Digital Engines for Advanced Content Management

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By Eden Lin, Product Manager Solution Products, AOpen Europe
 
By adopting new technologies and new micro architecture on 32~40 nm processors from Intel, AMD/ATi and Nvidia, AOpen Digital Engine is not just performing better in speed, but is also equipped with more secure features whilst lowering power consumption.
 
The demand for 3D rendering and multi-layer content, particularly in the digital signage market, is greater than ever, so AOpen is introducing new Digital Engine models with Intel and AMD next-generation microprocessor architectures. In Q2 this year, the DE67- HA equipped with Intel QM67 chipset supporting Sandy Bridge processors and the DE35-HA based on the AMD eBrazos platform will be added to the AOpen Digital Engine product line.
 

As a result of Intel’s new micro-architecture, the Mobile Sandy Bridge processor is the next generation of 64- bit, multi-core mobile processors built on 32-nanometer process technology.
 
The DE67-HA will perform twice as fast on Intel integrated HD graphics, have a two-times-higher data transfer rate from the internal SATA III HDD, nd is 10 times quicker on USB 3.0 ports. The DE67-HA is not just another black box running without control functionalities – the new version of Intel AMT 7.0 increases security and manageability. AMT 7.0 enables IT engineers to diagnose, control and update systems remotely. Systems equipped with AMT 7.0 provide feedback on any status automatically, such as virus attacks, overheating or even theft, by delivering easy remote reactivation. The new Intel Wireless display technology will bring display connectivity to another level, as it allows a wireless connection between the screen and the player. This technology can currently support HD quality at 30 frames per second and full HD can be expected soon. he DE35-HD will be the first AMD/ ATi model that AOpen offers. The eBrazos platform is the latest from the AMD Fusion family, and is equipped with high-performance gadgets and the cost-efficient eOntario processor. Needless to say, it features outstanding HD graphic performance powered by ATi, as it support DirectX11. The new digital display interface standard, called DisplayPort, is already commonly used in the latest monitors, and will be introduced in the DE35-HA. The Dual-mode Display port (DP++) can be switched to DVI or HDMI by a passive adapter.
 
In addition to hardware solutions, AOpen will also put great emphasis on its partner network and strategic alliances. More important, AOpen will strengthen the alliances and work together closely with partners in the digital signage market. AOpen alliances include: display, software, installation and service providers. These are not just business agreements, but we focus on delivering higher customer value. AOpen engineers, for example, are constantly performing software and hardware compatibility tests for AOpen Digital Engine. As soon as AOpen engineers complete a product evaluation, our recommended component list (RCL) will be added to the qualified product information on the AOpen corporate website. With the RCL, AOpen builds on its broad and strong alliance latform. Eventually, customers can easily find all the information required to choose the perfect solution from AOpen combined with its qualified partners. AOpen’s vision of “Open and Share” is represented in the core management concept of AOpen’s business model and delivers the core value between its partners and customers.
 
Case Study: TDC Denmark

 
TDC is the leading Danish provider of communication solutions, with market leadership across all segments in the domestic market. With 64 shops across Denmark, it is the company’s ambition to retain and develop its position through focus on telecom, internet, TV, data communications, integration and hosting solutions, as well as related content and services.
 
TDC uses in-store TV to communicate with customers in their shops. The advantage of in-store TV is the flexibility of the medium, and the opportunity it gives TDC to change and control the content delivered.
 
TDC implemented the in-store TV solution platform in cooperation with Mermaid, using the AOpen Digital Engine. Mermaid is the largest supplier of in-store TV in Scandinavia, and delivers digital signage to four market segments: transport; retail; corporate and public. With competencies within content, hardware, software, project management, operations, services and support, Mermaid is capable of doing large implementations, offering the customers turnkey solutions and full support.
 
In the case of TDC, Mermaid used between five and ten Digital Engines per shop. Nico Colijn, Marketing Director at Mermaid: “We upgraded their total solution, including only the best hardware and our own software for all the 64 TDC shops. Screen sizes vary between 9.2” up to 24” with and without touch in landscape and 40” screens in portrait mode. We are working with AOpen because they provide steady hardware with good reliability, which in turn delivers us satisfied customers such as TDC."