What technologies are available for simultaneous interpretation?

17 de December de 2024

Today, two leading technologies are used for simultaneous interpretation: Infrared and Frequency Modulation (FM). Each has its advantages and drawbacks.

Infrared offers greater confidentiality because the signal remains within the meeting room, preventing eavesdropping from outside. This also eliminates interference from other events taking place at the same time in nearby locations. In addition, infrared systems are immune to radiowave interference.

Infrared systems offer analog (up to four channels) and digital (up to 32 channels) options. However, analog systems can be susceptible to interference from direct sunlight and certain types of artificial lighting, such as incandescent and fluorescent lamps.

Frequency modulation (FM) systems are widely used around the world, including Brazil, and typically operate in the narrow 72.1 to 79 MHz frequency range. These systems are popular because of their wide coverage, ease of setup, and ability to transmit through walls—ideal for extending interpretation to audiences outside the main meeting room. This technology is also often used in portable simultaneous interpretation setups. However, FM systems can be susceptible to radio interference and pick up unwanted signals.

At this point we only have a 2.4 GHz frequency system with advanced encryption to ensure secure access to event information and prevent interference from other devices using the same frequency band.