Matrox ConvertIP Enables ST2110 for the Sphere in Las Vegas

In this article from Matrox, they give an overview about how Fuse Technical Group created a one-of-a-kind experience with Matrox Video Technology for the Lax Vegas Sphere. Las Vegas has unveiled a cutting-edge live entertainment venue with a stunning technological setup. Las Vegas has unveiled a groundbreaking live entertainment venue that redefines the concert experience through cutting-edge technology and immersive design. This state-of-the-art venue boasts a 580,000-square-foot LED exterior and an unparalleled 160,000-square-foot, 16K resolution wraparound LED screen inside. Combined with a spatial audio system and 4D physical effects, it offers showgoers an immersive audio-visual spectacle like no other.

A Legendary Debut

In September 2023, a legendary musical act inaugurated this remarkable venue with a residency, delivering the first-ever show. Behind the scenes, multimedia system designer Fuse Technical Group played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. Fuse is renowned for their expertise in creating awe-inspiring video and lighting systems, LED solutions, media servers, control systems, and more for various events worldwide.

Advanced ST 2110 Workflow for 16K Video Outputs

For this groundbreaking residency, Fuse Technical Group developed an advanced video playback system capable of handling 16K resolution, augmenting live input across 16K over a complete SMPTE ST 2110 IP backbone. This system was designed to deliver stunning visual elements throughout the show, setting a new standard for live entertainment.

Overcoming Technical Challenges with Expertise

The development of this system required Fuse to leverage their extensive experience in SDI and event production. The content feeding the screens operated on ST 2110 at 4K (4096 x 2160), necessitating 26 4K outputs to drive the entire system. This setup allowed for dynamic live input placement on the LED canvas, creating an immersive visual experience for the audience.

"Working with ST 2110 is very different from working with SDI," said Ryan Middlemiss, Fuse Technical Group's director of media servers. "ST 2110 offers limitless distribution capabilities, but it also presents unique challenges."

Partnership with Matrox Video

To navigate these challenges, Fuse turned to Matrox Video for their expertise in ST 2110. Matrox provided critical hardware and software solutions, including ConductIP for routing and orchestrating ST 2110 sources, and ConvertIP devices to convert high-resolution SDI into ST 2110. This partnership ensured low latency, 25G network speeds, and 2022-7 redundancy, meeting the high demands of the project.

“The support from Matrox Video was crucial,” Middlemiss noted. “Their responsiveness and engineering support, especially with last-minute changes, were key to our success.”

Efficient Remote Operation with Matrox Extio 3

The live production system included 30 computers, operated remotely by a programmer and two technicians using Matrox Extio 3 IP KVM extenders. This setup allowed them to control multiple monitors and computers efficiently from a single workstation, significantly enhancing operational efficiency during the show.

“Extio 3 empowers the techs and the programmer to be as efficient as possible,” said Middlemiss. “Its efficiency is incredibly valuable, especially when there’s no time to spare.”

Conclusion

Las Vegas’ next-generation entertainment venue sets a new standard for live shows with its advanced technology and immersive design. The collaboration between Fuse Technical Group and Matrox Video demonstrates the power of combining expertise and innovative solutions to create unforgettable experiences. Concertgoers are treated to the audiovisual experience of a lifetime, showcasing the future of live entertainment.

Read the full article from Matrox HERE