Apollos new ArtistaMEDIA™ is a single-board network media player and TFT controller for playback of videos from a Compact Flash card, 2.5” hard disk drive, or streaming server. Stored MPEG2 or MPEG4 videos can be loaded or updated via Ethernet, Compact Flash card or USB stick and played back in a continuous loop upon power-up on an unlimited number of displays. Playback is also possible from a streaming video server without local storage.

The ArtistaMEDIA board permits easy Ethernet connection of TFT LCD displays. Display resolution ranges from VGA (640 x 480 pixels) to 1080P full HD (1980 x 1080). ArtistaMEDIA installations can vary from a handful of displays to hundreds – of any size and resolution. ArtistaMEDIA players make signage and information display installation easy as a stand alone device and/or by simply connecting the controller to the network, with all application software installed on a single central server. This allows an unlimited number of displays to be addressed and updated from that single server.

ArtistaMEDIA™ can be used for download of advertising videos (e.g., at supermarket checkout counters and aisles) or streaming of TV programs to distributed monitors via Ethernet (e.g., in waiting areas in airports, train stations, etc.), as well as for playback of advertising videos at POS locations (where it can be updated via Ethernet for local playback of media files without network load).

ArtistaMEDIA is the third and newest member of Apollos Artista™ family of controllers. While ArtistaNET™ and ArtistaUSB™ are specialized to drive TFT LCDs via the Ethernet or a USB-bus without a client PC for the display of static images, ArtistaMEDIA™ adds video playing capabilities from locally stored MPEG/2 or MPEG/4 media or from video streams received from a streaming server.

Like ArtistaNET and ArtistaUSB, ArtistaMEDIA has onboard audio support, does not require a client PC for each display, no investment in operating systems per display, no client-server architecture, and no maintenance or administration. It is quick and easy to install, consumes little power, comes with easy-to-use application software, and is easily integrated into existing applications. They offer a long term availability of 3-5 years.

If a network is not available or desired, ArtistaMEDIA can be operated as a standalone player. It is supplied with a Compact Flash card or with an optional hard disc. Other options include on-board touch controller, keypad interface and remote control.

Pricing for the ArtistaMEDIA™ single-board network media player and application software is under $300.00 each at 1000 units. Delivery is 4-6 weeks A.R.O. For additional pricing and delivery information, contact Apollo Display Technologies, Corp., 85 Remington Blvd., Ronkonkoma, NY 11779. Tel: (631) 580-4360; Fax: (631) 580-4370; Email: sales@apollodisplays.com; Web: www.apollodisplays.com

Reader Service Inquiries: Please send to Richard McKay at sales@apollodisplays.com, or mail to Richard McKay, Apollo Display Technologies, Corp., 85 Remington Blvd., Ronkonkoma, NY 11779.