Sign Builder Illustrated - May 2008 - (Page 69)

founded PDS in 2005 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The company specializes in digital signage and (specifically) kiosk and interactive solutions for various industries—including hospitality, retail, museums, restaurants, commercial, government, and the U.S. military. The U.S. Navy is PDS’s largest client, with numerous locations on- and off-base throughout Hawaii. “[We were] hired to concept the solution and handle the project from start to finish,” remarks Mitchell, noting that the project timeline from conception to launch was approximately sixty days. “We also continue to support the displays and develop content for AMMA. [We] select off-the-shelf solutions and combine them with our custom software in order to create a turnkey solution for the museum.” Pacific Digital Signs was uniquely qualified for this contract since they previously developed a similar interactive donor display for the Pacific Aviation Museum, also in Hawaii. ”The AMMA liked this display, but they had additional requirements and ideas,” says Mitchell. Behind the Technology All of the displays utilize a combination of multiple technologies. The hardware is comprised of NEC’s latest flat panel displays powered by Dell® slim PCs. The custom-developed software is combined with 3M’s Network Edition digital signage software. “The software packages are integrated to allow the client easy access and scheduling of content and donor names from any Internet PC,” says Mitchell. (Note: Clearwire’s wireless broadband modems provide 24/7 high-speed network connectivity to the displays.) The installation process consisted of mounting each display on an eight-inch concrete wall of the museum using both Peerless and custom-built mounts. The computers (which connect to each display) are located on the other side of the wall. Data cables are cleanly hidden by running cables directly through the cored concrete wall. NEC Display Solutions supplied the displays screens (from their 20-Series line). According to NEC’s Tim Dreyer, the company’s Digital Signage Technology Suite boasts more than twenty advanced features that enhance display management and improve screen performance. “The screens have an ultrathin bezel, which is ideally suited for tiled-wall configurations,” he says. “These screens are also commercial grade, which makes them able to withstand the demands of 24/7 operation. (Note: See “Display Features” sidebar for more information on these screens.) Dreyer points out that long-term, continuous operation of digital signage requires the right product. “We see a lot of consumer displays being deployed in environments that are more demanding than an off-the-shelf display can han- dle,” he says. “This would include panel specs that are tailored for extended operation, advanced connections for multiple signals and inputs, and features such as power management and cable comp for truly dynamic digital signage applications.” The Road to Digital Signage Although PDS has the opportunity to work on government and other not-forprofit clients, some of their work lies in the for-profit sector. Recent commercial DIGITAL DISPLAYS continued on page 71 May 2008 Sign Builder Illustrated 69

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Sign Builder Illustrated - May 2008

Sign Builder Illustrated - May 2008 Contents SBI Agenda Quotes & Comments Contributors Costly Concerns Dispatches Sign Show Dateline: Time to Find a New Identity Teaching a New Dog Old Tricks Sign Illumination: It’s Time to Pay Attention Restoring Old Photographs for Digital Printing Price Doesn’t Sell the Signs You Want to Make Architects in LED Codes for Electric Signs: Don’t Get Blindsided! Digital Displays at the Pearl Harbor Museum The Art of Wayfinding Signage Grand Format National Following Traffic Sign Regulations Designs on ADA Signage Painting Professionally SBI Marketplace Imagine-It Graphics

Sign Builder Illustrated - May 2008

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