While Welsh rugby fans might not have had much to smile about on Saturday, they were the first in Europe to experience customised match content on hundreds of new high definition video displays throughout the Millennium Stadium.
The new TV screens, including two of the biggest anywhere in the UK, were installed by Cisco (NASDAQ:CSCO) Gold partner CAE in a deal worth £3m. Match and event action is now available in high definition and widescreen format for the million plus visitors who attend events at the iconic venue every year.
The technology project is the biggest single investment in the Stadium infrastructure since it was built and opened in 1999.
Iconic
CAE managing director Justin Harling explains: “This project will change the way people will perceive and interact with an iconic landmark and we look forward to our continued partnership with the Stadium.
“This is the first time this technology has been deployed outside of the US. The result is a state of the art media experience that will change the fan experience for years to come and attract the World’s best events to Wales.”
Supporters and fans will be able to see exclusive behind-the-scenes activity captured on high definition cameras which will be able to roam the ground gathering live footage and interviews.
The Stadium revamp also includes a complete new audio installation to ensure all announcements throughout the venue are fully audible to anyone within the building. This was installed by the Wales-based PAI Group and Vaughan Sounds and is networked through the Stadium.
In addition, two new 90 square metre Daktronics LED screens were fixed to the stadium roof to replace the existing pair and will play high definition content.
Olympic opportunity
Says Group Chief Executive of the WRU, Roger Lewis: “The system in the Millennium Stadium will be the envy of venues not only across Europe but across the sporting world. This has been a major project for the WRU Group and we can now deliver all the imagery and information our supporters need in high resolution imagery accompanied by top quality sound.”
Adds First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones: “This puts us in a great position to take advantage of the Olympic opportunity in 2012. The Stadium attracted more than 1m paying spectators last year and makes an important contribution to the Welsh economy as well as making a positive impact on the recognition and reputation of Wales around the world.”
