A big part of the digital signage expenditures is the hardware cost, including the media players. But I know many businesses that go all rhapsodic and spend a fortune on the hardware only to realize they have made inconsistent, often inappropriate investments.
That is why you should always assess the following parameters before spending your bucks:
1. Functionality
What do you need your digital signage for? Is it for showing simple images, web content & video advertisements, or for more advanced applications like supporting complex graphics or an AI-driven intelligent screen? The necessary computational needs will help you decide on a suitable digital signage player.
For example, TV sticks can easily suffice for simple needs. But it may falter in processing complex functionalities. A mini PC or Raspberry Pi is a better alternative for such cases.
2. Operating environment
Where will your digital signage be placed? Outdoor digital signage hardware needs stronger features and more rigid specifications than indoor signage.
Take a digital billboard, for instance. It is installed on the side of a highway and will be exposed to twelve hours of sunlight, frequent rainfall, hailstorm, snowstorm, lightning, and whatnot.
Outdoor screens and robust media players are made resistant to such environmental factors.
3. Operating hours
How long will your digital signage stay powered on? Not all digital signage players are built for 24/7 operational output. Forget consumer-grade smart TVs; many commercial screens and media players will wear out much faster than their assured lifetime if used 24/7.
So, if you need a digital signage player for unmanned or continuously-ON screens, then purchase only such signage media players that categorically mention your desired features in the specification. Look for terms such as ‘24/7 playback,’ ‘industrial-grade, or ‘auto-ON.’
