PALME pilots launch of world's first 'green' digital billboard

The project was originally conceived to create not only a superior digital billboard, but a complete solution that worked in all outdoor conditions, without causing any harm to the local environment. What emerged was an environmentally friendly range of displays featuring green components, low power consumption, whilst delivering superior visual performance, allowing maximum return on investment.

Wim De Geest, Managing Director, Barco- Middle East, commented,

"The new DB-x20 is the first and only outdoor display that conforms with the restricted use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. In essence this means that for example, all of the components used in this revolutionary product range contain no lead, mercury and cadmium."

"We decided to launch at PALME Middle East because this is the largest gathering of industry professionals throughout the region. The Middle East is one the fastest growing markets in the world and the UAE is renowned for its sustainable initiatives."

Barco's digital billboard is environmentally friendly in several ways. The DB-x20 features the lowest power consumption in the industry through the efficient use of long-life components that produce less heat and require no Heating, Ventilation or Air Conditioning (HVAC). Added Power Factor Correction (PFC) reduces the strain on power networks, conserving energy.

Moreover, an ambient environment controller automatically adjusts screen brightness to complement levels of light during the night or day and a tilted LED configuration reduces skyward light pollution by 26%. Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) ensures that DB-x20 operates in a self-contained field, unaffected by electrical devices and so causes no harm to other electronic devices like cell phones or medical equipment.

The digital billboard is not only green, but also offers unrivalled visual performance. Its 7,600 NIT (units of visible-light intensity which specify the brightness of a display) delivers maximum light levels during midday and guarantees the screen stays brighter throughout its 100,000-hour lifetime. Smart shaders deliver an unequalled contrast ratio of 4,000:1, and Barco's unique 16-bit color processing delivers 281 trillion colors for superior grayscales and striking visual detail.

"This not just a regional first it is a global launch," said Neil Hickman, Group Exhibition Director, PALME. "The fact that Barco has chosen PALME Middle East to unveil their latest billboard is a testimony to our standing within the industry and underscores our international reach."