Introduction to Translation Devices

Regarding the selection of interpretation devices, we need to consider two usage scenarios: online and offline.

Online

If you choose to conduct interpretation work online due to factors such as the pandemic, you must make adequate technical preparations before receiving an interpretation task. First, you need to have sufficient communication and audiovisual equipment to support remote interpretation, such as professional headphones and microphones, a backup computer that can simultaneously access online meetings (to quickly switch in case the main computer crashes and keep the meeting going), and a high-definition video/webcam (if necessary, so that online participants can see the interpreter). Second, you must ensure that you have the necessary internet connection speed. If you are using Wi-Fi at home, make sure the speed is fast enough. Ideally, if possible, use a wired connection. Third, you need to ensure a good interpreting environment. It is best to prepare a relatively quiet room to avoid distractions during the interpretation.

Finally, after completing your preparations, choosing the right online interpretation platform is the most crucial aspect of online interpretation. The simultaneous interpretation feature of Zoom software is highly recommended, as it has several outstanding advantages: stable performance, supporting up to 1,000 participants in a video conference; and its ease of use and user-friendly interface. However, it's important to note that there are two versions of Zoom: the international version and the domestic version. Only the international version supports simultaneous interpretation. The domestic version of Zoom and associated accounts cannot set up or support simultaneous interpretation. Additionally, the simultaneous interpretation function of the international version is not free; you must upgrade your Zoom international account to a business account to enable this feature, after which you can invite interpreters for simultaneous interpretation.

The steps to use Zoom's simultaneous interpretation function are as follows:

①Language Settings: In the Settings menu, find In Meeting (Advanced) and click on Language Interpretation.

②Meeting Reservation: Enter the interpreter's email address and the required language pair, then click Save to complete the setup process. After finishing these steps, the interpreter will receive an email from Zoom containing the meeting link, meeting ID, and password. The interpreter can then join the Zoom online meeting via the link.

③Interpreter Translation: Ensure that the interpreter is set as a co-host. This is primarily so that even if the host mutes all participants, the interpreter’s voice can still be transmitted through the interpretation channel (preventing the interpreter from being muted). The specific operation method is as follows: In the Zoom meeting, hover over the interpreter's avatar in the list of participants on the right (by clicking the participant icon at the bottom of Zoom) > click the more options icon on the right > select “Make Co-Host.” Simultaneous interpretation work is typically done by 2-3 interpreters working in pairs, with a switch every 15-20 minutes. Interpreters usually have the capability to translate both ways (from Chinese to English and from English to Chinese), and they can select their listening and output languages on Zoom. The interpreter will adjust their output language based on what they hear (for example, if the speaker talks in Chinese, the interpreter will choose to output in English; if the speaker talks in English, the interpreter will choose to output in Chinese). Participants only need to stay locked into the language channel they select, without needing to switch channels throughout the process.

If you do not wish to download the international version of Zoom software, Tencent Meeting, a domestic online meeting software, can also be considered as it also has simultaneous interpretation functionality. Similarly, you will need to purchase a commercial/business version account to use this feature.

When using Tencent Meeting for this feature, the meeting host can assign interpreters and allocate corresponding language channels when scheduling a meeting. Once the meeting starts, the host can further assign or adjust interpreters and their corresponding language channels. During the meeting, interpreters only need to select the appropriate language channel when speaking. Other participants can listen by selecting the corresponding language channel in the simultaneous interpretation menu. The original audio will be slightly muted but preserved. If users wish to mute the original audio completely, they can choose to do so while listening to the interpreter's translation.

The steps to use the simultaneous interpretation feature in Tencent Meeting are as follows:

①The meeting creator can click on 【Simultaneous Interpretation】 -> 【Enable Simultaneous Interpretation】 -> 【Add Interpreters】 in the meeting scheduling interface, then enter the phone number linked to the interpreter's meeting account and specify the listening and output languages. Finally, click 【Save】 to complete the scheduling.

②If the company has set designated languages for simultaneous interpretation and the language you want to configure is not included, you can contact the company administrator for configuration. The administrator can quickly access the configuration by clicking "Click here."

③Once the simultaneous interpretation configuration is completed during the meeting scheduling, the host can click on the bottom toolbar in the meeting: 【Applications】 -> 【Simultaneous Interpretation】 -> 【Configure Simultaneous Interpretation】. In the configuration page, the host can check the status of interpreters and modify the interpretation languages, as well as add or remove interpreters.

④After the interpreters join the meeting, they can click 【Start Interpretation】 to begin the simultaneous interpretation.

Offline

If it is offline interpretation, simultaneous interpretation as a complex form of on-site interpretation requires very special technology, which depends on the physical environment and the confidentiality of information. According to the transmission principle of equipment, it can be divided into wired and wireless types. Wired simultaneous interpretation equipment is mostly used in some fixed meeting places, with disadvantages such as inconvenience for mobility and rental, and had completely withdrawn from the market before 2010. Wireless simultaneous interpretation equipment can be further divided into frequency modulation (fixed frequency) type and infrared type. Due to the interference factors affecting the signal source and the less ideal sound quality, the frequency modulation (fixed frequency) type simultaneous interpretation equipment is no longer common in the market and will soon be completely eliminated. Infrared simultaneous interpretation equipment is currently a popular type of equipment, with signals transmitted through infrared, ensuring stability and strong confidentiality. A complete set of simultaneous interpretation equipment consists of simultaneous interpretation central controller, infrared transmission host, infrared transmission board, interpreter unit, interpretation booth, simultaneous interpretation headphones (representing receiving units)/receivers, etc. In order to accommodate different languages, simultaneous interpretation equipment available in the Chinese market includes 4-channel, 8-channel, 16-channel, and 32-channel systems, with each channel transmitting one language. Note: The number of interpreter units and interpretation booths will be determined based on the number of languages in the meeting. The number of simultaneous interpretation headphones (representing receiving units) will depend on the number of participants.

Central Controller: The core of conference control is the central controller, which provides basic microphone operating modes as well as functions for simultaneous interpretation, along with comprehensive conference control and management capabilities. The brain of the simultaneous interpretation system is the central controller, which manages the operation of the entire interpretation system, ensuring that it runs normally and stably.

Infrared Transmission Host: This device receives digital input signals and modulates them onto a carrier wave, which is then transmitted to radiators arranged in the room. The infrared equipment can emit voice data through infrared signals. To ensure that the entire simultaneous interpretation system operates efficiently, the transmission host needs to have strong data parsing capabilities, able to quickly analyze voice signals and convert them into infrared signals for transmission.

Infrared Transmission Board: This is used to transmit the signals from the host. It provides frequency band transmission services for clients who require translation on-site, ensuring that both the audience and interpreters can receive signals on a specific frequency band relevant to the event.

Interpreter Unit: The interpreter unit typically includes an interpreter machine and interpreter headphones. It is used by interpreters to receive the speaker's voice and transmit sound to the participants; the number of units depends on the number of languages at the meeting. This equipment is essential for interpretation work, often transmitting via infrared to achieve audio synchronization and ensure a good audiovisual experience.

Simultaneous Interpretation Booth: This is a temporary working area for simultaneous interpreters, designed to be free from external signal interference. It is usually an isolated small room, and the number of booths needed corresponds to the number of languages at the meeting.

Simultaneous Interpretation Receiver/Headphones: These are used by attendees to receive the interpreter's voice, with the number determined by the number of participants. The listening effect is clear, allowing for different frequency bands for the interpreter and speaker, which helps listeners grasp the main information.

The two main technologies used in simultaneous interpretation are Frequency Modulation/Radio Frequency (FM/RF) technology and Infrared (IR) technology. FM, sometimes referred to as RF ("radio frequency"), is a technology similar to that used by radio stations. FM transmitters can broadcast translation information over long distances (hundreds or even thousands of feet, depending on the range) and can penetrate walls. The most powerful FM translation equipment can also eliminate radio interference and provide very high audio quality. FM systems offer varying levels of portability and mobility to meet your event needs. Another simultaneous interpretation technology is known as IR or infrared equipment. IR technology is typically used in smaller indoor environments for safer and more confidential communication that is less prone to interference. Unlike FM, IR usually requires line-of-sight, meaning there must be an unobstructed connection between the transmitter and the receiving device (similar to the technology used in TV remote controls). IR equipment is known for its rich and clear audio quality. When deciding whether FM or IR is the best simultaneous interpretation equipment for your event, you need to consider factors such as the number of participants, venue layout and required coverage area, the number of languages, portability, and event budget. For example, IR equipment is more susceptible to light interference, making FM a more reliable choice for outdoor events or activities that involve moving between rooms (such as guided facility tours). On the other hand, IR transmitters are considered more suitable for events with more than 6-8 languages used within the same room, as well as for more confidential meetings. You should also assess whether a fully enclosed soundproof booth or a more portable desktop soundproof booth is suitable for your interpreters' use.

Conference simultaneous interpretation equipment is divided into three types: portable devices, semi-closed interpretation booths, and fully enclosed interpretation booths.

Portable systems consist of a portable transmitter and multiple portable receivers. The number of receivers can be expanded based on the size of the audience. Portable devices are suitable for smaller events and workshops. They are particularly convenient for events that involve tours, where the audience needs to move around, such as visiting science labs, museums, or production facilities. However, portable devices have their limitations. They do not provide auxiliary listening devices for interpreters. The translation can be easily affected by background noise and echoes in high-ceiling rooms since interpreters hear the speaker's voice through air conduction. Without soundproofing, the interpreter's own voice may also disturb their hearing. Portable devices pose significant challenges for interpreters when they need to speak quickly to keep up with the speaker. While portable devices have slightly lower rental costs compared to interpretation booths, they are not recommended for larger meetings, venues with high ceilings, or frequent activities unless budget constraints are severe. In such cases, it is advisable to opt for interpretation booths.

Semi-closed interpretation booths can be used in moderately spacious areas. They are placed on top of work desks with an open back. The space they occupy is similar to that of portable devices and only requires a rectangular table. Each booth includes a control panel that allows interpreters to listen to the speaker through headphones, adjust their input and output volume individually, and switch turn using a button. A technical support staff is usually present on-site to assist with the equipment. As semi-closed booths are not completely soundproof, nearby attendees may experience some impact from interpreters' voices transmitted through the air. This issue can be addressed by using fully enclosed interpretation booths.

Fully enclosed interpretation booths are designed for spacious conference rooms. Similar to semi-closed booths, they include a control panel that allows interpreters to access the speaker's voice through headphones, adjust volume independently, and switch turns with a button. A technician is typically available on-site to provide assistance with the system. Fully enclosed booths are soundproof, effectively isolating interpreters from external disturbances and preventing attendees from hearing interpreters' voices transmitted through the air. The cost of semi-closed and fully enclosed interpretation booths is generally similar, with the choice between the two depending mainly on the size of the conference venue.

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