DF-1710 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Last Updated:12 February 2003

How do I load images, movies, and sounds onto the DF-1710?
Media files (and optionally, script files to control their playback) can be loaded to the DF-1710’s internal hard drive from a network connection (wired or wireless), CD-ROM, or memory cards. Memory cards require an external USB card reader (not included).


Do I need a computer to use the DF-1710?
No. By simply inserting a CD-ROM or memory card (with external card reader) a slideshow will be automatically generated. While you cannot change the order of images in an automatically-generated slideshow or the names of slideshows without a computer, you can change the display time, transition effect, scaling mode, and rotation angle of all pictures in slideshows using the on-screen menu system. You can pause and resume playback and step forward and back through the slideshow using the remote control.


Do I need a digital camera to use the DF-1710?
No. Most photo processors today offer to digitize your film pictures and put the files on CD-ROM for you for a nominal charge. You can just drop off your film and request a CD-ROM in addition to or instead of prints. The CD-ROM can be loaded onto your DF-1710 for instant viewing of your pictures. Scanning services are also available for digitizing old negatives and/or prints you may have and putting those on CD-ROM as well.


How do I set up and control my slideshows?
DF-1710 slideshows are controlled by "script files" which are simple text files listing each media item in the order they are to be played, together with any playback options desired. When a CD-ROM or memory card is scanned a script file is automatically generated by the DF-1710 for playing all media found on the CD or card in alphabetical order, so you don’t need to do anything except insert the disk or card. Image time, transition effects, and other options can be set with the on-screen menu system and remote control. If you want to specify the play order non-alphabetically, or set playback options on an image-by-image basis, then you’ll need to write a script file. Script files can be written with any word processor or text editor. They can be included on CD-ROMs and memory cards, in which case they will override the auto-generated script when the CD or card is scanned, or they can be sent to the frame via a network connection. The name you give your script file is the name that will appear in the "Select Slideshow" menu.


Can I use the DF-1710 for "internet photo sharing" with friends and relatives?
Yes, it’s simple (and free, no subscription charges!) to set up a remote frame for photo sharing if the recipient has an ethernet connection to the internet (i.e. DSL or cable) and you have a personal web space such as that provided by your ISP (AOL, Earthlink, etc.) or your own website. The user manual contains a brief tutorial on doing this. Basically you install on the recipient’s frame (prior to giving it to them) a one-line script file telling the frame to use a remote script on your personal web space. When that script (slideshow) is selected by the recipient, they will see whatever slideshow (script and image files) you have uploaded to your personal web space. If their frame is disconnected from the internet for some reason they can still watch the slideshow as of its last update, since the files are "cached" locally on the recipient’s frame.


Do I need special software to use the DF-1710 with my PC?
No. The DF-1710 is designed to use readily-available (and free) tools, i.e. word processors, web browsers, and FTP client programs.


How do I use the DF-1710 on a network?
DF-1710’s can be controlled on a local network or over the internet. You communicate with networked DF-1710’s using the internet-standard FTP protocol, either with a common web browser or an FTP client program. Files can be transmitted to individual DF-1710’s or the DF-1710’s can be set up to fetch their files from a remote server or servers.


Does the DF-1710 support wireless networking?
Yes, wireless networking (also known as 802.11b, "WLAN", or "Wi-Fi") is supported using the Linksys WUSB-11 USB wireless network adapter. The WUSB-11 is a small module that plugs into the DF-1710’s USB port and can be attached to the side of the DF-1710 using hook-and-loop or other adhesive tape and will be hidden behind the DF-1710’s decorative frame.

Can I connect the DF-1710 directly to just one computer instead of a network?
Yes, using an ethernet "crossover" cable, you can connect a DF-1710 to one computer directly.


What is the resolution of the DF-1710’s screen?
The DF-1710 uses an active matrix TFT LCD panel with a resolution of 1280 x 1024 pixels with a dot pitch of 94 x 99 DPI. The DF-1710’s software, however, drives the LCD at a resolution of 1024 x 768. The end result is that the optimum image size for a full-screen image is 1024 x 768, however the image quality is closer to what you would expect from a 1280 x 1024 display.


What size should my images be for display on the DF-1710?
The optimum size for still images (jpegs) is 1024 x 768 pixels. Depending on the scaling options specified with the menu settings or by your script file(s), images larger or smaller than that can automatically be scaled to fit the screen or displayed at their actual size. The optimal frame size for MPEG movies is 320 x 240 pixels and they will fill the screen at that size.


Can the DF-1710 play DVDs?
No


Can the DF-1710 play audio CDs?
No, but this feature may be added in a future software upgrade.


How do I upgrade the software in my DF-1710?
If your DF-1710 has an internet connection, you simply select "Upgrade Software" from the Main Menu, and the upgrade will proceed automatically. Upgrade files can also be downloaded from our website and manually sent to frames via network or CD. Note: Upgrading from version 3.x to version 4.x software can only be done via CD-ROM, see the DF-1710 Software Upgrades page of our website for details.


I have two DF-1710’s in the same room. Can I set their remote controls to two different channels so they don’t both respond at the same time?
No, the DF-1710’s remote control system does not accommodate multiple channels.


I love the DF-1710’s features but I want a bigger screen. Can you make larger Digi-Frames?
Yes, please contact us at sales@digi-frame.com or 914-937-4090 for pricing and availability.





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