In a bid to revolutionize the viewer experience, the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) has teamed up with sports video installation experts, Innomedia, to successfully deploy 56 state-of-the-art Dream Chip cameras across 14 renowned German ice hockey arenas.
The ambitious project, spearheaded by the necessity to elevate HD broadcast standards, was not without its challenges. Notably, the installation had to be meticulously planned to ensure precision and consistency, especially given the dynamic nature of ice hockey goals and the demands of referee decision-making. Each stadium now boasts two over-goal AtomOne cameras and two in-goal AtomOne mini air cameras, meticulously calibrated to deliver crisp HD images that capture every nuance of the game.
One of the standout features of the new system is the AtomOne mini air camera’s capability to capture at 50fps with an 85° wide-angle lens. This technological marvel aids referees in determining goal validity, ensuring clarity even in the most high-speed and contentious moments. The lightweight design of the camera, weighing merely 25 grams, combined with its robustness, made it the ideal choice for such a dynamic sport.
But the technical prowess of the cameras is just one facet of this comprehensive upgrade. The infrastructure behind the scenes is equally impressive. Innomedia has established a centralized data exchange point, ensuring seamless communication between production activities, referee reviews, and even off-site production endeavors. This flexibility allows for real-time adjustments, diagnostics, and support, irrespective of the location.
Reflecting on the project’s intricacies, Innomedia CEO, Karsten Mick, remarked, “Our longstanding partnership with DEL has seen numerous innovations, but this project was especially demanding given the tight timelines. However, with the unwavering support of Dream Chip and our expertise in sports AV installations, we ensured timely completion, setting a new benchmark in ice hockey broadcasting.”
Echoing Mick’s sentiments, Dream Chip’s Sales & Product Marketing manager, Christian Kuehn, lauded Innomedia’s holistic approach. “The vision was clear – to enhance viewer experience without compromising on logistical or operational aspects. The comprehensive solution they’ve crafted, underpinned by our AtomOne cameras, is a testament to their dedication and innovation.”
With these advancements, DEL is poised to offer fans an unparalleled viewing experience, capturing every exhilarating moment on the ice with unparalleled clarity and precision.