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The convergence of broadcast technology and networking has led to rapid growth for two new technologies - IPTV and digital signage. We have recently developed an exciting new product in the IPTV and digital signage area that has been specifically designed for business use.

What is IPTV?
IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) is a system where a digital television service is delivered using Internet Protocol (IP) over a network infrastructure, which may include delivery by a Broadband connection. Generally this means that, instead of being delivered through traditional broadcast and cable formats, television content is received by the viewer through the technologies used for computer networks.

IPTV for business
Although the benefits of this technology may not initially seem apparent to business users, it can perform an important function. For example, it is possible to take digital terrestrial and satellite TV straight from the broadcaster via an aerial or satellite dish and distribute it over your LAN. This way it is possible to deliver training courses, company information, news feeds and other TV content around your LAN to individual display points in public areas or even direct to employee PCs at their desk.

Such a corporate IPTV system could ultimately replace traditional notice board or paper-based communications. This solution offers guaranteed performance and scalability as well as being able to control your entire corporate IPTV system from a single PC located either remotely or in-house.

Digital signage
Digital signage is an electronic display that is installed in public spaces. They are typically used to entertain, inform or advertise. The major benefits of digital signage over traditional static signs are that:

• The content can be easily changed
• Animations can be shown
• The signs can adapt to the context and audience
• They can be interactive

For these reasons digital signage offers a superior ROI when compared to traditional printed signs.

Over the last few years there has been significant growth for the digital signage industry as a whole, but more specifically, indoor-venue and hospitality markets have been emerging as the biggest users. The indoor venue market alone is now estimated to account for just over a quarter of the total market. Based on expected growth rates this means it will reach $3.8 billion by 2010.

And we should all get used to seeing them around as research firm Frost & Sullivan says that by 2011, 90% of retailers will have in-store digital screens.