Installed by systems integrator, Hecla Professional Audio & Video Specialists, two Lighthouse 10mm LED screens, one measuring 2.56m (w) x 6.72m (h), the other 2.56m (w) x 1.92m (h) are flown above a pool of water in the centre of the lounge. "We chose these screens because of their perfect pixel pitch for this application, reliability, and their IP-65 water resistant front rating, as they are above water and need to meet with stringent safety regulations," explains Peter Slütter of Hecla. "M4 Technology [Lighthouse's proprietary uniformity control system] is also a very important factor, because we are managing the screen and its content remotely."
Hecla has been involved in the project from its inception, providing advise and design for the complete system - including 14 LCD CNN Airport TVs, a HoloPro screen with projector and all related audio systems - from fabrication of the hanging mechanism, rigging construction, designed of special control software, complete installation, service contract and content management.
The content management is via a Philips Adtraxion system. The control of the electronics (LED video screen, DVD, Adtraxion, audio, wireless mic, tuner, power on and off, etc) was designed by Hecla through a web interface and complete control of the CMS management is from Hecla's office in Hengelo. Another Dutch company, Lukkien, provides the content. This takes the form of a 'Narrowcast' - a new concept that targets specific groups of people with centrally controlled audio-visual messages in order to maximise effect and impact. The 'Narrowcast' can include advertising, still images, video and multimedia put together in a dynamic format that can be displayed on an individual screen or simultaneously on all screens within a network, getting the right message to the right audience at the right time - ideal for this type of environment.
"The combination of flexibility, durability and reliability of our screens makes them ideal for airport installations," comments Lighthouse's Director of Sales - Western and Central Europe, Michiel Hettinga, who has worked closely with Hecla during the project. "This type of system not only provides entertainment and information for airport customers, but it can give a very quick return on investment through advertising revenue."
(Lee Baldock)
