Outdoor digital Signage – Common Questions

Outdoor digital signage is increasing in popularity.  More and more screens are being erected in outdoor locations to take advantage of the larger audience potential. The advantage for advertisers is obvious – more people view the advertisement, and for shops and stores the outdoor promotions can help bring people inside.

Like indoor digital signage t is also a versatile and flexible media as adverts can be scheduled, uploaded in real time and, different content, from different advertisers can be displayed on a single screen.

It can be quite a challenge, placing a screen in an outdoor location, with lots to think about. Here are some common questions people ask when thinking of embarking in outdoor digital signage.

Do I need a special type of TV?

Commonly, high brightness TVs are used in outdoor locations as the device needs to be able to counter the brightness and glare of the sun. A normal screen can looked washed out under bright sunlight but if the device is shrouded, under a roof, or angled away from the sun there is no reason why a standard device cannot be used. Commercial grade screens are better than standard devices as they are more durable and can cope better with 24 hour use.

How do I prevent the weather from damaging the device?

There are several ways to do this. Waterproof TVs are one solution but they can be highly expensive and are limited on size while standard and commercial grade screens will obviously need protecting if they are to endure outdoor locations. LCD enclosures are the most cost effective method of weather protection. By placing a standard or commercial grade screen in the enclosure it can operate in almost any weather condition.

Should I be concerned about temperature?

Yes, temperature can be just as damaging as rainfall or other weather elements. In the summer or when temperatures get hot, overheating can be a problem, while in the winter when temperatures drop, freezing and condensation expansion can disable a screen.

LCD enclosures often contain climatic components such as heaters, cooling fans, air conditioning and insulation ensuring the optimum temperature inside the enclosure is always maintained.

What about impacts, vandalism and theft?

LCD enclosures also offer physical security as they are commonly constructed from steel. They are normally securely mounted with shatterproof screens providing a durable and tough barrier against accidental and deliberate impacts.

Richard N Williams is a technical author and a specialist in the digital signage industry helping to develop outdoor digital signage and protection for plasmas. Please visit us for more information about LCD Enclosures or other digital signage solutions.

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