“Cable clutter is really a thing of the past”

Tom Mikus talks about requirements made on conference systems in the 2020s

Just imagine, you are sitting in in a brightly lit conference room which is equipped with the latest technology. Wait a minute – latest technology? What does that really mean? How can we create a ‘modern‘ conference system? And why exactly does MONACOR’s portfolio now include a new and modern conference system? We have asked Tom Mikus who is an experienced trade expert.

Mr. Mikus, why on earth do we need yet another conference system?

Simply because: we believe that products should serve the people. A modern conference system is very easy to use and does not require prior knowledge. It ought to be extendable as required and should provide a crystal-clear voice transmission – cable clutter is really a thing of the past. With Relacart, we can offer real solutions: no matter how complex the acoustics or topic are, the systems provide a high speech intelligibility and ensure no more tripping hazards. It is considered as the ‘human interface’ of communications.

Which scenarios particularly depend on conference systems which are capable of more than just transmitting the sound?

Any scenario with lively discussions and decision making. A good and modern conference system provides a sophisticated operation, even with other interfering noise. It results in an easier and more accessible conference, podium presentation or discussion. A special switching concept identifies and suppresses interference of external devices which is essential for professional applications. This is also vital.

Digital, wireless conference system with Dante® connection

“No one has to stand at a mixer and turn pots.

Conference technology such as Relacart features a modern and digital control technology via app“

We are surrounded by technology from the 2020s. Modern conference systems such as Relacart thus feature interference protection. Hence, they protect against interfering radiation from Bluetooth, mobile phones, computers and other microphones.

They allow for a high speech intelligibility. The discussion can easily be followed, even under most difficult conditions. During the final stages, this system must also be capable of recording to verify decisions afterwards and keep them transparent. The highlight is a tuning section for setting a reference.

Compared to the latest conference technology, what is so special about this system?

Our system is setting new standards:

It is wireless,
applies digital technology,
is space-saving due to a compact design and
protects against interference from other devices.
It is capable of modular extension and very easy to use.

In addition, it features a great appearance, and you can definitely feel the high quality. The integrated DANTE® network is a real game changer. It allows for a smooth connection of hundreds of external products.

A wireless connection to mixers, wireless microphones and arrays in the field of conference technology is a big step into the future.

How does this change the communication for local authorities and professional conference rooms?

It is a great revolution! The compatibility with versatile external products is ensured thanks to the digital transmission via Dante® connection. An intelligent conference system is often fully automated and can, for example, be combined with automatic video tracking systems. A key lesson from previous years is that hybrid conferences can be successful if the technology works. We have decided to provide a reference with the video technology to show you which products are compatible, because we are no specialists in this field. For years, MI has particularly focussed on ‘Audio Only‘, even though both worlds are continuously growing closer together. As a result, we can access a great network.

Thanks to the LoRa protocol, we provide minimum latency which means that voice transmissions happen in real time (Lip Sync). This considerably improves bi-directional communication.

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The auto-scan function (AFS) of some modern Dante® devices such as Relacart allows an intuitive operation, even for non-experts.

What is LoRa?

LoRa stands for ‘long range’. With this protocol, it is possible for sensors and other small devices to exchange information energy-efficient across great distances. This is particularly useful for applications such as the surveillance of environmental conditions in agriculture or exchange of audio data. Just imagine the LoRa as an efficient postal system: it can send parcels (in this case data) across great distances, even past obstacles. This ability makes it ideal for setting up networks. This way, LoRa allows for a continuous and energy-efficient communication in our world which is becoming increasingly smarter. It is the key for the Internet of Things: devices are becoming smarter and increasingly ‘talk’ with each other.

These are all technical aspects of modern conference systems. Are there any design aspects?

In fact, design and technology are by no means opposites, especially in the field of PA technology. A Dante® desktop microphone with a horizontally aligned microphone array-looks great because it is integrated into the room differently than a standard gooseneck microphone. However, it picks up the voice perfectly in a conference talk thanks to the array with 17 cartridges.

And: the positioning of the microphone is less crucial.

Thank you very much Mr. Mikus.

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