News

Buffalo Technology first to deploy MediaTile smart signs in retail stores

January 6, 2005

SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif. - The MediaTile Company announced that Buffalo Technology, a provider of wireless network equipment, storage solutions and memory products, is the first manufacturer to deploy MediaTile "smart signs" in retail stores. 

MediaTile smart signs integrate three components: a flat-panel LCD or plasma screen, on-board data storage and intelligence to schedule and play content, and integrated cellular data networking services. The new signage solution only requires power at the shelf, eliminating the need in-store IT infrastructure required to receive, schedule and play digital promotional content.

The MediaTile solution enables Buffalo to communicate directly with hundreds of thousands of consumers at the retail shelf, according to a news release. After a successful in-store test at a Fry's Electronics retail outlet in San Jose, Calif., Buffalo Technology will deploy MediaTile devices in all their end-cap locations in 30 Fry's Electronic stores across the United States.

With the new system, Buffalo can upload digital video content quickly and easily, schedule playtimes for content on an aggregated basis, on a store-by-store basis, or on a device-by-device basis. The system also includes built-in monitoring and alerts, and ongoing automatic maintenance for each MediaTile smart sign.

 "We chose the MediaTile solution because it provides us with a tremendous competitive advantage," said Morikazu Sano, vice president of product marketing and public relations, Buffalo Technology.  "We now have a virtual 'digital salesman' right at the shelf, telling consumers about our products. And, if we need to change or update our message, we can do so at will.  Prior to the MediaTile solution, we had absolutely no way of deploying networked digital signage at the shelf."

"Buffalo Technology's use of the MediaTile solution represents a new direction in the market for networked digital signage solutions," said Keith Kelsen, president and CEO of The MediaTile Company.  "We have eliminated the number one barrier to the adoption of networked digital signage for brands and retailers - in-store technology infrastructure."