Daktronics Technology at Barclays Center

Gail Chiasson, North American Editor

We’ve been trying for quite some time to get the actual details of the digital technology seen at the new Barclays Center, home of the Brooklyn Nets, and, finally, here it is.

Daktronics of Brookings, S.D., was the technology partner that Barclays Center and Brooklyn Nets selected to introduce one of the largest arena video display installations when the venue in Atlantic Yards opened its doors to sports fans and concert goers last fall.

“Daktronics delivered incredible LED technology that will set Barclays Center apart from other sports and entertainment venues,” said Chip Foley, director of building technology for Forest City Ratner Companies, developer of Barclays Center.

We understand that fans are captivated by the imagery while sponsors are impressed by the branding capabilities that the LEDs offer.

The new venue features an integrated LED video and scoring system including a custom ‘centerhung’ display system. Featuring 6mm high-definition technology, the main video displays in the centerhung each measure 16 ft. high x 27 ft. wide (720 x 1296 pixels).

Smaller scoring displays measuring more than 7 ft. high x 27 ft. wide and featuring 10mm line spacing are installed above the main displays. Both sets of four LED displays show live and recorded video, scoring information, sponsor messages, as well as custom information and graphics to get fans on their feet.

The centerhung also features two 10mm ring displays, one above and one below the main group of video displays to help enhance the information shown. A naming rights ring tops off the three-story-tall centerhung which contains a total of 3,550 sq. ft. of LEDs.

A 75,000 pound capacity custom hoist supports the centerhung configuration. The Daktronics team specializes in high-capacity hoists preferred for large loads with unmatched safety features and flexible configurations.

A 360 degree ribbon display circles the seating bowl of the arena and two other ribbon displays that measure nearly 190 ft. in length are installed on the upper fascia of the seating area. These three displays feature 20mm pixel spacing.

Two 15mm displays are located on the end walls of the arena. These displays help maximize the opportunities for sponsors to show their message to those in attendance. Other technology from shot clocks to ticket windows and more are installed throughout the venue.

All of the interior displays are supported and run by a state-of-the-art control room, built in conjunction with Sony.

The lobby of the Barclays Center also features a prominent Daktronics display. Patrons entering the building see a 6 ft. high, 73 ft. long ribbon display that shows sponsor messages, wayfinding information, and event times and dates.

On the outside of the building, a one-of-a-kind, 3,000 square foot LED display is installed in an oculus, or circular window, designed to fit into the architecture of the building. This 15mm display advertises events and help to make the Barclays Center a landmark venue in New York City.

In addition, games by the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and NH’s New York Islanders, Barclays Center hosts major concerts and entertainment. This month, the Atlantic 10 men’s basketball tournament is taking place.

“Daktronics is extremely honored and proud to be a part of the new Barclays Center,” said Jim Morgan, CEO of Daktronics.

The Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., is a sports arena that is part of a proposed $4.9 billion sports arena, business and residential complex. It has a seating capacity of 19,000 for concerts, more than 18,000 for basketball and 14,500 for hockey. Construction is managed by Hunt Construction Group Inc..


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