As the world of professional sports continues to evolve, so do the stadiums that house these beloved teams. Gone are the days when a stadium’s primary purpose was to provide a venue for the game – today’s stadiums are expected to be much more than that. They need to be cutting-edge, technologically advanced platforms that offer an unforgettable experience for fans.
And powering all of this new technology is the job of low-voltage professionals. From installing the latest in WiFi and DAS systems to ensuring the scoreboard is always illuminated, these men and women are critical to ensuring that stadiums can keep up with the ever-changing landscape of professional sports.
So, how exactly are low-voltage professionals powering the latest stadiums? Let’s take a look.
Installing WiFi and DAS Systems
One of the most critical ways low-voltage professionals power stadiums is by installing WiFi and DAS (distributed antenna systems) systems.
As any sports fan knows, there’s nothing quite like being in the stadium on game day. The atmosphere is electric, and the sense of community is palpable. However, one of the drawbacks of being in the stadium is that it can be difficult to stay connected to friends and family who are watching the game from home. Thanks to WiFi and DAS (distributed antenna systems), fans can stay connected no matter where they are in the stadium. WiFi enables mobile devices to connect to the internet, while DAS ensures a robust and reliable signal throughout the stadium. This means fans can keep their friends and rivals posted as the game rolls on.
Powering the Scoreboard
Another important way that low-voltage professionals and audio-visual technicians help stadiums create the ultimate fan experience is by providing the power and tech connectivity necessary to operate the scoreboard and jumbotron. These massive displays are one of the most iconic features of any stadium, and they require a significant amount of power to operate.
Take, for example, the Baltimore Ravens video wall; it’s a genuinely remarkable piece of technology. Spanning the field’s length, it gives fans an up-close and personal look at the action. But what sets the video wall apart is how it brings the game to life. Using a combination of high-definition cameras and computer-generated images, the video wall creates a realistic, three-dimensional experience that makes you feel like you’re right on the sidelines. And with its robust speakers, the video wall also delivers all the sounds of the game, from the crowd’s cheers to the crunch of pads colliding. It’s an immersive experience that puts you right in the middle of all the action.
Game-day Grub Delivered to your Seat
And thanks to the work of low-voltage professionals, fans can sit back and enjoy a cold beer or hot brat while watching their favorite team without ever having to leave their seats. This convenience not only enhances the fan experience but also helps to boost revenue for stadium operators.
Providing Emergency Power
In addition to powering the day-to-day operations of a stadium, low-voltage professionals also play a critical role in providing emergency power. In the event of a power outage, stadiums must have a backup plan to ensure the game can continue.
The 2013 Super Bowl power outage was a brief event during the third quarter of the National Football League championship game. The memorable moment happened when some stadium lights went out, and the play was suspended for about 34 minutes. Despite the unexpected interruption, stadium officials could maintain safety and keep fans comfortable until power was restored. Emergency generators kicked in, and the game resumed without further incident. While it was undoubtedly an inconvenience, the quick response showed that the stadium was prepared for such an emergency.
Low-voltage technicians and A/V techs play a significant role in energizing game days, from keeping score to connecting fans to each other and ensuring safety. Mike Schiano, managing partner at Fieldlink, a low-voltage professional services firm, said, “It can be rewarding to be part of the construction process for a sports stadium. When you step back and see the results of systems behind the scenes, it can be exciting to know that you played a role in it.”
Can you See Yourself in Low Voltage and Audio/Visual technology Career?
Interested in a career that can plug you into delivering technology on a massive scale? Fieldlink can be a partner on your path to success. www.fieldlink.net