Working closely with Clickspring Designs, McCann Systems was instrumental in creating a versatile studio set for three of CNN’s top shows, American Morning, Paula Zahn Now and Anderson Cooper 360˚.
Two large video screens serve as the set’s central focus. The larger screen is a seamless, rear projection, curved, acrylic creation 8’ high by 24’ wide. The smaller screen is 7.5’ high x 10’ wide.
After considering the requirements for image height, projection distance, video input and processing, we paired a Stewart Filmscreen and a Christie 3-chip12,000 lumens projectors. We also employed Vista Systems’ image processors designed to handle widescreen graphics and mix multiple sources in multiple windows. As space is at a premium on these sets, we employed Large Screen Design mirror sleds to project the sizeable image that was necessary.
The Vista processing equipment is housed two floors away. To distribute the DVI signal to the studio, McCann used cutting-edge fiber optic technology that included fiber extenders to feed the signal from the processors to the projectors.
McCann also trained CNN’s staff on the processor’s capabilities. Using a Vista compositing tool, CNN is able to create a virtually endless number of special effects to rivet viewer attention. McCann also specified and installed the flat panel monitors utilized throughout broadcast set.
McCann was able to draw on the technology formula created here for the CNN International studio sets in Atlanta and London. Once the space requirements and image needs were established for London and Atlanta, they dictated the number of projectors, mirrors, screen size and processor requirements needed to produce and manipulate the images
