ePaper displays offer a new approach to sustainable, energy-efficient digital signage technology. Unlike conventional screens, ePaper displays do not require power to display static content — only when the display is changed does a minimal amount of energy get used. This makes them ideal for permanent installation in environments where content needs to be updated regularly but displayed constantly.
Advantages of ePaper technology
The advantages of this technology are clear. It boasts extremely low power consumption and excellent readability in daylight. Its paper-like appearance ensures content is displayed in a way that is particularly easy on the eyes. Furthermore, ePaper displays do not emit blue light and do not require backlighting. This makes them ideal for long viewing periods. They are also ideal for displaying static content that needs to be visible at all times, for example in retail outlets, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and public areas.
In addition to their technological strengths, ePaper displays also excel in everyday use:
- Low operating costs – printing costs are eliminated entirely, and minimal energy consumption ensures permanently low running costs.
- Maximum flexibility in placement – no fixed power connection is required, meaning they can be used in changing locations or where there is no power supply.
- Efficient control with minimal effort – content can be managed centrally, quickly adapted and synchronised across locations.
- High visibility at the point of sale – brilliant colour reproduction and excellent readability that increases attention and reinforces the impact of advertising messages or information.
Colour ePaper displays for professional digital signage applications
The SHARP EP-C251 and the Samsung Color E-Paper EMDX are two powerful, energy-efficient, sustainable digital signage solutions. Both models offer brilliant colour reproduction on a paper-like surface and remain highly legible in direct sunlight. They only consume energy when the image changes.The 25.3-inch SHARP EP-C251 uses ACeP technology to produce particularly fine colour gradations and can be flexibly controlled via a CMS, USB, WLAN or Bluetooth.
The 32-inch EMDX from Samsung impresses with its ultra-slim design, IP5x dust protection, and battery life of up to 200 days.
Both displays can be used in portrait or landscape format and can be placed either on a stand or mounted on a wall, making them ideal for use in retail, catering, corporate communications, education and transport.
| SHARP EP-C251 | Samsung Color E-Paper EMDX | |
|---|---|---|
| Screen diagonal | 25,3″ (64,3 cm) | 32″ (81,3 cm) |
| Panel technology | ePaper | E Ink Spectra 6 Color ePaper |
| Resolution | 3200 x 1800 pixels | 2560 x 1440 pixels |
| Battery operation | Possible, external battery unit | Integrated battery, up to 200 days with 1 change/day |
| Weight | 1,9 kg | 2,4 kg |
| Depth | 31 mm | 17,9 mm |
| Connectivity | USB-C, WLAN IEEE 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0 | USB-C, WLAN IEEE 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Content management | Easy and convenient configuration and distribution of content via PC, USB, WLAN or Bluetooth. | Samsung E-Paper Mobile App (Android/iOS), VXT support and custom app (TEP) compatibility. |
Typical areas of application
Thanks to their flexible installation, brilliant display and minimal energy consumption, ePaper displays can be used in a wide range of applications across almost all industries.
- Retail & catering (retail, food & beverage) – Digital menu boards, special offers, advertising posters or price information; customer information, special offers and interactive elements for queue management; flexible placement on shelves, shop windows or special sales areas.
- Education & healthcare – Digital timetables, room allocations, signposts in hospitals or patient information in waiting areas; stylish presentation of projects or student work.
- Corporate & public institutions – Welcome systems, internal communication via digital signage, room plans, agendas or guidance systems; dynamic advertising at train stations, airports and other high-traffic areas.
- Transportation – Clear display of check-in notices, boarding information and timetables for reliable orientation in dynamic environments.
- Hospitality – Personal greetings, event overviews, room information or guest information – elegantly integrated into lobbies, guest rooms or conference areas.
Conclusion
ePaper displays combine maximum energy efficiency with brilliant display quality and versatile usability. They are considered a future-proof solution for anyone looking for sustainable, low-maintenance and eye-friendly digital signage systems. They really come into their own where content needs to be permanently visible, easy to read and energy-efficient at the same time.
Images: Sharp, Samsung, Adobe Stock
