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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our simultaneous interpretation services, interpretation equipment, translation services, and live AI translation/intepretation services. If you don't see your question answered here, please contact us and we'll be happy to help.

Interpretation Services

What is the difference between simultaneous and consecutive interpretation?

Simultaneous interpretation happens in real-time while the speaker is talking, with the interpreter speaking at the same time using specialized equipment. The interpreter listens and speaks simultaneously, with only a few seconds of delay.

Consecutive interpretation involves the speaker pausing while the interpreter translates what was just said before the speaker continues. The speaker and interpreter take turns speaking.

Simultaneous interpretation is typically used for conferences and large meetings where time is limited, while consecutive is more common for smaller meetings or one-on-one conversations.

Do you provide interpretation services for hybrid or virtual meetings?

Yes, we provide remote simultaneous interpretation services for online meetings and hybrid events where some participants are onsite and others join remotely. This solution eliminates the need for transporting interpreter booths and reduces travel costs.

We use specialized platforms and equipment that allow interpreters to work remotely while delivering high-quality interpretation to both in-person and virtual attendees.

What languages do you offer for interpretation services?

We offer interpretation services in over 100 languages. The most requested languages include Spanish, Portuguese, French, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Korean, Italian, Arabic, and German.

However, we can provide interpreters for many other languages including Thai, Greek, Romanian, Hebrew, Vietnamese, Polish, Hindi, Hungarian, Turkish, Ukrainian, Farsi, Finnish, Malay, Dutch, Norwegian, Danish, Punjabi, and Swedish.

If you need a language not listed here, please contact us as we likely have interpreters for that language as well.

How do I know if I need simultaneous or consecutive interpretation?

You likely need simultaneous interpretation if:

  • You're hosting a conference or large meeting
  • Time is limited and you can't afford the pauses of consecutive interpretation
  • You have multiple languages needed at the same event
  • The content is formal or technical

Consecutive interpretation is better suited for:

  • Small group discussions
  • One-on-one meetings
  • Informal settings
  • When budget constraints exist

Our project managers can help you determine the best approach for your specific event.

What is the difference between interpretation and translation?

Interpretation refers to converting spoken language in real-time, while translation refers to converting written text from one language to another.

Interpreters work with spoken communication during meetings, conferences, and conversations. They must think quickly and convert language on the spot.

Translators work with documents, websites, software, and other written content, with time to research terminology and refine their work.

Both require different skill sets and training, though both involve converting content between languages.

How far in advance should I book interpretation services?

We recommend booking interpretation services at least 4 weeks in advance for common languages and standard setups. For rare languages, high-profile events, or specialized technical subjects, 4-8 weeks notice is preferable.

However, we understand that urgent needs arise and we'll do our best to accommodate last-minute requests when possible. Contact us as soon as you know you'll need interpretation services for the best availability.

What qualifications do your interpreters have?

Our simultaneous interpreters (conference interpreters) are highly qualified professionals with specific training in simultaneous interpretation techniques. They typically have:

  • Advanced degrees in interpretation or related fields
  • Relevant certifications when applicable
  • Extensive experience in their language pairs
  • Subject matter expertise in various fields
  • Continuous professional development

We carefully screen all interpreters and select those with the appropriate expertise for your specific event and subject matter to ensure accurate, high-quality interpretation.

Interpretation Equipment

What equipment is needed for simultaneous interpretation?

Simultaneous interpretation requires specialized equipment including:

  • Soundproof interpreter booths to isolate interpreters
  • Interpreter consoles with microphones and headsets
  • Transmitters to broadcast the interpreted audio
  • Wireless receivers for audience members
  • Integration with the venue's sound system

For smaller events, portable transmitters and wireless receivers may be sufficient without full booths. Our team can recommend the right equipment setup based on your specific event needs.

What are interpreter booths and when are they required?

Interpreter booths are soundproof enclosures where simultaneous interpreters work during conferences and formal meetings. They provide sound isolation to prevent interpreter voices from disturbing the audience and to help interpreters focus on the speaker.

Full interpreter booths are required when:

  • Multiple interpreters are working together
  • The event is in a large venue
  • Complete sound isolation is needed
  • The event is highly formal

For smaller events or when space is limited, tabletop booths (partial enclosures) may be used instead of full booths.

Can I rent interpretation equipment without hiring interpreters?

Yes, we offer equipment-only rental services for clients who have their own interpreters but need professional interpretation equipment. This includes transmitters, receivers, interpreter consoles, and booths as needed.

Our technicians will set up, monitor, and manage the equipment throughout your event to ensure everything runs smoothly while working with your interpreters.

Do you provide on-site technical support for interpretation equipment?

Yes, we provide on-site technical support for all interpretation equipment setups. Our experienced technicians will:

  • Arrive before your event to set up the equipment
  • Test all systems to ensure proper functioning
  • Coordinate with your AV team and venue staff
  • Remain on-site throughout the event
  • Monitor equipment performance continuously
  • Assist attendees with receiver usage
  • Quickly resolve any technical issues that may arise

This ensures your event runs smoothly without technical interruptions.

AI Live Captioning/Translation/Interpretation Services

What is AI-generated live multilingual captioning and speech and how does it work?

Our AI-generated live multilingual captioning (live translation) service provides real-time multilingual captions for your events. The technology captures spoken content, automatically transcribes it, and can translate it into multiple languages simultaneously.

Participants can view these captions on their mobile devices or on projection screens. The system can also generate AI speech that reads translations aloud as the client listens on their phone.

This service enhances accessibility and provides language support for international audiences without requiring full human interpretation services. It's particularly useful for:

  • Budget-conscious events needing multilingual support
  • Improving accessibility for deaf or hard-of-hearing attendees
  • Providing supplementary text support alongside interpretation
  • Events where reading translations is preferred to listening

Translation Services

What types of documents can you translate?

Currently we are focused on providing servcies to the conference industry so we only provide written translation in the form of translated live captions for meetings and events.

Logistics and Coverage

Do you provide interpretation services nationwide?

Yes, we provide interpretation services and equipment throughout the United States. We have interpretation equipment and interpreters in various locations, allowing us to serve all major US cities including:

  • Las Vegas, NV
  • Seattle, WA
  • Spokane, WA
  • San Francisco, CA
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • San Diego, CA
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Tucson, AZ
  • Denver, CO
  • Dallas, TX
  • Houston, TX
  • New Orleans, LA
  • Atlanta, GA
  • Chicago, IL
  • Washington DC
  • Boston, MA
  • New York, NY
  • Miami, FL
  • And many others

We can also provide services internationally. Our mobile services allow us to set up at virtually any location.

Still have questions? Contact us for more information or to request a quote for your specific needs.