CNN Weather Channel designers had very exacting parameters in mind for the 6’ tall by 8’ wide main AV screen at their new studio set. As the design/integration company for the project, McCann’s specialists knew just where to look for the solution.
In creating the designs for CNN’s Weather Channel, planners had to consider a number of critical requirements. First, weather anchors are generally in close proximity to the screen, often touching it while explaining the maps and other display graphics. The result is often oily fingerprints and the risk of dirt or damage to the fragile projection surface. What’s more, the ambient light that illuminates the faces of the announcers, often spills onto the screen creating camera glare. Finally, the screen had to be viewed from multiple camera angles.
McCann’s solution was to use a Large Screen Displays’ curved, 6’ tall x 8’ wide, anti-reflective, high contrast, rear projection screen. Here, the projection surface is on the back to protect the screen from dirt and degradation. Its high contrast characteristics help to ward off ambient light, while a Christie 3-chip, 7000 lumens projector delivers the necessary brightness. The screen’s curved surface is ideal for multi-angle viewing. Hung from a cable, the screen appears to float in the air.
In addition, McCann installed flat panel monitors for detailed weather map close-ups and other key graphics. LED “zippers” were integrated as the media for scrolling text.
