So you've purchased your first Salsa, and you're waiting for it to arrive -- yay! If you don't already have an iPad, that's what you'll need to purchase next.
In order to run the powerful and feature-filled Fiesta Software, you'll want an iPad that's capable of making your Photos, Boomerangs, GIFs, and Videos crisp, vibrant, and fun.
Selecting Your iPad
When selecting your iPad, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Model and generation
- Screen size
- Storage capacity
- WiFi only or WiFi + Cellular
- Warranties and Insurance
Model And Generation
Salsa 1 supports the following iPad models and generations:
iPad Pro
- 12.9" iPad Pro 6th Generation (2022)
- 11" iPad Pro 4th Generation (2022)
- 12.9" iPad Pro 5th Generation (2021)
- 11" iPad Pro 3rd Generation (2021)
- 12.9" iPad Pro 4th Generation (2020)
- 11" iPad Pro 2nd Generation (2020)
- 12.9" iPad Pro 3rd Generation (2018)
- 11" iPad Pro 1st Generation (2018)
iPad Air
- 10.9" iPad Air 5th Generation (2022)
- 10.9" iPad Air 4th Generation (2020)
IMPORTANT: Salsa 1 Booths ship with iPads specifically made for the 12.9" iPad Pro 3rd Generation and later
If you would like to use a different iPad, you can purchase a different faceplate here.
Screen Size
Which screen size is entirely up to you, however each has its own benefits.
12.9" iPad Pro
- Larger, more immersive screen
- Don't need to purchase an alternate faceplate (3rd Generation and later)
11" iPad Pro & 10.9" iPad Air
- Requires less power if running off of alternate power options
- More affordable and cost effective if deploying multiple booths
Storage Capacity
The iPad's storage provides space for you to download the Fiesta iOS app, along with any other apps or files needed for designing and running your events.
The Fiesta iOS app will temporarily store captures before they're uploaded to your Fiesta account. Once the event is over and all captures have been uploaded, they are removed from the iPad to free up space for the next event.
While iPads are available in a range of storage capacities - starting at 64GB or 128GB, and up to 1TB - the base model storage option is more than enough, especially if you plan to use it solely for running events.
Wifi Only VS. Wifi And Cellular
Strong and stable wifi can be a luxury at an event, so having an internet backup plan can be a great idea.
While internet access isn't necessary to start an event, being able to provide the shared photos to guests immediately can be a delightful experience. Some clients choose to use a standalone hotspot for their photo booths, but you can purchase an iPad that has built in cellular connectivity similar to a smartphone.
You can read more about supported carriers and how to subscribe to a cellular plan on Apple's website.
Note: Airprint will not be available when using the iPad's cellular data. If you're planning to offer printing and immediate digital shares at an event without wifi, consider using a dedicated hotspot device.
Warranties And Insurance
New and refurbished iPads sold through Apple and authorized resellers come with a standard one-year manufacturer warranty. However, these do not cover accidental damage, loss, or theft.
Salsa is rugged and robust, but accidents do happen.
AppleCare+, Apple's extended warranty, can come in handy for any "Oh 💩!" situations, which allows for repair or replacement for a nominal service fee. To read more about AppleCare+ you can visit their website.
For coverage of loss and theft, you may want to look into business insurance's offerings for covering these particularly unfortunate situations. Alternatively, if you purchase your iPad through your wireless service provider, they may also provide mobile insurance, usually through Asurion.