Choosing the Right Digital Signage Media Player for Your Business
by Scala Team
Choosing the Right Digital Signage Media Player for Your Business
by Scala Team
Key Components of a Digital Signage
The known key components of a digital signage are its screen (where information is displayed), media player (the digital signage hardware that feeds the content to the screen), Content Management System (aka CMS is the software that creates, manages and schedules the display of the content) and connectivity (its connection to a wireless network). These four components work hand in hand to allow businesses to feed visually informative and appealing images to its target consumers.
In this blog we will focus on one of its essential key components—the digital signage media player. It can be quite confusing to choose the best media player suited for your digital signage, here are some key considerations that you can keep in mind to get the best digital signage media player which is suited for your unique needs.
Compatibility and Performance
- Media Formats: Make sure that the media player is compatible with various formats including images, videos, and interactive content. Look for digital signage media players that can accommodate high-definition resolutions of HD1080p and 4K Ultra HD for it to deliver sharp visuals.
- Operating Systems: Choose an operating system that can be integrated with your current one. There are several options to choose from such as Chrome OS, Windows, Linux, and Android. Each has their own advantages, as an example, Windows players are highly versatile and is widely compatible with most users.
- Storage: A large capacity can give ease in storing and updating large media files.
- Remote Access: The ability to feed content to digital signages from anywhere and at any time is vital in maximizing the use of your digital signage. This is convenient and allows your content managers to be able to publish or update content most especially when you have multiple digital signages in different locations.
- Display requirement: media players can vary in terms of display functionality. Some digital signage media players are better equipped to manage multiple displays simultaneously compared to others.
Types of Media Player
- Standalone Players: These are devices that connect directly to a display. Often user-friendly and designed for simple installations, making them the ideal choice for basic digital signage applications.
- Embedded Players: Some displays come with built-in media players, allowing for a more streamlined structure. These integrated solutions reduce the need for additional hardware and are easier to manage.
- Software-Based Player: These players run on existing digital signage hardware, such as PCs or tablets. It can offer flexibility and can be used in various environments though it may require regular maintenance and a more technical setup.
- Commercial-Grade Players: These are made to support continuous operation, built to withstand demanding environments that make it suitable for 24/7 use.
- High-Performance Media Players: For more complex applications, such as 4K video playback or interactive displays, high-performance players such as Scala Media Players are necessary. These devices are designed to have advanced processing capabilities and support for multiple video outputs
For an easier way to choose what digital signage media player is the right fit for you, you can explore Scala media players which are engineered for performance, stability, and versatility to meet a variety of business needs.
These digital signage media players can cater to various industries, including retail, fast food, hospitality, education, transportation, and banking, which makes them suitable for engaging and interactive digital displays.
Scala offers a range of media players to fit different requirements:
- SMP-L-AP is an affordable entry-level player that provides reliable playback in an ultra-compact design.
- SMP-S-AP is a full-featured player designed for high-demand environments, supporting single UHD output.
- SMP-SP-AP offers dual FHD output, ideal for seamless digital signage and mid-level applications.
- SMP-DX-AP delivers enterprise performance with dual output for UHD 4K content
- SMP-Q is capable of quad output at 1080p, catering to more complex display needs.
What are the Signs That You Need a New Digital Signage Media Player?
There are several signs that your digital signage starts to show that your digital signage media player needs to be replaced or upgraded such as:
- Frequent lags or crashes: visual displays need to be played smoothly and in the highest resolution. Not only is it an eye sore to see screen lags, but it can also be damaging to the brand reputation of the business.
- Incapable of supporting various format and resolutions: the ability to produce engaging content is limitless. Your digital signage media player must be able to manage the requirements of your digital files.
- Deficient Software Updates: an up-to-date media player not only ensures it is compatible to your hardware and software, but it also prevents costly maintenance needs.
- Requirement Changes: there is no use in keeping a device that no longer serves your needs. Make sure to purchase a digital signage media player that is flexible and can serve you well in the long term.
Overall, your chosen digital signage media player is significant in the success of your digital signage marketing campaigns. Make sure that both your hardware and software are working well together to bring you the best output with the least amount of inconvenience.
Scala offers digital signage media players that are designed for optimum performance. One of its featured highlights is its slim form factor which is an ultra-compact design that saves space and is aesthetically useful. Choose from a range of entry-level to top tier media players that deliver stable multimedia content and efficient remote monitoring amongst other.
Got questions? Reach out to the Scala team and explore Scala Media Players at https://apac.scala.com/au/products/hardware/scala-media-players/
About the Author:
Jasdeep Kohli,
