Maryland Stadium Authority, Baltimore Orioles Select New Video System
Contact: Frederick W. Puddester
410-333-1560
The Maryland Stadium Authority and the Baltimore Orioles have agreed
on a comprehensive new video package for Oriole Park at Camden Yards. The
new contract with ANC/ Mitsubishi Electric will include a 28 foot high by 74.66 foot
wide upper HD LED video screen, a second HD LED video screen (to replace the
current Sony JumboTron which set the industry standard when the ballpark
opened in 1992) and a number of LED ribbon boards.
The MSA board agreed to the contract with ANC/Mitsubishi Electric at its
meeting on November 16, 2007. The new system will be in place by Opening
Day, 2008.
The current video screen uses older, CRT lighting. The newer, LED
technology produces a brighter light, sharper image, as well as higher definition.
This will facilitate the production and display of more dynamic video content.
The new video screen can produce 68.7 billion colors and has a brightness of
5,000 nits. A nit is a measurement of luminance. One nit is equal to one candela
per square meter (1 cd/m2). By contrast, the existing board generates
approximately 2,100 nits.
Other features of the Mitsubishi video screens include a proprietary quad
dot pattern that creates a dynamic pixel for enhanced resolution. Images are
processed through an extended definition system for better clarity and greater
detail. This technology permits wider viewing angles, offering a better image
throughout the ballpark.
“The Maryland Stadium Authority takes pride in operating top quality major
league facilities, for which we are recognized nationally,” Chairman Fred
Puddester noted. “This new, state-of-the-art video system will enhance the
experience of our fans at our ballpark by providing a more dynamic visual
presentation and allowing them to feel more of the action.”
Mr. Puddester expressed his appreciation to the Orioles for working with
the Stadium Authority to select a system that reflects the high standards
established by Camden Yards. “The Orioles understand our commitment to
maintain the traditional feel of our ballpark,” Mr. Puddester added. “They
retained Janet Marie Smith, responsible for much of the original Oriole Park
concept, to design a video/scoreboard component appropriate for the scale and
layout of our ballpark. They were also sensitive to our concerns about adding
longer ribbon boards and large screens that would detract from the traditional
feel of Camden Yards.”
"The Orioles are excited about the major ballpark entertainment
enhancements coming soon to Oriole Park at Camden Yards," said Orioles
Director of Communications Greg Bader. "It has long been our goal to improve
this original technology, and we are pleased to be able to provide our fans with a
state of the art video system and LED boards that will both enhance the ballpark
experience and preserve the traditional aesthetic that is a defining characteristic
of Oriole Park. We appreciate the Maryland Stadium Authority’s efforts in
working with us to accomplish this important goal."
Longtime Oriole fans will remember another Mitsubishi, one of the very
first video boards in the sports industry, installed at Memorial Stadium in 1985.
That Mitsubishi DiamondVision CRT display was used by the Orioles until
Memorial Stadium closed in 1991. The original plan was to bring it to the new
Camden Yards facility, but concern about the possible damage it would sustain in
dismantling and transport prompted the decision to replace it with the Sony
model.
“We are pleased to offer the fans a visual experience unsurpassed by any
other ballpark in the country,” Mr. Puddester said. “The system is the most
modern technology available. It will provide the kind of graphic displays that
enhance the ballpark experience without detracting from the traditional charm
that our fans love, and the appeal that attracts visitors from all over the country."