Short definition
Transmission technology carries audio and video signals from source to receiver – in the hall, into the interpreting booth, onto the internet, or between remote locations.
Detailed explanation
Transmission technology is the transport system for signals. It includes wired paths (audio networks, video and data lines) as well as wireless methods – infrared or radio for distributing language to participants, and internet and streaming connections for remote and hybrid formats. The goal is always the same: to deliver the signal to its destination with minimal loss, in sync, and stably.
In an interpreting context, transmission matters twice over: it carries the original audio to interpreters and their interpretation back to participants. Image and sound need to match – lip sync and stable latency aren't a luxury but a prerequisite for good work. ISO standards 20108 and 24019 set minimum requirements precisely here, for audio quality, video, and synchronization, especially in remote interpreting.
Relevance in this subject area
Whether classic in-hall or as a remote conference: if transmission fails, everything fails. It connects the microphone chain, interpreting system, and receiver into a functioning whole.
Practical example
At a hybrid conference, hall audio is routed via an audio network to the interpreting system, sent by radio to receivers in the room, and simultaneously transmitted over the internet to remote interpreters in a hub – all in sync.
Related terms
Microphone chain, Multi-channel system, Infrared system, ISO 20108, Remote interpreting