Based on Brähler's CDSVAN digital conference solution, the system is controlled by a powerful DSP card with all functions, routing and adjustments accessible via the CDSVAN software. This system was chosen because it is highly flexible and able to cope with multiple audio configurations. A sophisticated digital recording system is integrated, which automatically records and name-tags each individual speaker to an mp3 file as soon as their microphone is activated, and ends recording when the microphone is switched off. This allows for easier and faster transcription of the meeting, creates a running order for the meeting and eliminates the need for audio cassettes.
The 87 delegate microphone units are flush-mounted into the desks and each has a gooseneck microphone immune to RF interference. The built-in channel selectors have backlit LCD screens showing language information or administrative messages, and an auto-mute loudspeaker. For further audio enhancement, the CDSVAN system has been integrated with the existing PA system.
The interpretation element is composed of 10 digital interpreter consoles which offer up to five language channels plus the original source. Delegates can listen to the interpretation using one of 187 dedicated channel selectors built into the seating back panels, or one of the 87 microphone units in the desks.
Brähler ICS sales manager Will Robertson adds: "Sound quality was of great importance to the ICO as the previous system, whilst having served faithfully for many years, needed to be replaced. Seating over 250 delegates and ensuring they all have access to crystal-clear interpretation is no easy task, but fortunately our CDSVAN system lent itself extremely well to this project."
Provision has also been made for the addition of intelligent zoning of the PA system and future integration with an automatic camera system for video-conferencing is possible, whereby the cameras automatically pan and zoom into a seat location when the microphone is activated.
(Jim Evans)
