Here comes an e-paper display that can operate entirely wirelessly. That applies to the power requirement as well, as it gets its juice via a wireless power module designed by the Israeli company Wi-Charge. That way, the display does not come with swappable batteries but operates entirely on the power transmitted via the wireless power module. The company has been scouting for partners to manufacture such a display and, as Sixteen-Nine.Net reported, it is going to launch the said display in collaboration with the Silicon Valley-based display tech manufacturer Digital View.
The display otherwise is the E Ink Spectra 6 e-paper technology measuring 13-inches. It comes with an integrated wireless power receiver, and as long as the display is within the range of the wireless power module, it will continue to function as desired. The on-board Wi-Fi unit will let it receive the content for display, with fresh content added for updating at the desired schedule. Firmware updates are also going to be provided wirelessly at regular intervals.
The Wi-Charge wireless power module can transmit several watts of power at distances of up to 30 feet using infrared beams. The company said the power beams are safe as they only impact the target device and do not spread radiation. A single power transmitter can charge several devices around it as long as it is within range.
This is fine with e-paper displays, known to have frugal power requirements. E-paper displays only draw power when the display changes and consumes almost zero power as long as it remains static. This makes it best suited for pairing with the Spectra 6 e-paper display, as a comparable 13-inch LCD or LED display would require significantly more power.
The advantages of such a display module are multifarious. You can carry and install it almost anywhere if the wireless power module is nearby. That way, the display is almost like a wireless picture frame. When used for advertising purposes or providing information, the display can be relocated to a different location where you feel it can be more effective. The results can be stunning when placed against a glass wall where the complete lack of wires will be more perceptible than anywhere else.
Wi-Power will, however, only contribute to the power aspect, while Digital View will take care of the display and associated electronics. Digital View has been in the business for over 20 years and has been primarily involved in making LCD controllers. That makes it among the earliest SaaS digital signage CMS companies, though we have seen the company name change from Digital View to Digital View Media over the years. It later became known as EnQii and then ComQi, which Taiwan-based display manufacturer AUO now owns.
Interestingly, AUO is also engaged in a different partnership with E Ink to manufacture large-sized e-paper displays for commercial applications.