OVG360, a venue management and event programming company that manages FirstOntario Centre and FirstOntario Concert Hall in Hamilton, Ontario, recently upgraded its outdated intercom systems to enhance communication throughout the multi-purpose venues with a new wireless approach utilizing components and systems from Pliant Technologies.
Head of audio Michael Stewart worked in conjunction with AVL Media Group sales director Rob Poretti in selecting the system. After an off-site coverage test with a Pliant Technologies CrewCom 900 MHz wireless intercom system and a DECT-based wireless intercom from another manufacturer in order to compare overall performance, the outcome was determined.
Poretti explains, “I placed the CrewCom Radio Pack on my left hip, the DECT-based radio pack on my right hip and sent both devices program audio. I then went for a long walk down the street to test range and also how long it took to come back on-line after I was out of range. I could hear that where the DECT dropped out, the CrewCom continued with great coverage, about 25 percent further. I then noticed once I was out of range, the CrewCom system re-reconnected right at the edge of coverage, but the DECT system, by comparison, had to come fairly close to the antenna to reconnect. CrewCom easily passed the test and I immediately called Michael and told him we found our solution.”
Shortly after, AVL system integrator Solotech, supplied both the theater and arena with CrewCom Radio Packs, SmartBoom Headsets, and CrewCom Control Units. Additionally, both buildings house multiple CrewCom radio transceivers to ensure coverage where needed.
With a history as premiere entertainment venues for decades, the theater and arena are solid-built structures comprised of a lot of concrete and steel building materials. “We have many areas that make it difficult for much of our RF to get through, and those solid walls could also impede the wireless intercom also, so Pliant being a 900 MHz system with its excellent RF propagation was extremely important for us,” says Stewart.
“When production is communicating with the intercom system, it’s as much a safety tool as it is communication,” he adds. “Even just one mistaken cue during a risky act could be disastrous. That’s why I take the quality of the audio very seriously. Our CrewCom system gives us the audio quality and the range to ensure safe productions.”
