Multiscreen synchronization

Introduction

"Synchronization is the coordination of events to operate a system in unison."

In digital signage, the term "synchronization" means that the content displayed on one screen is time-synchronized with the content displayed on other screens. In this context, multiple HMP devices can be used together to display synchronized content on multiple screens, with an accuracy of one vertical refresh period. These screens, powered by synchronized HMPs, can be combined together to create the illusion of a bigger screen (also known as video wall) or can be independently positioned from one another, yet giving the impression of a whole.

This feature opens the door for unlimited possibilities of using HMP devices for more than regular digital signage content of texts and playlist of images or videos. Here are some examples:

• Multiple displays can be grouped together in regular grid-like arrangements, but also in non-conventional patterns, to create video-walls - this is the typical way to achieve a higher impact over the audience. For instance, displaying a 4K video over 4 big 80" screens it's possible with 4 HMP200.
• Multiple displays can be deployed in the same hall to create an ambiance or a "leitmotif", with messages that appear synchronously on some or all screens, thus increasing the impact over the visitor. Furthermore, special animations can be created that are moving from one display to the next one creating global effects. This can be used in retail shops, hotels, bars, offices etc.
• Multiple displays can also be deployed one after another to create a long array of screens, as for instance along the escalators in an airport, mall etc. Well-timing the content would then give the impression that the message is following the visitor as he / she moves along.

Requirements

There are two major requirements for creating synchronization:

1. The HMP devices are time-synchronized together, meaning that they have the same date/time information.
2. The content is time-synchronized, meaning it is set to start (and eventually end) at a fixed moment in time.