Alabama Media counts on Lightware technology for complex video transmission on landmark LED-cube project
Opened in November of 2023, the LDLC Arena in Lyon, France, is a testament to the colliding worlds of modern entertainment and state-of-the-art technology. This multi-purpose indoor venue, with a seating capacity of 16,000 for concerts and 12,000 for sporting events, is already considered a world-class destination. Central to the arena's technological framework is Lightware's MX2-8x8-DH-8DPio-A matrix switcher, a vital component in ensuring seamless integration and operation of the venue's advanced audiovisual systems, notably an eye-catching LED cube.
The LDLC Arena project was overseen by Alabama Media, in collaboration with VINCI, the main contractor. Alabama Media's extensive experience and understanding of live entertainment demands informed their approach to this large-scale installation. The project required a shift from traditional design concepts to innovative solutions that would meet the venue's diverse needs, from sports events, such as Euroleague Basketball, to concerts from artists including Eric Clapton and Green Day.
The primary challenge was to create a flexible yet robust system capable of handling seamless video playback for a rich variety of events and use cases. The central feature of the arena is a 17-tonne motorised LED cube, equipped with four 3.9mm Absen LED panels, each measuring 8m x 4.5m and offering stunning visuals for the audience.
"A motorised ring under the cube, consisting of four 6m x 1m Absen PL3.9 V10 LED panels, adds another layer of dynamic visual engagement,” says Xavier Aucagne, Technical Project Manager at Alabama Media. “The cube required a sophisticated control system to manage its operations and broadcast capabilities.”
Alabama Media selected Lightware's MX2-8x8-DH-8DPio-A matrix switcher for its unmatched capabilities in handling high-definition video and audio signal transmission. The switcher's support for 4K UHD resolution at 60Hz with RGB 4:4:4 colour space and its ability to down-convert to 4:2:2 were critical features on the LDLC project. Its compatibility with HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2 inputs, without the need for adapters, simplified the integration process.
"Lightware technology, combined with its compatibility with Novastar processors, ensures high-quality broadcasting whatever the broadcast scenarios,” confirms Christopher Dubost. “Lightware's technical support in the French office and at HQ worked with us to ensure that the grid operated correctly with Novastar technology in the specific technical configuration.”
A further benefit to using MX2 is that it ensures redundancy and the ability to switch from one server to another in the event of a technical problem, a critical advantage during live events and broadcasts.
The implementation phase, from April 2023 to September 2023, involved meticulous planning. The MX2-8x8-DH-8DPio-A's crosspoint switching functions, available via direct keys on the front panel, allowed for flexible and precise control of the signal paths. This capability was crucial for managing the various display requirements, from the central LED cube to the perimeter LED banner and additional scoring screens.
