Conference Equipment Hire

Light radio systems, also known as guided tour systems, infoport, or by the brand name Bidule, are a more affordable option compared to infrared digital interpreting systems. These portable systems are ideal for interpreters on the move, such as tour guides, and can also be used in interpreting booths.

In this case, the interpreter wears a lavalier microphone rather than using a fixed microphone base and headphones to transmit the audio from speakers and audience questions.

However, light radio systems come with the following limitations:

• Restricted audience size: The system’s effectiveness diminishes for audiences larger than 100 people.
• Limited transmission range: The listeners must remain within 30-40 metres of the interpreter with no physical obstructions like walls, and other radio transmissions must not interfere with the signal. All of the client’s radio microphones must be set to free channels.
• Single secure channel: Although the system offers multiple channels, each transmitter can only handle the simultaneous interpreting of one language at a time. Multiple transmitters are needed for different languages, but there is no relay function, which means no seamless language bridging between interpreters.
• Practical challenges: Despite being user-friendly, light radio systems present a few practical issues:
  • Equipment transport: The equipment is provided in a suitcase and entrusted to an SMG interpreter or technician, who explains its usage. For overnight stays, the client is responsible for securely storing the equipment and liable for any theft or damage.
  • Inbound audio: The client must ensure the interpreter can hear all speakers through their headset. If necessary equipment or support is lacking, SMG should be contacted in advance to resolve any issues. If audio cannot be transmitted directly to the interpreter, they must be placed near a speaker, which can compromise both the quality of the service and the audience experience.
  • Receiver distribution: The client is responsible for distributing and collecting receivers from the audience. We recommend collecting an identity document as a guarantee, to be returned upon receiver collection. If the interpreter is managing the equipment alone, once the event starts, no additional receivers can be handed out. SMG UK can provide hostesses or stewards to manage this process.
  • Technical issues: While the technology is reliable, SMG UK recommends having a technician on hand, especially for official events, to prevent technical issues and resolve any problems that arise.
  • Low battery: The equipment should be fully charged for at least two days before the event.

The remote simultaneous interpreting system is a cost-effective alternative to infrared digital systems. It transmits translations directly to the listeners’ mobile devices (e.g. smartphones) and allows interpreters to work remotely, using a relay function for multiple languages. This system provides high-quality audio and can transmit to an unlimited number of listeners, provided there is strong technical support and stable internet connectivity.

SMG UK can provide interpreting services via the client’s preferred web conferencing platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, GoToWebinar, or Cisco Webex. Alternatively, we can manage the entire event using our own Zoom platform to manage the whole event, including interpreting.

Our Zoom platform supports webinars for up to 100 participants with a standard licence, and we can arrange licence upgrades for larger events if required.

At SMG UK, we use the Cisco WebEx system to provide consecutive interpreting remotely from our offices or from the interpreters’ home. This system is ideal for consecutive commercial or non-conference interpreting, such as telephone interpreting.

As a Voice over IP (VoIP) platform, Cisco WebEx eliminates interpreter travel costs, but it requires participants to have a stable internet connection.

Our remote consecutive interpreting service follows these steps:

• Internet and System Check: SMG ensures that all participants have a suitable internet connection and that the client is authorised to use external web systems (as some public bodies may have restrictions).
• Session Creation: Once the client confirms the service, SMG sets up the work session through our Cisco WebEx account.
• Instructions for Participants: Before the event, SMG provides detailed instructions to the interpreter, the client, and any other participants on how to use the system.
• Access and Credentials: SMG sends session access codes, usernames, and passwords to the interpreter, client, and interlocutor. For groups of more than three participants, additional fees may apply.
• Ongoing Technical Support: Throughout the event, SMG is on hand to offer technical support, activate the session, and manage it until the event concludes.