As Oslo evolves into a more connected and commuter-friendly city, Ruter (the public transport authority for the Oslo region) has undertaken a major digital transformation to modernize the real-time information passengers receive at bus and tram stops. With over 2,100 stops and a growing fleet of buses and trams, ensuring consistent, up-to-the-minute updates across the network is essential to providing a seamless passenger experience.
Ruter partnered with ZetaDisplay to deliver a full-scale upgrade of its real-time signage infrastructure. The result is a modern, robust and inclusive solution powered by custom-engineered digital hardware, delivering real-time clarity.
Challenges
The aging signage infrastructure presented a series of challenges for Ruter. Many of the existing screens were dependent on 2G mobile networks, and although some of the existing passenger information screens were well known and familiar to regular travellers, the underlying infrastructure was approaching end of life. A significant portion of the network relied on 2G mobile connectivity, and many displays no longer offered the performance, resilience or accessibility required to support modern, real-time public transport information.
Key challenges included
Reliability risks
Legacy displays offered limited support for service disruption messaging and were vulnerable to weather and environmental conditions.
Accessibility issues
Older screen flicker rates interfered with smartphone screen reader apps, making it harder for visually impaired users to access real-time travel data.
A tight deployment window
A time-critical upgrade programme was required ahead of the planned shutdown of 2G networks. The project successfully transitioned the majority of screens before the deadline, significantly reducing the risk of service disruption.
Solution
ZetaDisplay implemented a turnkey digital signage solution tailored specifically to the complexities of the Norwegian public transport network, combining rugged, transit-optimised hardware with a combination of ZetaDisplay’s proprietary Engage CMS and Ruter’s own CMS for seamless content delivery.
At the heart of the solution were high-performance double-sided stretched LCD displays, installed across Oslo’s network of on-street stops.
Key solution includes
Outdoor Displays
Tram and bus stops were upgraded with double-sided 36.6″, 37″ and 42″ stretched-format TFT LCD screens capable of 24/7 operation. These displays feature ultra-high brightness levels (up to 2500 nits), wide viewing angles and robust aluminium casings with anti-reflective laminated glass, ensuring maximum readability in varied lighting and weather conditions.
Diagnostic Intelligence
Integrated sensors and remote monitoring tools allow for real-time diagnostics of internal temperature, humidity, shock and fan speeds. This smart infrastructure supports remote on/off/reset capabilities, reducing maintenance time and maximizing uptime.
Efficient Deployment
Each individual installation was executed smoothly. Screen swaps were carefully coordinated to avoid unnecessary downtime, ensuring that stops receiving new displays remained operational throughout the upgrade process.
Outdoor Info Pillars
At bus and tram stops, ruggedised outdoor InfoPillars designed by Kuori were deployed. These IP65-rated structures include 32” FHD displays with automatic brightness control, IK10-rated vandal protection, and natural convection cooling systems to withstand extreme weather and direct sunlight.
Powered by
All displays are centrally operated through ZetaDisplay’s Engage Suite. Content is delivered via an integration with Ruter’s central information system, while playout, real-time updates, alerts, and proactive monitoring are managed across the entire fleet and network.
Benefits
This strategic investment has transformed Ruter’s real-time communication infrastructure, ensuring the network is both future-proof and built for inclusivity:
Real-time accuracy
High-speed connectivity and advanced display controllers deliver near-instant data updates, reducing passenger uncertainty and improving journey confidence.
Enhanced accessibility
Displays are designed to minimise flicker, ensuring compatibility with screen readers and better visibility for visually impaired users.
Resilience in motion
The transit-grade, weather-resistant design of outdoor displays ensures consistent performance, even in Oslo’s demanding climate.
Operational efficiency
Remote monitoring and diagnostics reduce maintenance response times and enable preventative support, minimising disruptions. Through intelligent design, reliable technology, and expert execution, ZetaDisplay and Ruter have raised the bar for public transport communications, creating a smarter, more accessible network for everyone.
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