Digital signage suppliers CoolSign and BrightSign have completed integration of BrightSign’s low-cost, non-PC networked media players into the CoolSign network architecture.
According to the companies, which made the announcement at the recently held Digital Signage Expo 2010 in Las Vegas, customers can now apply the comprehensive, yet easy-to-use management features of CoolSign’s software platform to BrightSign’s solid-state digital signage players that offer affordability, high reliability and easy servicing.
The integration allows CoolSign to address market demand for media player solutions that can withstand the often harsh operating conditions presented by busy retail, hospitality and other public venues, without the high costs of industrial-class solid state PCs.
“This solution delivers the best of both worlds,” said Lou Giacalone Jr., president and founder of Beaverton, Ore.-based CoolSign. “Our customers can tap into the low-cost and reliability of a set-top box-like device, but can also take full advantage of our sophisticated software suite and efficient user experience.
“This provides exciting new choices when designing networks. We believe these types of appliances, with their lower TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), will play a significant role in networks moving forward.“
“With this integration, BrightSign brings the robust capabilities of our digital sign controllers to the advanced resources of CoolSign’s network solution,” added Jeff Hastings, CEO of Saratoga, Calif.-based BrightSign. “BrightSign’s compatibility with CoolSign networks offers an affordable entry point to users, while delivering a highly reliable solution with its non-PC platform.”
Via the BrightSign Bridge, the HD210 and HD1010 models can now connect into CoolSign networks and can be controlled like any PC running CoolSign’s player software. The HD210 model is capable of playing out video at resolutions up to 1080P HD; the HD1010 adds support for interactivity as well as expansion modules. Both units have no moving parts and are exceptionally compact, measuring only 6.6 inches wide by 5.9 inches deep by 1.2 inches high.