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Simultaneous interpreting equipment comprises three elements:

1. The interpreting booth

The booth in which interpreters work has specialised technical features. The settings on the console determine which language they listen to and into which language they interpret.

These consoles are constructed in accordance with German standard DIN 56924. This standard also specifies the characteristics of permanent and mobile booths along with their technical features.

2. Sound technology

Specialised sound technology is needed so that interpreters working in soundproof booths can hear what is being said. This technology must enable technicians to access individual microphones at any time.

This is done by means of specialised mixing desks or microphone control units.

Delegate or seat packs are another key feature, allowing the appropriate setting to be preselected for each participant. Good delegate packs can also transmit the output of the interpreting booth to each individual seat.

3. Transmission technology

The words spoken by the interpreters are transmitted to the participants by infrared or radio transmission.

The benefit of infrared technology is that it has a short range and so does not disturb people in adjacent rooms.

However, artificial light or sunlight can interfere with infrared transmission and if this is likely to be a factor then radio systems are recommended to ensure good transmission quality.

Delegate packs as mentioned under part 2 are another transmission option.

These are wired or wireless units allowing the words spoken by the interpreters to be transmitted to delegate seat packs.

All transmission techniques allow each participant to choose the language he or she wants to listen to.