One of the issues that will delay the massification of 4K technology, as it happens with any new development, is its high cost of implementation.
By Stephanie Gutnik*
One of the usual consequences of the emergence of technological advances is the impossibility of returning to what it once was. From major changes, such as the introduction of color television, to the emergence of smaller features, such as the fingerprint scanner on an iPhone 5S, even the technology's staunchest enemy would admit that novelties soon become staples.
The emergence of 4K resolution is another example. The resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels is admirable and offers an image quality that is identical to printing, another weight factor for conventional printers to venture into the digital signage sector. It is worth asking, how did this strange new love story develop with 4K resolution?
Compression technology has evolved from JPEG and MPEG to H.264/AVC (advanced video encoding) and H.265/HEVC, or high-efficiency video encoding and the standard of 4K resolution. This latest transition from Full HD to Ultra HD delivers four times better resolution at manageable file size and data rate. The number of display manufacturers offering products with 4K resolution at ISE and DSE 2014 confirms that they couldn't be more pleased to meet the demand for such fascinating detail.
SiliconCore Technology introduced a display with 4K resolution (the Orchid 1.9mm model) at ISE 2013 and outperformed itself this year with the launch of a flawless 230" LED display and 4K resolution, with 60% more pixel display than its predecessor.
The high reliability of the 1.5mm Magnolia, as well as its 10 to 12 years of service life, makes this display (and other similar versions) a top-notch product. The fact that it does not require a fan is an added value. MMT (Manufacturing, Methods & Technology) also sent a clear message with its launch of the first transparent 4K resolution multi-touch display, dubbed the Mirage Giant.
Where is the problem? In nothing that has to do with lack of inventory, options or knowledge. Marketers and integrators have set to work to support the 4K wave. In fact, 4K isn't really that new, given that most high-end productions have been carried out in 4K and then reduced to Full HD since RED digital cameras came out several years ago.
That said, high bandwidth costs and the need for creative agencies to produce content specifically for 4K resolution could make it some time before 4K becomes a mainstream offering.
Once this happens, however, it is very likely that many will be on the lookout for the next irreversible revelation. Branded Cities Network is already operating an 8K resolution display in Las Vegas, called Harmon Corner... but let's better focus on one resolution at a time.
*Stephanie Gutnik is a content specialist at BroadSign International, LLC.
