Sony UK Technology Centre scores in World Cup delivery

The equipment, which includes over 280 high-definition cameras – 60% originally made at the Sony site in Pencoed - has already been used in the field at various locations across the globe. Steve Dalton OBE, managing director of Sony UK Technology Centre, said: "To play a part in the world's largest sporting event is a really exciting opportunity for us. The size of this project is huge and must not be under estimated. With over 2500 hours of live match footage being brought to audiences across the global, there is no room for error. We only have once chance to get it right, first time. "The majority of this equipment has already been out at various locations for example in broadcast vans, UK and European stadiums, film shoots and so on. This means each camera will be configured for that use." Sony's team of specialist software and electronics engineers must ensure that all of this equipment is customised to a specific, uniform specification which meets FIFA's necessary requirements, within a very short timescale. Over 50 individual checks will be made to each piece of equipment. Testing will look at the camera's audio, video output and intercom. The engineer's will also be configuring the equipment's software, setup and camera adjustment to ensue it is in optimum condition. Mark Grinyer, head of business development for 3D, 4K & Sports at Sony, added: "With this year's FIFA World Cup in Brazil set to be best yet, it's crucial we have the right people working on this project. Each match will have 34 cameras positioned around the stadium as a standard – that's nearly four times the amount compared to a Premiership football match. "It is imperative each and every piece of equipment goes through rigorous testing and is configured to the highest quality, so we can deliver premium products and a premium service to our customer. Sony UKTEC will also send two software and electronics engineers to Brazil to provide technical support during the World Cup.