to get more information.

At InfoComm, Philips Signage Solutions demonstrated its 4K autostereoscopic (glasses free) 3D display, an industry first, which is now an actual SKU that you can buy from the company (for $14,999). The BDL5071VS is a 50-inch, LED-backlit display designed for 24/7 operation, which Philips is primarily targeting to retail digital signage applications.

It can operate in both 2D and 3D, and offers optically bonded glass to increase contrast ratio and increase durability of the display. The “pop-out” effects of the 3D can also be adjusted in the software.

If you missed this demo at InfoComm, well, you should look for it in person at another event soon, because no photos or video will really do it justice. Philips has always been light years ahead in the glasses-free 3D arena — I still remember seeing an autostereoscopic video wall at Digital Signage Expo three or four years ago in the Philips booth. I was walking by heading to another appointment, when even from my side angle, the 3D jumped out.

The BDL5071VS comes with @depth solution software from Dimenco. Content creators and graphic designers can now create 2D signage content in the native resolution of 3840×2160. Integrators can then import the signage content in the @depth software software for the full glasses-free 3D effect.

This display was showed as a prototype at both ISE and DSE this year, during which Philips solicited feedback and gauged market interest. The display is now available at a retail price of $14,999. More information will be available on the Philips website by the end of the month and interested integrators can contact sales at (678) 974-1695 or us.sales@mmd-p.com.

Check out the spec sheet here [PDF].

NEC Display’s newest display is in the form of an 80″ V801 — a commercial-grade LCD monitor that’s LED Edge-lit and native 1920x1080p. The V801 features built-in, 10-watt speakers and an Open Pluggable Specification (OPS) compliant expansion slot. This future-proofs the display and allows for the seamless integration of a computer or other NEC/third-party accessories. Moreover, video, RS232 control and power are passed internally from the display to the computer, eliminating additional cabling and simplifying installations.

The V801 is spec’d to deliver 320/460 cd/m² brightness (typical/maximum) and 5,000:1 contrast ratio. It includes DisplayPort, HDMI, VGA and component video inputs, Ethernet and RS232 control, and is integrated with NEC’s TeleMatrix which allows for a 10×10 wall and it has an ATSC tuner.

Here are all the specs.

Crimson’s Menu Board Mount System was designed to simplify the process of specifying and ordering multi-display menu board mounts. A fully modular solution for mounting multiple in-line 65” displays to the wall or ceiling in either landscape or portrait configuration, this product features Crimson’s unique post-installation leveling and cable management capabilities, and includes all of the necessary components and hardware needed to complete the installation.

Simplified Per-Display pricing benefits systems designers greatly, in that they will only need to know the size, quantity and orientation of displays to be used; Crimson will kit the complete mount system and ship it to the location requested. Prices are based on configuration and all mount options are available now.

Here are all the specs.

Christie’s new Jumpstart, the Christie FHD551-XG with Corning Gorilla Glass, and the company’s first turnkey multi-touch video wall solution highlighted its InfoComm booth. With the industry’s smallest image-to-image gap of any bonded LCD panel, the Christie Multi-touch Video Wall Solution comprises a 4×1 wall of portrait-mounted 55-inch LCD panels with bonded Corning Gorilla Glass, Christie Interactivity Kit, Christie Jumpstart and the mounting hardware for a wall-mounted or freestanding display.

Christie Jumpstart now provides additional flexibility with six outputs (compared with four previously) and a 50 percent increase in resolution capability — now 15 megapixels. The content management system allows you to display multiple, high-bandwidth video files, graphics, Microsoft Windows applications, Blu-ray and DVD movies, and text effortlessly on a large-format video wall. It is compatible with any digital display, including Christie MicroTiles and rear-projection or flat-panel display solutions.

Christie JumpStart features a 3.6 GHz processor, 16 GB memory and 64-bit server for even faster performance and a more powerful workstation. Users can also send serial over IP commands to external devices by scheduling them at any point along the scenario timeline. More info on Jumpstart can be found here.

The first 55-inch super-narrow bezel LCD display for tiled video walls with bonded Corning Gorilla Glass, the Christie FHD551-XG is designed for touch screens including broadcast sets and high-traffic public spaces including hotels, restaurants, museums, airports and railway stations. It’s a native 1920x1080p LCD that’s LED-backlit, is spec’d at 700 nits (cd/m2), a 3000:1 contrast ratio and it has DisplayPort, HDMI and DVI ports. Specs are here.

The Christie Multi-touch Video Wall Solution brings a turnkey, interactive digital experience to multiple users. Quad Full-HD resolution, high pixel density and LED backlighting combine to provide a visually stunning display with the smallest bezels of any bonded video wall. Here are all the details.

Christie Jumpstart, Christie FHD551-XG with Corning Gorilla Glass and Christie Multi-touch Video Wall Solution begin shipping in July 2013 and all of them are on Christie’s website.

RP Visual Solutions (RPV) is debuting three new ways to mount LED based displays. The new LED-specific mount types include: EZ Lift, X-Arm and Swing.

All of these mounts feature front access for display serviceability: the EZ Lift mount lifts up for access, the x-arm maneuvers via two ‘X’ brackets and pulls straight out, while the swing mount swings open and offers 6-axis adjustability. To ensure extra rigidity and consistent seams, the mounts are CNC laser cut from precision formed black powder coat welded steel.

You can see them all here: http://www.rpvisuals.com

At InfoComm, laser phosphor display technology company Prysm introduced the next generation of its LPD videowall tile.

The new tile boasts resolution of 427×320 — a 78 percent increase in resolution per tile compared with the previous generation’s 320×240. An HD native-resolution display now requires a 5×4 array of the new tile, with a 117-inch diagonal (compared with 6×5 array and 150 inches diagonal for the original). LPD technology consists of three main parts: the laser engine, the laser processor and the phosphor panel. According to Prysm, compared to other digital technologies, LPD technology has the lowest total cost of ownership and offers highly-competitive features, benefits and usage possibilities.

You can see all the details here.

Mitsubishi and Shuttle Computer have created a new turn-key hardware, software and content system bundle that features everything you need to create digital signage. The bundles feature one or two 42-inch or 46-inch commercial-grade Mitsubishi Electric LCD flat panel display(s), a Shuttle digital media player(s) and all necessary cables. It also includes 90 days of free content management software and service, which gives users access to templates for creating and displaying content.

The turn-key bundles (Mitsubishi Electric part numbers L422-STXS35, L422-2-STDS61, L462-STXS35, L462-2-STDS61) come with either one or two 42-inch (LDT422V) or 46-inch Mitsubishi Electric monitors (LDT462V) that can be set up in portrait or landscape formats. A networkable Shuttle media player (XS35V2-MITS or DS61V1.1-MITS) and associated cables are also included. The monitors offer a wide range of connectivity options, such as HDMI and DVI-D for video and audio transmission over a single cable.

The 90-day free service begins with activation of the digital signage player(s). At the end of the free service period, users have three options:

• Continue subscribing to an annual service contract that start at $49.95 a month;
• Discontinue the service and keep running the latest existing signage content; or
• Remove the software, erasing all existing content and restoring the player to a standard PC, and then use other PC-based digital signage software, if desired.

The bundles are targeted for availability in June and will be officially launched at InfoComm: http://www.mitsubishi-presentations.com/digital-signage-monitor/

Visix’s newest room sign, called RoomBoard, is a touchscreen wayfinding solution that shows room availability, allows scheduling at the screen and integrates with MeetingMinder conference room signs – and it’s on rAVe’s InfoComm Top 10 Tour!

The RoomBoard is custom-built with the client’s logo, colors and map. Maps are interactive and room availability is instantly recognizable with available rooms in green and busy rooms in red. Point-to-point directions and event schedules can be included, or content blocks can play back standard playlists.

Room availability is fed by a scheduling application, and a hot spot can be incorporated to launch either Microsoft Exchange or EMS, allowing viewers to schedule rooms right at the RoomBoard.

Clients can integrate the RoomBoard with MeetingMinder room signs – all being fed by a central scheduling application and all allowing scheduling at the display – for an enterprise-wide scheduling solution.

You’ll find all the specs here.

Panasonic’s new PT-CW330 Series of ultra short-throw projectors includes the PT-CW330U, PT-CW240U, PT-CX300U as well as two interactive models that have dual pen capabilities, the PT-CW331RU and PT-CX301RU. All of these projectors are well suited for a host of applications where space is limited and high image quality is critical, including classroom lectures, corporate presentations, digital signage and small rooms.

With up to 3100 lumens and a contrast ratio of 8000:1, the PT-CW330U, PT-CW240U and PT-CW331RU are able to generate an 80” diagonal image from less than 2 feet away and the PT-CW331RU and PT-CX301RU have built-in interactive features enables two users to simultaneously write on the image using IR pens without requiring a dedicated interactive whiteboard.

PT-CW330 Series projectors include a built in 10 Watt speaker, up to 5,000 hour lamp replacement cycle and Crestron RoomView compatibility. The projectors are also 3D capable and all of them have HDMI inputs:

All of them are here.

RP Visual Solutions (RPV) just launched a new solution in its panel matrix line of products — the Mobile Matrix. The RPMM Mobile Matrix (Deployable Matrix VideoWall) for flat panels is the industry’s first portable, deployable mounting solution, making it perfect for rentals, trade shows and portable videowall applications.

The RPMM Mobile Matrix comes pre-assembled, ready for four flat panel Displays and ships in its own durable road case. The Mobile Matrix’s design is ideal for quick set-up and tear-down, usually taking less than 5 minutes. Panels can be left installed for shipping as well — making set up even easier. It comes in two variations — one configured for 46” panels, and another designed for 55” displays. Once set up, the bottom of the panel has a minimum height of 29’ from the floor, with a maximum height of 42” when fully deployed. Once in the fully raised position, the dual panel doors can be swung open to either a flat 180 degree orientation, or positioned anywhere in between, enabling the system to be powered up for use.

See it here.

Scala Enterprise is now available for download. This latest release of the Scala Digital Signage Software Suite includes:

• Four easy steps to publish engaging digital content
• Creating amazing interactive and dynamic content with HTML5
• Improve your ROI with more affordable Android player options
• Create business opportunities and customize for your unique needs with enhanced APIs
• The world’s most stable, scalable and proven platform

Scala’s intelligent signage solution, Scala iS, will also be offered with Scala Enterprise. Aimed at retailers and quick service restaurants needing optimized digital content at the point of decision, Scala iS uses “big data” and predictive analytics to drive targeted, personalized customer engagement.

You can find more information and the link to download Scala Enterprise.

Panasonic’s newest LCD display, the LFX6, is designed for outdoor digital signage applications. The 47-inch TH-47LFX6U is spec’d at 1,000 cd/m2 of brightness — even in direct sunlight — and is rated at IP44-level dust and water resistance. The LFX6 is designed to operate in harsh environmental conditions such as heat, humidity, extreme cold and high brightness and features a corrosion-resistant aluminum cabinet and tempered glass that allows for safe outdoor use. The display can be mounted horizontally or vertically for flexible installation, and includes a weatherproof seal around all power and signal cables, while preventing tampering. Unlike most outdoor displays, which require separate enclosures, the LFX6 requires none.

The native 1920x1080p LCD-based LFX6 features an air-cooled system that suppresses temperature increases due to direct sunlight exposure, as well as prevents blackouts. Plus, Panasonic says an IPS panel with a wide viewing angle displays clear images with accurate colors, even when viewing the screen from a left or right angle. The Panasonic outdoor display also benefits from low power consumption and a wide range of professional features including DIGITAL LINK (HDBaseT input) technology, a single LAN cable solution that enables users to transmit images, sounds and control signals to the display — up to 328 feet in distance (from switchers like the Extron XTP or AMX Enova). This allows indoor installation of media players or content source devices for easier serviceability and the elimination of additional protection requirements for these devices from the harsh outdoor elements. DIGITAL LINK also allows for the remote monitoring and control of the display to assess temperature, filter clogs, fan locks, etc. and enabling a prompt response to any equipment malfunctions.

This list is $8,248 and all the specs are here.

ViewSonic unveiled a brand new super thin ePoster at InfoComm in the form of a 42″ full HD (1920×1080). The ep4220 is designed for retail or information signage and features a unique and stylized ID design, due to the slim LED panel technology with an edge-to-edge glass faceplate and slim curved styling. Integrated with a built-in media player as well as support for an external X86 or RISC media player or PC by utilizing the standard HDMI and VGA inputs, the ep4220 lists for $1,999.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to use a ViewSonic display, you can order something similar from Peerless but they allow you to specify any brand or sized display at any resolution here.

Complete specs on the ViewSonic ePoster are here.

Panasonic has launched a new line of plasma-based interactive displays that integrate whiteboard-style collaborative functions with pen-touch capabilities via an Electronic Pen System that detects and displays the input device’s position from the light emitted from the display. The system allows up to four pens to be used simultaneously for actions such as written annotation, drawing and moving items independently around the screen. The system also has a remote pointer function that allows users to point, draw and annotate from up to 16 feet away (85/103PB1 is from up to 26 feet away). Only the pen is detected, so there are no false touches caused by contact with clothing or hands. Because the technology is based on fixed location pixels, the device requires no calibration, which decreases total installation time as well as follow up maintenance. In addition, the pen can be used as a mouse without extra software or driver.

Offered as the 50-inch TH-50PB2U, 65-inch TH-65PB2, 85-inch TH-85PB1 and 103-inch TH-103PB1, these plasma displays also feature wireless capabilities and a cable-free design. Data on a PC screen can be easily transmitted via a Panasonic Easy Wireless Stick (ET-UW100) without the need to switch cables for each presenter or changing any
network settings. Additionally, Multiple Transmission Mode allows data from up to 16 PCs to be shown in different cells on a single screen, or data from one PC to be shown on up to eight displays. The 50” and 65” interactive displays include a redesigned, easily rechargeable pen with a pressure sensor on the tip for a fountain pen-like feel, as well as a dedicated, one-action eraser button. These models also feature increased screen brightness for improved use in rooms with high levels of ambient light. Finger touch capability can be incorporated with the use of an optional overlay accessory.

The 50-inch , 65-inch , 85-inch and 103-inch are available now and list for $2,000, $5,000, $30,000 and $49,995, respectively. Here are all the specs.

TouchSystems has upgraded its V Series line of large-format touch displays with two eco-friendly and energy efficient touch screens. The two screens, 42 inches and 46 inches, boast a number of new features, including LED-backlighting, which not only affects energy consumption but also results in a slimmer bezel depth. Their internal temperature sensors and fans help with energy consumption and ensure the longevity of the display in demanding, high-use environments such as retail stores and quick service restaurants (QSR).

The V 42 and V 46 are based on the 1920x1080p resolution NEC V423 and the NEC V463, respectively. The displays feature built-in speakers and HD LCD displays. They’re integrated with Dispersive Signal Technology (DST), a technology ideally suited for rigorous environments.

Here are all the specs: http://www.touchsystems.com/products.aspx?product=V4650D-U3 and here: http://www.touchsystems.com/products.aspx?product=X5580I-U2

The annual DSE Apex Awards honor innovation as demonstrated in the deployment of technology in the global digital signage, interactive technology and digital out-of-home industies. All nominated content will be judged on the following criteria:

• Challenge
• Solution
• Result

To learn more or submit an entry, download the DSE 2014 APEX Award nomination form.

Finalists in the 11 Apex Awards categories will be announced prior to Digital Signage Expo 2014. Gold, Silver and Bronze winners, and the Apex Award of the Year, will be announced at the Digital Signage Expo 2014 Awards Dinner, to be held February 12, 2014, in Las Vegas.

Please submit any questions to Richard Lebovitz, editorial director, at rlebovitz@exponation.net

The global large screen public display market is forecast to grow at 23 percent compounded annually from 2013 through 2017, according to the latest NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly FPD Public Display Shipment and Forecast Report. The growth comes after the first double-digit decline (18 percent) for the market in 2012, when LCD shipments were flat and PDP (plasma display panel) shipments collapsed. The positive outlook is attributable to an improving economy, demand from emerging countries, price erosion on larger size displays, and a potential uptick in demand tied to the 2014 World Cup.

The majority of this growth will occur from an increase in the production and sales of large-screen LCD displays. According to NPD DisplaySearch, shipments of 60”+ displays grew by 89 percent Y/Y in 2012 and are expected to grow by another 35 percent in 2013. Strong growth is expected to continue during the forecast period, and 60”+ public displays are expected to pass 1 million units by 2017.

“The supply side has been preparing for this growth for several years, investing in new fabrication plants to manufacture larger size LCD panels,” said Todd Fender, senior analyst with NPD DisplaySearch. “Additionally, other panel manufacturers are focusing more attention on economical cuts from their current glass substrates, resulting in newer (slightly-larger) sizes. Still others are experimenting with a newer technique called MMG (Multi-Model Glass), where two different sized panel products are cut from the same generation glass substrate. This new production leads to increased competition, which leads to price erosion and eventually results in increased demand.”

Figure 1: Global FPD Public Display Total Market Summary (2010-2017)

Source: NPD DisplaySearch Quarterly FPD Public Display Shipment and Forecast Report

A focus on larger size screens also allows manufacturers to increase their profit per module and fills the gap left by Panasonic and others that have exited the PDP business. After 2015, NPD DisplaySearch forecasts the 50” PDP size may be the only plasma display panel available in the marketplace. Demand for larger size displays is expected to continue, providing an increased opportunity for LCD manufacturers.

NCR Corp. announced that Dunkin’ Donuts has deployed a high-definition NCR Vitalcast digital signage solution at locations across the United States.

According to the company, Dunkin’ Donuts will leverage the digital signage solution to bring its popular food and beverages to life with visually compelling animations and messaging similar to the brand’s iconic advertising. The NCR Vitalcast digital signage has been installed in approximately 400 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants with more than 2,000 restaurants anticipated to transition from static menu boards to digital signage by year-end.

The easy-to-use digital signage solution will provide Dunkin Donuts restaurants the opportunity to showcase a wider variety of food and beverages with high resolution product shots and video to enhance the overall guest experience. The digital signage solution will also make it easier and cost effective to update information in real time, feature new and limited time products, and display nutritional information.

“With the ability to cost effectively update information in real time, our new NCR Vitalcast digital signage solution will provide Dunkin’ Donuts franchise owners with a number of valuable tools to enhance the guest experience,” said Scott Hudler, vice president of consumer engagement for Dunkin’ Donuts, Canton, Mass.

Dunkin’ Donuts operates one of the most respected and recognized brands in the world, and they are taking an innovative approach to enhance the in-store customer experience,” added Kim Eaton, senior vice president and general manager, NCR Hospitality, Duluth, Ga.

Vitalcast features provide greater flexibility to promote specific menu items during different day parts, localize content and add regional menu item variances that are integrated with the point-of-sale (POS). In addition to providing the Vitalcast software, NCR is supporting the installation with content management services.

This case study was reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.

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