If you have decided to use a PC as the playback device here’s what you need to know …

One of the benefits of using a PC as a playback device is that it can be networked to automatically receive updates from a digital signage site allowing you to remotely update what’s showing on any display. If you select a networked player look for one that pulls updates from a central server but which can run stand-alone too so that if network connections are interrupted your digital signage will still continue to playback.

PC’s with the right kind of graphics card can also drive more than one monitor simultaneously showing the same or a different message. Look for multi-monitor support in both the PC you select and the signage vendor’s software if you want to do that.

Whilst you might be able to use a multi-monitor setup to drive a signage display off the same PC you use in your office that’s generally not a good idea as it’s too easy to accidentally interrupt your signage display with unwanted messages, reboots and other distractions. A dedicated PC is a better choice for a digital signage display.

Deciding where to put your PC can be challenging as the typical PC gives off a lot of heat and will malfunction if it gets too hot or runs at a high temperature for too long. Dust build up can also be a problem as it eventually clogs heat sinks and air intakes on a PC. You may also need to be able to plug in a keyboard and mouse in order to install updates which is hard if your PC is in the middle of your retail space. Often it is best to put the PC in a closet or office space and then distribute the video over longer component video or category 5e/6 cables.

PCs using Intel’s new Atom processor can make good players for digital signage displays because they generate less heat and require less cooling. Newer disk drives using SSD technology can also be good for digital signage because they have no moving parts and thus have much better long-term reliability. Some small form factor PCs are now small enough to mount behind the display and VESA mounted miniature PCs are beginning to appear.

Having selected a display and a playback solution all that remains is to select a vendor to provide the software that will generate your content and manage the distribution to your players and displays.

Next –> SignSwift HD1080p Player