Last time we outlined some of the key cost-saving and pain-relieving benefits Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) offers for designing and implementing digital signage solutions. Here we continue by discussing the DIS-advantages. . .
What About the Downside?
As with most new technologies, implementing new digital signage comes with a few challenges, which are liable to create roadblocks to certain would-be users:
This post is Part II in a series about leveraging PoE technology to save money and streamline implementation of digital signage. Part I covered the industry trends and key benefits. >>Read it here…
Cost…
Would you believe the price tag for the actual digital sign is likely to be the smallest item on the project budget sheet? Often higher-cost budget items for the project include the business disruption (lost revenue) and expenses associated with purchasing and installing CAT5e (or similar) digital communication cabling. To deliver requisite electrical power to the desired signage location, AC power construction may be required: opening walls, digging into pavement, running the wiring, installing power connections, and then cleaning up the mess. These are non-trivial budgetary line items.
Distance…
Typically, digital-signage device control and content delivery is centrally managed with a back-office computer that delivers audiovisual content using High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), which is based on the EIA/CEA-861 standard. (HDMI-over-IP has essentially replaced the older analog video standards in digital signage scenarios). In many applications (notably outdoor and campus environments), the optimal position for the digital sign is located far beyond the 300 feet (100 meter) reach of standard Ethernet—the de-facto network protocol for modern digital communication. In addition electrical power may not be readily available where the digital sign is actually wanted.
Infrastructure…
Many project sites lack sufficient installed infrastructure to support IP-network communications between the display panel and the computer that manages and controls it. The same may also be true or supporting electrical wiring to and power outlets at the display screen location. As noted above, either or both of these infrastructure limitations, has the potential to kill the viability of the project with respect to budget and return on investment (ROI).
Power-over-Ethernet to the Rescue!
Were you wondering when we would we get to the “game changer” part? [Watch for part III]
>>Or you can read the full article here. . .
Digital Signage Revolution: How Power over Ethernet Changes the Game
What do you think?
- Which of the three challenges discussed above would be most relevant for your particular business?
Add your thoughts in the comments below…
