Digital Signage

Digital signs are used in all manners of businesses today. Any sign that needs to be changed or updated frequently can be easily altered at any time through the use of digital technology. Gas stations, airports, restaurants, and more all make use of this technology day. Need to update gas prices? Do it on the fly. Need to change a plane’s departure time? That can be done instantly. Switching between the breakfast and lunch menu? Digital signs have that covered too. Digital signs are a must-have technology for businesses who want to keep up with competitors in the modern world.

Using a digital sign is a simple process; they are commonly controlled from a computer referred to as a media player. Actually getting the sign initially installed is a bit more complex. Examining where the sign needs to be placed and implementing the best solution towards that goal is a critical first step for any installation project. Furthermore, it is also key to ensure that the end result will look clean and professional to attract the eye of customers and other users.

Types of Digital Signage

Digital signs are a newer technology and really only caught on in recent years, once LCD screens became less expensive to manufacture. There are three main variants of digital signs available: dot matrix, media player, and interactive.

Dot matrix is the oldest option for digital signage. These use a grid of LED lights to spell out letters and numbers or make simple images, like an old scoreboard in a sports stadium. This type of digital sign lacks a media player and must be updated manually by users. Dot matrix signs are commonly used with businesses that need to update their information at infrequent intervals, such as gas stations.

Media player signs use some sort of computer, such as a PC or even a simple DVD player, to put digital media on the screen. This could be something as simple as a slideshow or a series of videos that play in a pre-set order. These signs are easier to update because they interface with software, allowing for changing information such as the outside temperature to be altered in real-time. This makes media player signs a popular choice for areas such as waiting rooms.

Interactive signs are the newest form of digital signage. These are screens that users can directly interact with, similar to a smartphone or tablet. This type of screen is popular in areas with direct customer interaction, such as restaurants or checkout lines in a store.

Pre-Installation Tasks

Any installation project, for digital signage or other equipment, starts the same way: with a site survey. This planning phase is often the most critical element of any project as the scope of the project is measured and all the preparations are made. For small-scale, simpler projects a simple phone call may be all that is needed. It is also useful to have blueprints or other documents on-hand detailing existing electrical lines, network cables, power outlets, and other infrastructure that will impact digital signage installation. For more detailed projects, a surveyor may need to examine the site in person to determine the best course of action.

Once the site survey is completed, the data gathered will be compiled into an installation plan. Factors such as the size of the sign, visibility from the viewing area, and placement of the media player will all be taken into consideration. Prior to the installation, equipment and other materials needed for the installation can be shipped directly to the job site. These parts typically include any cables, wiring, and mounts needed to secure and connect the digital sign. On the day of the installation, make sure there is someone present to let the installer onto the property or some other access point.

Completing the Installation

With the work materials already onsite, the installer will be able to begin work as soon as they arrive. They will start with prep work by running cables and securing the framework or other equipment being used to hold the digital signage in place. After the sign is in place, it can be connected to the media player. From there, settings can be configured so the sign can start displaying whatever digital media it will be used to showcase. Once the testing is completed, the new sign will be ready to go.

At INC, we perform digital signage installations for all manners of businesses across America. Digital signs are not only easy to change, but they also provide crystal clear images for any user who needs to read them. Day-to-day operations have never moved faster or looked nicer than on a digital sign. If you have additional questions about this process, you can reach INC directly at 888-519-9525 or request a quote here. Our team is ready to help you prepare your custom installation project today.