Sony has selected Arqiva as its technology partner for live 3D distribution of four key matches from the 2011 Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships to worldwide cinemas, writes David Fox.
This will be the first time the tournament has been transmitted live to cinemas or seen in 3D, with full coverage of the men’s semi-finals and final, and the women’s final.
The complete global transmission chain will be handled by Arqiva’s Digital Cinema Satellite Distribution System, including SNG, teleport services and satellite capacity. Arqiva’s Digital Cinema platform on IS-905 will electronically distribute Sony’s feed to European cinemas with multiple international satellites used to reach 3D capable cinemas around the globe.
“We will provide considerable input into the many technical aspects of the transmissions, drawing on our previous experience of delivering 3D cinema events including the 2010 Rugby Six Nations, 2010 Football World Cup and the world’s first live 3D Opera. Our digital cinema platform on IS-905 is well established for European HD and 3D cinema distribution while our integrated international network delivers the necessary global reach for a truly international sporting event,” said George Eyles, Head of Digital Cinema, Arqiva Broadcast & Media.
“Arqiva’s international infrastructure offers us the flexibility and reliability we need to bring this prestigious sporting event to appreciative audiences all around the world. They have proven expertise of successfully delivering major sporting events in 3D so we will be drawing extensively on their experience and knowledge to ensure that cinemas around the world can show the matches in the highest possible quality and with maximum confidence. Sony’s 3D broadcast experience, combined with Arqiva’s track record in 3D distribution and Sony Digital Cinema 4K projection of ‘easy on the eye’ superior 3D, will ensure we bring the best 3D experience to fans in cinemas,” said David McIntosh, Director of Digital Cinema, Sony Europe.
“Having worked with Arqiva on previous international events we are delighted that they will be providing the distribution elements of these important transmissions,” added Daniel Webber, Managing Director, SuperVision Media (Sony’s theatrical distribution partner). “With a huge anticipated take-up by cinemas spread right across the world, it’s vital to have a technology partner who understands and can professionally handle all the regional variations in equipment and standards.”
