In a recent press highlight by Digital Media World, BCC Live’s integration of AJA BRIDGE LIVE into their live event production toolkit was showcased. This cutting-edge technology has significantly enhanced our capabilities in complex production encoding and decoding, enabling us to handle virtually any feed and deliver it in the required format. This advancement has streamlined our operations, allowing us to offer even more reliable and high-quality live broadcasts for events like IRONMAN and Rock n Roll Marathon. For more details on how AJA BRIDGE LIVE is revolutionizing our workflows and offering, visit Digital Media World’s full article at the link below.
“With BRIDGE LIVE, we can take in nearly any type of feed and send out whatever end format is required… After only a 15-minute demo of the device, we were sold. It has solved a lot of problems for us.” – Dave Downey, BCC Live
In the ever-evolving world of digital content creation, having the right tools at your disposal is paramount. As a video editor working abroad in Europe for a U.S.-based company, I have found the 32-inch ASUS ProArt Display to be an indispensable asset in my creative arsenal. In this blog post, I will delve into the myriad of benefits that this exceptional monitor offers, with a particular focus on its single USB-C cable functionality, outstanding color science, and its versatility for various media-related tasks.
Single USB-C
Direct USB-C connections for power, audio and video transfer, and data transfer
One of the standout features of the ASUS ProArt Display is its ability to transmit display data, power, and external SSD data through a single USB-C cable. This is a game changer for professionals on the go, as it significantly simplifies the workspace and reduces cable clutter. With this single cable, the monitor not only receives video and audio signals but also delivers up to 90W of power to charge your laptop and transfers data at speeds up to 10 Gbps to connected devices.
This streamlined connectivity is particularly beneficial for video editors like myself, who often work with large files and require fast data transfer speeds. The ability to connect an external SSD via the same cable that powers the monitor and delivers display data ensures a seamless and efficient workflow, which is crucial when working on tight deadlines.
Exceptional Color Accuracy
When it comes to video and photo editing, color accuracy is paramount. The ASUS ProArt Display shines in this regard, offering industry-leading color performance and calibration capabilities. With a pre-calibrated ΔE < 2 color accuracy and a wide color gamut of 100% sRGB and 100% Rec. 709, this monitor ensures that the colors you see on screen are true to life and consistent across various devices.
An awesome external display.
The monitor also supports HDR content, providing a wider dynamic range and more vivid colors, which is essential for editing high-quality video footage. The ASUS ProArt Display’s ability to display a vast spectrum of colors accurately makes it a fantastic tool not just for video and photo editing, but also for media viewing, ensuring that you experience content the way it was meant to be seen.
A Versatile Tool
Beyond its connectivity and color performance, the ASUS ProArt Display is a versatile tool that caters to the needs of various creative professionals. With its large 32-inch display and 4K UHD resolution, it provides ample screen real estate and sharp, detailed visuals, which are crucial for precise editing work.
The monitor also features extensive ergonomic adjustments, including tilt, swivel, pivot, and height adjustments, ensuring that you can work comfortably for extended periods. Additionally, it comes with a plethora of connectivity options, including HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, and multiple USB 3.0 ports, providing flexibility to connect various devices as needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 32-inch ASUS ProArt Display is a top-tier tool for video editors, photographers, and media enthusiasts alike. Its single USB-C cable functionality not only simplifies the workspace but also enhances efficiency and data transfer speeds. Coupled with its exceptional color accuracy and versatile features, this monitor is a solid investment for any creative professional looking to elevate their workflow and produce stunning, true-to-life visuals. Whether you are editing the next blockbuster, retouching high-resolution photos, or simply enjoying your favorite media content, the ASUS ProArt Display ensures a premium viewing experience every time.
In a recent press release, Creative COW dives into how BCC Live leverages AJA BRIDGE LIVE to meet the encoding and decoding needs of their diverse production portfolio, from sports events like the IRONMAN series to various conferences. The article emphasizes BCC Live’s innovative solutions to live production challenges, highlighting the crucial role of AJA BRIDGE LIVE in enhancing broadcast quality and workflow efficiency. For more insights into their process and the impact of this technology, check out the full article
“With BRIDGE LIVE, BCC Live has cut its encoding/decoding technology needs in half, according to Downey. The device enables the team to easily grab NDI off the network regardless of the source.”
We’re event people, and we’re always looking for ways to make the events we work stand out above the rest. Whether you’re putting on a first year event, or celebrating the 50th anniversary of an event, there’s always room for improvement. Here are 6 ways you can instantly take your event to the next level.
Livestreaming
A livestreamed virtual conference for HIDA.
Our number one request when providing the audio, video, or any other support at an event is to livestream the event. Everything from corporate conferences to endurance racing events have asked us to livestream for them. Why? Because livestreaming increases the impact of the event. It expands the reach of the event and makes engagement accessible to a broader audience.
When livestreaming an event, guests who may not be able to attend could be given the option to participate virtually, or at the very least, see the content of the event – a keynote speaker, or finish line-in real time. Livestreaming also opens the door to create a hybrid event, increasing attendance and participation while simultaneously creating a larger presence online. This is what we call a win – win – win!
A Quality Sound System
Creating quality programming is a pivotal part in the event planning process. When it comes to the event itself, if your sound system is lack-luster, no one will be able to enjoy it. A quality sound system helps create the right environment for the event. Not all sound systems are created equal. If we took the same sound system for an intimate small group gathering and tried to use it at an outdoor race start line, it wouldn’t be ideal, and vice versa. Making sure your sound system meets the needs of your event is key to having a quality sound system.
Regardless of the event, you want everyone in attendance to hear your speaker, announcer, MC, or performer clearly. From the front row to the nose bleeds, everyone’s experience matters.
Speakers fit for an indoor event.
Media Coverage
Social media has cemented its role in everyday life, and having your event visible across your audience’s feeds is one of the best ways to increase your visibility. This is where a solid media plan for your event comes into play.
Pre-event media coverage helps promote the event. This could be revealing the event venue, highlighting new features that differ from previous years, or teasing key aspects of the event. Another great pre-event media campaign is to showcase the highlights and testimonials from previous year’s events.
Festive finishers at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in Nashville TN.
During the event you want to make sure you are capturing the key moments, such as: speakers, entertainers, sponsor activations, and guest testimonials. Using social media to post real time updates, feature branded hashtags, and showcase user generated content at the event is another way to grow your online presence. You can even integrate these moments with screens, projectors, or stage displays to highlight guests that are interacting with you online.
Maurten advertising at an IRONMAN Expo on a mobile LED screen.
Post-event, you can still showcase highlights from the event to remind people the impact it had on them. This is also a great time to create a highlight reel to share and save for next year. Keeping up the excitement and energy is the key focus during this time. If the guests continue talking about your event online and remember the best parts, more people will become aware and maybe even attend themselves in the future!
The stage of the 2023 Running USA Conference during a presentations.
Post Event Highlight
Here’s an example of a post event highlight.Back in December of 2024 some employees and friends came together to participate in the IRONMAN 70.3 Florida event in Haines City, Florida. We captured some content of our team racing, made a short recap video and posted it to our social media accounts. This is an example of what a highlight could look like, and how it can be user generated.
Enticing Visuals
You spend so much time creating the perfect branding for your event… So you should get the most out of it! Adding an LED screen or projector screens allow you to use your event graphics in a new way. Between sessions, during presentations, at expo, in waiting areas, the screen offers constant engagement. Let’s face it, everyone loves looking at big, bright, shiny things!
A mobile LED screen showing the leaderboard at IRONMAN Arizona.
A screen also helps promote any sponsors or partners. You can create a custom sponsor roll that shows each partner logo for a set duration throughout the event. This will increase the awareness of your partners to your audience. It can also highlight pictures or videos taken at the event for even more exposure.
A Menu for Everyone
If you are going to serve food at your event, think about what restrictions or allergies your guests might have. It doesn’t feel great to be at an event where everyone is eating a meal or enjoying some hors d’oeuvres while your stomach is growling. Another aspect of having a menu for everyone is the drinks! Water is always great, but some other options like tea, coffee, or soft drinks can go a long way – especially if your event is all day long. If you’re event goes into dinner time or beyond, having some bar refreshments could be a good idea. While it is impossible to always accommodate everyone, having a variety of options does help.
Having a menu for everyone is great! But now where are they going to eat it? Well, it depends… If you’re having a cocktail hour, high top tables are a good choice. They let your guests mingle and put their drinks down without a large footprint. If you’re having a full meal service you will want tables and most likely a seating plan.
Choosing the right food and drink for your event will vary depending on size, venue, and catering. Regardless of the event we always recommend having some snacks and refreshment for your staff – you’d be surprised at how far a little treat goes to fuel your team.
A Team You Can Trust
At the end of the day, you cannot do everything. When planning and producing an event, you’ll need to rely on other people who you trust to help bring your vision to life. This is where having a solid team will skyrocket your success. Here at BCC Live we become part of your team and execute your vision. With our Productions Made Great approach we connect personally, we give our best, and we own it. Our success is only as good as your success!
We stand by our Productions Made Great approach and being an integral part of your team. When it comes time to plan your next event, we’re your team! Contact us here!
Streaming Media featured a press article on BCC Live’s utilization of AJA BRIDGE LIVE, highlighting its crucial role in meeting diverse encoding and decoding requirements for various productions. The technology has been instrumental in facilitating BCC Live’s delivery of high-quality coverage for events like the IRONMAN and Rock n Roll Marathon, demonstrating its capability to handle complex live broadcasting challenges with ease. For more insights into BCC Live’s innovative approach, read the full article.
“With BRIDGE LIVE, BCC Live has cut its encoding/decoding technology needs in half, according to Downey. The device enables the team to easily grab NDI off the network regardless of the source.”
BCC Live has successfully tackled the complexities of live event broadcasting by integrating AJA BRIDGE LIVE into their workflow. This technological partnership enhances BCC Live’s ability to navigate the intricate challenges of live production, ensuring flawless encoding and decoding across diverse events. The move underscores BCC Live’s commitment to delivering high-quality live content, leveraging AJA’s robust solutions to elevate viewer experience.
For an in-depth look, you’d need to visit Digital Studio India’s website directly.
“[BCC Live] utilizes BRIDGE LIVE for IRONMAN 70.3 competitions, employing SCTE markers to trigger ad breaks during partner-led broadcasts. Offering end-to-end services, from production to post-production, BCC Live ensures customized event graphics and content delivery, with the Boulder studio serving as a hub for all content before distribution across platforms.”
In an insightful feature by Live-Production.TV, the spotlight is on BCC Live’s strategic adoption of AJA BRIDGE LIVE to meet the encoding and decoding demands of their diverse live production projects. This integration has empowered us to address the myriad of technical challenges that arise in live event production, from IRONMAN to Rock n Roll Marathon broadcasts. AJA BRIDGE LIVE’s flexibility and efficiency have notably streamlined our workflow, ensuring high-quality delivery across platforms. Dive into the full story on Live-Production.TV
“Whether broadcasting or running tests, BCC Live deploys BRIDGE LIVE nearly every weekend to support a range of production demands (i.e., 1080i or 1080p, 50 or 60 frames, Secure Reliable Transport, etc.).”
BCC Live is featured in an AJA Video Systems press article discussing their innovative approach to transforming client ideas into tangible, high-quality live productions. Utilizing AJA’s BRIDGE LIVE, BCC Live adeptly navigates the technical complexities of live event broadcasting, emphasizing the importance of reliable, versatile technology in executing client visions effectively. This partnership exemplifies the fusion of creativity and technology to exceed client expectations in live production. For a deeper dive into their strategy and success stories, visit AJA’s website.
“Boulder, Colorado-based BCC Live may have gotten its start in information technology (IT) but has quickly evolved into a live production powerhouse. Committed to ensuring customers’ success, the company thrives on solving the most difficult broadcast and live stream challenges for customers across the globe.”
LED screen rentals have become increasingly popular for outfitting events with large and vibrant displays for audiences. Between mobile screens and modular screens there is always a size to fit your needs. They are perfect for creating a lasting impact at any event and can provide benefits to audiences and partners alike.
Large screens can change the dynamic of your event and can be used for video displays, interactive visuals, informative graphics, advertisements and more. The sky is really the limit here, but how do you know you’re getting the biggest impact from your screen? In this article we’ll go over some of the basics of LED screens and some use cases to consider.
What is an LED Screen?
First, we should talk about what an LED is. An LED is a Light Emitting Diode. They are used in a variety of applications from string lights hung up in college dorm rooms, to the massive Las Vegas sphere and everything in between. Of course, the quality and exact specifications of each LED vary depending on its usage. The LEDs in a computer monitor are similar to the LEDs in a large screens used at events.
Sphere At Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Larger screens work the same as smaller ones, where each LED represent a pixel. In a computer screen, the LEDs are small and close together allowing you to view it comfortably at a close distance, but with a large screen, the LEDs are spread out further allowing for a clear picture to be seen further away. The LEDs in a large screen are also…. larger.
In short, any LED screen is an array of LEDs, each representing a pixel in an image, where the size and pitch – more on that later – of the diode determine the optimal viewing distance.
Why should my event have an LED screen?
LED screens have become an indispensable piece of equipment in the event industry. They are versatile, eye-catching and elevate the audience experience at any event. When considering the decision to have an LED screen at your event or not… we would typically say, “you definitely should”! Whether you’re hosting a conference or a concert having a screen ensures you capture the WOW! factor of your event.
A mobile LED screen showing the leaderboard at IRONMAN Arizona.
What’s the difference between an LED Screen and a Projector?
LED screen vs. projector at events is a common question that arises in the planning phase for events. We are going to outline some of the biggest differences that may impact your decision when choosing one or the other for your event.
LED Screens
LED’s are their own light source, which enables viewers to see images created directly by the lights. With a projector, viewers are looking at a reflection of the light source. Because projectors are sending light a certain amount of distance, they provide better results in lower light environments. Bright environments will wash out the projection image in many cases.
Picture contrast is also impacted by bright and dim environments on projection – in dim environments black will appear darker, but in brighter environments black will appear closer to grey. LED screens are designed to perform well in low light or high light environments. It is also possible to adjust the brightness of the LEDs themselves to ensure a clear, crisp picture in any situation!
LED screens can be placed in a variety of different ways, while projectors require a white reflective backdrop that is lined up with the projection machine. LED screens can be placed anywhere on your stage or presentation area. They can be wall mounted, flown, or ground stacked. You can split up LED panels to create multiple smaller screens, custom to the layout of your event! Another bonus for the LED screen is that because they’re not dependent on projection, presenters or performers can walk in front of the LED screen without creating shadows.
The modular LED screen is hung on truss over the finish line chute at the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
Projectors
Projectors are somewhat limited regarding control of the output image. Typically, once the projector is set and lined up with the screen, most adjustments are done by remote control standing near the projector with an infrared remote. With projectors, the environment the screen is set up in greatly affects the image. In a dark room, the image from a projector will appear more vibrant and crisp; however, the image can become washed out as the ambient light increases.
A back lit projector screen at an indoor event.
With LED screens, you have full control over the image, regardless of ambient light. You can adjust the image’s brightness, contrast, aspect ratio, and scaling in real time without the need to be in front of the screen to make those adjustments. This allows you to format the picture for optimal viewing for you audience quickly and efficiently.
What value does an LED screen add to my event?
Having an LED screen at your event is a surefire way to elevate your event with beautiful visuals leaving a lasting impression for both you and your attendees. An LED screen enhances the overall experience and ensures your audience will remain entertained and engaged.
Audience engagement
An LED screen at your event is a great way to increase audience engagement! Creating interactive elements along with a stunning visual experience ensures a lasting impression for your attendees. Using a screen to increase audience engagement can help solidify your audience’s connection with your brand or message.
Advertising opportunities
Using an LED screen provides excellent opportunities for marketing and highlighting brand partnerships. You can display the event logo and incorporate branded graphics. You can also offer advertisement slots increasing revenue at your event. During breaks or intermissions, you can run sponsor mentions, advertisements, or highlight your own branding increasing the potential to increase partnerships and connections.
Maurten advertising at an IRONMAN Expo on a mobile LED screen.
Use Cases
LED screens are truly a must for almost any type of event! From concerts to corporate events to outdoor movies and birthdays, a screen is sure to elevate your event! LED screens are versatile and customizable turning any type of event into a memorable experience.
What size LED is right for me?
Choosing the right size screen for your event can have a big effect on how viewable your content is and how much spectacle your screen brings. The main things to consider when selecting an screen size are your space and the screen’s resolution/pixel pitch.
Space
One of the most important things to consider when picking the size of your screens is the physical limitations of your space. Consider how far away your audience will be and how much room you have for the LED screen(s) themselves.
In stadiums or on larger stages, it is common for there to be a reasonably big buffer between the audience and the LED screen, and the audience may be spread out across a set of bleachers or a wide-open space perhaps in a ballroom. Your space might have room for a single extra-large screen or multiple large screens flanking a stage. Alternatively, at more intimate watch parties and expos, the audience may be up close and personal with the screen and less spread out. You may simply want a single large screen in this case.
Across the spectrum of these uses for LED screens, take into account the usable space in your venue for the screens to be placed and then remember the following:
The larger the viewing distance, the larger your screen should be.
Penn State stadium with three large LED Screen for viewing throughout the whole stadium.
As a rough guide, a comfortable viewing distance from a screen is roughly 3 times the screen’s height. For example, a screen that is 10 feet tall would be comfortably viewed by most audience members from around 30 feet away. However, keep in mind that as long as this LED screen is not obscured by objects or the crowd, it will be visible well beyond 30 feet away.
Resolution and pixel pitch
Viewing comfort also depends on how tightly packed the pixels of your LED screen are. Resolution is a measure of a display’s sharpness, which depends on the number of pixels the display uses. A higher resolution means a sharper image with a crisper look and feel.
In LED screens, resolution is usually described by pixel pitch: the millimeter distance from LED to LED on the surface of the screen. A smaller pixel pitch means the individual LEDs are closer together while a larger pixel pitch means they are further apart from each other.
The pixel pitch of our modular screen is 3.9mm, a US dime for comparison.
Due to the way our eyes work, once you get far enough away from any pixelated display, the pixels will cohere into an unbroken image, and you can no longer perceive them individually.
A good shorthand method for estimating the distance in feet a person must move away for the individual pixels to resolve together is to multiply the pixel pitch (in mm) by 10. For example, for our example LED screen being viewed from roughly 30 feet away, a pixel pitch of 3mm will appear as an unbroken image.
Our LED Screen Sizes
At BCC Live, we offer LED screens in three arrangements: as a single 11’ x 6.5’ screen, as a single 16 ‘x 10’ screen, and as a pair of 11’ x 6.5’ screens. All our screens have a standard pixel pitch of 3.9mm.
This means our single 11’ x 6.5’ LED screen could be comfortably viewed from around 20 feet away and more, making it ideal for small stages, tailgating, and backyard movie nights.
BCC Live’s standard LED screen configurations. 1 – 6.5’x11′ screen, 1 – 10’x16′ screen, and 2 – 6.5’x11′ screens
Our 16’ x 10’ LED screen viewable from around 30 feet and more, so it would work well for large stages and events in an open plaza. This extra-large screen might also be a priority if you want to have a single, shared viewing focus, such as for movies in the park.
Finally, with a pair of 11’ x 6.5’ LED screens, you can spread the two screens apart and gain a wider viewing area. For stadiums and rallies with crowds spread out over a wide angle, two screens will allow for more coverage.
Mobile LED screens vs. Modular LED screens
Mobile LED screens are pre-built screens mounted on a tow-behind trailer. These screens can be driven directly on site and set up as quickly as you can level the trailer, rotate the screen to correct orientation, and run the cables for power and media. This means that mobile LED screens are often used at outdoor events with drivable access. However, the trailer portion of mobile LED screens means they can have a relatively large footprint within your event area.
Modular LED screens are built on site from smaller LED panels. These panels can be arranged in customized configurations that better fit the specifics of a given space. They are either built on the ground, which works well for expos or as a background to a stage performance, or they are hung from trussing up in the air for maximal viewing from a distance. These screens sometimes take longer to set up, but modern linkage solutions and a trained technical team have made modular LED screens faster and faster to set up.
The DVS Vizra LED Screen Panels for a modular set up.
Are you looking for an reliable Event Production Company in Denver? Boulder?
Are you looking to rent an LED screen, or seeking help producing your event in the Denver Metro area? Here at BCC Live, we specialize in event production and have a variety of LED screens for rent. With our qualified technicians, we ensure you get the Productions Made Great service you need to bring your event to the next level.
Check out our rental options here or contact us to talk about how we can help bring you dreams into reality. Interested in learning about other ways you can use LED screens… check out our blog post here!
“What’s with the name shirts?” … We get this question a lot! Everyone wants to know the story behind BCC Live‘s name shirts… so here it is!
BCC Live team members wearing their name shirts at an event in Panama City Beach.
History Of The Name Shirts
Back in 1998 we started out as an IT business named CTS – Computer Telephony Specialists. Computer telephony integration is when you integrate telephone systems with computer systems to eliminate the need for a physical phone. Our website was bouldercounty.com and, at the time, the plan was for it to be an online magazine. However, as we got our business up and running, plans quickly changed.
One of our first customers was Precision Plumbing. Tom Robichaud was the owner, and became our business mentor. We first started working with Precision when we had 5-7 employees. Our first project was networking two computers together, and we built from there.
We’ve modeled much of our business development around what we learned from Tom and Precision Plumbing. We even bought our first service van from them!
BCC Live bought their first service van from Precision Plumbing.
Even though we were an IT company, much of the work we were doing was similar to what Precision was doing. We were going out into the field and completing service… we just had fewer customers. Most of our customers were at offices and worksites.
You’re probably wondering how any of this has to do with our name shirts, right? We’re getting there!
How We Got To Where We Are Today
Throughout the years we started to develop a brand, which is known as BCC Live today. We started moving into event production work, and the uniforms our staff wore were BCC Live shirts. As we continued to grow in both IT and event production, we created a more ‘official’ uniform policy… the name shirt! The first version of the shirt was grey and over time, as we did more event work, we moved to black shirts.
Dave is operating a camera at the finish line of a triathlon.
Dave is wearing his name shirt operating the soundboard at an event.
As we began traveling to more events and meeting more people, we began to see the true value in the name shirts. People knew our names. We found that both athletes and staff would approach us with questions during events, because they knew our names. People we’d never met would know our names, and seeing us in our shirts at different events helped people remember us, which helped us build relationships.
More Than Just A Uniform
Today, we have an apparel policy in place that doesn’t mandate name shirts. They’ve become a right of passage, and we don’t give them out to just anyone. Our new staff have to have been with us for a while, shown commitment. There are vendors and customers we have given name shirts to, because they mean a lot to us. We see these name shirts as a badge of honor, and giving them to non-BCC staff means we see them as an honorary member of our team.
Our team prioritizes wearing their name shirts on race and on event days. Sometimes customers request we wear them. BCC staff members get lots of questions when they’re wearing them at events. “Are you really Dave?” “Is that a new trendy mechanic shirt?” Most of our team members can never get used to people calling them by name… Dave always thinks, “how do I know this person?” and it’s never his first thought that he’s being called by name because of his shirt.
Sometimes people try to be funny and act like they know our staff… We meet a lot of people on the road so it’s always a fun game to try and remember if we actually know someone or if they’re just being funny.
“What’s with the name shirts?” … now you know! It’s all centered around Precision Plumbing, our business mentor and dear friend Tom. So next time you see us in our name shirts, please feel free to come say ‘hey’ and call us by name!
The first version of the BCC Live name shirt was grey. Over time, we changed to black.
