INTRODUCTION
The Minneapolis Armory, located in the revitalized East Town section of Minneapolis just blocks from US Bank Stadium, has become a premier venue for sports and entertainment events. Originally built for the Minnesota National Guard in 1935 and later home to the NBA’s Minneapolis Lakers, the Armory underwent a $50 million renovation to transform it into an 8,000-seat events center. With the upcoming Big Game weekend, the facility required a high-performance AV system capable of managing multiple video feeds and ensuring content reached the correct displays at the right times throughout the venue.
THE CHALLENGE
During major events, the Armory relies on AV systems to deliver live broadcasts, pre-recorded media, computer graphics, and messaging across dozens of displays in luxury suites, common areas, bars, vendor locations, and digital signage throughout the venue. The challenge was to design a system that could route multiple signals over IP reliably and efficiently, providing seamless performance during critical moments while accommodating screens of all sizes and types.
THE SOLUTION
PureLink partner Advanced Light & Sound (ALAS), based in Hudson, Wisconsin, was tasked with engineering and installing a solution for the Armory. ALAS leveraged over 20 years of experience in AV integration to implement PureLink’s VIP-300 IP Video Distribution System in a 10×45 matrix configuration, managed via VPX IP Video Management Software.
VPX simplifies system setup and operation with features including automatic discovery of VIP transmitters and receivers, preset and automation scheduling, external control API, and detailed diagnostic reporting. Its flexibility allowed the VIP-300 system to integrate seamlessly with the venue’s existing Juniper network switches.
To support the high-bandwidth distribution requirements, a fiber backbone was deployed using PureLink TotalWire™ TWF2-1000 3mm jacketed multimode duplex fiber optic cables. These cables provide superior durability, low attenuation loss, and exceptional bend and tensile strength, making them ideal for the complex pathways throughout the arena.
THE RESULT
With PureLink solutions in place, the Minneapolis Armory can reliably distribute high-quality video content across all displays during major events. Live broadcast feeds, pre-recorded media, and dynamic graphics now reach every screen in perfect synchronization, ensuring that every fan experiences the event as intended. The system’s reliability and intuitive management tools have simplified operations for event staff while saving time and reducing labor costs.
THE REVIEW
“The VIP300H-U has been streaming beautifully. The system was very easy to set up, and the pre-configuration services offered by PureLink made uptime quick, saving significant time and labor costs. The flexibility and reliability of the VIP/VPX solution made it an ideal fit for a high-demand environment like the Minneapolis Armory.” – Ross Goulette, Owner of Advanced Light & Sound
