News

Louisiana Superdome rebuilding with LG displays, CR control system

June 14, 2007

DALLAS — When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans, the Louisiana Superdome quickly became a symbol for the devastation that followed. Stripped of major sections of its roof, rain poured into the stadium, wrecking valuable furnishings and electronics alike. The damage continued as frustrated refugees, trespassers and looters turned on the facility that was first a beacon of hope.

Among the casualties were the televisions in the Superdome's extensive in-house cable network. Fortunately, the RF cable and Contemporary Research TV control system were undamaged. As part of the site's amazing restoration effort, modern LG flat-panel LCD displays replaced the old Philips Smart TVs. Upgrades to skyboxes and other areas will take place in a series of phases.

Much like the rebirth of the Superdome, the restoration illustrates that there is a lot of life left in sports facilities' existing RF television systems. The familiar round coax cable that branches throughout the site has now become their new "GHz video network" — able to carry digital cable and off-air HDTV broadcasts, live in-house HDTV channels, and HD digital signage, and even control communication to all displays.

"The transition to digital technology is in full swing at sports venues around the country," said Contemporary Research communication director Doug Engstrom. "The Wachovia Center (76ers), AT&T Center (Spurs), University of Virginia John Paul Jones Arena and the Superdome are just a few of the sites who have made the change."