This year Production Resource Group L.L.C. (PRG) showcased cutting edge developments that continue to provide practical yet inventive solutions to the various challenges of production. PRG understands that true innovation must enable producers, designers, gaffers, cinematographers and technicians to work smarter - to accomplish more, with greater efficiency, at lower costs.
One of the innovations making its debut at LDI was the PRG GroundControl Remote Followspot System. Followspot control hasn't changed for decades. It's time to take the truss spot operator out of the truss and put him on the ground where it's safer and more efficient to operate the followspot.
The PRG GroundControl System allows a technician to remotely operate a high output PRG Bad Boy Spot automated luminaire as a followspot from up to 2,000' away. Designers now have total creative freedom to put followspots in places that were either previously unusable or involved complex rigging. With the GroundControl Remote Followspot System, the operator is on the ground so the physical footprint of the luminaire is just 30 inches round and weighs only 172 lbs. Because of this small footprint and low weight, luminaires can now be placed in a wide variety of positions.
With regards to scenic automation, PRG had two new innovations: the V-Command Automation Controller and the SpeedStar Variable Speed Chain Hoist.
PRG also introduced the SpeedStar Variable Speed Chain Hoist. Working closely with Columbus McKinnon, PRG has added variable speed control, built-in load cells, and fast, smooth, and quiet operation.
For film and television projects, PRG demonstrated the OverDrive Digital Lighting Solution. The PRG OverDrive system offers cinematographers and lighting directors the flexibility to use LED video modules and luminaires to create digital lighting effects, reflections, and skies in an easy and flexible way, live with performers.
(Jim Evans)
