The contract was managed by LTP's Jonathan Adkins: LTP handled the specification of lighting systems internally, utilizing PA Installations to assist with the signal processing and control infrastructure of the sound systems, plus all the AV, and IT / Control technologies. For sound reinforcement design, LTP called in VSI. Adkins comments: "It was a huge asset being able to offer the client a complete sound, visual and control solution. Having one company dealing with all the elements reduced the administration and planning time needed, and ensured we could deliver the project efficiently and on budget in a very short lead and installation time."
The Platinum Rooms re-opened in September and offer new state-of-the-art facilities, additional capacity and improved flexibility, plus a bespoke reception and registration area.
This latest phase of the ExCeL technical development also included the provision of new ILight architectural lighting dimmers throughout both Levels 2 and 3, and refurbishment of Strand LD90 dimmers for event lighting.
LTP specified an AMX NetLinx system for fully integrated control throughout Levels 2 and 3, which ties the whole installation together. This was supplied with a set of touch panel remote screens, chosen as the most flexible solution and enabling lighting, sound and AV elements in all areas to be controlled from anywhere on both levels. The level 3 Platinum Rooms can be divided into four separate areas or be configured as one, two, three or four rooms. The AMX is also ideal for fuss-free re-configuration of sound and lighting elements according to how the space is utilised for a specific event or conference.
The sound system was designed by Richard Vaughan of Vaughan Sound, the specialist architectural and corporate audio division of the PAI Group. ExCeL's new sound system uses TOA full range ceiling speakers throughout both levels, chosen for their discreet appearance - almost invisible - and excellent clarity for spoken word. The Platinum suite element of the project features over forty 60W speakers. A BSS Soundweb 9088 takes care of system processing and digital routing of all inputs into the AMX system. Amplification is from Cloud.
LTP picked iLight's iCAN programmable source controller modules for architectural lighting control throughout Levels 2 and 3, including the reception areas. The dimmers feature 128 scenes of memory, inductive relays for non-dim loads and MCB protection. Local lighting control for each room on Level 2 is available via a wall panel control, and the iCAN's are also connected back to the AMX system for global control. Partition Key Switches in each Platinum Suite wall indicate where the retractable walls are stored, and are used to inform the main processor if the wall is in open or closed positions. These also offer seven simple onboard lighting scenes.
For an additional event lighting control - for visiting clients - LTP supplied a neat, easy-to-operate Zero 88 Alcora lighting desk. An Artistic Licence Art-NET system using Up-Lynx inlets and Down-Lynx outlets is utilized for hooking everything to the control racks and dimmers, so guest clients have a flexible DMX control system at their disposal. The venue's existing four Strand LD90 dimmers were re-installed into the new dimmer room, their circuits terminated and re-commissioned by LTP.
(Lee Baldock)
