Hundreds of new TV screens, including two of the biggest anywhere in the UK, have been installed in the Millennium Stadium to revolutionise the audio and video capability of the venue.
The major technology project is the biggest single investment in the Stadium infrastructure since it was built and opened in 1999.
Match and event action will now be available in high definition and widescreen format for the million plus visitors who attend events at the iconic venue every year.
Supporters and fans will also be able to see exclusive behind-the-scenes activity captured on the latest high definition cameras which will be able to roam the ground gathering live footage and interviews.
The Stadium revamp also includes a complete new audio installation to ensure all announcements throughout the venue are fully audible to anyone within the building.
Two new 90 square metre LED big screens made by Daktronics are being fixed to the stadium roof to replace the existing pair and will play high definition content.
They are linked to more than 400 high definition television screens throughout the Stadium placed strategically as part of a major new modern technology project which enables each one to show different output.
The revamp is the first major project at the UK stadium for the American Cisco technology company which has delivered state-of-the-art solutions for some of the most famous stadia in the USA.
Similar multi-screen Cisco units are already installed at the Dallas Cowboys football stadium, the New York Yankees baseball ground and now at the New York Meadowlands, home of the famous Giants and the Jets football teams.
Cisco have heralded the Millennium Stadium project as their showcase for Europe and a market leader in stadium technology solutions.
The £3million investment project was officially launched today (Friday 5 November) in time to be switched on for the first Invesco Perpetual Autumn International series Wales match against Australia tomorrow.
It has been fully supported by the Welsh Assembly Government as part of the WAG strategy to ensure Wales can deliver on the technological needs of the future.
The entire installation project for all the new systems is being carried out by the CAE company in a work programme which spanned the Summer months.
The 400 other LCD screens ranging from 40 to 52 inches wide have been installed throughout the Stadium in hospitality venues and public areas to ensure all visitors have access to the imagery being projected.
The audio solution installed by the Wales based PAI Group and Vaughan Sounds and is networked through the Stadium.
All the screens and audio outputs are run through a new studio control room fitted with the latest in TV audio and video support systems.
With the new system Stadium bosses can tailor specific live or recorded output to enhance the pre and post match experience for fans as well as the up-to-the-moment information they receive during games.
Commercial sponsors and partners can deliver their messages direct to anything from one to 400 plus screens to ensure the maximum reach.
The Group Chief Executive of the WRU, Roger Lewis, said: “The system in the Millennium Stadium will be the envy of venues not only across Europe but across the sporting world.
“This has been a major project for the WRU Group and we can now deliver all the imagery and information our supporters need in high resolution imagery accompanied by top quality sound.
“We want every single individual who visits the Millennium Stadium to leave armed with special memories of having attended a great event.
“There is an amazing atmosphere “below stairs” on event days and it is important the fans can share some of that magic while they are here in the Stadium.
“We will be able to show them images from the action they have just seen and live images of what is happening behind-the-scenes before, during and after the big events.
“This will enrich their experience of being in the Stadium and take each and every one of our visitors even closer to the action they have come to watch.
“It is also a great opportunity for our commercial partners to engage directly with the people they need to share information with.
“I am delighted with the support and expert guidance we have received from Cisco, CAE, Envision and Daktronics along with the staff at PAI and Vaughan Sounds.
“We have gone to the best technology providers in the marketplace and the results we will achieve are truly amazing.
“The legacy of a project like this is clear to see and we are delighted that has been recognised by the Welsh Assembly Government.
“We have also earmarked funding from LOCOG for use of the Stadium during the 2012 London Olympics to complete this project so we are extremely grateful for their vital support.”
First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said: “This is not only a great opportunity for the Millennium Stadium, but for the Welsh economy as a whole. We believe that by having the first stadium in Europe that provides fans with an integrated sporting experience at such a high level will attract more investment and visitors.”
“This puts us in a great position to take advantage of the Olympic opportunity in 2012. The Stadium attracted more than 1 million paying spectators last year and makes an important contribution to the Welsh economy as well as making a positive impact on the recognition and reputation of Wales around the world.
“Making sure the stadium retains its deserved iconic status as one of the finest major event venues in the world by providing an unparalleled spectator experience is an endeavour the Welsh Assembly Government is delighted to support.”
Phil Smith, Vice President and CEO, Cisco UK & Ireland: “Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the match-day experience for sports fans. When advanced technologies such as high definition and 3D television are becoming available in the home, fans expect the venue experience to be superior to this.
“The Millennium Stadium has taken a big step to transform the in-venue viewing experience by introducing StadiumVision and enhancing the pre- and post-match experience for visitors and commercial partners.
“Cisco is putting video right at the heart of the stadium, enabling the Welsh Rugby Union to provide a highly personalised and tailored experience for all of its visitors making it one of the most technologically advanced arenas in the world.”
