Raising the Bar in AV Technology at SDSU
South Dakota State University (SDSU) undertook a multi-phase renovation of its historic Frost Arena, transforming it into the modern First Bank & Trust Arena. The renovation included replacing the existing Daktronics audiovisual system, which had served the university well for nearly two decades (circa 2005 to 2024), with a cutting-edge solution that could support a professional-level game-day experience.
2,000+
Square feet of LED
An Integrated Audiovisual Overhaul
Daktronics, a long-standing partner of SDSU, designed, manufactured and installed a comprehensive, three-phase audiovisual system at the new First Bank and Trust Arena. This integrated solution provides a cohesive, high-impact experience for all events, powered by Daktronics Show Control and in in-house event producer.
Our long-standing and continued partnership with Daktronics provides Jackrabbit fans with the industry's best video and sound systems.
– Justin Sell, Director of Athletics, South Dakota State University
Key Technology Components
The installation features 29 new LED displays totaling more than 2,000 square feet, ensuring live video and content is visible from nearly every angle.
Centerhung
The main highlight of the installation is a a seamless wrapping main video display featuring 5.9mm pixel spacing and an 11.5' H x 69' circumference, and includes an upper ring measuring 1.5' H x 76' in circumference
Court-Level
6 LED scorers tables (5.9mm) and 4 high-resolution basket stanchion displays (2.5mm.)
Vomitory/Ribbons
11 total displays above entrances and exits provide supplementary content and unified arena "takeovers."
Varying in size (up to 36' wide), 5.9mm pixel spacing.
Concourse
A 1.5mm concourse portrait display provides information on upcoming events, as well as live video and stats during events. 13’6” x 8’0”
Marquees
Two displays outside the main entrances welcome fans and share event info.
8-millimeter pixel spacing (one is 3.5' H x 73' W).
Control and Audio System
An upgraded production control room, designed by Daktronics, serves as a significant upgrade from the previous control room, empowering a more efficient workflow during events. At the core of the experience is Daktronics Show Control, an industry-leading control system that coordinates all video processing, data integration and display content seamlessly. This is coupled with a Daktronics custom audio system that delivers a booming listening experience with intelligible speech throughout the venue.
Learn more about Daktronics Show Control and Audio Systems.
Event Production
We also provide an in-house event producer dedicated to running their shows. This ensures every event is executed flawlessly, with expert coordination of all video, audio, and display elements for a seamless experience.
Learn more about our Event Production services.
The Impact: Overwhelmingly Positive Reception
The new system immediately elevated the game-day environment, earning rave reviews from fans, student-athletes and even visiting teams.
Longevity & Value
The project provided an essential upgrade, replacing the previous system after it had demonstrated exceptional longevity, serving the university for nearly two decades.
Enhanced Fan Experience
The coordinated pre-game production, combining the lights, music and synchronized digital boards creates a memorable experience for fans.
A "Big-Time" Feel
The new all-digital centerhung and court-level displays are the same physical size as the old system but "look so much bigger" due to their all-digital flexibility. The ability to run unified "takeovers" across all the arena’s displays during intros adds a "Big Time Feel."
The upgraded equipment will enhance the environment for all events in the newly renovated First Bank & Trust Arena. It’s also special to partner with Daktronics on this project – they are part of the fabric of Brookings, South Dakota, and South Dakota State University. We are truly excited to reveal these new elements to spectators this fall and continue the momentum at SDSU.
– Justin Sell, Director of Athletics, South Dakota State University