Hardware
Purchasing digital signage requires that the unit pay hardware, installation, annual, and ongoing costs.
Digital signage configurations have a wide range of options and can differ greatly in size and functionality between setups. Display options vary from small touch screen tablets to massive video walls.
The vast majority of digital signage configurations here at IU are 1080p HD flat screen displays with a small form-factor Windows computer tucked behind the display.
Most modern displays are rated for 30,000 - 60,000 hours of use.
Cost
Hardware and software setup for IT Pros.
To calculate the total cost of a digital signage installation, sum the amounts of these components:
- PC, Smart TV or Tablet PC
- Monitor/Display (not needed for Smart TV or tablet)
- Mounting hardware for monitor/display
- Physical plant installation/mounting
- Network hardware, power outlets, cables and/or accessories (if needed)
- Annual software license
The Bloomington campus hires installations in-house from Facilities Operations. Most other campuses hire installation services from outside vendors. Purchasing and Capital Projects will coordinate those efforts. Installation costs may vary and can include adding power and network connections, wall build out, etc.
Unfortunately we cannot provide rough estimates of the total cost for a given digital signage hardware setup since the options for displays and configuration are wide and varied.
IU knowledge base provides a list of vendors to purchase hardware. Work with IU Purchasing to order the hardware. Hardware ordering instructions and contact information can be found on the Purchasing website.
The annual fee for each digital signage license is $160.
This fee covers the license for the software used to run the signs, technical support and system maintenance charges.
*A portion of the license fee is used to supplement the cost of AIRA -a service that connects people who are blind or visually impaired with a sighted person via iPhone or Android to provide visual information to those who need it.
