Each of the court discussions systems consisted of a single chairman unit with varying number of delegate units. The systems also included a Shure Microflex MX412 gooseneck mic at the witness stand and a boundary mic in the secure dock. In order to effectively manage each of the said mics, a Shure SCM410 automatic 4-channel mixer with Intellimix was utilized to increase speech clarity and reduce the risk of feedback. A custom-built switch box was employed to allow the magistrate's clerk the ability to mute either mic. Each discussion system was also linked to an induction loop for the hard of hearing and existing speakers.
Northampton-based Willow Sound Vision demonstrated the ConferenceONE discussion system to the committee with a view to replacing their out-of-date Phillips discussion systems. Following the demonstration, Andy Greaves from Willow then project managed the installation at each of the 15 courts with equipment supplied via Shure Distribution UK. Greaves said: "The ConferenceONE system became the obvious choice for this particular application as it provides high quality speech with good intelligibility and is visually appealing. The simplistic operation of the system is ideal for multiple site installations where a 'technical' operator is not usually present. Once installed, we have found that the systems can be left in the hands of the site staff who become confident with its use very quickly."
Following the success of ConferenceONE at Northamptonshire's magistrate courts, via Willow Communications, Northamptonshire Borough Council invested in a ConferenceONE portable discussion system consisting of one chairman unit and ten delegates units for their meeting rooms.
(Lee Baldock)
