The flat-panel display is a highly visible element of digital signage application. During the specification and selection process, it becomes clear that many options exist. This article addresses the selection of flat panel displays for use in interior and outdoor, weather-resistant housings.

End-users tend to not get overly excited over flat-panel selection unless the deployment is large or very high profile to the digital team. Smaller system integrators that are expected to provide trustworthy, fact-based objectivity tend toward recommending the familiar and are advised to assess a wider range of options and models given advancements in flat-panel features. Larger system providers and operators such as Stratacache that provide to Walmart, McDonald’s and other retail, food services and banking end-users, operate lab and testing facilities to ensure the most suitable flat panel display is selected for the end-user application.

The lines appear to have been blurring between consumer and commercial-grade displays with descriptors such as “consumer” or “light duty commercial,” which calls upon a deeper assessment of the available flat-panel options. It is what is “under the hood” that matters most in the cost-benefit decision.

The term “good enough,” defines the relationship between cost and benefit. Cost reflects production, service and mark-up while benefits reflect functionality and expected life.

Tip: The term “meets specification” better suits flat-panel display selection than “good enough.”

While the display device is the most visible element of digital signage, the cost of the flat panel has declined to be a minimal proportion of the total system cost over its life, with content far outweighing any other element.

Too often, the selection decision is made in the same way a vehicle is chosen with a bias toward a brand name (Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, BMW, etc.) and size (sedan, truck, SUV), where appearance and cost greatly influence the purchase decision. Several firms dominate the supply of commercial-grade digital signage flat-panel displays with each offering a range of sizes and operating features, as well as prices that correspond accordingly.

Differentiating aspects are as follows: size, shape, bezel width, thickness, ease of mounting, inputs, integrated processing, display control, brightness, contrast ratio, resolution, image appearance, refresh rate, usable viewing angle, warranty terms, energy conservation capabilities, and reliability of supply.

By Lyle Bunn

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