Simultaneous conference interpretation

The interpreters work in pairs in a sound-proofed booth or using portable equipment and translate the speaker in real time, with a changeover of interpreter every 30 minutes.

- Sound-proofed booths: according to the room layout, the interpreters work in purpose-built or free-standing mobile booths, with a clear view of the room and the speaker. Sound equipment is needed to transmit the sound directly into the interpreters’ headsets inside the booth. The participants listen to the interpreters using infrared headsets.

- Portable equipment: the interpreters are not closed off from the rest of the room and translate the speaker by whispering into an ultra-sensitive microphone. The participants wear wireless headsets. No sound equipment is needed in the room. Portable equipment is easily handled and is the ideal solution if the interpreters need to move with their listeners, for example during factory visits. However it does not provide any sound insulation.

Plan on two interpreters per foreign language. For example, for a conference in French-English, 2 interpreters per day would be needed and for a meeting in French-English-Japanese, 4 interpreters per day.