Portsmouth Football Club Switches to IP-Based Audiovisual Technology

Portsmouth Football Club Switches to IP-Based Audiovisual Technology

Portsmouth Football Club, renowned for its vibrant match-day atmosphere, witnesses an increasing fan base. As a result, the demand for a versatile hospitality space expanded beyond just football. To address this need, the Warrior and Victory Lounge at Fratton Park has been modernized thanks to a collaboration with Workspace AV and cutting-edge Visionary AV-over-IP solutions.

Initially, the existing lounge setup proved insufficient to accommodate a variety of events, including conferences, corporate presentations, and fine dining events. The absence of an integrated AV system further exacerbated the issue, making it difficult to display live TV, manage digital signage, or deliver quality audio. The technical setup was equally cumbersome, hindering the efficiency and usability of the space. Recognizing these challenges, Portsmouth FC sought a solution that would enhance the fan experience and ease high-end event hosting.

To tackle these problems, the club partnered with Workspace AV to undertake an innovative overhaul aimed at transforming the lounge into a modern, multi-functional venue. A crucial element of this upgrade was the integration of a Visionary AV-over-IP system, which enabled each screen to have individual control, ensuring seamless content distribution and allowing for effortless expansion in the future. The club's investment in Visionary's AV over IP technology guaranteed future-proof performance, since expanding the system would not necessitate costly infrastructure adjustments.

This transformation was complemented by an Embed Signage system, empowering the club to centrally administer its digital signage, ensuring that all screens showcased relevant and engaging content. The introduction of live TV streaming across multiple screens advanced the viewing experience, while Extron audio components were installed to deliver dynamic sound quality. The organization of iPad-controlled Extron processors simplified AV management, allowing staff to effortlessly adjust settings with minimal training.

A highlight of the project was the incorporation of a 9-foot Dahua LED screen with an impressive 1.5mm pixel pitch, ensuring high-resolution visuals suitable for both sporting events and professional presentations. Seven additional professional displays were thoughtfully placed throughout the lounge to maximize visibility.

Elsewhere in the venue, the Fan Zone was integrated into the AV system, featuring an interface to the DJ booth, enabling direct DJ control and ambient audio distribution. The installation of external IP-rated speakers ensured that event audio from the Warrior and Victory Lounge could be seamlessly extended beyond the main hospitality space.

Courtesy of the Visionary PacketAV Matrix Series, the entire AV infrastructure retains adaptability, offering ultra-low latency and superior video quality. This means that whether the lounge operates as a single space or is divided into separate areas, every display receives high-quality, synchronized content.

During the installation phase, the Visionary AV-over-IP system, Extron audio components, and Dahua LED display were meticulously deployed and integrated. The process focused on linking Embed Signage and live TV across all displays, guaranteeing a seamless and synchronized experience. The automation phase introduced the iPad-controlled Extron processors, furnishing an intuitive and user-friendly interface for AV management.

Following the installation, the system underwent comprehensive testing to verify that each component functioned flawlessly. Portsmouth FC staff received hands-on training to manage the new AV setup with confidence.

The modernization of the Warrior and Victory Lounge has significantly impacted Portsmouth Football Club's hospitality and event capabilities. The venue has transcended its previous Identity, offering a flexible and technologically advanced space that caters effortlessly to diverse functions.

The new AV solutions have significantly heightened fan engagement, offering immersive visuals and high-quality audio that elevate the match-day experience. The availability of live TV streaming, digital signage, and dynamic audio promises real-time, engaging content for fans.

Going forward, the lounge has emerged as an ideal venue for corporate events, fine dining experiences, and conferences. The ability to divide the space into two separate areas or combine it into a single large venue offers exceptional adaptability, opening up new commercial opportunities for the club.

The simplified AV controls have also resulted in a 50% reduction in event setup times, streamlining operations and increasing efficiency. Darren Parker, Portsmouth Football Club's head of technology, praises the transformation as "remarkable." He acknowledges that the AV solutions have improved fan experiences on match days while transforming the space into a sought-after venue for corporate events.

1. By integrating Visionary AV-over-IP technology, Embed Signage for digital signage management, and Extron audio components, Portsmouth Football Club's Warrior and Victory Lounge has been transformed into a versatile, technologically advanced venue suitable for events like conferences, corporate presentations, and fine dining, in addition to football.
2. The installation of a 9-foot Dahua LED screen, seven professional displays, and IP-rated external speakers has improved the viewing experience for sporting events, professional presentations, and ambient audio distribution in the Fan Zone.
3. The modernization of the Warrior and Victory Lounge has resulted in a 50% reduction in event setup times due to the simplicity of the iPad-controlled Extron processors, enhancing efficiency and catering seamlessly to diverse functions, including football matches, corporate events, and fine dining experiences.

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