E Ink® Technology to Increase Efficiency & Improve The Customer Experience
- Steve Osborne
- Aug 22, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 28, 2024
Revised: Aug. 2024
Following the launch of the Amazon Kindle in 2007, the popularity of e-paper displays has exploded with much of the projected growth due to come from outside of e-reader products.
Given the huge benefits of delivering content digitally, digital signage requirements have grown considerably in recent years, and with an increased focus on sustainability businesses are looking for ways to deliver their vital content efficiently.
In this article we explain the technology behind e-paper displays, why they are so versatile and some typical use case examples as we continue to see impressive growth in the popularity of these displays.
What is e-paper & how does it work?
E Ink®, also known as “electronic ink”, is a type of display technology known for its visual similarities to ink on paper and low power consumption.
Whereas traditional digital displays comprise individual pixels that each display a colour, E Ink® displays are made of a thin film on top of millions of small capsules filled with particles floating in a clear fluid. This means that E Ink® displays only consume power when the arrangement of particles on the display needs to change, in contrast to LED displays which require powered coloured light at all times. As a result, E Ink® displays are highly efficient – taking virtually no power and boasting a great battery life.
E Ink® display technology has further evolved recently to deliver high-quality colour imagery as well as the traditional monochrome the technology is already known for.
Who is using e-paper displays?
Increasingly, we are seeing e-paper displays being deployed in environments where signage in public areas has traditionally been paper-based and has required manual updates. E-paper solutions on the other hand allow for immediate updates – saving time and resources.
Available as fixed or portable units, e-paper displays can be positioned wherever and whenever they are needed most. We’ve seen increasing traction in the transportation market where being able to communicate important public information in real-time and keeping passengers informed is key.
E-paper displays are replacing notification boards in railway stations and transport hubs to impart information regarding delays, changes to routes and security risks and in airports where fixed and portable displays help to improve passenger flow and the departure and arrival experience.
Another popular use for e-paper is at bus stops to display real-time bus arrival and journey times. Providing up-to-date, accurate information helps passengers plan their trips and minimises waiting times, improving the overall customer experience significantly.
Road traffic signs are increasingly becoming a popular use case for e-paper displays, as they can be used to show up to date information to drivers during special events or to warn them of upcoming hazards.
Why do you think e-paper is becoming increasingly popular?
There are many benefits of E Ink® technology, but to summarise some key strengths:
Display quality – E Ink® displays are completely visible in direct sunlight, with no glare. Their paper-like quality appears as clear as if you were looking at a printed page when you read them outside.
Power consumption – E Ink® screens are 36 times more efficient than LCD screens. They draw much less power and can last for weeks on a single charge, making them an attractive option from a cost and environmental perspective.
Cost-effective – given their low power requirements and highly efficient design, E Ink® displays can save you money in the long-term, especially when replacing paper signage that needs to be regularly updated.
Customer experience – E Ink® fixed and portable displays are extremely effective at displaying real-time content to keep people updated and improve their customer experience.
Easy on the eye – unlike other digital displays, E Ink® reduces eye strain with anti-glare technology. In sunny conditions content on E Ink® displays is easier to see, so your eyes don’t have to strain to keep it in focus.
E-paper displays using E Ink® technology have very much established themselves as an effective digital signage solution, outperforming traditional digital displays in many areas. Their low power consumption, easy readability and minimal glare makes them a practical and sustainable solution for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications.
Melford provides a complete range of eco-friendly e-paper display solutions. If you would like to discuss how E Ink® technology could increase your efficiency and improve your customer experience, contact us today for a chat.
Meet The Author - Steve Osborne, Managing Director
Steve has led Melford for over ten years with the recent company achievement being recognised with the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade. With a combined background in manufacturing and electronics, as well as experience consulting on business growth, quality and international export; he has the skills and expertise and a wealth of product knowledge to lead an exceptional team in their delivery of digital technology with unparalleled performance and reliability. When Steve isn’t leading Melford, you will find him at the racetrack trying to improve his personal best or cycling the coastal paths of North Devon.