One Zone or Two?

What is a Zone?

Think of a Zone as a dedicated lane on a ticker where information travels across the display from one end to the other.

Why It Matters

In its most basic standard configuration, a ticker utilizes a single zone to stream data. However, most modern systems offer the flexibility of switching to a dual-zone layout. While single-zone tickers prioritize resolution and maximum viewing distance, dual-zone configurations optimize for data density, allowing more information to be displayed simultaneously..

Most modern tickers can be switched between single-zone and dual-zone configurations post-installation

The following screenshots show the difference between single-zone and dual-zone configurations for the same ticker:

Single-Zone, 96 Pixel Tall, 1554 Pixel Wide Ticker

Dual-Zone, 96 Pixel Tall, 1554 Pixel Wide Ticker (64 Pixels on Top, 32 Pixels on Bottom)

Key Considerations in choosing a single-zone or dual-zone ticker configuration are:

1. Maximum Viewing Distance

Text height is the primary driver of readability. While a single-zone configuration maximizes viewing distance, a dual-zone layout can offer a more refined scale. If the content feels too dominant for the space, switching to two zones adjusts the text to a more comfortable, proportionate size.

2. Resolution / Image Quality

Transitioning to a dual-zone configuration reduces the effective vertical resolution per zone, which can impact image clarity and maximum viewing distance. As seen in the screen captures above, the single-zone layout maximizes edge definition and image quality.

However, resolution constraints can be offset by selecting a display with a finer pixel pitch, such as a P2.5 instead of a P4, to reclaim lost detail.

3. Information Density

A dual-zone configuration significantly outperforms a single-zone layout in data throughput. By reducing text height, it maximizes information density in two key ways:

• Horizontal Capacity: Reducing text height also decreases text width allowing for more text per linear foot

• Vertical Efficiency: Reduced text height permits additional rows of content, transforming the ticker into a high-performance multitasker that displays parallel data feeds within the same footprint.

The Takeaway

Choosing between a single or dual-zone configuration is often a matter of personal preference and environment; there is no single 'right' answer.

Approximately 20% of our clients reconfigure their ticker from one zone to two (or vice versa) within the first two weeks of use

Common Drivers for Configuration Changes:

• Switching to Dual-Zone: To scale down text that feels too dominant for the room or to create a dedicated stream for custom messaging.

• Reverting to Single-Zone: To reduce visual 'noise' and prioritize high-resolution text and maximum graphic impact.

While most modern tickers offer the versatility to switch formats, some hardware configurations are fixed. If post-installation adaptability is a priority, please reach out and we can help verify if the display being considered supports this functionality.