Utilizing the Industry Leader in
Digital Signage Hardware

Yes and no. In order for the device to receive presentation changes you make, it does require a high speed (10Mbps+) internet connection. A wired internet connection is best and strongly recommended. In the event that a wired connection is impossible, WiFi is an option as an upgrade. If there is a network or internet outage, the device will continue to play content from the internal storage card, ensuring uptime and visibility of your practice messages. However, the device will not receive presentation updates until an internet connection is restored. This does allow for offline playback in locations with limited or no internet connection. Certain live data such as social feeds and weather will not be current when no internet connection is present.

DSID devices are shipped to your practice location and arrive ready to plug and play, including what you need to connect to one screen. If your setup is simple, such as one screen in the waiting room, and wired internet is accessible, a capable team member could install it near or behind the TV screen within 5 minutes. For more complex setups involving a server closet and/or multiple screens, we recommend the assistance of an AV or IT professional. Establishing the cabling infrastructure is usually what takes the most time in any install. If you need recommendations for a local AV professional, DSID has partners we can refer you to. Regardless of who installs your DSID device(s), our support team will provide assistance to help guide you to success.

The location of your DSID device will be determined by the number of screens you intend to connect to, the locations of those screens, and the video and internet cabling that is either already in place or needs to be installed. Overall, your DSID device should be positioned somewhere that is easily accessible to team members, free of moisture and excessive dust, and not prone to extreme heat or drastic temperature fluctuations.

Out of the box, a DSID device can connect to a single screen with the supplied HDMI cord. You can connect to multiple screens provided you have signal distribution infrastructure in place. This includes a signal splitter and compatible cabling running to each screen. DSID does not sell or provide splitters, but can advise on what to purchase. Be aware that the signal from one device will be the same across all screens it is connected to. Your monthly fee is not affected by the screen count.

The answer to this will be determined by the distance between the screen(s) and the DSID device(s), as well as the total number of screens involved. HDMI cables generally work fine for distances of 10ft or less. If the distance is greater than 10ft, HDMI over CAT6 is recommended. This method uses CAT6 ethernet cord to run the majority of the distance. Then powered senders and receivers are used on either end of the CAT6 cable to transfer back into an HDMI format. Learn more HERE. If you are building or upgrading an office, you should have CAT6 cabling run between your server closet and every area where you intend to have a TV screen. This is recommended as an AV best practice and futureproofs the building for any AV setup.

At a minimum, each screen should be capable of a resolution of 1920×1080 (Full HD/1080p), and contain at least one HDMI input port. The type and size of the screen will depend on the space in question. For example, the specifications of a screen for a single-person treatment bay will differ in size from a screen for a large, open-plan waiting area. Likewise, a screen that is facing onto a busy street through a window and running 24/7, will need to be brighter and more robust than a standard TV. The main variables to factor in are: viewing distance, ambient light/glare, and uptime (how long the screen will be on for each day). Whatever your needs are, DSID can advise on what to purchase. For the most part, standard, big-brand, consumer-grade screens bought from your local appliance vendor will suffice.