Digital Signage - Embedian, Inc., Trusted Embedded ARM/XSCALE Computers

Digital Signage

Digital Signage - The New Age of Advertising

Dynamic Digital Signage has emerged as the "Next Killer Application" for the new generation of sign technology in the advertising industry. A digital signage system, which is usually composed of a PC, a monitor or TV or large panel, a GPRS or 3G modem and software, is capable of delivering full-screen, full-color content to multiple locations. Cost of implementation has been reduced significantly over the past two years, making it possible for Digital Signage to be in the mainstream marketplace. This is evidenced by the extensive usage of digital signage at airports, museums and shopping centers. The growth rate is projected to increase significantly in the next few years as the technology matures.

One advantage of Dynamic Digital Signage over printed materials and static signs is the ability to change messages in "real time" and remotely update the contents and enable just-in-time marketing implementation. Another advantage is the unlimited content that can be posted at every display location, which is particularly valuable when space is at a premium. Display sites can also be networked together so that store managers can select target sites demographically and tailor their messages to that audience. Product and brand promotions can now be done in a more efficient manner and at a much lower cost compared with traditional ways.

Advertisers are willing to pay $137,000 to $292,000 US dollars to show a single commercial for a four-week period, depending on the length of the ad and the number of stores where it is shown. This illustrates the positive effect on purchase decisions at the point of sale when the right message is delivered at the right location at the right time. The implementation of Digital Signage by large retailers has validated the benefits of this new technology. Furthermore, the rapid decline in costs for LCD, plasma and projector displays bring digital signage into mainstream business. These demands include:

Low cost
Small in size
Robust / reliable
Drive from samll inches to large inches panels
Product longevity
Robust embedded operating system
Internet connectivity & configurability

In order for digital signage to become a mainstream product, the software must be tailored to non-technical people and should not have to rely on outside specialists to create and maintain the content. A few key issues associated with using signage software include: content creation, content management and distribution. With ARM processors plus SM502 graphic enhanced, we have proven that our products can display dynamic pictures from 15-inch XGA panel to 42-inch WVGA LCD display with full screen. As the demand grows for Internet connectivity, wireless communication and more compelling information displays, the advantages of using well supported standard operating systems and cost effective hardware become more obvious.