Jayex announced a Linux-based digital signage computer aimed primarily at waiting-room applications. Available with multimedia and client call software, the “Web Media M4” is built around a dual-core Intel Atom D510 clocked at 1.66GHz and offers 1GB of RAM, 250GB of storage, HDMI and VGA ports, as well as Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity, says the company.

U.K.-based Jayex was established in 1978, and boasts over 23,000 customers worldwide for its programmable display technology, primarily in U.K.-based healthcare facilities. Like most of the company's products, the Web Media M4 signage computer focuses on waiting room applications.

Web Media M4

In addition to offering multimedia entertainment and educational displays, the programmable Linux-based software stack enables text and natural language audio notifications, says Jayex. The software enables the development of custom branded signage displays that can communicate visually and audibly to clients, staff, and patients, says the company.

Staff can plug in messages via an "intuitive" online interface that can be accessed by any Windows, Mac, or Linux workstation without requiring the installation of a client application, says the company. The interface is said to enable the creation and editing of text and imagery, and offers scheduling features as well as the ability to send targeted messages to different networked systems.

M4 main control screen (left) and scenes editor
(Click on either to enlarge)

Other features include split-screen display formats, scrolling text, and live TV streaming, says Jayex. Plug-in options are said to be available for message boards, opening times, and room-finding directions. Optional calling solutions include natural speech notifications, which automatically mute and re-start any already running audio, says the company.

M4 playlist app (left) and typical events screen seen by customers/clients
(Click on either to enlarge)

Uploadable content includes posters, videos, RSS feeds, broadcast news, external video, and website content, says Jayex. M4 users also get free access to the company's Med-Extranet online media library, which enables direct downloading of medically oriented educational videos, digital posters, and public service announcements directly onto M4 units and their attached LCD screens.

Users can set up one M4 as a Mirror/Author unit, enabling users to synchronize content to single or multiple M4 players, which can be assigned in groups. The authoring component lets users preview output exactly as it will appear on the screen before transmission, says Jayex.

Mirror/authoring unit with multiple screen control
(Click to enlarge)

The 7.5 x 5.3 x 1.0-inch Web Media M4 player unit runs Linux on a dual-core Intel Atom D510 clocked at 1.66GHz, says Jayex. Equipped with 1GB of RAM, each system offers 250GB of storage, with more storage enabled via a USB port.

The systems connect to each other and to the player designated as the mirror/author unit via Wi-Fi or Ethernet. Displays are then connected via HDMI and VGA ports, says the company. Standard LCD displays and digital signage screens are said to be available as options, in totem, wall, or ceiling mount options.

Hardware specifications listed for the Web Media M4 include:

• Processor — Intel Atom D510 (dual-core 1.66GHz)
• Memory — 1GB
• Storage — 250GB
• Display — multiple display and digital signage options from 19-50 inches with totem, wall, or ceiling mount options
• Wi-Fi — 802.11b/g
• Other I/O:
  • Ethernet port
  • USB port
  • HDMI port
  • VGA port
• Video formats — WMV; Quicktime; MPEG 1/2/4; VOB; DivX; MP4/H,264; DV; 3gp; FLV; AVI
• Power — AC 110-240V 50-60Hz; 10 Watt average consumption
• Dimensions — 7.5 x 5.3 x 1.0 inches (190 x 135 x 25mm)
• Weight — 9.92 lbs (4.5k)

Web Media M4 benefits are said to include enhanced back-office operations and improved customer flow. In addition, the M4 can save front desk and customer service staff from "frequently asked questions that can simply be shown on a display screen," says Jayex.

Stated Bob Marsh, Director at Jayex, "People are less stressed when they are engaged and informed. Organizations making use of receptions or waiting areas through their own LCD digital signage screen can realize clear benefits in terms of driving forward promotions and educating and entertaining waiting customers."

Availability

No pricing or availability information was available on the Web Media M4. More information may be found at Jayex' Web Media M4 page.

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