Precision Integration for Busy Event Spaces
The University of Miami required a technical overhaul of the primary event space and executive conference room within the Cuban Heritage Collection. This collection features an extensive array of books, maps, newspapers, artwork, digital media, and more, demonstrating the university’s commitment to shedding light on Cuban history. Containing the largest archive of Cuban information outside the country itself and a wide range of resources on the Cuban diaspora and exile history, the Cuban Heritage Collection serves as a vital aid for students, researchers, and guests.
However, the existing systems within their event space and conference room were dated, always requiring manual configuration and labor-intensive setup for every engagement. Midtown Video’s goal was to transition into a modern, flexible event space capable of hosting virtual Zoom events, lectures, movies, and other presentations with equal ease and professionalism. Learn what Midtown did below.
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Project Objectives
The system was designed to meet five critical criteria:
- Operational Simplicity: One-touch meetings to eliminate technical delays.
- Modular Flexibility: Adaptable configurations for a multi-use space.
- Modernized Infrastructure: Replace legacy hardware with advanced components.
- Expanded Feature Set: Integration of digital donor walls, overflow capabilities, and zoned sound distribution.
- Workflow Efficiency: Eliminate the need for complex setup and teardown between events.
Architectural Constraint Challenges
Midtown Video faced two significant engineering hurdles:
First, the event space features 20-foot ceilings, which created acoustic challenges and required complex, long-distance cable pulls.
Second, the aesthetic requirements dictated that all AV rack equipment be housed within custom cabinetry. The furniture was not originally designed for the thermal loads of high-performance processors.
The Solution: Collaborative Engineering
Midtown Video joined a multi-disciplinary team including interior designers, IT hardware groups, and general contractors. Through weekly coordination, Midtown worked hard to ensure the technology enhanced the space rather than cluttering it or overwhelming operations.
Key Technical Implementations:
- Acoustic Optimization: Midtown integrated specialized high-ceiling pendant speakers to provide uniform audio coverage across the 20-foot vertical span.
- Signal Integrity: For flawless wireless performance in a large space, the team deployed Shure US834 Wide-Band antennas for maximum microphone pickup.
- Hybrid Control: Midtown engineered control logic that allows for meetings to start while maintaining manual override and advanced system control functions for the technical AV team to use during events.
Fabrication & Technical Highlights
To protect the hardware investment within the library’s custom millwork, Midtown’s engineering team designed a thermal management solution by recommending cabinet design modifications, such as sufficient cool air intake, triple exhaust fans, and elegant grill covers. The airflow modification ensures long-term integrity and operational stability of the client’s technology investment.
Furthering Education & Research with Midtown Video
The completed system provides the Cuban Heritage Collection’s event space with total modular flexibility. The University of Miami can now manage presentation focal points and zoned sound distribution through a centralized, intuitive interface. This transition from manual setup to a ready-to-operate state has fundamentally optimized their daily workflows.
Through outstanding project management and collaboration between the University, its stakeholders, and Midtown, this system was designed, installed, and commissioned on budget and on time.
The initial installation’s success has already led to the commencement of Phase 2 and additional projects within the building. Midtown Video is thrilled to aid the University of Miami in its endeavors, providing efficient technology for students and researchers alike. With revamped acoustics and audiovisual systems, the university can better present the Cuban Heritage Collection to a wide audience.
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