Short definition
A portable guide system (PGS) is a mobile wireless setup of a pocket transmitter and pocket receivers that transmits speech to a mobile group – for tours and booth-free interpreting.
Detailed explanation
The PGS is the full term for the guide or whisper system. Core components are a pocket transmitter with a microphone worn by the speaker, and pocket receivers with headphones worn by listeners; transmission happens via radio. The speaker can talk quietly and still be heard clearly by everyone – even over distance and in loud environments.
In interpreting, the PGS is the standard solution for mobile and booth-free assignments: factory, museum, and city tours, site walks, outdoor appointments, or whispered interpreting for more than two people. Advantages are mobility, quick setup, and low cost; the drawback is a lack of sound insulation, which is why the PGS isn't suited to many languages or long, highly focused conferences – booth technology remains superior there. Depending on the system, multiple channels for parallel languages are possible. The technology is also used in silent-event concepts.
Relevance in this subject area
The PGS is the most flexible tool for language transmission: usable anywhere booths don't fit or the group is moving – the mobile complement to simultaneous interpreting technology.
Practical example
A delegation visits a production facility. The interpreter wears the pocket transmitter and whispers the interpretation; the 20 participants listen via pocket receivers as the group moves through the hall.
Related terms
Guide system (PGS), Whisper interpreting system, Pocket transmitter / pocket receiver, Whispered interpreting (chuchotage), Silent conference / silent event