Content distribution and offline operation

Overview and explanation

From a saved change to the device

When a user creates or changes a campaign, application, visual or targeting, the server receives the change and determines which devices are affected. It sends each device the required instructions, for example what to download, update, remove or stop using. Under normal conditions distribution begins within seconds; completion also depends on file size and connection speed.

Background synchronisation

While downloading new content, the device does not interrupt current playback. A very subtle coloured activity indicator, only a few pixels high, appears at the bottom of the screen. It is not a percentage progress bar; it tells the administrator that the device is synchronising content.

Once the required files and configuration have downloaded, the device switches to the new playlist.

Offline operation

Available local content can continue playing during an outage, within the validity of its schedule and device settings. New changes, remote management, websites and mobile online services require their respective connections. A stored file does not give a campaign unlimited validity. See offline operation and local data and the default visual.

Dynamic visuals are evaluated locally

The Dynamic visuals are also prepared locally. The device downloads all required variants and evaluates the conditions itself immediately before campaign playback, such as time, day, temperature or weather, to select the correct visual.

The server therefore does not select the specific dynamic visual for each individual playback.

What to do after changing content

During a prolonged outage, check the actual screen output. If it is showing the expected content, immediate intervention is not necessary; new changes will arrive once the connection is restored.

• What happens during an internet outage: Losing the connection does not require immediate intervention if the device is still showing the expected content. Available local media may continue according to the valid schedule and device settings. A stored file alone does not guarantee playback after a campaign expires. Check the screen output; during a prolonged outage, the device cannot receive new changes.