Fountain Automation: Engineering Water Into a Storytelling Medium
By Show Systems International (SSI)
Modern fountains are far more than decorative water features. In today's themed entertainment environments, they are dynamic performance systems capable of synchronizing with lighting, music, video, fire effects, and live events.
At Show Systems International (SSI), we approach fountain automation as a show system—not simply a plumbing system.
Beyond Pumps and Valves
A programmable fountain combines multiple technologies into a single coordinated experience. Depending on the project's scope, a fountain system may include:
- Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
- High-pressure pumps
- Solenoid valve arrays
- Robotic or articulated nozzles
- RGBW underwater lighting
- Flame effects
- Fog systems
- Water screens
- PLC-based automation
- Show control integration
Each component must perform with precision while remaining synchronized with every other entertainment system.
PLC-Based Control
Industrial PLCs provide the deterministic control required for managing pumps, valves, pressure systems, and equipment sequencing.
These controllers continuously monitor system status while executing programmed routines with predictable timing and reliability.
Entertainment Integration
The true magic happens when fountain automation is integrated into the larger entertainment ecosystem.
SSI routinely synchronizes fountain systems with:
- Lighting consoles
- Media servers
- Audio playback
- Timecode systems
- Operator HMIs
- Scheduled events
- Interactive guest experiences
This allows water to become an active storytelling element rather than a standalone attraction.
Designed for Reliability
Unlike temporary installations, destination resorts operate daily for thousands of hours each year.
SSI designs fountain control systems with redundancy, diagnostics, and long-term maintainability in mind, helping operators deliver consistent guest experiences while simplifying maintenance.
When engineering is done well, guests don't notice the automation—they simply remember the moment.
Building Something This Ambitious?
From single venues to entire resorts, SSI engineers entertainment platforms that operate as one. Let's talk about your project.