A second computer with a clear role
At a conference, the computer sending the stage feed to interpreters is an important part of the audio chain. Preparing a second workstation gives the team a reserve ready to take over. VoxVent backup production serves the same event: original audio and video for remote booths, or translated feeds from the on-site interpretation system.
The feature has been implemented in the new VoxVent Studio builds and enabled on the server. Full handover testing with two computers, interpreter booths and a mixing console is still in progress. Before using it at a live event, agree the app version and a rehearsal of your setup with us.
Start MAIN first, then connect the backup
- Prepare both computers with all required signals, the room’s languages and the same operating mode.
- Connect the main workstation (MAIN) and start transmitting. Simply entering the room is not enough.
- Connect the second workstation as backup to the same room. The server checks that MAIN is active and transmitting.
- Check that the reserve is ready and rehearse the handover before attendees arrive.
Once admitted, the backup remains operational if MAIN disconnects: that is when it needs to take over.
Handover from the workstation or the server
The main workstation can request a switch to the reserve; the reserve can request control. The server coordinates the selection and checks that the destination is ready. Automatic takeover is also provided when it detects loss of the active workstation and the reserve is ready.
Source selection happens before the interpreter booths. The original audio and stage video needed by remote interpreters must follow the new source, as well as the public listening feed. When MAIN becomes available again, it does not automatically take control back.
We do not promise an inaudible handover: detection and recovery time depend on the failure and must be measured during a real rehearsal.
Physical outputs remain under the sound engineer’s control
Audio inputs and physical outputs on both workstations remain operational during a role change. The sound engineer prepares the mixing console channels and decides when to open the reserve outputs and mute the main outputs. Being the backup does not automatically mute the audio interface.
Agree the procedure beforehand: clear labels, recognisable channels and a shared handover plan help prevent both signals being opened together.
The same room and the same licence
MAIN and backup serve the same room under the same licence: you do not need to purchase a second production room for the reserve. They do not double the counted time or the audience allowance. A second room broadcasting a different event needs its own capacity.
Your plan’s limits still apply. For an initial rehearsal, the free plan provides 60 cumulative minutes per day, two languages, one interpreter workstation and five simultaneous web listeners. Read the licence guide.
What to check before the event
- The correct signals reach both computers, including video when using remote interpreter booths.
- Manual handover in both directions, checking the booth, the audience player and the mixing console.
- Network loss or shutdown of MAIN, followed by takeover by the reserve.
- MAIN returning without automatic switchback or duplicate outputs at the mixing console.
- The actual interruption time, recorded with the app version and tested setup.
Two computers on the same network switch or power supply still share those points of failure. A reserve workstation does not replace reliable connectivity, power planning or server backup.
Use the full technical checklist and our guide to planning a multilingual event.