d3 media servers
QED supplied four d3 4x4pro and two d3 v2.5 servers to achieve the synchronised video playback across the LED screens and projectors, with everything routed through a Lightware FR33 32x32 matrix. The d3 4x4pros were fitted with the new video format conversion cards - the very first time in Europe that the new VFC cards have been used.
QED fibre system
QED's fibre-optic distribution system provided the backbone for the show, feeding all the LED, relay screens and stage mapping projectors with video signals as well as enabling network control of all the video elements. 3km of multichannel fibre cable was run from the backstage control area to service multiple destinations throughout the arena, with in-built redundancy to accommodate any last-minute requirements. QED's ruggedized system is specially designed to be quickly deployable, flexible and expandable to cope with the ever increasing fibre infrastructure demands of live shows.
Christie projectors
Eight Christie Boxer 4K30 30,000 lumen projectors were used to map the 16m diameter circular stage for the performances by Jess Glynne and Rihanna. Projecting at extremely wide angles and from low positions on either side of the arena made the line-up extremely challenging. Being quieter, smaller and lighter than other projectors of similar brightness, the Boxers also offered additional installation flexibility and were easier to position within the O2 venue than any other projection system.
QED Director Paul Wigfield said "We were absolutely delighted with the results. The Boxers worked fantastically well - they were so bright that for the first time ever the brightness of the LED screen was able to be turned up to match the light output of the projectors."
Technical credits
Richard Porter
Dave Voyce
Dan Gray
Harry Ricardo