Glossary A–ZLetter M
Multi-zone (zone)
In a multi-zone layout the screen is divided into areas, called zones, that run independently of each other.
A typical example is video at the top, a ticker at the bottom and a clock in the corner.
Each zone has its own playlist and can be changed without touching the others. Head office can fill the main area while a branch only maintains the zone with the daily offer. Common layouts have one large main zone and one or two narrow strips for news, weather or waiting numbers. In SMIL such areas are called regions.
Too many zones make a screen restless; from a distance no single area can be taken in properly. Content must be created for the exact size and aspect ratio of its zone, otherwise borders or distortion appear. Several videos running at the same time put a heavy load on the player. A zone on the screen should not be confused with zones of a shop, such as the entrance or the till area.