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Sun Plaza’s DFS Galleria is not your average airport travel store. Home to some of the world’s finest brands, the fully refurbished Tsim Sha Tsui branch is the epitome of luxury and a symbol of innovation. Much of the credit for that goes to audiovisual, lighting control technology expert BAP Technology Consultants Limited.

BAP has designed systems specifically tailored to client needs across Hong Kong, the Mainland and Macau since its inception in 1998. With retail being one of the fastest growing industries in these parts, a large number of companies seek technical excellence as well as adaptability in their store’s systems design. BAP has completed projects for high-profile clients such as Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chanel,  and Vertu and has established itself as an industry leader and pioneer in this field.

For DFS, the firm was commissioned to implement a full high definition video system across all three retail floors. Everything from video production and content, signal transmission, hardware and software to display panels had to be full HD enabled to make sure the video delivered to shoppers is of the highest visual quality. Tens of hours were spent on researching new technology to build up a flawless program for the client.

A combination of Panasonic projectors, 103” plasma, Samsung LCD display panels Extron touch panel control system and signal converter has provided the perfect solution for the store. BAP employed twisted pair technology for long distance transmission to all display panelsinstalled along the store’s escalators and the display counters. Due to insufficient installation space, a wall above the escalators is converted into a quality projection screen using a specially formulated liquid coating that eliminates the need for expensive masking strategies when displaying a variety of image sizes or aspect ratios. Black gloss paint is used on the slim cases designed to hide the overhead projectors. The paint reflects the surrounding images, hence creating the effect of projection colour. The digital signage system also had to be built with full HD capability so BAP opted for Cayin network digital signage system for its unique dual video output modes, powerful remote management and flexible integration capability. These practical solutions reduce costs and impact viewers with spectacular video effects.

One of the feature attractions of the BAP system was the success achieved in installing a touch panel system for the digital signage throughout the store. Extron TouchLink Touchpanels  are configured to turn on all display panels across the three levels automatically when the store starts to operate and turn off by the end of the day. The systems saves maintenance costs as settings can be easily modified without any programming experience, and at the same time reduce energy consumption because panels can automatically shut down at a specified time. The control is even configured to operate DFS’ video display and associated media players. Operators can manipulate the content broadcasted on different panels through a control at a single location. The control solution proved to be a huge hit with the store.

Working within a tight production schedule is always a challenge. Coordinating with both designers and architects, BAP had to prepare a range of solutions that met the requirements of all parties involved, but judging by the end result, it is evident that the effort paid off. DFS Galleria truly is a visual treat.