A multi-camera high-definition or standard-definition switched video
signal is distributed from the Point of Capture (POC) using
industry standard technology for
broadband distribution such as
fiber optic or
satellite, to a Point Of Display (POD) where multiple video projectors or displays integrated with a digital light show and high-end audio are utilized to provide a totally immersive entertainment environment. That environment is controlled using a graphically based tool called the LightPiano™, and is then extended through the festival
atmosphere in the Club Annex, where licensed merchandise, auctions, and swap meets are located. Online
Instant Messaging,
Short Message System (SMS)
text messaging, Chat, and Fan Clubs generate additional content, which is sent back to the POD. There is extensive use of the Worldwide Web for both local and remote access to the chat, fan clubs, SMS and
instant messaging systems, as well as for online access for customers to view scheduling, and purchase ticketing, webcasts and archive access. The Web is also used by the venue owner to manage the entire
system for booking,
data mining, scheduling, ticketing, webcasting, and facilities management. The Web interface combined with the power of the LightPiano makes this complex interrelated
system relatively easy and intuitive to operate. It significantly lowers the cost of operation and makes the
system scalable to a large network of POCs and PODs. It allows one POC to feed many PODs, enabling a truly global distributed, immersive entertainment environment.