The future of our planet depends on decisions made today – and those decisions require the world to come together. From 19 to 30 October 2026, Yerevan, Armenia, became the meeting point for global discussions on one of our most pressing challenges: protecting the biodiversity that sustains life on Earth. COP17 brought governments, experts and international organisations together to assess progress, share perspectives and turn global commitments into meaningful action.

But what does it take to bring so many voices, countries and perspectives together for conversations of this scale? And how does technology help ensure those conversations reach beyond the conference room?

Discover how conference technology helps bring global conversations together and how Congress Rental supported communication at COP17 in Armenia.

More Than a Meeting Venue

International conferences of this scale involve far more than bringing delegates into one room. Participants need to follow discussions, identify speakers, contribute to meetings and access information, often across multiple languages. The official COP17 negotiating space hosted plenary sessions, high-level discussions, ministerial meetings, round tables and negotiations on draft decisions.

Supporting these activities required conference technology that works as an integrated system. Audio, camera facilities, delegate identification and online streaming each served a specific purpose, but their value lies in how they work together to support the wider meeting.

Supporting COP17 With Integrated Conference Technology 

Congress Rental supplied conference technology and services at COP17 in Armenia, supporting communication within the conference environment and extending the proceedings to online audiences. The solutions included conference microphones with card-touch delegate identification, PTZ camera facilities and online streaming of all conference languages.

The Importance of Bringing It All Together

At a major international gathering, individual technologies cannot operate in isolation. The microphones, identification facilities, cameras and streaming services must work as parts of a connected environment. The objective is to support the flow of communication, allowing the focus to remain on the discussions taking place rather than the systems delivering them.

This is especially important at conferences where participants are working across languages, time zones and geographical boundaries. Reliable communication infrastructure helps create the conditions for information to be shared and discussions to reach the people who need to follow them.

Supporting Conversations That Matter

COP17 was an important moment for international cooperation on biodiversity. Its discussions will contribute to the global review of progress towards shared commitments to protect nature and address biodiversity loss.

For Congress Rental, supporting the event was an opportunity to contribute through the conference technology that connects participants, captures discussions and extends access beyond the venue, because at an international conference, communication is about more than what happens in the room. It’s about enabling people to follow the conversation, wherever they are.

Congress Rental South Africa – Designed for Communication that Matters.

The post COP17: A Global Conversation About Biodiversity appeared first on Congress Rental.

Both technologies deliver crystal-clear audio and professional conferencing functionality – but the right choice depends on your venue, timelines and event format.
Let’s break down the differences.

Wired Conference Systems: Proven Reliability

Best for: Permanent installations, government chambers, parliaments and venues with fixed layouts.

Wired conference systems, such as the Bosch DCN and DICENTIS Conference models, deliver unmatched stability offering consistent signal strength with zero interference – a critical factor for high-stakes environments like legislative meetings and executive summits. Security is also a top priority: cabled connections minimise the risk of external disruption while providing encrypted, reliable communication. Because power and data run through the same cable, there’s no need to worry about battery life or wireless channels. Modular wired networks are also future-proof, allowing organisers to add extra delegate units, cameras or voting modules without overhauling the core system.

The main consideration is installation time. Wired systems require careful cable routing and work best in venues where equipment can remain in place for recurring meetings or extended sessions.

Wireless Conference Systems: Speed and Flexibility

Best for: Temporary venues, hybrid summits and multi-room conferences.

Wireless conference systems provide unmatched flexibility and speed, making them ideal for events where rapid setup and reconfigurable seating are essential. Without the need for extensive cabling, installation times are significantly reduced allowing organisers to transform a hall into a fully functional conference space in a matter of hours. Wireless delegate units can be easily repositioned to accommodate workshops, breakout sessions or last-minute layout changes, while maintaining a clean, professional appearance free of visible cables. Advanced systems, such as Bosch (now Keenfinity) DICENTIS Wireless, utilise robust frequency management and encryption to ensure secure, reliable communication even in environments crowded with multiple wireless networks.

The key consideration for wireless systems is network conditions and battery management. Professional site surveys and pre-event testing are essential to avoid interference and ensure seamless operation, particularly in complex or metal-structured venues.

 The Hybrid Event Factor

 Hybrid and multilingual events add an extra layer of complexity to conference planning. When hosting simultaneous interpretation, live streaming or remote participants, a wired backbone often provides the most stable and reliable foundation for integration with interpreter booths, encoders and recording equipment. At the same time, a wireless front-end for delegates allows flexibility on the floor, enabling easy repositioning of seating or breakout areas without compromising audio quality. By combining the reliability of wired infrastructure with the adaptability of wireless systems, organisers can achieve the best of both worlds – seamless communication, clear sound and a professional attendee experience.

The Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to conference technology. Wired systems remain the gold standard for reliability, security and scalability, while wireless systems excel in flexibility, speed and aesthetics. The right choice ultimately depends on your venue, event format and technical priorities.

At Congress Rental South Africa, we design complete, event-specific solutions that balance these factors. From permanent chambers to temporary hybrid summits, our expert technicians ensure every voice is heard, every device is optimally deployed and every event runs flawlessly.

Ready to plan your 2026 events?
Let our team recommend the perfect configuration for your venue or upcoming summit.
📩 info@congressrental.co.za | 📞 011 216 9640
Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for more insights.

The post Choosing Between Wired and Wireless Conference Systems in 2026 appeared first on Congress Rental.

The acquisition makes KEENFINITY the new home of leading brands, including Electro-Voice, Dynacord, RTS, Telex and includes Bosch’s renowned portfolio of video surveillance systems, access control, intrusion detection technologies and professional communications solutions. These products, trusted worldwide for their innovation and reliability, will now be offered exclusively by KEENFINITY Group, which operates independently within Triton’s investment portfolio.

A Change in Name, Not in Service

While select legal entities have started the transition to the KEENFINITY name from 1^st July 2025, the existing ownership structures and day-to-day operations have remained unaffected and customers can continue to expect the same service excellence and product performance they’ve come to rely on.

All products are developed and manufactured at the company’s four strategically located global production hubs in Germany, Portugal, Mexico and China, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in global delivery and distribution.

Powering the Future of Security and Communication

Peter Loeffler, the CEO of KEENFINITY had this to say: “We are excited about our future as a standalone company. With Triton as our partner, we’re poised to unlock our full potential. Our legacy of quality, innovation and global reach provides a strong foundation as we continue to evolve with the needs of customers and market demands.”

Sachin Jivanji, an Investment Advisory Professional at Triton added: “KEENFINITY is perfectly aligned with our strategy of investing in market leaders. With strong global brands and proven technology, we see untapped potential and we are committed to supporting their growth through further investment in innovation, sales capabilities, and go-to market strategies.”

Congress Rental South Africa remains committed to providing the best in conference solutions and looks forward to the evolution of the Bosch brand under the guidance of the KEENFINITY Group.

The post The Bosch Story Continues: A New Era Begins Under Keenfinity Group appeared first on Congress Rental.

The Early Years: Laying the Foundations

Bosch entered the conferencing world in the 1950s, pioneering microphone and audio distribution technologies designed for clarity and reliability. During this analog era, the focus was on improving public address systems, ensuring that every voice in a room could be heard without distortion – a radical innovation at the time.

1980s–1990s: Digital Transformation Begins

As computing technology advanced, Bosch transitioned into digital conference systems, launching the DCN (Digital Congress Network) in 1985 – the world’s first fully digital conference system. It offered microphone management, speech time control, and interpretation capabilities, forever changing the way large meetings and multilingual events were conducted. In the 1990s, Bosch strengthened its position further by acquiring Philips’ conference systems division, building on this foundation to expand innovation and set new standards in professional conferencing worldwide.

2000s: Wireless Freedom and Integration

Bosch introduced wireless conference systems in the early 2000s, offering greater flexibility in setup and mobility without compromising audio quality. The DCN Wireless system became a trusted solution for temporary venues, high-security meetings, and heritage buildings where cabling was not ideal.

At the same time, Bosch invested heavily in integration and IP-based solutions, paving the way for remote management, recording, and live streaming – technologies that would prove essential in the decades to come.

2010s: Future-Ready with DICENTIS

With the launch of the DICENTIS Conference System, Bosch redefined modern conferencing. Built on IP and OMNEO media networking, DICENTIS offers open architecture, multilingual interpretation, high-level security, and seamless integration with third-party AV systems. It supports features such as voice activation, video tracking, and even biometric authentication, setting a new standard for governmental and multinational events.

The DICENTIS platform was designed to evolve with technology and user needs – a visionary move that positioned Bosch as a leader during the shift toward hybrid and remote conferencing.

Global Impact: Trusted at the Highest Levels

From United Nations assemblies and European Union summits to G20 conferences, Bosch systems have supported the most sensitive, high-profile discussions in modern history. Trusted by interpreters, technicians, and delegates alike, Bosch’s legacy is not just about technology – it’s about enabling global understanding.

Looking Ahead

As Bosch celebrates 75 years of innovation, the future holds even more promise. With the rise of virtual meetings, smart buildings, and integrated AI, Bosch continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible – ensuring that wherever important conversations happen, they’re powered by clarity, intelligence, and trust.

Don’t miss our next article, where the Bosch story continues, advancing  into new frontiers of conferencing and collaboration.

Congress Rental South Africa is a trusted provider of professional conference, interpretation, and audio-visual solutions. As the official partner of Bosch Conference Systems, we deliver world-class technology and expert support for multilingual events, corporate meetings, and international summits. From seamless interpretation to flawless audio, we connect voices and ideas – across languages and borders.

The post Bosch Celebrates 75 Years of Conference Innovation: A Legacy of Sound, Clarity, and Connection appeared first on Congress Rental.

The new DICENTIS Electronic name cards have been created to provide a quick and efficient alternative to paper name cards, allowing AV technicians to rapidly change or update participant information from a single location by a simple user interface. Created using very low power consumption E-Ink technology, the electronic name cards are available with a single-sided and double-sided screen.

The screens have been designed to be the optimal size for content and unobtrusiveness, featuring E-ink technology which is known for perfect readability without distractions. Both iterations will display the information that the participant wants, such as a company logo and a name, to the physical and remote audience, while the dual sided version also allows meeting information, such as agenda points, to be displayed on the participant side.

Highlights include:

Real-Time Delegate Updates

Simple to manage and update in the background, the control software for the DICENTIS Electronic name cards offers an intuitive user interface to create the perfect setup for every participant. Content on the display automatically updates as participants information is changed during the day, saving time and delivering an efficient solution for AV managers.

The DICENTIS Electronic name cards also offer the flexibility to change the seating arrangement on the fly. While seats are allocated in advance, if a participant logs in at a different seat from the one they have been assigned, the display will automatically update to reflect the change.

Readable from every angle

The DICENTIS electronic name cards feature a clear and crisp display with a 180-degree viewing angle. The display also prevents unwanted reflections and flickering on captured images to enable recording or broadcast. This technology makes the solution the perfect partner to an automated meeting camera system.

The DICENTIS electronic name cards provide all the necessary information for participants and viewers, without any distractions.

Easy installation

The DICENTIS Electronic name cards can be daisy-chained with the DICENTIS cable within the existing DICENTIS topology. Aiding AV technicians and integrators further, the name cards can also be star-wired via PoE and different delegate devices can be mixed on the same cable. The Electronic name cards can be installed as flush mounted into a table or desk or free standing with the separate DICENTIS Electronic name card foot which can be ordered for further flexibility.

The post DICENTIS Electronic Name Cards Boosts Efficiency and Flexibility appeared first on Congress Rental.

Bosch has announced the launch of the DICENTIS Participant App for Android, offering a new level of flexibility and interactivity for conference participants.

Designed to extend the feature set of the DICENTIS conference platform, the Participant App transforms off-the-shelf Android tablets into fully functional conference devices. Participants can view meeting information, request to speak, cast votes, and access agenda documents, all through a user-friendly interface on their tablet. The app seamlessly integrates with DICENTIS microphone units, ensuring a streamlined and professional setup.

Flexible by Design

One of the standout features of the DICENTIS Participant App is its inherent flexibility. It runs on a wide range of Android devices, including tablets of various screen sizes and Android TV boxes connected to third-party touchscreens. This allows system integrators and AV professionals to create customized, cost-effective setups that can be adapted to different room configurations and client needs.

Devices are registered once by a technician to ensure secure access, and participants can easily log in during meetings. Once connected, the tablet and microphone unit operate as a unified participant station.

Enhanced Meeting Experience

The new app significantly enhances the meeting experience by delivering visual content and greater control to each participant. Whether it’s accessing real-time agenda points, viewing shared documents, or casting a vote, users benefit from a modern, digital interface that promotes efficiency and engagement.

Flexible Licensing Options

The app is available through two licensing models:

• As an add-on per participant for DICENTIS systems with Perpetual licenses
• Included as standard in the Professional license plan, which also covers ongoing software maintenance and updates for optimal performance

This dual-approach licensing offers customers both flexibility and long-term value, with scalable options suited for everything from small council chambers to large-scale international summits.

The post Bosch Launches DICENTIS Participant App for Android appeared first on Congress Rental.

A Seamless Hybrid Experience

With the growing demand for hybrid conferencing solutions, version 6.50 empowers organizations to bridge the gap between physical and virtual meeting spaces. Remote participants now enjoy the same speech priorities, voting rights, and content-sharing capabilities as those attending in person. This ensures not only a smooth and inclusive meeting experience but also compliance with legal and procedural standards for official decision-making.

Intuitive Meeting Management

The update also introduces a refreshed DICENTIS Meeting Application, featuring a user-friendly interface that consolidates agenda creation, participant tracking, and voting management into a single, streamlined dashboard. This unified approach significantly reduces the complexity of setup and real-time management, providing efficiency for moderators and technical staff alike.

Scalable and Adaptable for Any Venue

Continuing its reputation for flexibility, the DICENTIS Wireless Conference System remains ideal for historic buildings, multi-purpose venues, and institutions requiring scalable, non-intrusive installations. With version 6.50, Bosch reinforces its commitment to providing robust, forward-thinking solutions for both government and corporate environments.

Looking Ahead

With this latest release, Bosch once again demonstrates its leadership in audio and conferencing technology. The DICENTIS System Software 6.50 not only meets today’s hybrid communication needs but lays the foundation for even more connected and intelligent conferencing experiences in the future.

The future of conferencing is here, and it’s wireless, hybrid, and smarter than ever.

Congress Rental South Africa uses only trusted solutions like DICENTIS by Bosch

The post Bosch Releases DICENTIS System Software 6.50 appeared first on Congress Rental.

At Congress Rental SA, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier conference equipment that bridges the generational gap, ensuring ease of use for everyone, from boomers to millennials. Our conference solutions are tailored to meet diverse needs, making sophisticated technology accessible to all. Here’s a look at our flagship products that are revolutionising the conference experience.

DCN Multimedia Conference System: INFORM. IMPRESS. INSPIRE.

The DCN Multimedia Conference System is a game-changer in the realm of conference technology. This innovative system integrates audio, video, and meeting content with internet access into one streamlined device. Its user-friendly interface ensures that even those unfamiliar with technology can navigate it with ease. Whether you’re presenting crucial data, sharing multimedia content, or engaging in a video conference, this system is designed to inform, impress, and inspire participants of all ages.

CCS 1000 D Digital Discussion System: Simplicity at Its Best

For those who prioritise simplicity and efficiency, the CCS 1000 D Digital Discussion System is the perfect choice. Compact and easy to set up, this system is ideal for first-time users. It requires no additional equipment or operator, and no training is necessary. Its intuitive design means that anyone, regardless of their tech-savviness, can operate it with confidence. This makes it an excellent option for spontaneous meetings and discussions.

Bosch DICENTIS Wireless Conference System: Flexibility and Freedom

The Bosch DICENTIS Wireless Conference System offers unparalleled flexibility and ease of installation. Perfect for conference centres and multi-purpose rooms, its wireless nature allows it to be set up and rearranged effortlessly, making it an excellent choice for historical buildings where preserving integrity is crucial. This system’s adaptability ensures that it can meet the evolving needs of any conference or event, without compromising on quality or reliability.

Bosch DCN Next Generation Discussion System: Digital Excellence

Combining the benefits of digital technology with the functionality of a discussion system, the Bosch DCN Next Generation Discussion System sets a new standard. It is the first entirely digital system of its kind, offering high audio quality and reliable data transmission. This system provides users with complete control over conference proceedings, making it an ideal solution for formal discussions and decision-making processes.

DICENTIS Flush Language Selector: A Multilingual Marvel

In our increasingly globalised world, the ability to cater to multilingual audiences is essential. The new DICENTIS Flush Language Selector from Bosch is a user-friendly solution designed for multi-lingual meetings requiring simultaneous interpretation. This intuitive device serves passive listeners, such as meeting delegates or journalists, making it an excellent choice for parliaments and international conventions. Its seamless integration into the Bosch IP-based conference system portfolio extends the capabilities of our interpretation product lineup, ensuring clear communication across languages.

Serving Diverse Needs Across Africa

Bosch conference microphones and systems are trusted by a wide range of organisations, from small-sized enterprises to multinational corporations, as well as local, regional, and national governments. At Congress Rental SA, we’ve had the privilege of successfully servicing events across the African continent using Bosch’s state-of-the-art technology. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every conference, meeting, and event we support is a success.

At Congress Rental SA, we understand that effective communication knows no age limits. Our range of user-friendly, cutting-edge conference equipment ensures that everyone, from boomers to millennials, can participate fully and confidently. Whether you need a system that’s easy to set up and use, or one that offers advanced digital capabilities, we have the perfect solution to meet your needs. Let us help you make your next event an unparalleled success with our top-tier conference technology.

The post Equipment without Boundaries appeared first on Congress Rental.

Enter simultaneous interpretation—a dynamic solution that bridges linguistic gaps and fosters meaningful dialogue on a global scale.

We specialise in simultaneous interpretation and have systems that allow for the interpretation of up to 32 languages concurrently. Our solutions include:

• Integrus Wireless Language Distribution System
• DICENTIS Flush Language Selector
• Interpreter Booths
• Interpreter Recruitment

Simultaneous Interpretation fosters the following:

Instant Comprehension

Simultaneous interpretation offers the invaluable advantage of instant comprehension. Instead of waiting for translations to be relayed after the fact, participants can absorb information in real time, ensuring that discussions flow smoothly and efficiently. This immediacy fosters engagement and prevents misunderstandings that may arise from delayed communication.

Global Interaction

At the heart of simultaneous interpretation lies the ability to facilitate global interaction. By breaking down language barriers, this method enables individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together, share ideas, and collaborate towards common goals. Whether it’s a scientific symposium, a diplomatic summit, or a cultural exchange, the power of connection transcends linguistic boundaries.

Professionalism

In professional settings such as conferences and parliamentary events, the presence of simultaneous interpretation underscores a commitment to professionalism and inclusivity. It demonstrates respect for the linguistic diversity of participants and ensures that all voices are heard and understood, regardless of the languages spoken.

Efficiency and Convenience

Gone are the days of cumbersome translation processes that disrupt the natural flow of communication. Simultaneous interpretation streamlines proceedings, allowing speakers to convey their messages seamlessly while ensuring that listeners receive translations in their preferred language. This efficiency not only saves time but also enhances the overall experience for attendees.

Minimised Errors

With trained professionals adept at capturing nuances and subtleties, the risk of misinterpretation is significantly reduced. This accuracy is essential, particularly in contexts where decisions are made based on the information exchanged.

Wider Audience Reach

By accommodating multiple languages, events become more accessible to individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This inclusivity not only broadens participation but also enriches discussions with diverse perspectives.

Accessibility

Simultaneous interpretation plays a vital role in promoting accessibility for all attendees, including those with hearing impairments or limited proficiency in the event’s primary language. Through the provision of sign language interpretation or translations in alternative formats, barriers to participation are dismantled, ensuring that everyone can fully engage with the proceedings.

Strengthening International Relations

In diplomatic circles, simultaneous interpretation serves as a cornerstone of international relations. By facilitating clear and accurate communication between representatives of different nations, it fosters understanding, trust, and cooperation on global issues. In an increasingly interconnected world, such channels of dialogue are essential for forging meaningful partnerships and addressing shared challenges.

Simultaneous interpretation stands as a cornerstone of effective communication in today’s global landscape. Its myriad advantages—from instant comprehension and professionalism to efficiency and accessibility—underscore its indispensable role in facilitating dialogue, fostering collaboration, and bridging divides. As we continue to navigate an increasingly interconnected world, embracing the power of simultaneous interpretation is key to unlocking the full potential of global events.

The post The Power of Simultaneous Interpretation in Global Events appeared first on Congress Rental.

A Unified Control Hub

Meeting organisers often find themselves juggling various devices and systems to ensure a smooth meeting experience. The integrated solution features the Extron TouchLink Pro touch panel, serving as a unified control hub. With this innovative touch panel, users can effortlessly manage displays, projectors, audio systems, and light controls from one central device. This consolidation not only simplifies the meeting setup but also enhances overall control and efficiency.

Seamless Integration with Bosch Technologies

The collaboration seamlessly integrates Extron Control with Bosch’s CCS 1000 D or DICENTIS Wireless conferencing systems. This integration is a game-changer, providing users with unparalleled control over audio and video equipment within the meeting space. Whether it’s adjusting audio levels, managing video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, or monitoring the status of connected discussion devices, the integrated solution puts power at the user’s fingertips.

Comprehensive Room Management

The integrated Bosch-Extron solution goes beyond audio and video control. It extends its capabilities to room management, allowing users to regulate lighting, temperature, shades, and visibility. Imagine having the ability to create the perfect ambiance for any meeting with just a few taps on the Extron TouchLink Pro touch panel. This comprehensive control ensures that every aspect of the meeting environment is tailored to the preferences of the organisers and participants.

Real-time Information Display

One of the standout features of this integrated solution is the real-time information display. Meeting organisers can access crucial details such as delegate names, seat positions, the current speaker, and more, all at a glance. This real-time visibility enhances meeting coordination, fostering a more engaged and interactive environment.

Elevating the Meeting Experience

In a world where every minute counts, the integrated Bosch-Extron solution is a testament to the commitment to efficiency and excellence in meetings. By combining the strengths of Bosch and Extron technologies, this solution not only simplifies the meeting control landscape but also elevates the overall meeting experience.

As businesses continue to evolve, so do the demands placed on meeting organisers. The integrated Bosch-Extron solution meets and exceeds these expectations, offering a centralised, user-friendly control hub for all meeting essentials. With seamless integration, comprehensive room management, and real-time information display, this collaboration sets a new standard for streamlined and efficient meetings. Embrace the future of meetings with Bosch and Extron – where control, convenience, and collaboration converge.

Congress Rental proudly collaborates with Bosch and offers the DICENTIS conference system & the CCS 1000 D in its inventory.

The post Integrated Bosch-Extron Solution for Streamlined Meetings appeared first on Congress Rental.