Planning & Design Meetings AV and IT Meeting 11/18/2010 - Minutes
A/V Meeting
Media Arts Building
Palo Alto High School
18 November 2010
Page 1
PALO ALTO HIGH SCHOOL
Palo Alto Unified School District
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENT REVIEW
A/V MEETING
DATE: 18 November 2010, 1:00 – 2:30 pm
SUBJECT: Media Arts Building A/V Systems
ATTENDEES: Paul Kandell, Paly English Aimee Lopez, OCMI/PAUSD
Ann Dunkin, PAUSD IT Alex Morrison, Gilbane
Ian Hunter, Shalleck Collaborative Erwin Lee, DLM
Christopher Ades, DLM
The following are the highlights of the meeting:
1. Erwin Lee (EL) opened the meeting and Ian Hunter (IH) from The Shalleck
Collaborative, distributed a Production Systems Narrative with Budget that was
based on the initial meeting. IH began the discussion by explaining the narrative.
2. Broadcast Studio:
Paul Kandell (PK) questioned whether incandescent lighting was necessary
and if only LED’s could be used. IH noted that incandescent are less
expensive and good for stage lighting. LED’s can work with incandescent
and can replace the fluorescents, but incandescent lighting cant’ be added
later to an LED setup. Also, LED’s but are expensive though less expensive
to maintain over the long term.
IH explained that production studios are trending away from built sets to
using “green screens”. Ideally a green corner is best but it takes up space.
Options for a room this size (16’x24’): a painted wall (can’t be walked on), a
portable fabric screen, and a hung sheer drape.
IH noted that the space needs to have low reverberation times for speaking,
so acoustical drapes are necessary. A pipe grid with perimeter drapery track
is installed as part of the project, while the black drapes are part of FF&E. IH
indicated these can be purchased “off the shelf”.
IH noted that the A/V equipment is mainly slated for the Control Room and is
meant to be operated by 2 to 5 students. Video system switching is currently
all MAC based. Aimee Lopez (AL) reminded the team that the idea is to use
the FF&E that is currently being used.
PK noted that currently they are broadcasting out of the studio to on/off
campus. Ann Dunkin (AD) noted that it’s now fiber based (Comcast) and
uses the campus network. AD asked for a conduit from the new studio to the
IDF room for this purpose.
AD noted that there will be no co-axial cable and no TV in the new buildings
rather it’s all digital feed via fiber.
A/V Meeting
Media Arts Building
Palo Alto High School
18 November 2010
Page 2
PK asked if the network can handle a live streaming show and store it. AD
responded that yes it can and not to worry about band width as there’s an
upgraded site network and the wireless network will upgrade as required.
IH noted that a separate media sever would enable students to record
shows for pull down later to work on. AD indicated that as a rule of thumb,
the District provides the back-up server for safety, but this is could be an
exception to the rule of keeping the servers off-site and centralized and she
recommended back-up. The server would be shared between editing suites
and broadcast room.
PK asked for access to the media server from anywhere in the building. IH
asked to identify workstations that may become Mac Pro that will require
high band width fiber to these locations.
AL asked if this was a costly process to provide and IH noted that the
raceways are there and the fiber is inexpensive. Only the terminations can
be expensive. PK indicated that these terminations may only be required in
the editing suites.
PK noted that an “On-Air” light/signage is desired outside the Broadcast
Studio at the hallway.
IH noted he can provide pipe grid details for integration into base building.
3. Forum and Reception:
EL asked about the large wall mounted video monitors. PK noted that these
would be facility wide systems and one would point outside at the Reception
area with audio. Audio should be switched on/off. PK visions outside
gatherings watching shows of students work.
IH noted that there would be a different amplification system for the Forum.
PK noted that a monitor should be added at the Kitchen/Utility.
PK asked about the “Ticker Sign” to be full video. As an example the
Metreon in San Francisco has one. IH noted that he assumed it would be
20” tall by 45’ long. IH priced a two color one at $45,000 and a one color at
$30,000. Height of Ticker should be set by viewing distance which is from
30-50 feet.
IH noted that stage lighting is part of the package with a motorized batten.
AL questioned the need for lighting but IH noted that it was a requested item
from the last A/V meeting. To save money the lights can be supported of the
side walls, but 45-degrees is the optimal angle.
IH noted that the projection screen should be part of the base building but
the projector can be added later. The projector (10,000 lumens) would cost
about $21,000.
IH noted that speakers can be ceiling mounted.
PK noted that portable TV production devices are desirable. IH has since
noted that several companies make such products, such as Datavideo
(www.datavideo.us) and NewTek (www.newtek.com).
EL noted that all backing and blocking for ceiling or wall mounted equipment
will be part of the base building.
4. Other spaces:
A/V Meeting
Media Arts Building
Palo Alto High School
18 November 2010
Page 3
EL reminded the group that the Video Production Room was designed to
become two classrooms in the future. The infrastructure for another smart
board and general A/V should be included as part of the base building.
AD noted that the A/V for general classrooms will be handled by Lightspeed
including the Upper Forum Classroom #120. EL noted that required conduits
need to be part of the base building.
IH noted that the A/V package will be split into two packages: infrastructure
and equipment. PK wants to know the “shopping list” and will compare it with
existing equipment available to transfer to the new building.
5. AL requested IH to update the pricing and provide a breakdown as detailed as
possible.
6. IH and Chris Ades (CA) went to see and photograph the existing Broadcast Studio
in Building 100
END
Prepared by Christopher Ades of Deems Lewis McKinley. Please advise in writing if you feel that any of the
above items are inaccurate.
cc: Attendees
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The Shalleck Collaborative Inc.
Planning and Design of Theatres and Production Systems
Palo Alto High School
Media Arts Building
November 4, 2010
Production Systems Narrative
The following narrative describes our design of the Palo Alto HS Media Arts Building production
systems.
1. Broadcast / TV Studio
General
A broadcast video facility is an excellent way to prepare students to work in several different media-
related fields. Our goal is to create a space that allows the maximum amount of students to be involved
with production, while providing systems that are representative of professional facilities, while
remaining commensurate with budget allowances. As TV production systems have moved from large,
expensive broadcast-style switchers to computer-based switchers with GUI-based controls, access to
professional grade systems is now possible at a greatly reduced cost.
Production Rigging
A rigging system will be included to facilitate production needs such as draperies, production lighting
and possibly scenery. The system will consist of a pipe grid and drapes with drapery tracks.
The pipe grid will be integrated into the architecture of the ceiling to provide flexibility in hanging
lighting fixtures or other items as required. The pipes should be 1-1/2” nominal diameter (1.9” o.d.)
schedule 40 pipe, clear of all conduit and other obstructions. The pipes will be arranged both parallel
and perpendicular in the room on approximately 2’-0” centers. Pipes should have a live load capacity of
20#/lin.ft., be laterally braced per seismic requirements, and braced for the support of maintenance
ladders. The pipe grid will cover the bulk of the ceiling over the studio, allowing for maximum
flexibility.
A simple perimeter drape track will be provided, with walk-along black drapes in 8’-0” wide panels. All
draperies would be certified inherently flame retardant. Drapery track would directly attached to the
pipe grid.
Production Lighting
Video lighting will be handled in two systems: one for traditional incandescent fixtures, and one for
newer florescent or LED fixtures. For incandescent fixtures, a series of high-wattage NEMA L21-20
outlets to support portable “dimmer sticks” will be provided. These portable dimmers can be used in
quantities as needed. Incandescent fixtures will connect to the dimmer stick.
For florescent & LED fixtures, a series of standard dedicated 20A receptacles will be provided. Both
systems will be controlled using DMX protocol, via portable control console.
A 100-amp, 3-Ø, 120/208 VAC company switch will be provided to power portable dimmers and other
production requirements at the floor. A complement of lighting fixtures, cables, and accessories will be
provided under FF&E / Group 2 for use in this space.
Palo Alto HS- Media Arts Building November 4, 2010
Production Systems Narrative Page 2 of 5
The Shalleck Collaborative, Inc.
Planning and Design of Theatres and Production Systems
Additionally a “green screen” will be provided as appropriate. Further discussion is required to
determine the physical form; typical versions include draperies, painted walls, “infinity” walls, or rolling
flats.
AV System
Video System Switching
A broadcast-grade video switcher, capable of handling all video signals from basic analog to high-
definition digital video signals will be provided in the control booth. The video switcher will have an
integrated multiviewer, video playback from hard disk and integrated computer graphics (CG) software.
The CG software will be controlled by a Windows based computer playback system. Typical auxiliary
equipment would include format converters, high-definition video monitors, and playback devices.
Video Editing/Recording
An Apple Mac-Pro based playback system running Final Cut Studio 2 with audio and video I/O card,
HDCP-compliant LCD monitor, Blu-Ray player, HDV player/recorder and hard-disk player/recorder
with swappable hard drive sleds will be provided for video recording and editing.
Camera/Control Package
The camera package will consist of (3) HD cameras. Remote control capability of the cameras will allow
a technician to be in the booth viewing and controlling the cameras through LCD monitors and CCU
controls. A teleprompter system will include a simple iMac based computer and camera mounting for
all three cameras. A tally system will interface with the video switcher and camera control units,
allowing the talent to know which camera is live. An “ON AIR” light system will automatically activate
when content is being recorded.
Utility
A link from the TV studio to the campus-wide cable TV system will be provided for daily broadcasts. If
a link to the local cable TV system exists (ie- public access), this will be supported as well.
Internet streaming will be provided as well, allowing outgoing content to be accessed via web brower or
internet-equipped device. Depending on traffic, this may require a separate service to handle streaming
and bandwidth needs.
Audio Recording
A simple analog audio mixer with powered monitors will be provided.
Intercom & Talkback
Intercom connections will be available for communications between the control booth, studio, and
camera operators. Additionally, a two-way talkback system will be provided and integrated with the
intercom paging system. If desired, an IFB system for communicating with on-air talent can be
provided.
Palo Alto HS- Media Arts Building November 4, 2010
Production Systems Narrative Page 3 of 5
The Shalleck Collaborative, Inc.
Planning and Design of Theatres and Production Systems
Portable Equipment
A complement of portable equipment, including cables, microphones, stands, and other related items
will be provided.
Media Server
A complete media server will allow for recording of media in the video studio direct to the server via
fiber-optic link and X-SAN connection, and access the recorded media from the video lab editing
computers in the classroom.
2. Forum
Stage Rigging
Accommodations for a single drapery behind the presentation platform will be provided.
Production Lighting Control
A simple production lighting system will be provided with (24) dimmers and a motorized drop-down
batten for front-of-house lighting. Over-stage lighting will take place at the upper-level walkway, and
will utilize a purpose-built railing system.
A control console will be provided for control of the dimmers, as well as control of any added devices,
such as moving lights, LED fixtures, etc. Control connections will be available at the upper hallway
control position, as well as at the floor level.
An inventory of theatrical lighting fixtures (typically pars and borderlights) plus accessories would be
provided.
AV Systems
Audio System
A well-designed audio reinforcement system is key to the enjoyment of live presentations. A sound
reinforcement system consists of loudspeakers, amplifiers, signal processing, a mixing console, and
source equipment, such as microphones, CD players, computers, etc. A left/right loudspeaker system
with subwoofers will be designed for the main system, and will provide adequate coverage and volume
to handle voice, music playback, and “battle of the bands” style events.
The mixing console will have 16 inputs, and will be mounted in a rolling control console. Other items in
the console would include CD playback, storage and connection points for additional equipment.
For simple events not requiring an operator, an automixing system will be provided. This will allow a
user to plug in a microphone and have a working system without assistance from an AV technician.
Two channels of wireless microphones will be provided, and will include handheld transmitters.
Intercom
A two-channel wired production intercom system will be provided for technical communications
between the control locations, backstage areas, and the TV studio.
Palo Alto HS- Media Arts Building November 4, 2010
Production Systems Narrative Page 4 of 5
The Shalleck Collaborative, Inc.
Planning and Design of Theatres and Production Systems
Program Audio
Audio program from the forum will be distributed to backstage areas.
Production Video
A production video system consists of a video projector, video switcher and source equipment, such as
Blu-Ray/DVD players and computers. The video projection will be ceiling mounted on a pantograph
lift, and the video switcher will be located in the AV rack. Both Analog and Digital signals (DVI, HDMI,
and DisplayPort) will be accommodated. Computer video inputs will be provided in floor pockets at the
front of the stage to allow for PowerPoint-style presentations from portable laptops. A “presentation
style” video switcher will provided, and will allow for scaling, wipes, and other typical video effects. A
remote control console for the video switcher will be provided. The projector will have a native
resolution of 1080p, and will be mounted at a location to be determined.
Projection Screen
The projection screen will be a motorized roll-down style, and will be suspended above the platform
area. The screen will be sized appropriately to allow audience members or students at the back of the
forum to read text and spreadsheet content. The screen will have a native 16:9 ratio for widescreen
presentations, and will be tab-tensioned.
Control System
A touchscreen control system will be provided to allow for control over the AV system. The touchscreen
will be simple in its programming, and allow access to the most typically-used presets only.
Assistive Listening System
As required by the building code and the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), compliant assistive
listening systems will be provided for 4% of audience seating capacity. Receivers would be checked out
in the lobby, and signage provided. Use of this system will require little or no input from the patron.
Portable Equipment
A complement of portable equipment, including cables, microphones, stands, portable loudspeakers,
and other related items will be provided.
3. Upper Forum 120
AV Systems
A standard classroom system will be provided, which includes video projection with motorized roll-
down screen, simple controls, connections for laptop computer or portable video playback devices (such
as DVD players) and loudspeakers.
Palo Alto HS- Media Arts Building November 4, 2010
Production Systems Narrative Page 5 of 5
The Shalleck Collaborative, Inc.
Planning and Design of Theatres and Production Systems
4. Facility-Wide Systems
AV Systems
The facility-wide systems primarily include digital signage systems that are linked together via central
server. We currently show (16) LCD displays, which will be deployed around the upper level at the
forum, as well as in the front entry-way of the building.
An outdoor “ticker” will also be provided, complete with control software. The sign will be 20” high and
45’-0” feet long, and will allow for up to two lines of text. The sign is envisioned to wrap the front of the
building. Further discussion of the sign is required.
END OF REPORT