SHIELD TV Pro is one of Nvidia's shield devices, occupying the upper echelon of streaming and gaming devices. It is an advanced version of the SHIELD TV, offering enhanced features and capabilities. This device has an enhanced storage capacity, 4K resolution, and a powerful processor that enables you to display and manage your content effortlessly. This piece discusses the features and specifications of SHIELD TV Pro and how you can turn it into a digital signage player.
Shield TV Pro vs. Shield TV
When it comes to media streaming devices, Nvidia’s SHIELD TV lineup has gained significant popularity among streaming device enthusiasts. This lineup comprises the latest SHIELD TV Pro model and the standard SHIELD TV. Although these two devices share several similarities, several differences set them apart. Let's delve into the features and specifications that make the SHIELD TV Pro model stand out.
Hardware specifications
The SHIELD TV Pro model is as powerful as it is expensive, giving you value for your money. It can also function as a PLEX media player and is equipped with a dedicated GPU, 3GB RAM and 16 GB built-in storage, and a Tegra X1+ processor that can handle demanding tasks like media streaming and gaming. Its internal storage capacity allows you to store a large library of media files and apps directly on the device. Additionally, its powerful hardware ensures smooth 4K HDR video playback, the ability to handle resource-intensive applications, and seamless navigation through menus and apps, making it ideal for digital signage content. Also, it comes with an updated remote control, although it lacks the gaming controller that other previous versions came with. Although the SHIELD TV has a Tegra X1+ processor and provides a memorable Android experience, it still falls behind as it only has 2GB RAM and 8GB internal storage space, which can be limiting.
USB Ports
THE SHIELD TV has impressive specs but USB ports is not one of them. The lack of this feature can limit your connectivity. On the other hand, the SHIELD TV Pro model has multiple USB 3.0 ports, providing enhanced connectivity options. Typically, these ports ensure faster data transfer compared to other USB generations. They simultaneously increase your connectivity to different external devices, like keyboards, televisions, projectors, monitors, and external hard drives. The increased connectivity allows you to expand your storage capacity, providing more space for your media files and applications.
Design and form factor
Although the SHIELD TV and SHIELD TV Pro exhibit a compact and sleek design that can seamlessly integrate into any setup, there are some slight variations. The SHIELD TV Pro model has a minimalist design and blends with the other devices around it. Its compact size enables convenient access and efficient cable management. This device combines both style and functionality while prioritizing practicality.
How to set up SHIELD TV box as a digital signage player
One interesting thing about the SHIELD TV box is that you can repurpose it however you want, including using it as a digital signage player. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you:
1. Connect your SHIELD TV box to your digital screen
Use an HDMI cable to connect your SHIELD TV box to the display you intend to use for your digital signage content. Afterward, enable the TV box to transmit audio and video output to the display.
2. Install and configure the digital signage software
Search for Look digital signage player in the Google Play Store and install it on your device. Once installed, follow the initial setup process on the app before you get a 6-digit initialization code. After that you need to create a personal account in the web-based Look Content Manager. To connect your SHIELD TV to the CMS, click “Add screen” and enter the code in the corresponding field of the modal window that opens. After that you’ll be able to manage the content on your device remotely.
3. Organize and schedule content
You can organize your digital signage content into categories or playlists to make it easier to manage and make updates. You can create separate playlists containing different content, including announcements, promotional videos, or images. Once your content is organized, it is crucial to schedule when and for how long the playlist should be displayed. Specify the timing and frequency of your digital signage content depending on your requirements. For instance, if you own a restaurant, you can display the breakfast offerings in the morning and dinner specials in the evening.
4. Test and preview
First, ensure your digital signage content is properly formatted and compatible with your digital signage display. You can check for aspect ratio discrepancies, or image quality. Also, in case you use a powerful Look’s Layout Designer to split your screen into multiple areas with different content in each, you need to make sure that all content items properly fully match the areas in which you placed them. Use a handy Demo screen feature for that purpose. It opens in the next tab of your web-browser and completely imitates your screen and how the content looks and performs on it. Apart from that, in order to finally make sure that everything on your digital screen looks exactly as you expected, just send your scenario to it and use the real-time screenshot feature available in the Look CMS. Thoroughly testing and previewing your digital signage content is essential in identifying any issues or areas of improvement before delivering it on your screen. Well, now your SHIELD TV box is ready to work as a high-quality yet affordable digital signage player.
The future of SHIELD TV Pro in digital signage
SHIELD TV Pro's versatile software, robust hardware, and connectivity options make it a reliable and cost-effective digital signage player. As technology advances and the demand for digital signage players increase, this device can adapt to emerging trends and consumer requirements. Its potential to run sophisticated digital signage software like Look DS makes SHIELD TV Pro a big deal in the digital signage industry. As developers continue innovating the digital signage space, you can expect more intuitive apps designed for content management and media playback. This device’s ample RAM, storage capacity, and powerful processor make it best suited for handling advanced graphics, and high-definition content to provide a memorable digital signage experience.
Look DS can be a game changer when turning your SHIELD TV Pro into a digital signage player, allowing you to schedule and manage your content effectively.
