WiseDV successfully trials handheld device in Anaheim during Stanley Cup playoffs; market launch next?

By Ken Kerschbaumer

WiseDV recently trialed its handheld in-arena video, audio and statistics technology in Anaheim during the National Hockey League Stanley Cup playoffs, continuing a push forward with technology that it hopes to bring officially to market later this year. Atul Anandpura, founder of WiseDV, says the 20-user trial went very well. “The enthusiasm was tremendous,” he says.

The WiseDV LVIS system, set within the arena, sends audio and video signals to a hand-held 4-inch LCD video player. It replays action on demand from any camera angle at full speed or slow motion as well as showing stats and more immediate information such as where to get food.

“We’ve developed our own system and it interfaces with the arena or stadium cameras and audio,” says Anandpura. “We cable the audio and video signals from the production truck to our system.”

WiseDV will sell the hardware to consumers and they can use it as an MP3 player when they’re not at the venue. When they arrive at the stadium or arena the device is fired up and receives MPEG-4 video via DVB-H transmission.

“The system and product are tunable over UHF frequency range including inlicensed spectrum and the advantage is we can bring it into the stadium or arena without specialized technology at each venue,” says Kelly Peterson, WiseDV vice president of business development. “And consumers can buy the device and then subscribe per stadium or team and use it inside the venue.”

Anandpura says WiseDV will begin mass production of the system soon and is in talks with at least one “very big” sports organization to deploy the system.

Bob Wagner, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Honda Center adds, “We are proud to be at the cutting edge, looking for new ways for our fans to get the maximum out of a game at Honda Center. We are excited by the WiseDV concept and the reaction it gets.”

Gregory Lubinski, one of the people involved in the trial, says it’s a great way for fans in the stands to see more. “You get to choose the camera, and I like to control my own replays,” he says. “It was nice to have live statistics on the team and players.”

Bill Squires, president of the Stadium Managers Association, says the product will add to the guest experience. “LVIS will exceed the expectations of those attending events at sports and entertainment facilities,” he says. “It will generate fan interest which could result in improved attendance.”