Hippotizer at Trussville First Baptist Church, Trussville, Alabama

The First Baptist Church of Trussville, Alabama wanted to dramatically upgrade the look of their services without physical changes to the church. So, with the help of Elite Multimedia of Memphis, the church added "environmental projection" to its services. Using the latest A/V display technology helped convert a traditional sanctuary space, including choir and orchestra area, into a video display canvas allowing unlimited creative possibilities.

Elite Multimedia designed and installed the new system using three 6K-lumen Panasonic PT-BW6300 projectors, fed by a Hippotizer GrassHopper through a Datapath X4 DVI splitter. Images, text, and more, all of which can be changed in real-time, are projected onto both display screens and the back wall of the sanctuary. The GrassHopper allows portions of the display to be "masked," combining 3D mapped projection (onto the interior structure) with sermon or hymn text and images displayed on a conventional screen.

"We performed a complete retrofit, and designed a new system to allow the client to convert their traditional sanctuary into a contemporary service in 20 minutes," says B. J. Shaver, Elite Multimedia VP of sales and installations. "The easiest way to do this, and provide ease of use, was to install a Hippotizer interfaced to a lighting console. We chose the GrassHopper because it provides maximum resolution to the projectors and is easy for the client to operate. The system works perfectly, TMB tech support was a big help, and the client is very happy."

Elite Multimedia is a member of TMB's Hippotizer HOW (house of worship) partner program, which comprises a network of expert regional Hippotizer distributors authorized specifically for the house of worship market.

The specially configured Hippotizer "HOW Series" of machines now offers comprehensive HOW media content including over 50 religious-themed clips and over 100 standard video and graphic files. In addition to all the standard Hippotizer features, the HOW machines include the latest text engine, allowing operators to scroll or page through unlimited amounts of text, overlaid or intermixed with any other images, backgrounds or effect, putting full control of hymn lyrics or religious text at the operator's fingertips. Complete control of text and imagery helps make each service relevant, and enhances the worship experience for the congregation.