CODE Projection Technology: A Complex System for an Unforgettable Experience

The unique visual world of the projections at CODE – Centre of Digital Experiences is shaped by several key elements: space, technology and, of course, the indispensable soundscape. We spoke to Farkas Fülöp, a member of the Glowing Bulbs collective, about the projection technology used at CODE.

What type of projection technology can be found at CODE?

CODE has two main spaces: the Hexagon and the Studio. Their differences are striking: while the Hexagon, spanning several hundred square metres, uses a total of 14 projectors to display content on the walls and the floor, the Studio operates with just two. This does not diminish the Studio’s value; it simply works on a different scale. Managing 14 projectors simultaneously is extremely complex and technically demanding from a control perspective. It requires two computers with four graphics cards. For a comparison, a standard laptop typically has a single video output, whereas our system integrates multiple computers, multiple graphics cards and multiple applications to seamlessly synchronise 14 different images.

How do visuals and sound connect? How do they work together to create the perfect experience?

The relationship between visuals and sound can be approached from multiple angles. In many cases, our primary focus is on visuals, meaning that sound often follows the image in our work. However, we have frequently worked with pre-existing sound, where the visuals are created to match the audio - such as in music videos. The same applies to the Hexagon, where content can be designed to fit existing audio, or vice versa, where sound is composed to complement a previously created visual piece. It is undeniable that sound brings an image to life; a video can feel almost lifeless without accompanying audio, which captures and holds the viewer’s attention.

Do you have a favourite space at CODE?

Yes, definitely: the Hexagon, primarily due to the technical challenges presented by its 14 projectors.

If you were to create an artwork representing CODE, what sounds and/or visuals would you include? What would it look like?

I am very drawn to grid-based creative work, and for CODE, I envision a hexagonal grid-based structure. That would be an exciting concept.

If you could ‘magically’ enhance any technological device, what would it be and what would it do?

This is gonna be quite a professional answer… A computer or single source can usually only control a limited number of projectors. There has long been a demand for a device that can distribute multiple signals to a single projector - not just duplicating the same signal, but actually slicing a higher-resolution input into multiple outputs. This technology already exists in 4K, but it would be great to have an 8K version as well.