The e.tv plasma screen touchscreen is custom-made and, although touchscreen technology has been used internationally in weather broadcasts, the station claims it is the first time that it's been applied to a 103-inch (261.6cm) plasma screen. All the graphics and graphics applications needed to implement the touchscreen are also custom-made.
The touch screen adds an interactive dimension to the weather bulletin, as it enables the presenter to draw certain weather features, lines, moving arrows or text onto the plasma, highlighting important weather features or conditions.
Previously, the presenter could point out a cold front on the satellite loop, whereas now he can actually draw the cold front using the touchscreen. This information will then be recognisable by the viewer throughout the weather bulletin, so the entire broadcast can be tied together, helping the viewer understand the basic weather patterns for the day.
The presenter can also indicate the direction of airflow or emphasise an area with certain conditions and features, as in hot and humid conditions in a specific area. Rotating highs and lows can also be added, which allows viewers to conceptualise the flow of the wind around the high and low pressures.
Additionally, text can be added to any slide to indicate specific weather conditions, which will offer the viewer a greater and more in-depth understanding of the weather.
