We recently began a three part series featuring the top questions that we received from airlines at the Aircraft Interiors Expo in Hamburg last month. The first question addressed seat back IFE systems. Today, I’ll be addressing the second most asked question.
Question 2 - “How does content loading work?”
Not only were we asked this question frequently at the show, but this is usually one of the first questions to come up with any prospective customer. Content loading is really just one part of a larger logistics picture, which includes battery charging player cleaning, and repair and maintenance.
Content Loading
The digEplayer L7 uses a proprietary port on the bottom of the device to connect to a custom content update station. The station allows you to connect up to 100 digEplayer L7s at one time and stream content. The player also receives power while connected to the station.
Some of the features include:
- Small footprint (only requires a small space)
- Truly plug and play (just stick the player in and it will connect and begin the update process)
- Simplified logistics
Battery Charging
Also a piece of custom equipment, we provide a ** bay charger that is kept in a provisioning area at the airport (often within the caterer’s area). Just drop the battery into an open slot and and turn the charger on.
Part of our in-flight entertainment offering is to provide a complete or turn-key solution. What that means is that we help you find a provisioning solution that fits your needs. We will work with you to either train your team to handle the provisioning tasks or work with a third party vendor. In some cases, we have team members on-site to help as well.
We aren’t in the business of handing over an IFE program and saying, “Well, best of luck to you.” Rather, we are dedicated to creating a long-term relationship built on trust.
Player Cleaning
digEplayer cleaning is also mostly handled on the ground. Between flights or each day, the players come off the airplane and have their batteries swapped out and are cleaned. If the players need to be cleaned by the flight crew, then we can also provide approved wipes that can be kept in the gallery cart.
Repair and Maintenance
Some basic repairs can be performed by the airline or by a third party on-site. However, for most repairs, the player is sent back to one of our facilities where it is serviced and repaired. To ensure prompt attention to units needing repair, we usually agree on a mutually acceptable turn around time.
Keep in mind that the digEplayer L Series has been designed to be rugged and weather wear and tear that comes from daily use. So we have found that fewer players are coming in for repairs.
