Planar Debuts Budget “Simplicity” Display Line

September 18, 2013 by Dave Haynes

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I tend to think of Planar Systems operating at the higher end of the LCD display market, but the compoany has just announced a new series of displays aimed more at the entry-level market.

The Simplicity series is characterized by narrow-bezels, no brand logos, and some built-in media playback capability.

Planar Simplicity Series full-featured digital signage displays combine a slim, professional design with content playback capabilities and a full range of commercial features. With built-in media playing, these displays lower the cost and complexity of deploying digital signage by eliminating the need for additional hardware. Planar Simplicity Series displays are easy to install and allow users to create and display content using tools they already have–including videos, photography from cell phone cameras, stock photos and music libraries. The displays are ideal for use in retail stores, restaurants, medical offices, corporate meeting areas, museums and hospitality settings.

The symmetrical and logo-free bezel on the Planar Simplicity Series offers a uniquely elegant form factor. Designed for digital signage applications in either landscape or portrait orientation, there is no distracting logo or uneven side bezel, which can look awkward, especially in portrait orientation. At a depth of less than 1.7″, Planar Simplicity Series displays are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“The Planar Simplicity Series tackles the barriers that prevent businesses from deploying digital signage by making it easy and affordable to deploy a digital signage system,” said Becky Connors, product marketing manager at Planar Systems. “It’s a sleek, commercial-quality display that will hold the attention of any viewing audience.”

The LED-backlit units start at $595 and have USB playback with scheduling, LAN and mobile device content distribution, built-in speakers and a Kensington security slot. There are 32 and 42-inchers, and more coming in Q1 next year.

USB playback is definitely nothing new, and I’d say that only eliminates hardware at the very bottom end of the market, which is is just as likely to buy TVs. However, more and more of those end-users are understanding or experiencing the pitfalls of using consumer product, so maybe there’s something there. With this, you get a three year warranty.

There are references to LAN and mobile device content sharing and distribution, which is a big step up from USB sneakernet. But no detail on how that all works.

 

 

  1. Bryan Crotaz says:

    I can’t immediately see why a depth of 1.7″ helps people with disabilities…

  2. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires all protruding objects to be less than 4 inches. At only 1.7”, there is plenty of room to add a mount and still be well below the 4” depth requirement. LCD displays that exceed 4” deep when installed would need to be recessed, adding complexity and cost to the project.

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