BACKGROUND
In 2005 Notre Dame High School, in the heart of Norwich, was successful in a bid for funding to develop a 'classroom of the future'.
Subsequently, the school worked with Architects LSI to transform a large, Grade II listed room, which was previously the School Library, into a multi-purpose facility capable of holding up to 100 students but which also allowed the capability of easily being converted into two classroom-size laboratories.
Snelling Business Systems were appointed to the project and worked hand-in-hand with the architects to design, supply and install the audio visual requirements for the development.
AIMS OF THE PROJECT
The aim of the project was to create a 'classroom of the future', with state-of-the-art equipment.
Consequently, the design allowed for a fully integrated digital network in which science students could interact with the front projection screen. However, the period property in which the project was being created presented some unique challenges which had to be addressed in order to meet the overall aims for the build.
Toby Wise, Managing Director of Snelling Business Systems, said: "when we looked at the architects' plans, and saw the drop-down screen, it was obvious that with the high ambient light level caused by the big sash windows, a high output projector would have been required. It was clear that a high contrast front projection screen would offer the most cost effective solution".
TECHNICAL SOLUTION
To combat the major challenge of the natural light created by the building's large windows, a DNP Supernova Projection Screen was installed. This state-of-the-art optical screen ensured that the picture quality would remain constant and highly visible, regardless of the ambient light in the room.
To meet the projection requirements a number of Panasonic high brightness projectors were installed around the room for flexible teaching; one at either end of the room, one addressing the active whiteboards, and one driving the vertical projection, and a distributed audio system was also installed with wireless microphones.
Snelling Business Systems then created plug-in flexibility including external source video feed, with four separate input points and multiple auxiliary input facilities for laptops / pcs / cameras etc were installed. This enabled the integration of manifold electronic equipment, including wireless laptops and interactive whiteboards. Push button control systems were also fitted, for intuitive use.
Finally, a foyer/entrance screen was installed as a relay for content from the main room.