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Tips on designing a kiosk

Many of Caltron’s customers have ordered our open frame touch screen monitors and open frame monitors for their kiosk projects. Every kiosk applications have something different, but they share some common aspects, used in public locations and to provide convenience for users are an example. Caltron has some helpful tips for those kiosk VARs and OEMs to design their products that will make their kiosk’s operation last longer with less maintenance.

Consistency

Hidden costs can result in lost revenue and time, avoiding them is a key aspect to VARs and OEMs on their future production. That’s why it’s important for the layout of the product to stay the same in the duration of its life time. For example, Caltron's 12.1 inch open frame monitor, our oldest product, has been in service since 1997 and used at least six LCD manufactures/models, but the layout has never been changed. This eliminates the need of redesigning the kiosk if a newer version of LCD is introduced because the layout is the same. Caltron has an article about What's an Open Frame Monitor, it provides an entire view on display selection.

Touchscreen

Determining which touch technology is suitable for your kiosk is important because it can minimize down time and maximize usage of your kiosk. Check our touch screen technology comparison page article to know the pros and cons.

Environment

To ensure the protection and longevity of your components and your users, a protective bezel should be installed. For example, front splash proof bezel, shock absorbers, ventilation can protect against vandalism, heat, weather, quake, power outage and anything that can possibly damage or ruin the kiosk operation should be thoroughly considered.

Thermal management

Outdoor kiosks need to consider operating and storage temperature range of all electronic parts they use. On display part, LED backlit LCD panels accept wider operating and storage temperature range than traditional CCFL back LCDs. For differences between these two LCD technologies, check out Caltron's article aboutWhen should I choose a CCFL LCD Monitor. Proper thermal management is needed for the whole kiosk to prevent problems from outdoor environments.

Sunlight

Direct Sunlight or strong light condition will reduce the usability/visibility of the kiosk, proper shading will prevent waste on energy or damage on the materials behind the LCD caused by long time bright sources exposure. Especially on touch screen kiosks, heat will accumulated between touch glass and LCD panel caused by sunlight.

Caltron Works with OEM’s and Integrators find the perfect solution for Most Applications

A Struggling Economy

With the Economy still struggling to make it back on its feet, many integrators and consumers alike are trying to cut costs while finding the perfect solution for their application. When it comes to trying to find a non standard shelf item, it can prove to be quite difficult or require extremely long lead times for a specific part or unit. Due to long lead times, potential projects can diminish due to clients not wanting to wait. Since there is an economic downturn, it is understandable that many companies try to cut overhead costs by reducing inventory on hand and only ordering when absolutely necessary, which can lead to long lead times when waiting for parts to arrive for assembly.

Last Minute Projects

Caltron Industries, Inc. carries a wide array of units that can work perfectly for many applications, whether it is Open Frame Monitor or Touch Screen Monitor. There is generally a need for specific parts or sizes that are not standard which Caltron can assist in obtaining within a reasonable time so that Integrators can meet last minute deadlines for projects or new prospects. If given a bit of time, Caltron can help to create a solution that is viable for prototypes and upon project approval, mass production of monitors, whether LED Backlit, Widescreen, High Bright to basic LCD Open Frame Monitors can be done within a matter of weeks. If it is an open frame monitor or touch screen monitor that Catron can’t produce in house, then it can be sourced from our vendors and the quality of the parts will not be compromised.

Which type of monitors do Kiosk and Equipment Manufacturers use?

Open Frame Monitors and Open Frame Touch Screen Monitors are usually the best display solutions to Kiosk and Equipment Manufacturers when they wish to use a product that of off-the-shelf and trouble free. Caltron’s long running history of Open Frame and Touch Screen Monitors has helped many OEMs and Integrators because of our unique chassis design that does not change during the life of the monitor, even if there are component revisions or upgrades.

With Caltron’s monitors, some OEMs and Integrators have raised some concerns in regards on how to adjust the monitors screen settings once the unit has been integrated into the new enclosure. Generally, the OSD (On Screen Display) is located on the back of all Caltron monitors. Caltron’s OSD is a single PCB that can be relocated outside of the back cover. Caltron 12 inch and 15 inch open frame monitors have locations on the side of the monitor in which the OSD can be relocated. In this scenario, a special OEM number will be provided for any future orders to ensure the proper location of the OSD. Caltron also accepts special requests in regards to cable lengths and other criteria that needs to be met for OEM volume that meets MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity). This option allows for OEMs and Integrators to have easier access to the controls without the need for special Kiosk or Equipment Design, creating less hassle.

When should I choose a CCFL LCD Monitor?

Cold cathode fluorescent Lamps or otherwise known as CCFL is a very common in many LCD monitors today. It is a good way to light up a screen at a cost effective price. CCFL has been around for many years and the technology is very trusted amongst LCD screens. CCFL LCD monitors are pretty much the standard for technology these days compared to the larger bulky CRT monitors. Caltron currently provides the following sizes for LCD panels: 6.5 inch, 8.4 inch, 10.4 inch, 15 inch, 17 inch, 19 inch, 22 inch 16:9 format and the 24 inch, 16:9 format. The life expectancy is generally 20,000 hours to 50,000 hours which would mean that a screen can be on 24/7 for approximately 1 year up to 3 years. Based on normal usage (8-10 hours a day), a screen generally lasts between 3-12 years depending on environment. Many integrators like to use the CCFL backlit monitors because of the clear and crisp image that it can provide for their applications. This type of screen is perfect for many industrial applications and general applications.

Do I need an LED monitor?

Another technology out is the light-emitting diode or LED backlit displays. Very similar to that of the LCD panels except that the display is a bit more clear and bright and uses less energy than that of an LCD panel. Caltron currently offers the following sizes with an LED option: The 8.4 inch, 10.4 inch and the soon to be arriving 12.1 inch. There are constantly new sizes being added as the demand for LED monitors increase. LED monitors do provide a slightly higher brightness than that of LCD panels. Some differences that the LED backlit panel has a faster response time. LED backlit panels also offer a higher operating temperature range in both the colder and hotter range and also more environmentally friendly because it contains no mercury. As of right now, LCD’s will be around for a long time and is pretty much the industry standard, but the newest trend is also leaning towards LED monitors. The average life expectancy of an LED backlit panel is usually around 50,000 hours. The costs associated with this type of display are generally a bit more costly than that of LCD displays. Sometimes, users would prefer a screen that can provide a slightly higher brightness and a more clear display for specific applications or possibly signage displays, this is where an LED backlit display would prove more effective.

Why should I Change out my CRT and Replace it with an LCD Monitor?

Many industries are converting from CRT over the LCD panels as big CRT monitors are heading in the direction of becoming obsolete. Many new and old customers opt in on using Caltron’s Open Frame LCD monitors because they have additional features and options like component add-ons at a very cost effective price or having a touch screen upgrade in case there is a need for a touch application in the future. LCD Monitors have greater viewing angles and better resolution quality to ensure crisp and clear displays all the time. Caltron’s monitors will have the same form and fit even if there are component revisions and updates. We like to ensure that our monitors remain the same throughout the life of the monitors so that integrators and industrial companies who decide to use Caltron’s monitors to replace their pre-existing monitors will not have to worry about redesigning any enclosures when there are part revisions.

Are LCD Monitors that much more Beneficial?

LCD’s generally have a longer life span than the typical CRT monitors and are much smaller, so when integrated into any system or application, there will be plenty of space to spare. With CRT’s becoming more obsolete as each day passes, many integrators and industries come to Caltron Industries to look for industrial grade Open Frame LCD Monitors to integrate into their solution. When there is a failure in an LCD monitor, usually it is isolated to a single component that can be easily repaired or replaced. In the long run, these simple part replacements can end up saving a lot of costs on potential repairs. The light weight and size of Caltron’s Open Frame LCD Monitors makes it easy for any application to replace out their old CRT monitors. LCD’s are the newest generation of monitors and are expected to stay around for quite some time.

What is the best Way to clean my LCD Panel?

We have had quite a few customers contacting our support staff in regards to proper LCD Panel maintenance. Sometimes a damp cloth is used, but the end result produces a streak on the screen. What suggestions are available for cleaning the LCD Screen?

The most efficient way to clean an LCD Panel is….

Using a damp cloth like one that is similar to eyeglass cleaning cloth or a microfiber cloth should work very well. Please be sure that it is a lint free cloth, as this helps to reduce streaks. At all costs, try to avoid using paper towels! If streaks remain present, then follow the damp cloth with a dry one to get rid of the streaks. Moistening the cloth with some water or commercial LCD panel cleaning solutions will work best. Most cleaning solutions are a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water, so you can mix this yourself to save some costs on buying a commercial grade cleaner. Always be sure to dampen the cloth and never spray or directly pour liquid onto the LCD Panel.

What is VESA Standard?

VESA stands for Video Electronics Standards Association; it was founded in 1989 by NEC Home Electronics and eight other video display adapter manufacturers. VESA supports and sets industry-wide interface standards for the PC, workstation, and consumer electronics industries.

How does this relate to Caltron’s products?

All of Caltron’s LCD Open Frame monitors and Touch Screen Monitors are compliant with VESA VBE Standards. VBE stands for Video Bios Extensions, and it is widely used in the industry for many standard definition monitors. Some of the graphic modes in the VBE Standard for our monitors are 640x480, 800x600, 1024x768, and 1280x1024.

What if I’m using a graphic mode other than the Standard?

It is highly recommended that you follow the VESA VBE standard when choosing a graphic mode. Even with the horizontal and vertical frequencies within the range of the monitor, it can still have displaying issues. If possible, always stick to the VESA VBE standard to eliminate any possible errors and any downtime that’s associated with those errors.

What does it mean when the monitor display “Out of Range”?

Typically when the monitor displays “Out of Range”, it means the graphic mode or resolution is not supported or out of the maximum resolution that it support. Even when the resolution selected is supported by the VESA VBE Standard, each individual monitor will have a maximum range. Turning down the resolution usually solves this problem.

Which video inputs do I need in my Caltron Monitor that will work best for my application?

Caltron’s 6.5 to 24 inch wide LCD Open Frame monitors and Touch Screen Monitors all come standard with a VGA input, but additional video input options can be added should an application require something more than just a VGA input. Additional video input options available are DVI, S-Video, Composite Video and BNC. Generally the first order will require a slight lead time, but future orders can be accommodated quite quickly.

In order to support the different video standards, Caltron’s analog-digital conversion board supports various video inputs that different industries require. Some Analog video transmission schemes would be CCTV equipment in the surveillance industry using a coaxial BNC connector; Traditional VCR, camcorder or DVD players used in Kiosks, digital signs or other similar equipments use S-Video or RCA composite onnectors to export video. Digital video transmission scheme, within the last 15-20 years, mostly widespread in the PC industry use a DVI output.

All of the above analog and digital outputs are video input examples only. Caltron also provides an analog input and 2 two-watt speakers that are available for all 6.5 inch to 19 inch FBT models. Please check each products “related models” tab to find the proper model number that best suits your project needs and contact a Caltron sales representative for further information and assistance.

Transmissive, Transflective and Reflective LCD Panel Displays

There are a few types of LCD panels out in the market currently. We will briefly go over each type of LCD panel to distinguish the differences and how effective each can be.

What is a Transmissive LCD?

A transmissive LCD has all of the light provided from the backlight of the LCD Panel. A transmissive LCD looks great in indoor environments, but can be quite dim when in direct sunlight. Sunlight is about a 1,000 times brighter than that of a typical LCD Backlight, so it can adversely affect the appearance of the LCD. Generally direct sunlight can cause the monitor to look very dim outdoors.

What is a Reflective LCD?

A reflective LCD involves a reflective mirror layer on the LCD or in the LCD. All light that is used to view the LCD goes through the LCD, bounces off of the reflective mirror layer and goes through the LCD again to display. This applies to both indoor and outdoor applications so a reflective LCD is not of the highest quality when used as a display. A reflective LCD generally uses a front light display so many factors can compromise the performance since the light has to go through the LCD twice.

What is a Transflective LCD?

A transflective LCD, which is a combination of a transmissive and reflective LCD, begins with a transmissive LCD and adds a partially reflective mirror layer between the LCD and backlight. When a transflective LCD is used indoors the illuminated screen comes from the backlight. When the LCD screen is used outdoors, light has to go through the LCD twice before displaying, once on the way into the LCD and one more time out with the backlight. This can cause the LCD to not be an optimal solution when being used as an outdoor monitor compared to being used as an indoor monitor. There is also a certain point that makes the LCD very ineffective. At this point, it is caused by just enough sunlight overpowering the backlight, but also not producing enough light to be reflected back from the reflective mirror to produce an adequately illuminated LCD.

What type of LCD does Caltron use?

Caltron uses transmissive LCD’s on all of our monitors, whether it is our standard Open Frame LCD Monitors, LED Backlit Monitors or High Bright Monitors. Caltron feels that a transmissive can be most effective for a variety of applications. Although there can be some hindrance to direct sunlight, overall, it is still the most effective panel. Using a high bright panel can help to make an application more feasible in direct sunlight. Creating some sort of shading for the unit will allow for the optimal display for a transmissive LCD.

Which Standard Definiton Signage Player Should I Choose?

What is the MP-02B Network MPEG Playback Player?

This netwoek digital signage player is perfect for replacing DVD players and running media content in a continuous 24/7 loop. With a solid state memory card it is easy to update content without the hassle of creating new DVD’s and saving lots of money. The MP-02A can hold a CF card with up to 8 GB of capacity, which is plenty of space for any display. The MP-02A can display MPEG 2 and MPEG 4 videos up to 480P resolution and Jpeg images up to 1080i resolution. Capable of displaying content perfectly on screen sizes up to 40”. This also allows for easy content management. This robust player is capable of handling environments that require continuous playback with minimal content change. This player is perfect for small to large scale signage projects at a cost effective price.

Do I need the MP-02B Network MPEG Player?

The MP-02A can display all the same content as their predecessor counterpart, the MP-01 except that it is a networkable player that comes with complimentary online and PC management software that is easy to learn and operate. The networkable MP-02A allows users to update content quickly and easily for users who need to constantly update new content or users who need to control content in multiple locations with ease. This player is small and compact and can use up to a 4 GB CF card for storage, allowing for a large volume of content to be stored. Some features include a scrolling text or RSS media feed. A low maintenance player that is capable of handling large scale projects that need instant updates without going to each location. The MP-02A can have content updated from any location making it extremely versatile and easy to use.

Would I prefer the MP-02V Network MPEG Player with live TV streaming and Zoning?

The MP-02V can perform all the functions as the MP-02A except that it is a networkable player with live TV streaming and zoning features that come with complimentary software. For users that require more than just a networkable player and for applications that might want to have multiple contents shown on the display. Some features that exist in this player are a scrolling text and/or RSS media feed ticker, time/date section (which can also be replaced with an image). This player allows for advertisement slots to be sold if necessary, since there are multiple zones for images and video rotation. The MP-02Z’s simplistic functionality enables many users the option of using this player for advertisement. If content does not need to be edited often, this player can also be used as a standalone player with playlist editing.

What proper memory card should I use in Caltron’s Digital Signage Players?

CF cards and SD cards are widely use in the market

Caltron’s Digital Signage Players accepts different brands of Compact Flash (CF) cards and Secure Digital (SD) cards from the market. CF card is one of the earliest Solid State memory cards offering comparable capacity and read/write speed. Even with more competitions, CF card still have strength on some market, especially in digital signage area that need faster transferring speed like 30MB/sec. SD card is another popular storage device widely used in hand-held electronic devices. SDHC (High-capacity SD) card extend maximum storage capacity up to 64GB and can currently read/write speed up to 30MB/sec.

Memory Card Compatibility

Caltron is unable to test all CF cards and SD/SDHC cards from the market, theoretically, faster labeled cards are better. There are many free speed test programs you can download from the Internet, programs such as HD_Speed that tells you the read and write speed. Various manufactures produces cards that are unique to their own. The best way to make sure if you have selected the right card is to get an evaluation card from the supplier and perform a test run in one of Caltron’s player with the idea contents playing continuous for 10 to 20 days. Current Caltron players support up to 8GB on both CF and SD cards.

USB Port

All of Caltron’s digital signage players have USB port; however, Caltron does not recommend play contents from the USB drive. It’s due to the USB transfer speed being lower than the SD and CF cards. Displaying still images or lower bit rate videos maybe fine, but not recommend for the bit rate files over 1MB/sec. The main function of the USB port on the players is for transferring files to CF or SD card to update contents.

When should I use CAT or iCAT?

The MP-02B, network digital signage player and MP-02V, network digital signage player with live TV streaming and zoning comes with the CAT software and also iCAT. Pending on the user’s application and resources, sometimes, one software that is offered for the player can be more effective for our user over the other that we offer for Caltron’s Digital Signage Players. Caltron provides options for our players to make our players as easy to use as possible. Caltron’s technical support will always try their best in assisting with networking as well as product support, but please note that since networking is not an actual “product” of Caltron, sometimes full support can’t be offered and a third party would have to come in for assistance.

CAT is generally meant for an intranet setting (local area network [LAN]), but can also be used in an internet setting. There is one stipulation when wanting to do this. The user has to have a static IP address so that CAT can locate the same IP address for updates. There are ways of creating a static IP address through having a dynamic IP address, but Caltron usually recommends having a third party handle this portion of networking if the user is unfamiliar with networking themselves.

Caltron can usually assist our customers to a certain degree, but with networking, Caltron requires our customers to have some knowledge in networking or asks our customers to hire a third party that has knowledge with networking for assistance. Caltron can provide full support for our players and products, but we can’t offer full support for networking issues. If MP-02 users have trouble with acquiring a static address we usually recommend using iCAT as a viable alternative. This is basically like CAT, but it is the web based management system. This is a service that Caltron provides for free for the first year and if there is growth in players each year, then Caltron can waive fees for each future year. If there is no player growth and our customers would like to continue using the service, then there will be a small annual fee assessed. With this free service for iCAT, there are some restrictions and limitations, like a 100MB maximum file storage capacity.

Caltron Digital Signage Players accept RSS Feeds

What is a RSS Feed?

RSS is most commonly known as (Really Simple Syndication or Rich Site Summary) and is a format for delivering regularly changing web content. Many news related sites, weather channels, weblogs would have their information readily available for anyone who is interested. For example, a sports bar might want an RSS feed from a sports site, which is generally, readily available. RSS Feeds help to provide real-time information and updates of the latest news.

What are the benefits of having a RSS feed on a Digital Signage Player?

A benefit from an RSS feed on a Digital Signage Player would be that an advertiser can display their digital content while keeping their targeted audience informed with the latest news from various sites from the web. It can also serve as an attention grabber by having dynamic, up-to-date feed with their content that will update automatically. With the abundance of RSS feeds out there, one can customize a specific RSS Feed cater to their content needs.

What Caltron players support RSS Feed?

Caltron currently has two Digital Signage Player that support the RSS Feed, the MP-02B and MP-02V. RSS feed requires a “feed reader”. The RSS Feed feature is part of the software that comes with the players. Through iCAT, the RSS feed can be updated through the ticker tab and through CAT, the RSS Advantage will be required to support the RSS Feed. This program can be provided by a Caltron representative. In order for an RSS Feed to be used, the site in which the information is displayed must have an RSS option. For additional information, please download the user guide under the “documents” tab on the MP-02A and MP-02V’s page.

Caltron’s Digital Signage Players support non-progressive image files

You may have had some experience with progressive images when searching the web before. Sometimes, when you visit a certain website and see the small icon of a picture, which you click to enlarge, you notice that the large image takes a few moments to load. The first image that is loaded will be a low quality image and as the image loads more, it will gradually get better, hence progressive scan. Almost all images are stored as a baseline image which means that the image or JPEG file is saved as a top to bottom scan when the image is displayed. Most images for the web are saved as a progressive scan. When displaying an image on the web the image gradually becomes more clear and this is likely because it is a progressive image which add lines/layers until the image is completely shown. These photos are generally saved as a progressive image, which is basically a rearrangement of the same image in a particular order, but displayed differently and in a more complicated way to eventually display the same image as a baseline image. The viewer can make an earlier decision on whether to drop the selection or wait for the whole image to be displayed. This is generally more helpful for those with slower internet connections.

Caltron’s Digital Signage Player support baseline files like most other decoders on the market. When wanting to use a progressive image, please be aware that options will be very limited when trying to find a player that is compatible. Usually progressive images are better suited for websites and not so much digital signage players in general. Digital Signage players today are more suited for baseline JPEG files.

Why Do I Want To Have A Live TV Streaming Option?

Advertising Benefits

Many players are quite capable of delivering dynamic advertising content with just images and videos looping. Sometimes, on top of advertising content, the user wants to deliver a more powerful punch and captivate their target audience with live news or live video content along side with the content currently being displayed. This is where the MP-02V, Network Digital Signage Player with Content Management Software, Live TV Streaming and Zoning comes in. This player is great for dynamicadvertising and can be used in a wide array of applications that include, standalone, network, zoning to live TV streaming as well.

Live TV Streaming Perks

The MP-02V offers zoning and live TV streaming with no hidden gimmicks. Live TV streaming is very simple to use and can make advertising content much more powerful to the visitor. To get a live TV feed, all you need to do is hook up a cable box or TV tuner to the player to get the channel/website that you want to display. Through CAT or iCAT, you have a "live TV" toggle button, simply click that and your player will proceed to stream live videos.

Should I network my signage players?

Networking players would allow for players to be easily updated, also with live TV streaming, it is essential to have a networkable player to have live streaming available. All in all, networking players allow for easy content management and updates from remote locations, taking away from the headache of having to go to each location to update content.