Short definition
An infrared interpreting system distributes interpreting languages to participants' receivers via invisible infrared light – the standard for secure language distribution in a hall.
Detailed explanation
With this system, language channels are sent into the room via infrared emitters; participants' receivers convert the light back into sound. The key advantage: infrared light doesn't leave the room – it doesn't pass through walls. This makes transmission inherently secure and confined to the room, ideal for confidential sessions and for adjacent halls that would otherwise interfere with each other via radio.
Line of sight matters: receivers need an unobstructed "view" of the emitters, and heavy obstruction or very bright sunlight can disrupt reception. The number of emitters depends on room size and shape. Professional systems transmit many channels in parallel and meet the requirements of ISO 20109.
Relevance in this subject area
For multilingual simultaneous interpreting in a hall, infrared distribution is the proven standard – especially where confidentiality and clean room separation matter.
Practical example
In a plenary hall, several ceiling emitters ensure every seat receives the eight language channels via infrared – with no interference in the neighboring hall.
Related terms
Infrared system, Interpreting system, Multi-channel system, Receiver (conference receiver), ISO 20109