Boating-related editorial and advertising content is now being displayed throughout Cowes thanks to the creation of a high-defenition (HD) digital signage network, called iZone, by The Knowledge Zone (TKZ), publishers of Cowes Online.

The project was carried out in conjunction with with Dynamax Technologies, a global leader in digital signage solutions, and Solutions Inc, the UK’s premier Apple Premium Reseller, and wireless network innovator.

“The introduction of iZone is the next logical step for The Knowledge Zone in significantly expanding the reach and distribution of our sailing and boating content to a much broader and more engaged target audience,” says managing editor Steve Sleight. “Digital out-of-home media networks, such as iZone, are important components of our content creation and distribution strategy, and offer tremendous opportunities worldwide to deliver rich, compelling, and useful information, as well as powerful advertising from our marketing partners.”

The initial iZone network rollout consists of 12 HD screens stationed throughout Cowes. One screen is at Cowes Yacht Haven, while others are deployed in the town’s most popular pubs. Unlike most digital signage installations, which exclusively display advertising messages, the iZone network broadcasts useful editorial content, as well as advertising. Using a multiple-region format for the screens, the network broadcasts live and recorded HD sailing video footage produced by TKZ; current sailing conditions on the Solent; weather reports and forecasts; tide information; and scrolling news headlines provided by major news sources and TKZ’s Cowes Online web site.

In the future, the new network will enable TKZ to deliver live content directly from the water to the shoreside audience, who, in previous years, has not been able to get close to the action on the race course. Additional plans include extending the network of screens operated by TKZ to other locations throughout the Isle of Wight and onto the UK mainland, and the development of a mobile network to provide real-time race updates, live video, and information to mobile devices.

The iZone system in Cowes is securely networked by state-of-the-art wireless technology, and powered by Dynamax Technologies’ POV digital signage content management, preparation, and delivery application. Solutions Inc supervised the network’s design and technical requirements, and installed its wireless nodes and screens. The three companies worked collaboratively to ensure the interoperability of all components, perform multiple operational tests, and bring the network online.

With the availability of the new iZone network, yachting enthusiasts can permanently experience HD content related to each day’s competition during Skandia Cowes Week, as well a wide range of related footage and information on the system throughout the remainder of the year.

“This distinctive, specialised digital out-of-home media network deployment truly showcases POV’s world-class flexibility, scalability, and functionality, as well as its penchant for efficiently managing complex architectures across multiple technology platforms,” said Ian McKenzie, chief executive officer at Dynamax Technologies. “Moreover, this installation also demonstrates POV’s ease of use, seamless integration, and utility in a wide range of diverse indoor and outdoor environments, industries, and market segments.”