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Infoporty

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Simultaneous interpreting with infoports (tour guide systems) differs fundamentally from classic work in a booth.

 

It does not require an isolated, soundproof booth, a sound engineer’s station, or complicated cabling. Thanks to this, it is much more flexible - it works well both in small rooms, on production floors, during study visits, and at hybrid events.

 

Table of Contents

 

  1. The Basic Difference
  2. Three main scenarios and workspace requirements
  3. Interpreter's equipment and working technique -  what is worth remembering
  4. Checklist for preparing the interpreter's workplace
  5. Additional tips for the organizer

 

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The guide below will help organisers properly prepare the interpreter’s working conditions so that the quality of the interpretation is maximised and the comfort of the interpreting team is as high as possible.

How to prepare a workplace for an interpreter using infoports | Guide

1. The basic difference: no booth, but specific requirements

 

In a booth, the interpreter has:

  • sound isolation,

  • a constant view of the stage and screen,

  • a console with sound adjustment,

  • a stable, comfortable workstation.

 

With infoports, the interpreter works with a portable transmitter and microphone.
Thus, their "workstation" must primarily ensure:

  • good audibility of the original speaker's voice,

  • a view of the speaker's presentation,

  • comfort during long work sessions (usually in pairs, changing every 15-30 minutes),

  • stable operation of the radio equipment.

 

2. Three main scenarios and workplace requirements

 

A. On-site event (conference / training room)

Interpreters sit or stand in the room.

 

Minimum requirements:

  • A small table + 2 chairs (for a pair of interpreters) - essential for comfortably laying out laptops, notes, glossaries, and reference materials. Two chairs enable smooth changeover of the two interpreters.
  • A location close enough to the speaker / sound system so that the interpreters can clearly hear and see the speaker and his facial expressions and gestures, but at the same time a sufficient distance away so that the interpreter's voice speaking into the microphone does not disturb either the speaker or the participants.
  • A quieter part of the room away from doors, air conditioning, and loud conversations.
  • No disturbance to participants. Thanks to working into a microphone and the appropriate positioning of the workstation, the interpreter's voice does not disturb those who are not using the headsets to listen to the live translation.
  • Access to an electrical outlet (to connect laptops and charge transmitters during breaks).
  • The ability to for the interpreters to swap freely without disturbing participants.

 

B. Mobile event (study visit, production hall, construction site, museum)

The interpreter walks with the group.

 

Requirements:

  • A lightweight, comfortable headset or lapel microphone (hands-free).
  • Transmitter on a lanyard or in a pocket / belt.
  • The ability to stay within the radio range of the group (usually 50 - 75 meters).
  • A safe position - the interpreter must not block pathways or expose themselves to hazards in the hall.
  • In a noisy environment - good isolating headphones for participants and clear diction from the interpreter.

 

C. Remote model (RSI - Remote Simultaneous Interpreting)

Interpreters work from a studio or office, and their voice is fed into a transmitter located in the room.

 

Requirements on the event venue side:

  • Stable internet connection + computer / laptop with access to the platform (Zoom, Teams, dedicated RSI platform).
  • A technical person to connect the audio output from the platform to the infoport transmitter.
  • A quiet, well-amplified signal from the room PA (speaker's microphone) sent to the interpreters.

 

3. Interpreter's equipment and working technique - what is worth keeping in mind

The standard set includes transmitters with microphones (lapel, headset, or handheld).

 

Key principles:

  • Directional microphone - speak into the microphone from about 5 cm, at an angle of about 45° (from the side), to avoid the 'pop' effect.
  • Only one active transmitter can operate on a single channel. When swapping, interpreters either hand over the equipment or completely turn off one transmitter and turn on another.
  • Before starting, it's worth testing several microphone positions and selecting the best quality.
  • A spare microphone and charged batteries should always be on hand.

 

4. Checklist for preparing the interpreter's workspace

 

At least 1 hour before starting:

  • Designated area (table + 2 chairs) or agreed route for mobile events.
  • Check the audibility of the original (whether the interpreter clearly hears the speaker).
  • Connect and test the microphone + transmitter (sound quality in the receiver).
  • Set the same channel on the transmitter and receivers.
  • Check battery level (charge if necessary).
  • Test the change of interpreters (handover) - without interferance.
  • Access to power and possible monitoring (if interpreters are working remotely).
  • Spare microphone and contact list for the technician / coordinator.

 

5. Additional tips for the event organizer

 

  • Inform the interpreters in advance about the nature of the event (in-person / mobile / hybrid) and provide reference materials.
  • Ensure they have water and the opportunity for a short break in comfortable conditions.
  • For longer events (over 2 - 3 hours), always have a minimum of two interpreters per language.
  • In noisy locations, good headphone insulation for participants is a priority - even in a factory, the interpretation remains understandable.
  • Never place interpreters directly next to loudspeakers or sources of strong radio interference.

 

A properly prepared workspace at infoports allows interpreters to focus solely on the quality of the live translation, while participants receive clear, comfortable sound - regardless of whether they are seated in the room or moving around the facility.

 

Infoports provide tremendous flexibility, but this is precisely why good preparation of the interpreter's workstation is crucial for the success of the entire event.

 

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