Finnish-based Digital Signage Products

FGA-60, a Linux-based Multimedia Client

First Technology's latest product is the FGA-60, a Linux-based multimedia client that feeds still pictures and video clips (plus audio) to single or multiple CRTs, flat-panels, and TVs. The device is intended for use in signage and advertising applications in transportation, hospitality, and corporate environments.

The FGA-60 is similar to the FXA-50 multimedia client, but without a built-in display. Instead, FGA-60 provides interface for LCD and plasma TVs, or CRT and LCD monitors. It supports external displays at 640x480 resolution, and a 60 Hz refresh rate.

The user of the FGA-60 transfers multimedia files into it via a LAN or a GPRS connection, or by plugging in a USB memory stick. Multimedia on the device can be managed with First Technology's Embedded Media Server software. Also, the server can drive large number of displays in different locations.

The FGA-60, like its companion product, the FXA-50, is based on First Technology's PXA-3 SBC, which is also offered as a standalone product. The PXA-3 is based on a 300MHz Intel XScale PXA-255 embedded processor along with 32 MB DRAM and 16 MB Flash memory.