Glossary
Below you will find many of the terms used in our industry.
No glossary terms found.
Core Display & Hardware Terms
Digital Signage
Digital signage refers to screens used to display digital content such as promotions, menus, announcements, wayfinding information, videos, pricing, and branded messages.
Digital Display
A digital display is any electronic screen used to show visual content, including images, video, text, menus, advertising, or interactive information.
Commercial Display
A commercial display is a screen designed for business use, built for longer operating hours, better durability, higher brightness, and professional installation.
Consumer Display
A consumer display is a standard TV or monitor made for home use. It is not designed for continuous commercial operation or demanding public environments.
LED Display
An LED display uses light-emitting diodes to create bright, high-impact visuals, commonly used for large screens, shopfronts, outdoor signage, and video walls.
LCD Display
An LCD display uses liquid crystal technology with a backlight to show images. It is commonly used in commercial screens, menu boards, kiosks, and information displays.
OLED Display
OLED displays use self-lighting pixels, allowing deep blacks, strong contrast, and vibrant colours. They are often used where premium image quality is important.
MicroLED
MicroLED is an advanced display technology using tiny LED pixels to deliver high brightness, strong contrast, and long lifespan, often used in premium large-format displays.
Video Wall
A video wall is a group of screens or LED panels joined together to create one large display area for advertising, information, or visual impact.
Seamless Display
A seamless display is designed to reduce visible gaps between panels or screens, creating a cleaner and more continuous viewing experience.
Bezel
A bezel is the frame around the edge of a screen. Smaller bezels are preferred for video walls because they reduce the visible gaps between screens.
Dual-Sided Display
A dual-sided display has screens on both sides, making it ideal for windows, shopping centres, walkways, and areas with foot traffic from two directions.
Stretch Display
A stretch display is an ultra-wide or unusually shaped screen used for shelves, transport signage, retail displays, and spaces where standard screens do not fit.
Transparent Display
A transparent display allows digital content to appear over products or objects behind the screen, often used in retail, showrooms, and product showcases.
Outdoor Display
An outdoor display is built to handle sunlight, weather, temperature changes, dust, and public environments while remaining bright and readable.
High Brightness Display
A high brightness display produces stronger light output, making it easier to see in bright environments such as shop windows, outdoor areas, and sunlit spaces.
Touchscreen Display
A touchscreen display allows users to interact directly with the screen by touching buttons, menus, maps, product information, or ordering systems.
Interactive Display
An interactive display allows users to engage with content rather than simply view it. Common uses include kiosks, wayfinding, product browsing, and self-service ordering.
Kiosk
A kiosk is a self-contained digital unit that usually includes a screen, enclosure, software, and sometimes payment, printing, scanning, or ordering features.
Self-Service Kiosk
A self-service kiosk lets customers complete tasks themselves, such as ordering food, checking in, browsing products, paying bills, or finding information.
Totem Display
A totem display is a freestanding vertical digital signage unit, commonly used in retail stores, shopping centres, venues, lobbies, and public spaces.
Shelf Edge Display
A shelf edge display is a digital screen or label positioned along a retail shelf to show pricing, promotions, product details, or stock information.
Electronic Shelf Label
An electronic shelf label, or ESL, is a digital price tag used in retail environments to update pricing and product information automatically.
Digital Menu Board
A digital menu board is a screen-based menu used in restaurants, cafes, takeaway stores, and quick-service restaurants to show products, prices, promotions, and specials.
POS Display
A POS display is a screen used near a point of sale to show promotions, pricing, customer information, loyalty messages, or order details.
Wayfinding Display
A wayfinding display helps visitors navigate a location using maps, directions, directories, room information, or interactive search tools.
Display Specs & Technical Terms
Resolution
Resolution describes the number of pixels on a screen. Higher resolutions generally produce sharper images, clearer text, and more detail.
HD
HD stands for High Definition and commonly refers to a display resolution of 1280 × 720 pixels.
Full HD
Full HD refers to a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels and is widely used in commercial displays, menu boards, and digital signage systems.
4K
4K resolution usually refers to 3840 × 2160 pixels, providing significantly more detail and sharper visuals than Full HD displays.
8K
8K is an ultra-high resolution format with approximately 7680 × 4320 pixels, designed for premium large-format and future-focused display applications.
Aspect Ratio
Aspect ratio describes the shape and proportional width-to-height relationship of a display, such as 16:9 for widescreen displays.
Pixel Pitch
Pixel pitch measures the distance between pixels on an LED display. Smaller pixel pitch values generally provide sharper image quality at closer viewing distances.
Pixel Density
Pixel density refers to how many pixels are packed into a display area. Higher pixel density results in finer detail and sharper content.
Brightness
Brightness refers to the amount of light a display produces. Higher brightness levels improve visibility in brightly lit or outdoor environments.
Nits
Nits are the standard unit used to measure display brightness. Higher nit ratings indicate brighter screens suitable for high ambient light conditions.
Contrast Ratio
Contrast ratio measures the difference between the brightest whites and darkest blacks a display can produce, affecting image depth and clarity.
Refresh Rate
Refresh rate measures how many times per second a display updates its image and is measured in hertz (Hz).
Viewing Angle
Viewing angle refers to how far from the side a display can still be viewed clearly without colour distortion or reduced brightness.
Colour Gamut
Colour gamut describes the range of colours a display can reproduce. Wider colour gamuts generally provide richer and more accurate colour reproduction.
HDR
HDR, or High Dynamic Range, improves image quality by increasing contrast, brightness range, and colour detail.
Bit Depth
Bit depth refers to the number of colour variations a display can produce. Higher bit depth allows smoother colour gradients and transitions.
Frame Rate
Frame rate measures how many individual frames or images are displayed each second in video content.
Backlight
A backlight is the light source positioned behind an LCD panel that makes the screen image visible.
Local Dimming
Local dimming allows sections of a display backlight to dim independently, improving black levels and contrast performance.
Burn-In
Burn-in is permanent image retention that can occur when static content remains on certain display technologies for extended periods.
Anti-Glare Coating
Anti-glare coating reduces reflections on a screen surface, improving visibility in bright or highly lit environments.
LED-Specific Terms
SMD LED
SMD stands for Surface Mounted Device. SMD LEDs provide strong colour performance, brightness, and viewing angles.
DIP LED
DIP stands for Dual In-line Package. DIP LEDs are known for durability and high brightness, suitable for many outdoor LED applications.
COB LED
COB stands for Chip on Board. COB LED technology mounts LED chips directly onto a board, helping create smoother visuals and finer pixel pitches.
LED Module
An LED module is a smaller section of an LED display containing groups of LED pixels that combine to form a larger screen.
LED Cabinet
An LED cabinet is the structural frame that houses LED modules, power supplies, and display control components.
Front Service
Front service refers to LED displays that can be installed and maintained entirely from the front side of the screen.
Indoor LED
Indoor LED displays are designed for internal environments where viewing distances and brightness requirements differ from outdoor installations.
Outdoor LED
Outdoor LED displays are engineered to withstand sunlight, weather conditions, dust, moisture, and temperature changes.
IP Rating
An IP rating measures how well a product is protected against dust and water intrusion. Higher ratings provide greater environmental protection.
IP65
IP65 indicates a display is fully protected against dust and resistant to low-pressure water jets from multiple directions.
IP67
IP67 indicates a product is dust-tight and capable of withstanding temporary immersion in water under specific conditions.
Calibration
Calibration adjusts brightness, colour consistency, and image uniformity across an LED display to achieve a balanced visual result.
Fine Pixel Pitch LED
Fine pixel pitch LED refers to LED displays with very small pixel spacing, producing sharper visuals for close viewing distances.
Dead Pixel
A dead pixel is an LED or display pixel that no longer functions correctly and may appear permanently black or discoloured.
Connectivity & Media Terms
HDMI
HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface, is a common cable connection used to transmit digital video and audio between devices and displays.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi allows displays and media systems to connect to a network wirelessly without requiring physical network cables.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a wired networking technology commonly used for reliable and stable communication between digital signage devices.
Media Player
A media player is a device or system used to store, process, and deliver content to digital signage displays.
SoC
SoC, or System on Chip, refers to displays with built-in processing power capable of running signage software without an external media player.
Cloud-Based System
A cloud-based system allows content and devices to be managed remotely over the internet from a central platform.
Codec
A codec is software or technology used to compress and decompress digital video and audio files for playback and streaming.
Live Streaming
Live streaming delivers real-time video or events directly to displays over an internet connection.
Offline Playback
Offline playback allows content to continue displaying even if the internet connection becomes unavailable.
Networking & Performance Terms
Bandwidth
Bandwidth refers to the amount of data that can be transferred across a network connection within a certain period of time.
Latency
Latency is the delay between sending and receiving data across a network. Lower latency improves responsiveness and real-time performance.
CDN
CDN stands for Content Delivery Network and refers to distributed servers that help deliver digital content faster and more efficiently.
Edge Computing
Edge computing processes data closer to the device or display instead of relying entirely on central cloud servers.
Uptime
Uptime measures how long a system, network, or display remains operational and available without interruption.
Failover
Failover is the automatic switching to a backup system or connection if the primary system fails.
VPN
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and creates a secure encrypted connection between devices over the internet.
High Availability
High availability refers to systems designed to minimise downtime and remain operational even during failures or maintenance.
Software & CMS Terms
CMS
CMS stands for Content Management System and refers to software used to upload, schedule, organise, and manage digital signage content.
Cloud CMS
A cloud CMS allows users to manage screens and content remotely through an internet-connected platform.
Content Scheduling
Content scheduling allows different media and messages to appear at specific times, dates, or locations automatically.
Playlist
A playlist is an organised sequence of images, videos, messages, or layouts that play on a display.
Dynamic Content
Dynamic content automatically changes based on live data, schedules, weather, pricing, inventory, or other connected systems.
API Integration
API integration connects digital signage systems with external software platforms such as POS systems, inventory, bookings, or business applications.
Remote Management
Remote management allows users to control screens, update content, and monitor systems without visiting the physical location.
Zone Layout
Zone layout divides a display into multiple sections so different content types can appear simultaneously.
Proof of Play
Proof of play reporting confirms when and where content was displayed across digital signage networks.
SaaS
SaaS, or Software as a Service, refers to cloud-based software delivered through an online subscription model.
Retail & QSR Terms
Digital Menu Boards
Digital menu boards replace printed menus with digital screens that display products, pricing, promotions, videos, and scheduled content.
Self-Ordering Kiosk
A self-ordering kiosk allows customers to browse products, customise orders, and complete purchases without staff assistance.
Queue Management System
A queue management system helps organise customer flow by displaying ticket numbers, wait times, and order status updates.
POS Integration
POS integration connects digital signage or kiosks with point-of-sale systems so pricing and order information stay synchronised.
Dayparting
Dayparting automatically changes menu or promotional content based on specific times of day, such as breakfast or dinner periods.
Quick Service Restaurant
A quick service restaurant, or QSR, is a fast-paced food service business focused on quick ordering, preparation, and customer turnaround.
Dynamic Pricing
Dynamic pricing automatically adjusts pricing based on conditions such as promotions, stock levels, demand, or time.
Loyalty Integration
Loyalty integration connects signage or ordering systems with customer rewards and membership programs.
Retail Analytics
Retail analytics collects and analyses customer, sales, and engagement data to support better business decisions.
Contactless Ordering
Contactless ordering enables customers to place orders without physical interaction through kiosks, QR codes, or mobile systems.
Installation & Infrastructure Terms
Wall Mounting
Wall mounting refers to securing a display directly onto a wall using a compatible mounting bracket or structure.
VESA Mount
VESA mount refers to the standardised mounting hole pattern used on displays and brackets for installation compatibility.
Enclosure
An enclosure is a protective housing designed to shield displays and electronic equipment from damage, weather, dust, or tampering.
Thermal Management
Thermal management controls heat within displays, kiosks, and electronic systems to maintain performance and reliability.
Cable Management
Cable management organises and conceals power, network, and AV cables for safety, reliability, and cleaner installations.
UPS
UPS stands for Uninterruptible Power Supply and provides temporary backup power during outages or power interruptions.
Site Survey
A site survey evaluates the installation environment, infrastructure, visibility, power, and connectivity requirements.
Security & Compliance Terms
Data Security
Data security protects digital signage systems, networks, devices, and information from unauthorised access or misuse.
Encryption
Encryption converts information into a secure format that helps protect data during storage and transmission.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication adds an additional security step by requiring a second verification method during login.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity protects digital systems, networks, and connected devices from cyber attacks and security threats.
GDPR
GDPR, or General Data Protection Regulation, is a privacy law governing how personal data is collected and managed.
Penetration Testing
Penetration testing evaluates system security by simulating cyber attack scenarios.
Intrusion Detection
Intrusion detection monitors systems and networks for suspicious or unauthorised activity.
Analytics & Business Terms
Audience Measurement
Audience measurement estimates how many people view or interact with digital displays, campaigns, or content.
Dwell Time
Dwell time measures how long a person remains near or interacts with a display or digital experience.
ROI
ROI, or Return on Investment, measures the value or financial return generated compared to the cost of a solution.
KPI
KPI stands for Key Performance Indicator and refers to measurable values used to track business objectives and success.
Foot Traffic Analysis
Foot traffic analysis measures customer movement and visitor patterns within physical environments.
Heat Mapping
Heat mapping visually represents areas where users spend the most time or interact most frequently.
Predictive Analytics
Predictive analytics uses historical data and algorithms to forecast future trends or customer behaviour.
Sales Uplift
Sales uplift refers to increased sales performance resulting from marketing campaigns, promotions, or digital signage initiatives.
Advanced & Emerging Technology Terms
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence, or AI, refers to computer systems designed to simulate human decision-making, learning, and problem-solving.
AI Personalisation
AI personalisation uses artificial intelligence to tailor content, recommendations, and digital experiences based on customer behaviour or contextual data.
Machine Learning
Machine learning is a branch of AI where systems improve performance and predictions by analysing data over time.
IoT Integration
IoT integration connects displays and digital systems with smart devices, sensors, and internet-connected technologies.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality overlays digital graphics or information onto the real-world environment through screens or connected devices.
Beacon Technology
Beacon technology uses small wireless transmitters to send information or trigger actions on nearby devices.
NFC Technology
NFC, or Near Field Communication, allows short-range wireless communication between compatible devices.
Touchless Technology
Touchless technology enables user interaction without physical contact, often through gestures, voice, or mobile devices.
Edge AI
Edge AI processes artificial intelligence tasks directly on local devices instead of relying entirely on cloud servers.
Adaptive Content
Adaptive content automatically changes based on audience behaviour, location, schedules, or live data inputs.
Content & Creative Terms
Content Strategy
Content strategy is the planning and management of digital content to support business goals, customer engagement, and brand communication.
Motion Graphics
Motion graphics are animated visual elements used to create more engaging and dynamic digital signage content.
Video Content
Video content uses moving visuals to communicate promotions, information, branding, or customer messaging.
Branding
Branding ensures digital content aligns with a company's colours, fonts, logos, and visual identity.
Call to Action
A call to action encourages viewers to take a specific next step, such as purchasing, enquiring, or interacting.
Animation
Animation uses movement and transitions to make digital content more visually engaging.
Template Design
Template design creates reusable layouts that maintain consistent branding and content structure.
Responsive Content
Responsive content automatically adjusts to different screen sizes, layouts, or display orientations.
Data-Driven Content
Data-driven content changes dynamically based on connected business systems, analytics, or live information.
User Experience
User experience refers to how viewers or customers interact with and perceive digital content or systems.
Digital Experience
Digital experience refers to the overall interaction users have with digital content, systems, and environments.
Brand Messaging
Brand messaging communicates a company's values, products, and identity through digital content and communication.