Barco Videowall at the University of California, Riverside, With Gefen’s Fiber-Based Signal Extension
When the University of California, Riverside (UCR) set out to enhance its recently renovated, 55,000 sq. ft. Student Recreation Center, it wanted to incorporate a show-stopping display that could show national and school sporting events, relevant information and signage, and up to 16 CATV channels.
To do so, the school turned to local integrator James Gulke from High-Tech Electric to design and install a massive 27’ x 15’ LCD videowall with the ability to display content from a distant source at a moment’s notice. When developing the new system, Gulke knew that the project’s success relied heavily on the seamless delivery of content from various sources to the videowall. He chose commercial digital connectivity and A/V signal processing solution provider, Gefen, to be the project’s behind-the-scenes hero, ensuring reliable fiber-based signal extension and seamless signal delivery.
“UCR wanted an LCD videowall that encourages the students’ participation while they use the Student Recreation Center’s all-new fitness room, rock climbing wall, swimming pool and basketball court,” Gulke says. “I knew that fiber-based signal extenders were an absolute necessity for the videowall to effectively stream content from multiple sources.”
Gulke tested signal extension options from different manufacturers for one that would guarantee the 24/7 signal delivery that the spectacular videowall would require and chose Gefen. Gulke looped video to 16 lead panels in the 7×7 array and, with Gefen extenders in this configuration, he was able to ensure a seamless video delivery with zero latency and around-the-clock reliability.
The resulting ultra-high resolution Barco videowall is comprised of 49 55″ displays stacked in a 7×7 configuration and is able to stream content from multiple sources, including cable TV, DVDs, digital images, and camera feeds from hundreds of feet away. This content can be arranged in various layouts and controlled remotely by tablets and smartphones.
“The customer is incredibly satisfied, but we at High Tech Electric are the ones who really appreciate what goes on behind-the-scenes,” Gulke says. “This is where the Gefen extenders really shine.”
Located just outside Los Angeles, the UCR is home to +21,000 students, touted as one of the most ethnically diverse research universities in the United States. The campus is a living laboratory for the exploration of critical issues such as air, water, energy, transportation, politics, the arts, history, culture and healthcare. Its student body’s tastes for recreation and adventure are just as varied, and the new 155,000-square-foot Rec Center offers something for everyone.
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