The London 2012 Olympics have arrived! With billions eagerly watching the Games, Panasonic is proud to provide its world-class pro AV equipment once again, ensuring that audiences around the world experience the Olympics as if they’re in London.

This year marks the thirteenth time Panasonic has provided AV technology in support of the Olympic Games – a tradition that started with the 1988 Games in Seoul. Over the past two decades, we’ve provided unrivalled technology that guarantees sharp picture quality and deep contrasts, bringing the Olympics alive for spectators at home and on location. As part of our partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG), and the Olympic Broadcasting Services (OBS), we’re providing technology support for the London Games on an immense scale at sporting venues and broadcast sites.

In fact, this Olympics marks our biggest effort yet. We’ve delivered a massive payload of equipment and manpower to the Games, including 12,000 TVs, 2,500 security camera systems, 45 giant LED screens and 200 professional sound systems. For the Opening and Closing Ceremonies at Olympic Stadium, we’re showcasing new cutting-edge technology via installations of the world’s smallest and lightest 20,000 lumens projectors, which are illuminating the ceremonies seen by billions.

Behind the scenes, OBS technicians are also using a wide array of Panasonic equipment to monitor the events and ensure crystal-clear coverage of the Olympic Games. Panasonic’s DVCPRO HD is the official recording format for capturing the Games, and from start to finish, P2 HD Camcorders and recorders are playing a vital role in the Games’ worldwide telecasts.  More than 100 Panasonic HD cameras, more than 300 HD recorders and over 1000 pro video monitors are being used for Olympic coverage. We have also introduced the first-ever 3D Olympic Games experience in partnership with NBC, the IOC, LOCOG and OBS to help share the passion of the games in homes equipped with 3D televisions across the world.

Over the next couple weeks, we will highlight the role Panasonic technology has played in past Olympic Games and the role we will play in London. Please join us for this journey and while you are at it, tell us your favorite Olympic moment.

Image courtesy of Flickr user nickwebb