Technology Disciplines: SMPTE 2110 Broadcast Production Facility (2x Control Rooms), Broadcast Cabling, Totem Marquee LED Displays Systems, Integrated Digital and Static Signage.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
Anthony James Partners teamed up with the Cleveland Cavaliers to custom-design a state-of-the-art SMPTE 2110 IP Broadcast Production Facility as part of a major revitalization project for Rocket Arena (formerly Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse). A significant portion of the publicly funded initiative was dedicated to modernizing the broadcast production facility with SMPTE 2110 IP-based solutions. 1080P HDR resolution marks a major leap from the legacy 3G 1080i system that had been in place for nearly a decade.
The technology upgrade project also included a complete refurbishment of the facility’s broadcast cabling, including the removal and replacement of cables to JBT locations to transition to a fiber-based infrastructure while maintaining a Triax backbone for legacy production trucks.
The two newly designed 1080P HDR video control rooms are strategically positioned on the arena’s main level, adjacent to the Cavaliers’ locker room. Key features include:
- Ross Video Acuity 4ME production switcher
- Evertz Dreamcatcher replay system (48×10)
- Ross Video XPression graphics engine
- Evertz IP Core and terminal equipment
- Riedel IP-based intercom with the Bolero Wireless System, enhancing facility-wide communication
- Telestream Live Capture for long-duration recordings, along with the Prism System for quality control monitoring
- Evertz Studer audio consoles
For camera setup, the control room is equipped with an extensive array of 19 cameras to enhance game coverage:
- 4 Sony 3500 Cameras (2 High Frame Rate)
- 2 Sony 3500 Handheld Cameras
- 2 Sony 3500 Wireless Cameras (using Wave Central antennas for full arena coverage)
- 4 Sony 3500 Robotic Cameras with Telemetric Control System
- 6 Telemetric Robotic Cameras
- 1 Marshall POV Camera
Four robotic cameras are mounted in the center-hung videoboard, with three additional robotic cameras positioned on the suite level for reverse-angle shots. Extra cameras are deployed for pre/postgame interviews and beauty shots.
From a technical perspective, the shift to a scalable ST 2110 IP backbone and the deployment of the EXE 3.0 core router have also future-proofed the Cavaliers’ infrastructure. The system is designed to accommodate expanding production demands, support UHD content, and integrate with emerging cloud-based workflows, ensuring that the Cavaliers can continue to evolve their content strategy without the need for disruptive hardware overhauls.
Awarded control room integrators for the project were Alpha Video and Unity Systems Integration. Broadcast Cabling was awarded to CV Lloyd Audiovisual / Einheit Electric Construction Co.
“The Cleveland Cavaliers have been such a great team to work with and we appreciate their dedication to giving their fans the best possible experience,” said Michael Martin, AJP Vice President of Technology and broadcast specialist. “This achievement reflects the hard work, collaboration, and dedication of the entire team. With the state-of-the-art facility now operational, staff can anticipate enhanced efficiency, streamlined operations, and a significant boost in production capabilities. It’s an exciting time. This new setup will drive innovation and creativity in their future projects.”
LED FREE-STANDING TOTEM MARQUEE
AJP is currently working with the Cavs on design, financial modeling, procurement, and construction administration for a 60′ tall, free-standing LED Totem sign for the Cavaliers. Custom-designed with multi-level interior catwalks and illuminated by RGBW light fixtures, the project will be complete in the new year.
