System on Chip (SOC) Vs Media Players
A System on Chip is an integrated circuit that combines many elements of a computer system into a single chip. In the digital signage industry, this means a display that has a built-in media player, with integrated operating system, typically either Tizen (a version of Linux), Android or WebOS.
By contrast, a traditional Media player is a separate ‘box’ with its own processor, storage, networking and operating system (typically an embedded version of Windows, Linux or Android), attached to one or more displays via cables.
SOC's BENEFITS
Simple solution, with minimal components, great for space constraints
Typically provides lower overall cost for single screen installations
Lower power usage
Wide choice of CMS supporting the key OS platforms
Lower chance of hardware failure, due to fewer components
No cables, resulting in shorter installation time and a cleaner finish
SOC's CAVEATS
Not upgradeable, the whole unit must be replaced should a component permanently fail or not have enough power to cope with new content requirements
Limited processing/graphics power can curtail more advanced content ambitions, although this is becoming less of a factor with every new generation of hardware
Software licence is needed per display, which can significantly increase the TCO over 3 or more years - discrete media players can power several displays from one license.
Every display requires a LAN/Wi-Fi connection - networking is not free
Operating Systems/firmware are not typically upgraded by manufacturers after a display is made End Of Life – this can create an IT security risk
Remote access options can be limited, which can inhibit the support methods available
Limited networking capabilities –corporate networks often will not approve the attachment of an SOC display due to the limited authentication mechanisms supported
Synchronised, multi-screen video walls are only possible with a small subset of CMS platforms
IN OUR EXPERIENCE…
In Pixel’s view, now that the SOC platforms are relatively mature, both SOC and discrete media players have benefits and caveats. They key to success is to ensure that whatever is specified will be able to achieve your content aspirations as they stand now and over the next 5 years, too. It’s not just about the hardware, either; the CMS software that’s selected to operate on the hardware has just as much effect on the overall capability of the solution.
In simple terms, we tend to favour SOC solutions for networks that have limited content complexity, with video and images being scheduled by a Cloud CMS. Discrete media players typically lend themselves to signage networks where there are more advanced content requirements or site/screen density, such as:
Real time data integration, driving content or automated playlist changes
Multi-screen video walls
Enterprise network integration
Local sensor or analytics integration for capturing data or triggering activity
High-end interaction with touch or gesture
Multi-screen sites or video walls
This list merely provides a flavour of the sorts of requirements that may drive a decision. As part of our engagement with clients, we gain an understanding of which approach is likely to be the best option for the long-term, including the option of a heterogenous setup, where SoC and discrete media players coexist across the same signage network.
To find out more, get in touch today