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Understanding Hearing Aid Technology: Telecoils
openfit.com offers user programmable hearing aids with telecoils
What is a Telecoil?
A telecoil is a special circuit inside the hearing aid. It is a small coil of wire designed to pick up a magnetic signal
How does a Telecoil work?
While the microphone on a hearing aid picks up all sounds, the telecoil will only pick up an electromagnetic signal. It turns off the hearing aid microphone, picks up the signal and the hearing aid converts it to sound. This magnetic signal (more technically known as an induction signal) is created from hearing aid compatible telephones and assistive listening systems. In short, the hearing aid converts the magnetic field of the telecoil into sound and transmits it directly into your ear.
Why is a Telecoil important for the telephone?
Many people report feedback (or squealing) when they place the handset of the telephone next to their hearing aid. The telecoil can eliminate this feedback because the hearing aid microphone is turned off and the hearing aid only amplifies the signal coming through the telecoil. Telephone handsets emit the magnetic signal from the ear-piece. When placed correctly near the telecoil, the sound should be transmitted clearly. That is why some people must place the ear-piece slightly behind their ear rather than directly over the ear.
What else can a Telecoil be used with?
Assistive listening systems (either FM systems, audio loops, etc) have a neckloop as a listening option. The neckloop transmits the induction signal for the hearing aid telecoil, so you can turn off all background noise while only hearing the sound going from the FM system's microphone to your FM receiver and neckloop. Audio loop systems also emit the electromagnetic signal so you only have to switch to telecoil to pick up sound.
Are there any problems with using a Telecoil?
There are other sources of electro magnetic signals that can interfere with the performance of the hearing aid telecoil. Fluorescent lights, television screens, computer monitors and electrical panels can cause a 'humming' sound when you turn on your telecoil. The humming sound interferes with your ability to hear clearly. Sometimes you can move and the interference is lessened.
This article was provided by openfit.com. Our newest product line are self programmable hearing aids. When you buy the hearing aids, we include the software and hardware for you to do all of the adjustments yourself! And, yes, the hearing aids do come equipped with telecoils. Call us at 1-888-865-4327 or email sales@openfit.com.
