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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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/.

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

Taiwan’s Largest Transportation Hub Deploys WebDT Signage

Taiwan’s Largest Transportation Hub Deploys WebDT Signage

October 1, 2009 - DT Research™, Inc., an industry leader in the development of information appliances for vertical markets, today announced the deployment of its WebDT signage system at the Taipei Bus Station located in the Main Station Zone, a complete community with access to 5 modes of transportation. Dynamic, real-time information is displayed throughout the area housing the Taipei Bus Station, powered by the SA2000 signage appliance, the DS4700 IR touch screen, and the WebDT Content Manager software system.

The recently-opened Taipei Bus Station not only offers the largest transportation terminal in Taiwan, but also boasts a 6-star hotel, residential condominiums with 24 hour concierge service, offices, a shopping mall, and a 9-screen cinema. The Taipei Bus Station opened on August 19th as part of the Main Station Zone project to promote urban renewal. The Taipei Main Station Zone offers direct access to Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR), 2 MRT lines, the International Airport Express, Taiwan Railway System, and Inter-City Bus Terminal.

The WebDT Signage System powers displays throughout the station with real-time transportation information. The 47” WebDT displays with IR touch and integrated signage appliances provide vivid, high definition performance and an interactive experience for visitors to explore the station and surrounding area. SA2000 signage appliances are also paired with 42” displays and are installed in the bus terminal at the entrance area, ticketing area, and arrival/departure platforms.

The reliable hardware and customizable software, along with the outstanding service and competitive pricing made the WebDT digital signage system the clear choice for the Taipei Bus Station.

“DT Research’s focus on technologically advanced products with exceptional value offers businesses such as the Taipei Station the ability to provide customers with the highest quality experience while staying within budgets” commented Dr. Daw Tsai, president of DT Research.

The WebDT Content Manager software enables real-time information updates across multiple zones and layout styles for this premier property: the waiting hall displays show bus travel information and news; the displays at the platforms offer infotainment advertising, and bus status; the ticketing area displays provide ticketing information and service staff details; station managers are shown bus capacity updates and arrival and departure status.

With the WebDT Signage System, The Taipei Bus Station is able to efficiently and effectively manage a digital signage network and provide needed information to employees and visitors, as well as generate revenue with compelling digital advertising.

Patch Available For Setting Default Combo Playlist on WCM3.0

This bug affects the WebDT Content Manager Version 3.0 (SP1 and SP2 included).

Symptom

If you are using the Combo List as the default playlist for a group and after you have updated the Combo List (Perhaps by changing one of the sub-playlists), the new Combo List will unfortunately not download/update to all players within this group. As a consequence you will still see the old combo list being played back.

Resolution

We have a patch for WCM3.0 to be installed on the server. Please enquire with signagesupport@dtri.com for the patch if you need one.

New WebDT Content Manager Version 3.2 to be released end of August 2009

WebDT Content Manager 3.2 Preview

Please download the preview PDF from this site: http://signage.dtri.com/web/products/download/WebDT_ContentManager3.2_Preview_072809.pdf
Major features include:

1. Availability of the WebDT SDK (Software Development Kit) to integrate WebDT with other third party applications.
2. New WebDT SimulCAST Optional Module
3. Enhanced uploading tool (file synchronizations, uploads and management of multiple sites)
4. Spotlists
5. Multi-Screen template configuration for the MS1600

Please check with your local reseller for availability in a few weeks.

DT Research, Intel, & AirMedia deliver digital signage to Beijing Airport

DT Research, Intel, and AirMedia presented a press conference in Beijing on July 28th, 2009 to announce the deployment of a digital signage collaboration at the Beijing International Airport.

The DT Research's SA3000, with Intel Core2 Duo processor will be installed by AirMedia at the entrance gates for the domestic and international departure halls and the baggage claim area of Beijing Aiport's terminal 3.

AirMedia owns and operates a digital signage network for distributing advertising and information. By using digital signage, they have realized huge time-saving gains for changing and updating campaigns.

See the full press release: http://signage.dtri.com/web/about/press-release.html

How do I Install the .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 On the SA2000?

Microsoft doesn't officially support .NET 3.5 SP1 yet on the Microsoft XP Embedded Standard Release (SP3) but here's a short guide that we have come up with that would allow you to remove the .NET Framework 2.0 (included module in XPE) and then install 3.5SP1. Please click on this link to find out more: http://www.signage.dtri.com/web/support/signage_appliance_text.html

Running Microsoft Powerpoint Content from the WebDT Content Manager

A lot of you have asked about using Microsoft Powerpoint Content on the WebDT Content Manager 3.0. Here is a short guide on what to look out for when programming the contents.

- Here I am using a screen shot captured on Microsoft Powerpoint 2007. It might look a little different on Powerpoint 2003 but the concept is the same.

- After you have programmed the ppt file, go "Slideshow" -> "Setup slide show" and make sure the "Browsed at a kiosk (full screen)" is checked.

- Also check the "use timing, if present" as well.

- Now go to the "Animation" tab and program your slide show as usual.

- Next, go to the "Design" tab and change the "Slide sized for" to the correct aspect ratio. Meaning if the zone on your template is programmed in the 16:9 aspect ratio then change this section to "16:9".

- If you need to embed external movie files, then read on, otherwise you can save the file and upload it to the multimedia section of WCM3.0 but make sure the .ppt/pptx/pps extension still stays on after the upload.

- For Powerpoint file with embedded object, please use only WMV or MPG-1 video file as other formats are not fully supported by the Microsoft Powerpoint viewer (as installed on the WebDT Player). Currently macros, programs, opening linked, other embedded video objects (other than WMV and MPG-1) as well as .eps, .pct, .emz, .cdr, .cgm, .wpg, .wmz are NOT supported. The example screenshot below shows an embedded "wmv" file.

- If you have embedded any objects into the ppt file proceed to "zip" up (.zip format) the multiple files from one folder into a single .zip file.

- Logon to WCM and proceed to upload the zip file under the "Multimedia" section.

- Click on the pptx or ppt entry file (See picture as indicated with a yellow bar below).

- You can now process the powerpoint file via WCM3.0

How Do I "Batch Register" all my WebDT Signage Appliances within a network?

Question: How Do I "Batch Register" all my WebDT Signage Appliances within a network?

We have been getting enquiries about large scale deployment of WebDT and how best to "register" all the Signage Appliances without having to hook up a mouse and keyboard to each unit once they are installed in the field. Well, WebDT actually has a tool called the "Batch Register Tool" (Simple as it is) that allows administrators or field service agents (via his/her laptop connected to the Signage network) to simply register all these appliances without going to each player individually.

Step 1: Install the WebDT Signage Tools Package (inclusive of Batch Register Tool and Offline Deployment Tool) on a notebook PC (typically this is the PC which the field service agent would be using). The WebDT Signage Tools can also be found on the local SA1000/2000/3000 DT Research folder (Start -> All Programs -> DT Research -> WebDT Signage Tools -> Batch Register)




Step 2: Once installed and running, the tool should then automatically "Scan" your primary network connection subnet (where the laptop or the Signage Appliance is connected to). Bear in mind that this tool cannot be used to register Signage Appliances that are outside of the local area network.

Step 3: Expand Publish Server and you should be able to see all the Signage Players currently running (either already registered or not). You can then click on the player to view more information about that player (see screen shot below).




Step 4: Select all the players which you would like to register to a particular server and then type in all required credentials (See picture below). Make sure the Publish Server URL is specified correctly with the full path such as http://signage.server.com:81/publish/



Step 5: Once successfully registered you should then be able to control the Signage Appliance from your WebDT Content Manager server. You can use the Batch Register Tool to change registration or even change the playername, etc.

How Do I Publish to 2 LCD Screens from one single WebDT SA2000?

There are 2 video output connections on the SA2000, one HDMI and one VGA. You could convert the HDMI connections into a DVI connector by simply buying the necessary video adapter if your LCD monitor doesn’t support HDMI input. Make the HDMI output on the SA2000 the primary video output and the VGA output the secondary output. By default when you utilize both the HDMI and VGA connections, you would see the same contents being "cloned" onto the second LCD screen. You could alternatively enable both LCDs to work as one giant screen; meaning you effectively "extend" the screen from LCD number 1 to LCD number 2.

Follow the instructions below to enable both screens to work with the SA2000 in the "extended" mode:

Note: This is assuming that you have the latest ATI Catalyst driver installed on your SA2000 (you need version 8.56xxx or above). If you have the SA2000 (95051) image you should already have the latest ATI driver. Also this is a temporary solution until the release of WCM3.2 which has special template builder which allows the user to create templates of any sizes.



Step 1: Configure the ATI Catalyst driver. (See picture)
Start by exiting the WebDT Player software screen by pressing control+shift+space at the same time. Then right click on the “Catalyst™ Control Center”



Step 2: Select Displays Manager -> Displays Properties (See picture).





Step 3: Right click on the “Right most” monitor and select “Stretch Main vertically onto Monitor”.

Step 4: Select Desktop area 2560x1024 (or anything less). You could go higher than 2560x1024 but certain video files will probably not play on the screen.

Step 5: Now you can design the content to fill up the whole 2560x1024 zone or create several smaller zones to fill up the entire screen.

Step 6: Since the 2 screens share the full resolution you had selected equally, when you design a template that looks like the following, the left zone contents would then appear entirely on LCD number 1 and the right zone contents would then appear entirely on LCD number 2.

Accuweather Flash App Integration with WCM3.0

If you are thinking about adding AccuWeather's Real Time Update Flash Application to WCM3.0 (and WCM2.3), please contact us for a comprehensive PDF documentation on how to get this done. Contact signagesupport@dtri.com for a free PDF guide.

What's the best way to "Publish" a Kiosk Application through WCM3.0?

In actual deployment of kiosk applications. Having each player link back to Web URLs to retrieve websites is generally not a good idea. You should think about “modifying” existing websites into something that would suit the local kiosk environment better. In particular, pay close attention to user-ability issues such as making sure the touch buttons are visible and huge enough, fonts are large enough to read based on LCD sizes, etc.

With that said, the best way to deploy a kiosk app is to design the whole html site into a locally reference-able web application.

The advantages of going with this method is:

1. The whole website sits on the WebDT Signage Player/Appliance (once it’s re-distributed by WCM via the playlists and schedules) so unstable internet connection won’t affect user interaction on the screens.
2. You don’t get “page not found” nor “file not found” issues which is likely to happen by directly referencing remote URL sites.
3. This “local” html site can still reference external web links via XML or URL on a as needed basis.

Step 1: zip up the entire html site (make sure each url link is referenced locally and based on relative link as opposed to absolute links).

Step 2: Upload entire zip into multimedia folder.

Step 3: design your template and incorporate the web.zip application.

Does The SA2000 work with the new "Stretch" LCDs from LG such as the M3800S-BN?

The answer is Yes!



These LCD specs can be downloaded from: http://www.lgcommercial.com/stretch/




Step 1: Design the template in WCM3.0 with the correct zone size (See picture below)

The LG M3800S-BN supports 1366x398 natively so select the 1366x768 template and create a zone that takes up the upper portion of the screen. This zone should have the following size: 1366x398.

Step 2: Connect the SA2000 HDMI output (you need to get an HDMI to DVI convertor) to the DVI input on the LG Stretch LCD.

Step 3: Boot up the SA2000 and exit the WebDT Player software. Proceed by launching the ATI Catalyst driver screen (Right click on the desktop screen and select Catalyst Control Center). Go to Displays Manager -> Display Options and make sure the desktop area is either set to 1360x768 or 1366x768 (For the main monitor).

Step 4: Toggle the OSD Menu on the LG Display and set the resolution to either 1366x768 or 1360x768. Set it to "Full" mode first so that you can see the whole screen and perform all necessary actions such as registering the player, copying the Start WebDT Signage Player Icon and creating a shotcut on the screen, etc.

Step 5: Now you can design the content to fill up the whole 1366x398 zone or create several smaller zones to fill up the entire screen.


If you have questions on how to get all this to work, please email signagesupport@dtri.com for more help.

Mark your Calender for Intel Embedded eVent, Internet (September 15, 2009 / Retail & Transactions Solutions Hall)

The networked world is growing at a tremendous pace. In just six years, it’s expected that 15 Billion intelligent devices will be connected to the internet. And, with your imagination and hard work, Intel can be a part of many of the devices that will revolutionize the way we work, talk, play and move. So, Intel is hosting the virtual tradeshow, the Intel Embedded eVent, and wants you to join! It’s a one day event that will showcase Intel technologies and our customers’ innovation in intelligent, connected devices.

The WebDT team will be participating in the virtual chat session. Mark your calender and join us for this growing event.