Widescreen vs. 4x3 Discussion

BrightSign can be used with widescreen or 4x3 displays. However the use of different display aspect ratios with the various BrightScreen options can often be confusing. In this section we try to clarify what you can expect.

Displaying Videos

Video and Images are currently treated a little differently. When a video is being played back, it is displayed by default in what is known in BrightSignese as “ViewMode 0”. In other words the video, whatever its aspect ratio, is scaled to fill the current output resolution (as set by the videomode command). What this means from a practical point of view is that you should author the content for 16x9 if you intend to use a 16x9 display modes (any component mode). If you intend to use one of the 4x3 display modes (any VGA mode, for example 1024x7678), then you should author the content for 4x3. If you author your video for widescreen, but play it back at 1024x768 or 640x480, it will look “squished”. It will not be automatically letterboxed like a DVD player would do. For example, the aquarium video that is included in the BrightSign demo (can be downloaded on our web site) is “widescreen”. It will look squished when displayed in VGA, but will look correct when displayed in 720p.

Using a custom script or modified autorun.bas, you can force a 16x9 video to be letterboxed. Using “ViewMode 1” sets the video to be letterboxed and centered while maintaining aspect ratio. You can read more about “ViewMode” in the Object Reference Manual. Assuming a roVideoPlayer object called “video”:

video.SetViewMode(1)

video.PlayFile(“\Aq.mpg”)

Note – SetViewMode is not currently implemented on the HD2000

Displaying Images

On the other hand, BrightSign displays images smarter. It knows the image resolution, and it assumes that all VGA resolutions are 4x3, and that all “component” resolutions (except 480p) are widescreen. BrightSign will then scale the image according to the imagemode setting. However, if you hook up a widescreen VGA monitor to the VGA port, you can expect to see distorted images. This is because 1024x768 is a 4x3 mode, and your widescreen monitor will stretch it. To avoid this confusion, for widescreen modes, it is best to use a component input monitor.

Supported Input Devices

With the 1.x version of the BrightSign the following devices can be connected to a BrightSign. If you have specific requests for device support, contact brightsignsales@rokulabs.com. We are constantly adding new device support and the ones we pick are customer driven.

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Roku HD2000 manual Widescreen vs x3 Discussion, Supported Input Devices, Displaying Videos, Displaying Images

HD2000 specifications

The Roku HD2000 is a staple in the streaming device market, celebrated for its user-friendly interface and robust features. This compact device allows users to access a wide range of content from various streaming services, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to elevate their home entertainment experience.

One of the standout features of the Roku HD2000 is its support for high-definition streaming. The device outputs content in 1080p, providing crisp visuals and vibrant colors. This HD capability ensures that users can enjoy their favorite shows, movies, and live sports in impressive detail, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

In terms of connectivity, the Roku HD2000 offers both wired and wireless options. Users can easily connect the device to their home Wi-Fi network, allowing for uninterrupted streaming without the hassle of cables. Additionally, the Roku HD2000 includes an HDMI port, which ensures compatibility with a wide range of televisions and sound systems.

The device is powered by a user-friendly software platform that presents an intuitive interface. The home screen displays a grid of channels, making it easy for users to find and access their favorite streaming services. Roku's operating system also supports thousands of channels, including popular services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. This extensive library ensures that users always have something to watch.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Roku HD2000 is its voice search functionality. Through the Roku mobile app or the included remote, users can search for content using voice commands. This feature simplifies the process of finding shows and movies, making the device accessible to users of all ages.

The compact design of the Roku HD2000 allows it to fit seamlessly into any entertainment setup. Its minimalist aesthetic and lightweight build make it easy to move around or hide away, yet it remains powerful enough to deliver a top-notch streaming experience.

Overall, the Roku HD2000 combines advancements in streaming technology with user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to access a wealth of entertainment options from the comfort of their home. Whether for binge-watching series or catching live sports, the Roku HD2000 stands out as a reliable and versatile streaming solution.