Are you still struggling with your Digital Menu Board Installation? Digital menu boards, a form of electronic digital signage solutions, display menu items, pricing, and promotional content in restaurants, cafes, and other food service establishments.
When compared to traditional printed menus, digital menu boards offer several benefits. They are fully customizable and provide interesting advantages, such as real-time updates and changes, eye-catching graphics, reduced printing costs and waste, and a streamlined ordering process.
However, the switch to digital menu boards can be daunting, especially when it comes to installation. The installation method you choose may involve a trade-off between time, stress, and cost. To make the decision easier, consider whether your time or money is more valuable.
In this article, we’ll give you valuable insights into 3 different digital menu board installation process options, covering hardware and software requirements, connectivity, and testing.
1.Do-It-Yourself Digital Menu Board Installation
Step 1: Installation of the Digital Menu Board Hardware/Display
Installing your digital menu board by yourself is not easy but also not impossible, Here 2 main steps:
Choose the ideal screen location:
Pick an area easily visible to customers, with a sturdy mounting surface and within 6 feet of a power source. If the installation location is far from an available power outlet, consider hiring a licensed electrician to install a power supply. Complete any electrical work before installing the screens.
Consider fire codes and safety:
Fire codes for extension cords can vary by state and county. Use extension cords temporarily and connect power cords to a wall outlet with a surge protector. Review your local fire code regulations for guidance.
Choose the mounting surface:
Both walls and ceilings can work for hanging a display. The main factor is the surface’s sturdiness. If both the ceiling and wall are suitable, choose the one easier to drill holes into, such as a wooden stud.
Find a compatible mount for your screen:
Determine your TV’s mount hole patterns to ensure compatibility with the chosen mount. Measure the distance between the four holes creating a square shape on the screen’s back. Most modern flat panel TVs follow VESA standards for mounting.
Select the appropriate mount and screw size based on your measurements. For screens less than 42 inches, the VESA pattern is usually 200 x 200 mm, while screens larger than 42 inches often use 400 x 400 mm.
Source the right screws for your mounting surface. Mounting brackets typically come with special screws for wooden studs, but you may need different screws for drywall or concrete. Consult your local hardware store for the exact bolts.
Mount your display screen at the chosen location :
Mounting a single screen takes 1-2 hours, and electrical work should be completed beforehand. Plan the installation during your business’s off-hours. For screens larger than 46 inches, have two people assist with the installation. Two people can make mounting smaller screens safer and easier.
Keep in mind that DIY installation can save money, but it requires labor and materials. The cost savings may not be worth the time taken away from managing your business. It might be better to consult or hire a professional.
Step2: Software Installation and Configuration
Once the hardware installation is complete, the next step is to install and configure the digital display software. This typically involves the following steps:
Install the digital menu board software: The first step involves installing the software that displays the digital menu content. You can typically download this software from the vendor’s website or receive it on a disc.
Reputable Digital signage companies, like Display Stream, provide a platform to create, manage, and deploy digital displays. Our company’s platform enables users to develop dynamic and uniquely interactive content for display on various screens, including TVs, monitors, and projectors.
We also provide hardware solutions for digital signage and display, such as media players and touch screens, to improve the user experience.
Customize the layout and content of the menu board: After installing the software, the next step involves customizing the layout and content of the menu board. This process may include selecting a menu design template, uploading eye-catching graphics like high-definition images and videos, and adding menu items and pricing information.
Refer to this article for the best design tips and practices: What Makes A Good Digital Menu Board: Design Tips & Best Practices!
Test the menu board to ensure it displays the desired content: After customizing the menu board content, it’s crucial to test the board to confirm that it displays the desired content. This process may include previewing the content on the digital menu board software or on the physical display itself.
2. Hire an Installation Technician for your installation needs
Hiring a technician for your digital menu board installation is important because it requires technical expertise, saves time, ensures safety, and may come with a warranty or guarantee.
It’s crucial to note that you shouldn’t approve a project request unless the technician can demonstrate that they carry at least $1,000,000.00 of general liability insurance.
A digital menu board is a complex piece of technology that requires expertise to install properly. Hiring a professional can ensure that the job is done correctly, safely, and efficiently, saving you time and potential headaches down the road.
3. Installation Through A Digital Signage Company
For a smooth and efficient digital menu screen installation, consider using a specialized digital signage company.
This eliminates concerns about choosing the right mount, hanging it, or handling legal responsibilities and contractor coordination.
Prioritize safety when selecting an installation method. Though a DIY approach might seem cost-effective, inexperienced individuals should seek a trained professional to mount their display.
Consider service providers offering free installation for a stress-free experience.
It’s also highly recommended to use trained professionals for installation needs, ensuring all essential factors are considered, and potential risks are eliminated.
Conclusion
To ensure a successful digital menu board installation, consider factors such as location, power and network access, appropriate display size and orientation, and secure mounting.
Customize the layout and content of the menu board and test it thoroughly before use. Perform routine maintenance tasks and establish a troubleshooting protocol to minimize downtime.
By following these tips, food service establishments can enhance the customer experience and effectively promote their menu items.