E3 2006, the world's premiere computer and video game trade show, starts this week. Everything kicks off on May 9th, and runs until the 12th. This year should turn out to be one of the best, with hardware such as Nintendo's DS Lite and Wii, and Sony's PlayStation 3. Microsoft will have its second-generation games to show off, as their next-gen system launched last November. And there are always surprises.

Although the show is a trade-only event, that doesn't mean you can't get in on the action. Blogcritic Mike Street will be covering E3 from the show floor, and many other BC members will be sharing news, analysis and opinion as the event unfolds.

To help get you better aquatinted to this blockbuster even, here are some facts from an exhibitor survey:

• More than 400 exhibiting companies representing 90 countries will showcase thousands of the latest computer and video games and technologies within 540,000 net square feet of exhibit space, an area equal to 40 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
• Almost two-thirds of E3 exhibitors will showcase games scheduled to hit store shelves by the 2006 holiday season.
• Exhibitors will display nearly 1,000 never-before-seen games and products.
• Almost half of exhibitors will launch one or more titles for the latest handheld platforms.
• Eleven percent of companies will exhibit one or more games featuring celebrities or other “Hollywood” talent including directors, screenwriters and musicians.
• One-tenth of exhibitors will present one or more games or products including a health or fitness element.
• More than 5,800 flat screen computer and television monitors will be seen on the show floor and in public areas.
• More than 850,000 pounds of equipment will run along the convention ceiling.
• Approximately 79,000 square yards of carpet and other flooring will cover the LACC.
• 110,000 square feet of banners will hang within the LACC during E3 2006.