The company uses a centralized audio content management system in its stores, which broadcasts background music, advertisements, and customer information. This system is managed remotely from the central office, allowing employees to control the audio content played in sales areas across the country.
The stores use specialized equipment to operate the system: audio amplifiers with a built-in computer (mixers). These are part of the store's audio system: ceiling speakers installed in the sales area are connected to the amplifier, and the built-in computer controls audio playback. The device communicates with the central control system via a network connection and receives commands to play music, commercials, and announcements.
Prior to the project, the client was dependent on a single supplier of such equipment. This created a number of problems: device deliveries were delayed, and the cost of the equipment could increase. With a single vendor, the client had limited choice and limited flexibility in procurement. So the company decided to find an alternative manufacturer and, with their help, develop a new solution.
The stores use specialized equipment to operate the system: audio amplifiers with a built-in computer (mixers). These are part of the store's audio system: ceiling speakers installed in the sales area are connected to the amplifier, and the built-in computer controls audio playback. The device communicates with the central control system via a network connection and receives commands to play music, commercials, and announcements.
Prior to the project, the client was dependent on a single supplier of such equipment. This created a number of problems: device deliveries were delayed, and the cost of the equipment could increase. With a single vendor, the client had limited choice and limited flexibility in procurement. So the company decided to find an alternative manufacturer and, with their help, develop a new solution.
Key Challenges
- Develop a new product –a remote-controlled audio amplifier, conduct tests and establish deliveries
Implemented our solution
Project Launch and Reengineering
In January 2024, the ICL Services electronics design center team received the task of developing an audio amplifier for stores with remote audio content control.
In the first stage, a prototype of a similar device and technical documentation describing its specifications were studied. Engineers conducted a complete reverse engineering of the equipment: they studied the device's design, hardware architecture, and functionality, and then replicated its hardware and design.
As a result, a prototype amplifier was developed that closely matched the characteristics of the device already in use in the customer's infrastructure.
Prototype Testing and Refinement
After the first prototype was created, the device was handed over to the customer for testing. Testing took place in mid-2024, approximately in June. Based on the test results, the customer compiled a list of necessary modifications. The engineering team made changes to the design and prepared a second prototype.
The second prototype was manufactured in September and tested at the customer's facility in October 2024. The testing confirmed that the device met operational requirements. After testing was completed, the parties moved on to the commercial phase of the project. A commercial proposal for equipment supply was approved in November 2024.
Equipment Supply
In 2024, the first test equipment samples—four devices in total—were delivered to the customer. Following successful testing of the equipment within the network infrastructure, serial supply was organized in 2025. During this period, the customer has already received several dozen amplifiers.
Device Specifications
- The developed device is an audio amplifier with a built-in computer module. The built-in computer enables centralized management of audio content in stores via the internet.
- The device connects to the network and can work with the customer's existing audio content management system. This eliminated the need for software modifications and integration work. After installation, the device is connected to the network, the existing software is installed, and it immediately becomes part of the centralized control system.
- The amplifier is available in several models. They differ in power levels, allowing the equipment to be used in rooms of varying sizes and with a different number of speaker systems.
- All models have identical functionality, form factors, and case dimensions. The devices use the same processor modules and controls. This means that store employees are virtually unaware of the differences between the models—operation remains identical.
Results
- The project allowed the client to increase the predictability of equipment deliveries, reduce dependence on a single supplier, and mitigate the risks associated with potential supply disruptions.
- A more sustainable equipment procurement model was established. If necessary, the client can distribute orders among multiple suppliers, thereby ensuring stable upgrades and maintenance of the stores' audio infrastructure.