ELECTRONIC SHELF LABEL (ESL)

ELECTRONIC SHELF LABEL (ESL)

Retailers uses an electronic shelf label (ESL) system for displaying product pricing on shelves that can be automatically updated or changed under the direction of a central server, generally on the front edge of retail shelving.

ESL tag modules show the client the current product price using liquid crystal displays (LCDs) or electronic paper (E-paper). E-paper is frequently used on ESLs because it has a clear display, supports full graphic imaging, and only requires power during updates—never for picture retention. In contrast to static placards, a communication network from the central server enables the price display to be automatically updated anytime a product price is modified. Range, speed, battery life, and reliability of applications must be supported via wireless communication. Radio, infrared, or even visible light can be used as the basis for wireless communication. The ESL market is now largely skewed toward radio frequency communication.