Friday, November 26, 2010

WebDT Content Manager 4.0 SP1 has been released

The WebDT Content Manager 4.0 SP1 has been released this week.
SP1 has improved some automatically retrieving system function and more option for security checking at both server and player sides. There is a patch for Multi Screen appliances as well which provides more complete functions for multiscreen support and the Multiscreen layout design tool.
Please login to Client Zone or contact your DT Research technical support staff to get the latest WCM 4.0 SP1 and related info.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

WebDT Digital Signage Explores the Urban Future at the Shanghai World Expo


INFOCOMM ASIA, Hong Kong - November 17, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, announced the installation of WebDT digital signage appliance players at the Shanghai World Expo.

Opened in May 2010, the World Expo Shanghai in China is the world’s largest international fair and exposition, where over 190 countries and 50 international organizations showcase their cultures and innovations, attracting more than 500,000 visitors daily. The WebDT SA2000 and SA3000 digital signage appliances are deployed in the Future Pavilion, displaying presentations on futuristic urban concepts, including intelligent homes, healthy neighborhoods, low carbon cities, and harmonious environments. The project organizer implemented a digital signage system combined with audio and visual effects to transfer ideas into experiences.

The robust WebDT Signage Appliances provided the Future Pavilion a stable and secure platform for their digital signage network, which operates 15 hours a day and 7 days a week. With high-performance multimedia processing capability, the WebDT SA2000 and SA3000 can deliver content in major media formats including HD (1080p) video content. A fanless, solid state design, supports non-stop, 15 hour-day performance. The WebDT signage system also offers different encryption levels for grouped displays, so that only the specifically authorized users can access their assigned section of the network.

The WebDT Signage Appliances support content synchronization across multiple screens for a dynamic presentation, and are fully integrated with the sound and lighting in the pavilion. The lighting and music systems can switch content, matching the corresponding video content on the precise timing - so that the video, audio and lighting effects coming from different devices are synchronized, providing a stunning theatre-like experience.

Managing the digital signage network at the Future Pavilion is efficient and effective using the WebDT Content Manager’s (WCM) intuitive interface. The web-based software provides remote management and monitoring of the entire signage network from the central control room, a top priority for project administrators to reduce onsite disturbances during the operating hours. The system also handles heavy network loading of high-definition multimedia content during downloading and playback.

To offer dynamic visual presentations, the project set up different types of signage displays including LCDs, TVs and projectors. For content layout and design, the WCM software offers various screen ratios, resolutions, and customizable zone layouts so that users can easily design content for different displays. The WCM software also allows administrators to remotely schedule power on-and-off timing on the hardware devices. This function not only cuts down energy consumption, but is crucial for maintaining the projection equipment hung from the ceiling.

The fully integrated WebDT hardware and software solutions have delivered an efficient, effective system that is straightforward enough to manage, while remaining flexible enough to incorporate with other applications for a multi-faceted network.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

WebDT Signage System Lights Up Outdoor Advertising on Shanghai’s Nanjing Road


SAN JOSE, Calif., - October 13, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in thedevelopment of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the deployment ofthe WebDT Signage System for an outdoor digital signage project on Shanghai’s Nanjing Roaddistrict. The SA2000 and WebDT Content Manager software enabled replacing static posters andbillboard advertising with a dynamic out-of-home advertising network.
Nanjing Road is one of the most famoustourist sites in Shanghai, a must-seemetropolitan destination attracting 1million visitors daily from all over theworld. With over 600 businesses, fromtraditional stores to modern shoppingmalls, specialty stores, theatres,restaurants, and hotels, Nanjing Road isan ideal location for reaching a desirabletarget audience.
The WebDT SA2000 digital signageappliance player was chosen for theNanjing Road outdoor digital signageproject for its robust, high-performanceprocessing. Each SA2000 player is paired with a 6 foot tall outdoor LED display and connected toadvanced wireless access points for continuous, secured data transmission. In case of signalbreakdown, transmission can resume automatically to prevent any interruption of thebroadcasting of advertisements.
The WebDT SA players support content synchronization on multiple screens. Mainly used as anadvertising platform, the LED signs on Nanjing Road can display the same advertisement inchorus and change concurrently to provide an impressive visual experience and increase brandrecognition.
The web-based WebDT Content Manager (WCM) software allows administrators to remotelymonitor the signage players and LED signs on Nanjing Road, and update real-time data andplaylists without onsite personnel support, saving staff time, maintenance efforts andmanagement costs. Administrators can also schedule the power on-and-off timing on the playersand LED screens, reducing energy consumption.
The WCM software uses encryption to ensure that only the authorized SA players, software andservers can have access to the network. To protect the data against unauthorized modification ordestruction, a warning immediately alerts administrators if any unidentified device, such as aUSB, is accessing the system. The WCM software’s watchdog function tracks the status of theSA players and the system can reboot automatically if a crash occurs.
The WebDT Signage System offers aseamless integration between the WebDTsignage players and the WCM software,eliminating system compatibility issues andreducing operation problems. The WebDTContent Manager software is efficientlydesigned to secure data transmission andprovide network safety. The WebDTSignage Appliances provide the mediaoperator a reliable, quality performancedigital signage medium for their clients topromote products and branding.

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

WebDT Signage System Drives Home Dynamic Customer Communications at Taipei City Hall Bus Station

DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the installation of the WebDT SA2000 digital signage appliances at the Taipei City Hall Bus Station in Taiwan, a major transportation hub for Taiwan’s capital.

The WebDT SA2000 digital signage appliances are paired with screens in various sizes throughout key locations in the bus terminal. Traveler information is continuously updated from the database, and station agents can instantly send out communications and alerts. There are 18 platforms showing bus company names, arrival and departure times, and advertising, 6 ticket counter areas displaying ticket pricing and timing, and the waiting area showing bus travel information and news.

The SA2000 player delivers high definition quality content in a fanless, robust design, with a small footprint for easy mounting. The included WebDT Content Manager (WCM) software enables the terminal administrators to quickly create screen layouts, schedule the playlist files, and preview content before publishing to the screens. The WCM software allows management of content both remotely and locally, so that on-site agents can update last minute platform changes, and the advertising department can send the media files to designated screens from an off-site office as well. The optional WebDT Software Development Kit (SDK) enabled the integration of the system with the terminal database for seamless information updates.

As part of the infrastructure upgrade projects for Taipei including the Main Station project of 2009, the Taipei City Hall Bus Station project goals were to create a modern and comfortable environment for travelers. The 6700 meter-square terminal is close to local administrative, financial, and commercial facilities such as Taipei City Hall, Taipei World Trade Center, and more. The bus terminal is part of a 31-story structure with retail center, department store, food court, hotel, plaza and park, and parking garage.

The stable, powerful performance of the SA2000 and the comprehensive yet intuitive WCM software for efficient content management makes the WebDT digital signage systems a clear choice for transportation locations such as the Taipei Bus Terminals.

Monday, June 7, 2010

WebDT MS800 and MS400 Power Multiple Digital Signs with Dynamic Full High Definition


WebDT MS800 and MS400 Power Multiple Digital Signs with Dynamic Full High Definition

WebDT Multi Screen Appliances Power up to 8 Displays and Provide Multi-Zone Management for Each Screen, Fully Integrated from One Manufacturer


InfoComm – Las Vegas, NV – June 9, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the release of the MS800 and MS400, two new digital signage appliances in the WebDT Signage System line, capable of powering content on up to 8 and 4 screens respectively. The MS800 enables powerful content streaming on anywhere from 2 to 8 displays, and the MS400 powers up to 4 screens with digital signage content. These new WebDT Multi Screen Appliances offers content blending, or tiling, across screens and along with WebDT Content Manager software, provide the industry’s first fully integrated system with 1080p over up to 8 screens and multi-zone management for up to 16 zones.

The MS800 and MS400 are both powered by the IntelÒ Core™ i3 processor, with an upgrade option to the Intel® Core™ i5 or Intel® Core™ i7, providing full HD (1080p) video quality to every screen. A digital signage grouping of 2x2 displays would offer up to 3840 x 2160 resolution. Running MicrosoftÒ WindowsÒ operating systems, the WebDT Multi Screen Appliances display content files in native resolution, so images are sharp and true to original properties, even when presented on multiple displays or large screens, maintaining optimal picture quality.

“Appliance manufacturers that are backed by strong engineering resources, such as DT Research, continue to bring advanced, robust digital signage applications to the market, providing high-quality experiences to out-of-home advertising, “ said Jose Avalos, director of Digital Signage, Intel. The energy efficient Intel Core processors optimize file execution, enabling the MS800 and MS400 to effectively drive multiple screens with smoothly streaming content.

The MS800 and MS 400 are ideal for applications that require high-resolution on multiple screens including menu boards, flight/transportation information, and creative display arrangements. The energy efficient MS800 and MS400 enable dynamic digital signage deployments in spaces where multiple screens are indoors and viewed by audiences at close range, such as shopping malls, entertainment venues, and airports.
Each of the screens powered by the MS800 and MS400 can be remotely managed with the WebDT Content Manager software, which is bundled with the appliances. This intuitive interface software is used for organizing, scheduling, and deploying content to the digital signage network. The WebDT Content Manager provides multiple zone support and planning for each display, so that a screen can be divided into up to 16 zones with different content in each zone. With WebDT Content Manager, all screens can show the same content, each screen can play different content, or content can be blended over several screens. The user-friendly WebDT Content Manager also allows users to create many combinations across multiple screens, such as four zones on two screens, two zones on five screens, and hundreds of other possible screen layouts.

The WebDT MS800 and MS400 bring top quality performance in compelling designs, and are available beginning June 7th, 2010.

Intel and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

DT Research and WebDT are trademarks of DT Research, Inc. All other brands and product names may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

WebDT Content Manager Adds High-Demand Features for Ultimate Usability

WebDT Content Manager Adds High-Demand Features for Ultimate Usability

WebDT Content Manager Software Provides Efficient Management of Digital Signage Networks

InfoComm – Las Vegas, NV – June 9, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the release of WebDT Content Manager version 4.0, a key tool for managing a digital signage network. WebDT Content Manager (WCM) software provides inclusive tools to schedule content files and create layout designs for media displayed on digital signs. With WCM, a network manager can create ticker zones of any size anywhere within the screen as well as support for static text and real-time information through RSS feeds. Administrators can more efficiently edit playlists and create a “Combolist” to link or embed multiple playlists for quick scheduling of recurring content. Additionally, administrators can also remotely update firmware, software and turn appliances on or off.

The newest WebDT Content Manager release, WCM 4.0, offers new features to improve the usability. A digital signage content manager can now assign specific access to chosen accounts for editing and loading playlists. A user can even be assigned the ability to edit media files in one zone on a screen with multiple zones of content. Basic screen layouts and scheduled content sequences can now be previewed on any computer in a local or remote location to verify a playlist before it is displayed on the digital signs. For users who work with Microsoft Active Directory, rather than creating new usernames and passwords for WCM, the data can be directly imported to WCM, including already assigned account roles and access privileges.

With WCM 4.0, screen layout designers now have more options for ticker information feeds, with the ability to have two tickers on the same screen and to set up text direction from left to right, or right to left, and up or down. For digital signage installations with multi screens tiled together, the new Multi Screen layout tool enables managers to set up the layout, screen orientation, and resolution on up to 16 screens. The Frame-Based Synchronization also focuses on multiple screen arrangements, allowing synchronized video to be played across many screens, showing the same frame on each screen simultaneously.

WebDT Content Manager software is included with purchases of WebDT digital signage hardware products, greatly expanding the value and deployment efficiency. WCM also includes optional add on suites, including UrgentCAST for urgent communications to all digital signs in a network and SimulCAST for time-sensitive communications to all digital signs and computers in the network. Also available is the WebDT Software Development Kit (SDK) for customization and integration with third party applications.

The WCM 4.0 release improves the process for a creative, timely digital signage network deployment, and adds enhanced tools for users to deliver the most dynamic and customized communications.

Availability
The WebDT Content Manager 4.0 software is available directly through approved resellers and partners. For more information, visit DT Research in Booth 2444 at InfoComm in Las Vegas on June 9-11, or go to http://signage.dtri.com.

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

New WebDT digital signage appliances with Intel and Microsoft WES7

WebDT SA3200 and SA1300 Power Digital Signs for Targeted Communications

Full 1080p HD Video Content for Digital Signage Networks

Screen Expo - London – May 5, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced two new digital signage appliances, the SA3200 and SA1300. Both signage appliances provide full high definition (HD) 1080p video performance, delivering a quality digital signage experience.

The WebDT® SA3200 and SA1300 are robust, compact signage appliances (media players) based on Microsoft and Intel’s optimized digital signage platform featuring rich, connected and immersive user experiences. With options for wireless networking and Edge Servers, WebDT signage appliances offer flexibility in placement, and support growing digital signage networks.

The WebDT SA3200 Signage Appliance a powerful and energy-efficient Intel Core™ 2 Duo dual core processor and NVIDIA® ION™ graphic processor in a mountable, efficient package. Based on 45nm transistor technology, the SA3200 provides huge gains in video processing speed yet reduces the power consumption. With DVI-I and HDMI connectors for full-HD video and optimal display experience, the SA3200 powers displays with dynamic content while communicating with the server from remote and local locations for scheduled content and updates.

“Signage appliances with media players such as the WebDT SA3200 offer centralized management and lower total cost of ownership,” said Jose Avalos, director of digital signage, Intel. ”With these new players based on Intel technology, media companies can focus on advertising and not worry about large investments in managing and maintaining media players in the field.”

The WebDT SA1300 Signage Appliance features the Intel® Atom™ N270 processor and NVIDIA® ION™ graphic processor in a space-saving and energy-conserving package. The SA1300 provides fan-less design for added reliability, and high-quality video with DVI-I and HDMI connectors.

With the power, familiarity and reliability of the Windows 7 operating system in a highly customizable and componentized form, Windows Embedded Standard 7 addresses the retail and digital signage market’s need for a more streamlined, high performance and highly reliable solution through rich user experiences and enhanced connectivity.

Both signage appliances integrate Microsoft Windows Embedded Standard 7 technologies, offering a highly intuitive menu interface, and enhanced flexibility to integrate with other applications.

“We are committed to helping our partners simplify development and create solutions that help retailers and hospitality organizations thrive in today’s competitive global market place,” said Ashwin Kulkarni, senior product manager for Windows Embedded at Microsoft Corp. “We’re delighted to be working with WebDT and other partners to meet these market needs through rich user interfaces and seamless connectivity of the optimized digital signage platform built on Windows Embedded Standard 7.”

Both the SA3200 and SA1300 are complimented by the web-based WebDT Content Manager software for intuitive remote management of content and device functions. Bundled with all WebDT signage appliances, WebDT Content Manager offers an easy-to-use interface for organizing, scheduling, and distributing content, and supports numerous media formats (e.g., images, videos, Flash, URL, RSS, and Microsoft PowerPoint). Flexible screen layout options with multiple zones and layers enable a screen to be divided into up to eight areas with different content in each zone to mix images, text, and real-time video within a screen. This detailed management software allows quick updates over an IP network connection for real-time or scheduled content playback and automatic content download recovery to prevent downtime. WebDT Content Manager reliably delivers compelling, timely media content to digital signage networks.

About DT Research
DT Research™ develops and manufactures web-enabled information appliances for vertical applications. The WebDT family of products is based on thin computing platforms for secure, reliable, and cost-effective computing. WebDT products include digital signage solutions, wireless tablets, point-of-service handhelds, compact modular systems, and display-integrated information systems. These systems emphasize mobility, wireless connectivity and touch displays. Powered by Windows® Embedded and Windows XP operating systems, WebDT devices offer durability and ease in integration, leading to solutions that can be remotely managed with the comprehensive WebDT Device Manager software.
For more information, visit http://signage.dtri.com and www.dtresearch.com.

Intel, Intel Atom and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

DT Research and WebDT are trademarks of DT Research, Inc. All other brands and product names may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

New WCM features: Real-Time TV/Video & PowerPoint Content


Real-Time TV/Video & PowerPoint Content: WebDT Content Manager (WCM) software adds two new features to further enhance and simplify content management for digital signage networks.

TV Tuner/ Live Video Support: TV signals and live video feeds can now be directly broadcast to a digital sign for fast content. Real-time TV/video can be sent to a zone on the screen or take up the entire screen space. A TV Tuner/Video in USB adapter facilitates the media to be played on the WebDT SA3000 (media player), and touch control buttons enable the player to select channels and control volume.

PowerPoint Plug-in: a new add-in tool with WCM 3.2 allows the creation of digital sign content from a PowerPoint file to be directly uploaded to the signage appliance (player) and scheduled in the playlist. PowerPoint files can also be previewed before playback just like other media files. The PPT plug-in adds efficiency to content creation for dynamic messages that are timely and up-to-date.

Friday, February 19, 2010

WebDT Signage System deployed at Specialty’s Cafe and Bakery

Specialty’s Cafe and Bakery Serves Up Targeted Communications with the WebDT Signage System

Dynamic Signage Informs and Entertains Customers


SAN JOSE, Calif., - February 22, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the deployment of the WebDT Signage System at Specialty’s Cafe and Bakery stores. The combination of robust WebDT Signage Appliances and flexible WebDT Content Manager software enables targeted communications to customers at Specialty’s Café and Bakery locations, driving sales and building the Specialty’s brand.

Several Specialty’s Café and Bakery locations in California have deployed the WebDT SA1000 signage appliances for digital menu board applications paired with 42” displays behind service counters with images of the current menu offering. Digital menu boards have maximized the space efficiency, using the same space for the breakfast menus and lunch menus, with a scheduled content change at the specified time of day. The WebDT SA3000 signage appliances are paired with 42” displays mounted in the dining areas to engage customers with multimedia content such as video, flash, and images. The dining area content drives sales for catering, specials, and other products and services, and at the same time ingrains the Specialty’s brand by inviting customers to connect on social networking sites.

The WebDT Signage Appliances are managed with the WebDT Content Manager software, enabling Specialty’s Café and Bakery to efficiently navigate the layout design and scheduling of their menus and consumer communication. Content is updated using any internet browser and can be managed locally or in a central location. The marketing team at Specialty’s Café and Bakery can now enhance the dining experience for guests while saving the time and costs associated with constantly changing menus and printing promotions.

Digital signage provides value in the food services market, increasing revenues with the flexibility to target messages to specific times of day and quickly change menus, prices and promotions.
“With digital signage we are able to better communicate our brand and enhance the dining experience for our customers” commented Angela Pace, vice president of marketing at Specialty’s. “We are already beginning to see the value generated by these screens in the sites where we have rolled out the solution and expect this to continue as we expand and install digital signage in our stores.”

Specialty’s Café and Bakery, with over 20 years of successful operation, has 27 stores throughout California, Washington State and Chicago and provides made-from-scratch baked goods, handcrafted sandwiches, organic salads and wholesome soups. This concept is typically located in urban business districts or suburban business centers, and operates 5-days per week during the morning, noontime and afternoon hours.

The WebDT Signage System provides the tools needed to enhance customer engagement at fast-casual and other food service businesses. With the reliability of well-integrated hardware and software from one manufacturer, and the flexibility to deliver a partial or total solution, the WebDT Signage System is lowering the barrier to entry for a digital signage network for the markets with scalable solutions that offer the ultimate usability.

About DT Research
DT Research™ develops and manufactures web-enabled information appliances for vertical applications. The WebDT family of products is based on thin computing platforms for secure, reliable, and cost-effective computing. WebDT products include digital signage solutions, wireless tablets, point-of-service handhelds, compact modular systems, and display-integrated information systems. These systems emphasize mobility, wireless connectivity and touch displays. Powered by Windows® Embedded and Windows XP operating systems, WebDT devices offer durability and ease in integration, leading to solutions that can be remotely managed with the
comprehensive WebDT Device Manager software. For more information, visit http://signage.dtri.com/ / http://www.dtresearch.com/.

Monday, February 1, 2010

Full HD 22” Display with Powerful Media Processing in One Convenient Package


DS2200 Enhances WebDT Line of Integrated Media Player Displays

Full HD 22” Display with Powerful Media Processing in One Convenient Package


SAN JOSE, Calif., - February 2, 2010 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the DS2200, the latest addition to the WebDT Signage System line of digital signage products. The 22-inch display integrates a vivid full high-definition (HD) LCD with a powerful and energy-efficient x86 1.5GHz media player, in one slim, mountable design. DT Research is showing the DS2000 at the ISE show in Amsterdam in booth B71 Hall 12.

The DS2200 offers efficient and effective digital signage deployments for targeted communications. Optional IR touch enables interactive signage and kiosk applications with a dynamic 22” widescreen view. The IR touch option also provides water and dust resistance with an IP65 rating, ideal for high-traffic areas, restaurants, and warehouse placements. The option for wireless networking further facilitates smooth deployment and operations for wiring-challenged locations. With Microsoft® Windows® XP Embedded operating system, the DS2200 integrates well with other applications. The fanless and energy-efficient design offers reliability and reduces power consumption, greening the digital signage market.

As with all WebDT signage hardware, the DS2200 includes remote management software, WebDT Content Manager, for content and device administration. The display screen can be divided into up to eight independent zones with different content in each zone. The WebDT Content Manager manages content distribution, including device grouping, playlist creation and media management, multiple-zones, preset and customizable templates, urgent message casts, reporting, auto-recovery and system management.

The WebDT Signage System line of digital signage hardware and software provides a scalable platform and lowers the barrier to entry to create and maintain a network of digital signs. With the WebDT Signage System, companies can create a more personalized audience experience by using the comprehensive hardware and WebDT Content Manager’s real-time web capability and multi-zoning feature to deliver targeted communications. http://signage.dtri.com/web/products/signagesystem/ds2200/features.html