The University of Minnesota announced today that it has selected Daktronics of Brookings, S.D. to design, manufacture and install state-of-the-art HD-X light emitting diode (LED) video display technology in the new home of Golden Gopher football, TCF Bank Stadium.
Installation of the scoreboard support structure is expected to begin in the fall of 2008, and the new integrated system will be up and running when Minnesota makes its debut in the new stadium against Air Force on Sept. 12, 2009.
The main high definition video display, measuring approximately 48 feet high by 108 feet wide, will boast Daktronics HD-16 technology and will be the first of its kind in a Big Ten Conference football venue.
Located at the west end of TCF Bank Stadium, the main video display will also be the second largest in all of college sports and only one of a handful of true-high definition LED displays in the country.
Daktronics HD-X LED technology will also be featured in the auxiliary video display located on the east side of the venue.
Daktronics HD-X LED technology represents a new generation in large screen video. The product line features a number of industry advances including optimized pixel layout, improved contrast levels and enhanced viewing angles. Using the latest LED and control system technologies, Daktronics large screen displays present live and recorded video images, colorful animations and vivid graphics.
“Daktronics is leader in the scoreboard industry and we couldn’t be happier with the product that they’re providing to us and our fans,” said Director of Athletics Joel Maturi. “Throughout the design and development of this project we have been committed to building a first-class facility and this is an excellent example of that. The game-day presentation and experience involve many variables and our scoreboards will go a long way to offering the best collegiate atmosphere possible.”
In addition to the massive video displays at both ends of the facility, TCF Bank Stadium will also feature Daktronics ProAd® LED ribbon displays, which will be installed along the fascia of both sidelines.
“Daktronics greatly appreciates the opportunity to partner with the University of Minnesota and Mortenson Construction on this innovative new TCF Bank Stadium,” said Tony Mulder, Daktronics Regional Sales Manager. “The technology that will be installed is more advanced that what is currently in the majority of NFL stadiums, which will help provide the highest level of game-day entertainment anywhere in the country.”
Other components of the integrated Daktronics super system for TCF Bank Stadium include LED ticket window displays, locker room clocks and an external marquee featuring Daktronics LED video display technology that will keep students, athletes and University of Minnesota supporters informed of upcoming events and on-campus activities.
“As a builder of state-of-the-art sports facilities across the country, it's exciting to see how technology can enhance the fan experience and Mortenson has continued to be impressed with Daktronics' professionalism, workmanship, and quality of their products,” said Ken Sorensen, Vice President at Mortenson Construction. “We're looking forward to the opening game when the sounds, sights, and excitement of Big Ten football returns to the University of Minnesota campus.”
Courtesy: University of Minnesota
