Planar Adds Touch to Clarity Matrix
At InfoComm 2011, Planar Systems claimed to be the first display manufacturer to introduce an LCD videowall solution with integrated, multitouch capabilities.
At InfoComm 2011, Planar Systems claimed to be the first display manufacturer to introduce an LCD videowall solution with integrated, multitouch capabilities. Planar’s Clarity Matrix Touch provides a turnkey solution for deploying multitouch videowalls in public spaces, interactive signage applications, and commercial and government collaboration rooms, according to the company.
Clarity Matrix Touch combines DViT (Digital Vision Touch) technology from Smart Technologies with Planar’s ultrathin LCD videowall system and proprietary ERO (Extended Ruggedness and Optics) optically-bonded glass touch surface. The new integrated touch solution is ideal for adding interactivity to busy retail locations, corporate environments, collaborative meeting rooms, and military or utility mapping rooms, Plana officials said.
“Touch is changing the world of video displays,” said Steve Seminario, senior director of product marketing for Planar Systems, in a statement. “Clarity Matrix Touch enables new levels of user interaction, collaboration, and annotation previously unachievable with a turnkey videowall solution.”
Planar’s ERO glass is optically bonded to the front of each LCD, eliminating the need for a separate protective surface and enabling modular installation and maintenance. Standard configuration kits streamline installation of the touch system. The proximity of the LCD screen and ERO glass reduces parallax error that can occur when interacting with protective glass surfaces mounted farther from the screen. The bonded glass screen also prevents the buildup of hot air between the glass and the screen. Excessive heat can damage LCD picture quality and shorten the life span of the displays.
The modular design enables larger video walls in different sizes and configurations. The Clarity Matrix Touch will debut in three sizes and configurations: 92 inches (2×2), 130 inches (3×2), and 138 inches (3×3). Users interact with the screen using fingertips and gestures to scroll through menus, expand and shrink images, or create written annotations.