MRG has introduced a wider variety of display solutions into their hardware portfolio. These include powerful servers driving multiple screens, mini-PCs, HDMI plug-in devices and smart TVs harnessing the latest display software to facilitate the digital displays of the future. This provides more flexibility to suit individual display requirements and broadens the scope for a wider range of budgets.
The emergence of faster, smaller, more powerful PCs and other devices capable of driving screens and TVs has opened up new avenues and opportunities for screen display systems. What is clear is that the bespoke in-shop PC will be retired as off-the-shelf solutions becomes more common-place.
On the 21st Oct, we attended the Bookmakers Trade Fair in Solihull. This was the first event under the new stewardship of TVC who attracted more exhibitors and delegates than previous years and ran a well organised show. The stand had been designed to show off examples of these new products and their relevance to the future of retail screen systems. These include driving two 46” HD screens, each with four templates from a single mini PC. A plug-in USB device that transforms any TV by introducing a full HD (1080p) web browser. Each one offering new choices for digital displays in all its forms.
The recent introduction of 4K TVs has solved how text in a dense format can be displayed. For instance a digital newspaper like the All-in-One and the Summary screens are perfect candidates for these ultra-high definition screens. Smart TVs have a little way to go yet but we are working on some exciting ideas which could provide a broad platform on which to build new screen systems in the approaching years.
The introduction of these devices also provides us with a variety of opportunities to enhance the back-office capabilities of our management software. BIDS5 and future solutions will exploit these benefits as we probe and develop their functionality for the purpose of delivering a better in-shop experience to customers.
Small independent bookmakers were well represented at the show along with senior representatives from major multiples. The configurable Summary screen powered by a mini PC and the 4K digital newspaper received lots of attention and we gained some valuable feedback that will help to contribute to their on-going development. Most rewarding though was the response to the new DailyForm. Everybody complimented the clean new design layout and its added functionality. The four digital signage screens met with some good feedback. They were variously driven by a mini-PC, Plug-in PC and a Smart TV. Their purpose was to highlight the new product range. This was also our first opportunity to introduce the new brand and colour palette to our betting industry colleagues and customers. The exhibition was an all-round success for us and we look forward to taking part again next year.