Volume 7, Issue 11 — November 23, 2015

Apple has already put the technology into the phone to determine locations and habits of customers. Now we need to develop apps that allow us to take advantage of the technology. If an app is installed on a customer’s phone, then we already have some information on that customer, as they have created an account with the app. We should be tracking information about their purchases and habits. By installing access points in our stores we can get a good idea of where in the store the customer is. We can use all this information to direct customers to products we are trying to sell.

Imagine that a customer is walking through your grocery store. Apple takes care of offering the app for the customer. Your app can then send a notification letting the customer know that using the app will be beneficial for them. The customer walks into the wine aisle, and based on your wireless access points, the app knows where the customer is. Based on your data, you also know that the customer usually purchases a bottle of red wine every week. You can now direct that customer to a specific type of red wine that you are looking to sell. You have the option of offering a special price, or simply giving them information about the specific wine you want them to purchase. The possibilities are enormous once you start to think creatively. We know that brands already pay for shelf space and location. Why would they not be willing to pay to show up on a customer’s phone when they are near the product?

As technology changes, integrators need to be aware and be creative in how they put them to use. If you read what I just described, and your first thought is that the iPhone is going to be a threat to your business, you are not adapting quickly enough. Rather, you need to look at this as an amazing opportunity. Almost everything I just described is service-based rather than product-based. And service is the only place integrators can be making money; product sales are not going to provide the type of margins needed to stay in business. Hopefully, these changes in technology excite you and get you thinking of new ways to provide value to your customers. Just don’t get complacent — because not only are the customers bringing their own digital signs in their pockets, but with the launch of the Apple Watch, they may also soon be wearing them on their wrists as well.

Basically, this small, USB-thumb-drive-ish computer is a media player.

Oh, and it’s $85.

As Wikipedia says, “A Chromebit turns a display with an HDMI port into a desktop variant of the Chromebook laptop, which runs Google’s Chrome OS operating system.”

That says it all. But, as it is limited in computing power and memory, it’s primarily designed as a single-application device — like a media player or a PC-in-a-classroom application. It includes the Chrome OS, a web browser and 16Gb of storage along with 2GB of RAM.

Want to read more? Go here.

The Planar LookThru OLED transparent display allows users to view video content, digital images and text on a virtually frameless glass display while enabling designers to overlay this content onto real objects or scenes that sit behind the glass. Planar has previously manufactured transparent LCD displays, but moving to OLED display technology signifies a significant advancement. Since OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) is self-emissive, the displays do not require a backlight the way LCD panels do. This means that an OLED transparent display offers better picture quality, higher contrast and wider viewing angles, in addition to essentially being “more transparent” — Planar says this new OLED display offers 45 percent light transmissivity, compared to transparent LCD displays that typically offer 5 to 17 percent light transmissivity.

The display, which offers a five-millimeter bezel on the top and sides (there’s a three inch bezel at the bottom where the electronics are housed), can be tiled into a video wall — you could stack two displays on top of each other by turning the top display upside down and theoretically go as many displays wide as you wanted using off-board electronics. It can also be used in portrait or landscape mode, and is available as a table-top display, in a ceiling-mounted configuration or flush-mounted on a wall.

The display offers Planar’s Extended Ruggedness and Optics, which uses damage-resistant and optically-clear Corning Gorilla Glass bonded to the front surface of the display — particularly useful in museum or retail applications using touch technology where a display may be touched by thousands of fingers.

Planar is now accepting pre-orders for the LookThru Transparent OLED Display. MSRP will start just under $15,000 for a display without touch added. It is expected to begin shipping in February 2016. More information is available on the display here. Here’s a video from Planar about the display.

Here’s a rAVe video from ISE 2015 of the prototype transparent OLED in action (not the final LookThru product, but an early iteration of it).

Christie today announced the acquisition of Allure Global Solutions, Inc. (Allure), an engagement and transaction technologies provider, as well as all of its products and services. The firm is headquartered in Atlanta, and will operate as “Allure, a Christie Company.”

Allure provides digital signage, point-of-sale and consumer engagement solutions, in the form of products and services, to a variety of entertainment and retail markets including theaters, restaurants, stadiums, arenas, convention centers, theme parks and cultural attractions.

“Christie and Allure have shared customers, most notably in the cinema market, and in the course of working together over the past decade, respect for and appreciation of each other’s ‘customer first’ attitude and practices has grown,” said Craig Sholder, EVP Business Development and Strategic Planning for Christie.

“Given the opportunities to provide a more comprehensive, digital out-of-home (DOOH) solution to varied markets, the next step was self-evident. We are pleased to combine the consumer engagement, analytics, and integration solutions from Allure with Christie’s own array of products and services — most notably the offerings of the Christie® Experiential Networks (CEN),” added Sholder.

Craig Chapin, CEO of Allure, echoed Sholder’s sentiments, noting that, “The synergies and opportunities this union provides are broad and deep, for both our current clients and our two companies. As we continue to grow our core verticals and expand our presence into others, our mutual offerings will provide exciting new engagement and technology solutions not only for cinema, but also for theme parks, cultural attractions, stadiums, restaurants, and many other clients.”

“I’m also excited to have the customer-support resources of Christie’s Global Professional Services team to draw on. While Allure’s 24/7/365 help desk is a top-notch group, having access to Christie’s Network Operations Center (NOC) has the potential for improving our proactive services to our customers by an order of magnitude,” added Chapin.

This newest member of the Christie family of companies intends to increase employment, to deal with increased demand for its products and services from direct end-users and also integrators, distributors and other business partners of Christie.

Christie Experiential Networks solutions “From the Street to the Screens” ranges from complex, interactive, user-driven video walls, to projection mapping and multi-sided immersive environments. They create exciting destinations where consumers can respond to and interact with brands in the theater lobbies prior to experiencing connected ads and information in theater auditoriums. Therefore, they constitute a perfect fit with Allure’s products and services.

Allure is here and Christie is here.

The MediaPort 200 bridges the gap between simple Webcam-to-computer solutions and traditional hardware videoconferencing systems. For small meeting spaces with just a PC and display, the MediaPort 200 is ideal for enhancing audio and video quality by adding support for professional-grade equipment such as videoconferencing PTZ cameras, boundary microphones and sound reinforcement systems. In boardrooms and large conference rooms, the MediaPort 200 easily integrates a conferencing PC into a fully equipped AV system with video distribution and processing, control, DSP, microphones and full sound reinforcement.

To ensure an HDMI source is presented with the highest possible image quality to a soft codec, the MediaPort 200 incorporates Extron video processing technology, specifically engineered for high performance image scaling and frame rate conversion that preserves detail and legibility of source content. The DSP in the MediaPort 200 is ideal for optimizing mic and program source signals, as well as outgoing signals bound for the PC, sound reinforcement systems, or outboard DSPs. The MediaPort 200 can also deliver far-end audio as a dedicated AEC reference output to an AEC-equipped DSP, to provide distributed AEC processing for several microphones.

Here are the tech details.

Officially launched at CEDIA 2015, Just Add Power’s new 3G Ultra HD over IP “platform” claims to provide a video matrixing of 4K signals via HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 1.x sources to any combination of HDMI 2.0 and 1.x screens over a Gigabit network and Cat 5e/6 cabling infrastructure. By using Just Add Power’s 3G Ultra HD over IP transmitters and receivers alongside a Layer 3 Gigabit Managed switch, integrators can build any size of 4K-capable / HDCP 2.2-compliant HDMI matrix and be guaranteed that each integrated screen will display source content in the highest resolution at a color bit depth of 4:2:0 — so there is some color bandwidth limitation.

Designed for home routing projects where integrators have full-resolution capable 4K / HDMI 2.0 TVs in the primary viewing zones but legacy 1080p / 720p TVs elsewhere such as in bathrooms and pool areas, the 3G Ultra HD over IP transmitters and receivers can be deployed alongside a Gigabit managed switch to make a 4K source device with HDCP 2.2, such as the Sony FMP-X10 UHD player, Red Ray 4K player or NVidia Shield, be simultaneously viewed in 2160p (4K UltraHD) on 4K displays, in 1080p on Full HD displays, and in lower resolutions on earlier HD TVs. All scaling and HDCP handling is carried out by Just Add Power’s 3G receivers, located behind each screen. And, the scaling is bi-directional, meaning that the 3G receivers can downscale a 4K signal with HDCP 2.2 to 1080p or lower for viewing on HDMI 1.x screens and also upscale a Full HD 1080p or lower signal from any HDMI 1.x device, outputting it at a maximum of 4K 2160p for viewing on 4K TVs.

Some other features of the platform include:

• Build any size of network of HDMI devices, with video matrixing applications possible from as small 2×2 to as big as 4000×65000
• In addition to video matrixing, it can also be used point to point to extend one HDMI 2.0 or 1.x source to distances of 330ft over Cat 5e/6 cable or can be used to split HDMI 2.0 or 1.x one source to multiple displays
• Input 2160p Ultra HD resolutions up to 60Hz 4:2:0- HDMI 2.0 devices with HDCP 2.2 is supported
• Instant seamless switching between any resolution HDMI source (2160, 1080, 720, 576, 480, interlaced or progressive)
• Mix and match legacy HD monitors with new HDMI 2.0 monitors in the same network thanks to seamless
• HDCP conversion
• Supports uncompressed lossless multi-channel Audio formats including Dolby Atmos, Dolby True HD and DTS: X
• Supports PCM 2.0 audio
• Dolby down-mixing from 5.1- 5.1 compressed audio can optionally be converted to Dolby PLII and output as stereo 2.0 in individual zones
• Stereo compressed audio extractor with programmable delay on TX and RX
• Controllable analog audio with ground loop isolator
• MIC-IN and LINE-IN ports on Transmitter (mix w/HDMI)
• Independent RS232 matrix on LAN
• Integrated Null-Modem on RS232
• Two-Way CEC over IP Communications
• USB 2.0 over IP supported for KVM applications

All the tech specs are here.
 

SoundScape enables businesses to quickly transition from more complex and expensive systems long used for in-store radio. Service providers can quickly launch a SoundScape service with a subscription and IP audio players at each end location, and immediately start reliably delivering music and advertising to restaurants, stores, hotels and public facilities. The upfront “pay as you go” price model, along with SoundScape’s infinite scalability, also ensures attainable long-term expansion goals are reachable while maintaining overall low total cost of ownership. Advanced features, which include dynamic ad insertion for each location, enable new revenue generating streams and accelerate return on investment.

SoundScape eliminates the complex integration of many different components to deliver branded audio to customers. The quick and easy deployment is a win for systems integrators, who can now singularly focus on a centralized integration strategy for in-store radio and other audio over IP delivery platforms. SoundScape brings together integrated audio distribution, remote device management, dynamic content scheduling, system-wide reporting and monitoring, hierarchical user management and high-quality, multi-format audio playout using Barix’s rock-solid Exstreamer SoundScape IP audio players.

Details of the SoundScape are here.

Several integrated technologies included with the DA2 HD 4K distribution amplifier simplify integration of HDMI-enabled devices. EDID Minder automatically manages EDID by maintaining continuous EDID communication with each source, ensuring that sources power up properly and reliably output content for display. For HDMI signals with protected content, Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption to support reliable transmission while enabling simultaneous distribution of a single source signal to two displays. It also provides +5 VDC, 250 mA on each output for powering peripheral devices, such as an Extron UHD4K 101 or HDMI 101 Plus cable equalizer.

Screen hub’s is basically a free content management software that is able to work with any size or aspect ration of digital display, particularly custom sized arrays typical in outdoor or high brightness screens. Features include:

• Functions with any synchronous control system such as Nova Star, DB Star, Linsn, Zdec and many others.
• Can handle any aspect ratio or pixel matrix; making it ideal for LED signs, LED billboards and other atypical screen resolutions.
• Allows the user to control one or several screens from one centralized account, while giving them the flexibility and ease of grouping screens or managing them individually.
• The web-based software can be accessed from any device and operating system; it’s compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux computers as well as smartphones and tablets.

Here are the specs.

The new line of Nano SFF computers boast low price points and an elegant palm-sized, 0.5 liter, stylish design in black with gold trim. Available with Intel’s Ultra Low-Power CPU, embedded processor choices include Celeron, and Core U3/U5/U7. Product numbers are NC01U, NC01U3, NC01U5, NC01U7 determined by processor and graphics capabilities. They also come with unique features like RS232C, an SD card reader, optional NVIDIA, and AMD docking stations for superior graphics.

The XPC Nano Series has built in 10/100/1000 Mbps LAN interface and supports Wake On LAN functions for automatic remote operation. They are equipped with the newest 802.11 ac dual band WiFi and Bluetooth for data transfer.

With all the functions needed for solid playback and basic computing, the Nano boasts great connectivity with multiple I/O ports — HDMI, mini DisplayPort, RS232, two USB 3.0, two USB 2.0 and Gigabit LAN, which means greater versatility — users can connect to expansion devices and peripherals for a wide range of applications.

Designed to fit seamlessly into any application, Shuttle’s XPC Nano series computers can mount to the rear of a LCD monitor with a standard VESA mount. This space saving feature makes it easy for installation and offers an all-in-one for commercial applications.

The details are here.

Scott’s “real-time” approach focuses on meaningful, measurable and low/no-cost strategies that immediately reach digital signage audiences directly. His informative, entertaining and high-energy presentation will not only outline these strategies, but also offer the best examples of success from a wide variety of large and small organizations — and he’ll demonstrate to attendees how to attain the same results.

Scott will offer a step-by-step action plan for harnessing the power of modern marketing and public relations to communicate with buyers directly, raise visibility and increase sales with his “real-time” approach that abandons the traditional paradigm by creating digital signage content that people are eager to consume and share. Learn how large and small companies, nonprofits and other organizations can leverage digital signage content to get the right information to the right people at the right time for a fraction of the cost of big-budget campaigns.

Watch as Scott describes his keynote session.

NEW for 2016 DSE will also feature expanded end user tracks, such as:

• Corporate communications


• Food & beverage


• Higher education


• Retail


• Content university

According to Lesley Hawkins – brand director, adidas Golf chose to incorporate digital signage as data shows that digital signage:

• Improves the retail shopping experience
• Provides an outlet for product and technology storytelling
• Creates an opportunity to increase brand affinity, conversion and ultimately, drive sales

The displays have been deployed to a variety of retail environments across Canada, including adidas’ corporate stores, several retail locations and golf pro shops. The concept was developed by Dot2Dot Communications whereby shoes sit on platforms that are equipped with light sensors; when the shoes are lifted, specific digital signage content is triggered on a 42” commercial grade LG LCD display. Customers can compare two shoes side-by-side by lifting an additional shoe – it’s a simple way to make informed purchase decisions without relying on floor staff support.

“The sales results from the pilot project garnered adidas Golf improved market share,” said Hawkins. “Our brand has been built on performance and innovation. This project has allowed us to bring our heritage to life through a unique digital platform. Both customers and consumers alike have embraced the technology. With Dot2Dot, we have built a partnership in innovation.”

Working with Dot2Dot on this project was Canadian Scala partner Shikatani Lacroix Design on content, LG Electronics Canada for displays, and Point In-store Marketing who produced the modular shelf displays.

“Bringing this project to life with adidas Golf was a unique and inspiring opportunity. The journey started with the brand and 9 holes of digital signage experiences during the Fall 2014 Digital Trends Showcase (DTS)”, explains Andy McRae, general manager, Dot2Dot Communications. “Today we’re rolling out modular interactive shelf displays that are building brand recognition and driving in-store sales.”