JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a widely used format for storing and exchanging structured data. In PADS4, JSON files can be used as data sources for real-time digital signage content.

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Steps to Add or Modify a JSON File Connection

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1. Start the Data Provider Wizard

  • Open the Data Provider Wizard using the instructions in Adding a Data Provider or Editing a Data Provider.
  • Select JSON File as the provider type.

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2. Specify the JSON File Location

  • Content Library → Select this option to use a JSON file stored in the PADS4 Content Library.
  • File Name → Choose this option to use a JSON file located outside the content library.
  • Use the browse function to locate and select the desired JSON file.
Recommendation:
If not using a PADS4 Data Server, it is best to store JSON files in the PADS4 Content Library. This ensures automatic synchronization across all connected computers. If a JSON file is outside the library, file distribution must be managed manually.

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3. Configure Text Encoding

  • If the JSON file requires a specific text encoding format, select the appropriate option.

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4. Configure Data Formatting

  • Flatten Hierarchical Data → If the JSON structure contains multiple levels, this option flattens nested data into a tabular format.
  • Include Parent Levels Column Names → Appends parent-level names for clearer hierarchical representation.
  • Create Additional Columns Without HTML Tags → Removes HTML tags from text fields and converts them to plain text.
Proceed to the next step.

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5. Finalizing the JSON File Setup

  • Complete the data provider setup.

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Important Considerations

  • Using PADS4 Data Server
    • If a PADS4 Data Server is in use, ensure that the JSON file is accessible from the server’s point of view.
    • If not using a Data Server, confirm that PADS4 Designer and PADS4 Viewers can access the specified JSON file location.
  • Handling Hierarchical JSON Data
    • If the JSON structure contains multiple levels, enabling Flatten Hierarchical Data ensures better compatibility.
By following these steps, PADS4 can seamlessly integrate and display JSON-based data within digital signage presentations.