BrightSign Streamlines Deployment for Two New Digital Sign Controllers with Built-in Wi-Fi

“The new Wi-Fi HD players were developed in response to customer requests for networking solutions that are more mobile and more versatile, primarily for the retail market,” said Jeff Hastings, BrightSign CEO. “Our new models only require a simple power connection to run and can get content updates remotely. They save time and effort because they eliminate the need to run network cabling to spaces that normally don’t have them.”

BrightSign’s HD210w and HD1010w sign controllers both deliver simple looping playback of pristine, full HD video, images and audio as well as Wi-Fi networking for remote content updates. Both models also have an Ethernet port which allows users to synchronise multiple screens for video wall applications without requiring an internet connection. The HD1010w adds advanced interactivity with support for buttons, touch screens, LEDs, motion sensors and any GPIO or USB device. A complete set of optional accessories is also available for adding extra A/V and control ports to the HD1010w, as well as live video playback.

With built-in Wi-Fi and the BrightAuthor software, which is included free of charge with all BrightSign players, users can access their controllers from anywhere in the world through the Internet. The software and hardware make it easy to change displays and schedule timely, highly customised content to reach targeted consumers at multiple locations. BrightAuthor is a powerful PC-based application that features intuitive templates and tools for creating, updating, managing and monitoring digital signage displays.

To keep content current and engaging, users can wirelessly connect to services like Sign Channel to display text or image RSS feeds such as breaking news, local weather and even SMS text messages.

By eliminating the complexity, clutter and restrictions of connecting cables, the HD210w and HD1010w provide increased deployment flexibility as digital signs can now be installed in locations where running cables is difficult. They also offer increased mobility. For example, a large reseller is looking into deploying BrightSign HD1010Ws with built-in Wi-Fi on mobile promotional carts that can be moved throughout their stores.

Like all BrightSign players, the HD210w and HD1010w are based on a PC-less, fan-less solid-state platform for high reliability and low-power consumption. They contain no failure-prone moving parts, are protected by durable steel enclosures and have been subjected to rigorous thermal and environmental stress testing.

With the new Wi-Fi models, BrightSign now offers a choice of seven stand-alone or networked digital signage solutions ranging from basic looping models to interactive controllers with live video feedback.

“BrightSign will not be offering Wi-Fi or networking on all models because we want to keep the costs down and pass the savings on to customers like museums and small businesses that don't need these features,” said Hastings. “The HD110, HD410 and HD810 are still very popular for customers wanting stand-alone applications, and this strategy allows us to continue offering affordable solutions with a ‘pay only for the features you need’ approach.”

BrightSign will also continue to offer the standard HD210 and HD1010 networked models, which do not feature built-in Wi-Fi but support Wi-Fi through an adaptor that can be purchased separately. The standard networked models are also Ethernet network ready.