Hearing Assistance / Assistive Listening
Assistive listening devices function by capturing desired sound sources and transmitting it directly to a receiver that in-turn delivers it directly to the user’s ear, without background noise, interference or distortion. The three main technologies that perform this task are Audio Induction Loops, Infrared (IR) and Radio Frequency (RF).
Audio Induction Loop System
A hearing loop, sometimes call an audio induction loop is a particular type of sound system that provides a magnetic, wireless signal that is picked up by a hearing aid within a physical area. A hearing loop would commonly be used where clear sound is required, hence reducing background noise and interference. A hearing loop would be generally used in public buildings where the Building Code of Australia requires a minimum of 80% of the area to be covered by a hearing loop to be compliant under the Disability Discrimination Act. Types of induction loop systems range from a simple perimeter system to more complex Ultra Low Spill Phased Array design across a range of applications for churches, courtrooms, universities, transport facilities and school halls.
RF (Radio Frequency) Assistive Listening System
In a RF Assistive Listening system, the signal is transmitted over radio frequencies to a personal receiver. The advantage of RF technology is that there are no ‘line-of-sight’ issues and the technology can cover a wide area indoors or outdoors. For users with hearing aids that have tele-coil (T-Coil) capabilities, there is a neck loop receiver that can be used which allows the audio signal to be transmitted via magnetic field to the user’s hearing aid. An RF Assistive Listening System could be used where retrofitting a loop system would be impractical, or where the system needs to be flexible or mobile.
IR (Infrared) Assistive Listening System
An IR Assistive Listening System uses infrared light to transmit audio. Due to the fact that infrared light does not transfer from room to room, this provides a benefit in that any audio signal is secure. The challenge of IR Assistive Listening Systems is that the listener needs to be within a line of sight of the IR emitter. However, this application is particularly suitable for Courtrooms and Council Chambers, or wherever confidentiality is required. Similar to the RF Assistive Listening System, the user is required to wear a personal neck loop that interacts with the user’s hearing aid.
For assistance with selecting the most appropriate assistive listening system for your venue, call SoundPoint today for a free consultation.
