Our M.L.M.R. system was specifically designed to meet the needs of tour operators (bus, boat, coach and shuttles) who needed to have the audio commentary played in multiple languages.
The M.L.M.R. system has the following features:
- GPS triggered - so driver action is required, the system automatically triggers the sound bites.
- Multiple languages - up to 16 different languages can be played through our headsets.
- Multiple routes - up to 48 different routes can be stored on a single device, thus the vehicle does to not have to be dedicated to only “one specific route”.
- Live commentary (optional) - If required, live commentary can also be given over the system.
- Dedicated hardware - hardware specifically designed for the transport environment with no moving parts.
- Versatile power source - system can be powered from 12v to 24v DC or even 110/220v AC mains.
- Standard MP3 - file format of the content files (sound bytes).
- Software - Our web-based GPS positioning software is easy to use.
- Installation is easy – Standard CAT 5 (computer network wiring) connects all of the seat modules to each other.
- Advanced reporting - For marketing purposes, we are able to provided detailed reports of the number of seats occupied per trip and the languages that were listened to.
Our M.L.M.R. System Consists of 3 Main Modules:
- The Driver interface, and GPS unit – this picks up the position of the vehicle, as well as allows the driver to interact with the system (i.e. change routes, system diagnostics etc.)
- Distribution Box - This is the heart of the M.L.M.R. system, it takes the GPS position from the driver interface units, and then broadcasts up to 16 digital audio channels (15 recorded, plus 1 live channel) of content to the seat units. For added reliability, the distribution box has up to 8 network ports (for the connection of the seat units)
- Seat Units –Each seat units consists of 2 user channels (i.e. 2 headset and are waterproof. Each channel has its own volume and language selection control. The display displays a 3 digit alpha-numeric language code (i.e. ENG, ESP, FRE), thus eliminating the need for stickers to display the language channels. These seat units are daisy chained (connected one after the other) using a standard CAT 5 network cable. Up to 20 devices can be connected to one network port.
System Setup and Software Tools
The system is easy to configure and set up. It comes with all of the required software, for configuration and diagnostics. In addition we also offer remote support, should you experience any difficulties or problems.
Creating a route requires the following steps:
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Research, write, record and produce the content. (Files must be in mp3 format).
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Log the waypoints (using our trip logging feature on the Driver Interface GPS Unit).
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Enter the waypoint into our web applications. This route planning and setup can be done by yourselves, via our server on internet. We also make use of Google earth / maps to assist you in the placing of the locations (see below). As this process is all done via the internet, should you experience any difficulties, we can easily assist you remotely in South Africa (by just logging in and seeing what you are doing).
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Download the route to the unit.
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Test route
System Cost
The costs vary depending on the configuration of the vehicle, the number of set units and the setup required, please contact us for more information.
Content Production
Over the years GreatGuide has been able to build up expertise in the production of GPS triggered audio commentary. We have developed styles and systems to take full advantage of the unique environment of the GPS system. Ideally the content needs to must be written in a unique style and way. For example:
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You need to exploit the unique audio visual environment (Audio- what you here – Visual - what you see from the vehicle).
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We need shorter tracks, but with a higher frequency – this allows the user to absorb far more information.
- We need layered content, so that if the bus is stuck in traffic, extra information can be automatically played.
- The selection of content that is diverse and interesting to a wide cross section of the public.
Our content team consists of writers, researches, voice artists, translators, sound production facilities as well as voice direction experts- ensuring that we get the most out of this unique medium.
We are also fortunate that Cape Town is a very cosmopolitan society with a wide range of “ex pats” from all over the world who are able to deliver authentic UK / Australian / German and other accents.
If required, we are able to offer the following services:
- Script research, content writing, and the editing of the written word into the spoken word, plus first recording in English.
- For this service, our writer will need to visit the location/city and interact with local tour guides etc. to get an in-depth knowledge of the local stories and to be able to tie them into the visual aspects of the tour.
- The translation, recording and production of completed scripts into foreign languages.
Swap Out Warranty and Replacement Policy
- All of our systems have been designed in a modular way. This ensures that your staff can easily maintain the systems without having to be rocket scientists. Should the system fail, the fault can be easily diagnosed and all that is required is for the faulty component (i.e. seat unit, network hub, GPS unit etc.) to be swapped out. The faulty units can then be sent to us for repair. To ensure minimum downtime, we will loan you a unit/component while the original one is being repaired.
- The system being operated by City Sightseeing Cape Town is operating successfully on the above principal.
- All units supplied carry a 1 year limited warranty. Should they fail within this time period, due to a manufacturing fault, they will be replaced, free of charge.
- All components are relatively small and can be flown/couriered to anywhere in the world. Transport costs are at the clients expense.