Review: Peerless-AV Universal Outdoor Digital Menu Board

(Image credit: Peerless-AV)

The Peerless-AV Universal Outdoor Digital Menu Board brings the eye-catching simplicity of outdoor menu boards and signage to the masses. This universal mounting and display system is both simple and durable. As expected, it will support the Peerless-AV Xtreme High Bright Outdoor Displays (XHB553), but it will also support other displays from other manufacturers, such as the Samsung OHF Series (OH55F) and LG XE4F-M Series (55XE4F-M).

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The versatile system is available in a single (KOF555-1), double (KOF555-2), or triple (KOF555-3) configuration with a single base and has several available options. In any configuration, this unit makes for a simplistic design. It has a standard 8-inch mounting pattern on the base with rotation, so it will match any standard outdoor base.

Upon close inspection, it’s clear the unit is well built. You’ll find all the expected features including an all-weather rating, UL certification, textured powder coat paint, security screws, and solid metal panels. The rear access panel allows for easy installation of the optional accessories, including the UL-rated electrical box, media shelf, and storage fan.

The speaker and microphone kit is an easy add on. It includes a speaker and microphone system, but it also accommodates most major drive-thru speaker systems.

Outdoor Menu Board — (Image credit: Peerless-AV)

One thing that stands out with the design is service. Should any issues arise with the displays themselves, the design allows for easy service from the front without disturbing the adjacent displays. From an installation standpoint, this system can be easily and quickly installed by two people.

The Peerless-AV Universal Outdoor Digital Menu Board is a great product for outdoor signage. It is impressive, robust, and simple. These offer great flexibility and value to any client looking for maximum impact at their business. Paired with the Peerless-AV outdoor displays they make for the perfect combination of a quality display and robust outdoor installation.

Jeremy Caldera, CTS-D, CTS-I is an expert in the professional audiovisual industry with over 25 years of experience. Currently a senior vice president of audiovisual technology at Pearl Technology, a leader in AV and IT services based in Peoria, IL, Caldera specializes in the planning and design of audiovisual systems, organizational management, employee motivation, and the development of corporate standards and business growth strategies. Caldera is also a partner at BNCO Consulting and Top Shelf Digital Media.

Caldera is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. He worked with his alma mater, Columbia College, to form a partnership with the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA) to develop an Audiovisual Systems Integration concentration within the college’s Audio Arts and Acoustics department. This partnership served as a model for what is now a major tenant of the AVIXA Foundation, which provides access to skills education, career pathways, and hands-on experiences to inspire the next generation of leaders in AV.

Caldera is an active volunteer both within the pro AV industry and his community. He previously served as the chair of AVIXA’s Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) Certification Program where he oversaw the development and administration of CTS, CTS-D, and CTS-I certifications. From 2017 to 2019, Caldera was a member of AVIXA’s Leadership Search Committee which appoints and develops mentors to serve on the AVIXA Board of Directors. He also is the chair of the committee for the renewal of the AVIXA/ANSI 2M standard. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Junior Achievement of Central Illinois and the Morton Premier Soccer Club.

Caldera holds a B.A. in Audio Arts and Acoustics from Columbia College, and has won several industry and community awards and honors, including: Systems Contractor News Hall of Fame (2021); iBi’s Peoria Top 40 Leaders under 40 (2017), the NSCA’s Randy Vaughan Founders Award (2017), AVIXA’s Educator of the Year (2017), Commercial Integrator’s 40 under 40 (2015), and AVIXA’s Young Professional Award (2015).