Rutgers Stadium Switches to HD with Hitachi Cameras

Rutgers University Stadium has installed five new Hitachi SK-HD1000 multi-standard, multiformat studio/field cameras as part of its comprehensive effort to fully convert from analog to digital HD.

The cameras, which are outfitted with Fujinon HD lenses, produce live 1080i HD video of game action and spectators for display on the stadium’s mammoth new 38 feet high by 112 feet wide Daktronics scoreboard. Two of the cameras are used as handhelds while the other three are fixed on tripods.  The cameras were already in use during the 2009 season after debuting in the 2009 home opener on Sept. 7 against the University of Cincinnati.

“The video experience at Rutgers stadium is now on par with NFL games,” says Jim Signorini, who designed and installed the stadium’s new HD video infrastructure. “The Hitachi cameras produce outstanding picture quality that looks truly spectacular when magnified on the jumbo screen. I’ve found [Hitachi SK-HD1000 cameras] to be an excellent value compared to the top broadcast cameras on the market, and very reliable in all types of weather and lighting conditions. “

The HD upgrade is part of a $102 million expansion of the of the Red Knights’ 52,000 capacity stadium in support of the Rutgers football program. The capital investment allows for expanded seating and amenities as well as installation of the Hitachi HD cameras, the Daktronics scoreboard, a full fiber optic network, Hitachi camera control units, and a fully equipped 1080i HD video control room in the press box.