Transcript
Communication and Hearing Protection Part Two: Choosing and using a wireless headset system By Michael Walsh, Director of Business Development, Sonetics Corporation
Editor’s note: This is the second in a twopart series on the role of communication and hearing protection in maintaining a safe and productive airboating environment. Part one of this series (Nov/Dec 2013) examined the dangerous effects of airboat noise and how wireless communication headsets can minimize the risk of noise-induced hearing loss while simultaneously creating a safer and more pleasant airboating experience. Wireless headsets can reduce background noise by 20 decibels or more and allow all wearers to communicate easily with each other without shouting and waving. Headsets typically fit over the ear for hearing protection and are outfitted with a boom microphone and ear speakers to allow hands-free voice transmission and reception through a mobile base station. In more advanced systems, the local audio network itself can be connected to a land-based operator via a two-way radio. Wireless headset systems are available in a wide variety of configurations and price ranges. With so many choices, however, you should consider the following factors carefully to ensure a particular system will meet your needs, • Is the system truly wireless? Some socalled “wireless” systems actually require a cord from the headset to a belt station. Any kind of wire can be dangerous in the airboat environment because of the possibility of entanglement. Moreover, wires are usually the weakest part of any communication system because they are the easiest component to break. • Is the system DECT or Bluetooth? DECT transmission technology operates in the 1.9 GHz spectrum and offers up to 30 times the coverage area of Bluetooth. Systems 26 Airboating Magazine
that employ Bluetooth generally have limited range and are subject to interference from nearby communication devices, especially those operating on the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz channels. DECT transmissions have multipath capability, meaning that the signal will bounce up, over, and around objects in order to establish the best possible connection. DECT signals are also digitally encoded to ensure privacy. • Is the system full-duplex or halfduplex? Half-duplex systems allow communication in both directions, but only one direction at a time, similar to a walkietalkie. Once a party begins transmitting, all other transmissions are “locked out” until the first transmission is over. Full-duplex systems allow communication in both directions simultaneously, similar to a telephone call. Full-duplex capability is an important safety consideration because it allows the parties to speak and hear others at the same time. • Is the system radio-compatible? Wireless systems should be able to connect with mobile radios to allow boat-to-shore communication. Given the large number of radio makes and models available, look for a system with maximum interface flexibility. • Is the system scalable? As your needs expand, your wireless system should be able to expand with you. Advanced wireless systems can accommodate up to 60 users. • Is the system comfortable to wear and easy to use? Before purchasing, physically try on a headset. It should be lightweight and fit snugly, but comfortably, over the ears. The controls should be readily accessible and the boom should be sturdy enough to keep the microphone securely in place. • What is the system’s Ingress Protection Rating? The Ingress Protection Rating (IP) is an international standard that rates the degree of protection against the intrusion of solids and liquids into an electrical unit. A wireless headset should have a minimum rating of IP65 when worn. This indicates that the unit is completely impervious to dust and is capable of withstanding a stream of water for three minutes without damage to the interior components. • What is the range of the system? The greater the range, the more effective the system will be. Transmission range is
typically expressed in line-of-sight distance, but any number of factors can substantially reduce that figure. Even if your system will only be used on board, look for at least 1000 feet of transmission range. • What is the Noise Reduction Rating? Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) is the measurement, in decibels, of how well a hearing protector reduces noise. While wearing hearing protection, your exposure to noise is equal to the total noise level minus the NRR of the hearing protectors. If you were exposed to 100 decibels of noise, but were wearing a headset with an NRR of 24, your actual noise exposure would be 76 decibels. Look for an NRR of at least 20; more is better. • What is the operating temperature range? Temperature can dramatically affect battery life and headset operation. Quality headsets with commercial-grade batteries will typically be rated for at least -30 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. • Are all components necessary for operation included in the purchase price? The price you pay should deliver a complete system ready for operation. Accessories such as battery chargers and charging cables should be included, not “added on” as options. • What about warranty and service? Not all wireless headset systems are equally reliable and durable over the long term. Make sure the system is designed for use in the marine environment; ask about warranty, repair, and replacement policies, and try out the manufacturer’s technical support prior to making a decision. A two-year limited warranty is standard in the headset industry and some vendors provide extended plans of up to five years. • Who is your dealer? Before deciding on a system, use the accompanying chart to sketch out your requirements and take those to your dealer. The dealer from whom you purchase your system is a critical link to ensure a workable solution. So look for a dealer who will listen to your needs and design a system that meets your requirements. Look at the dealer’s longevity and reputation in the industry and do not hesitate to ask for references. Depending on the number of headsets Continued on page 27
Continued from page 26 The form below can be used to help you in product comparisions for your wireless communications system evaluation.
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you need to connect, wireless systems can run from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. As with anything else, you get what you pay for, so be wary of off-theshelf solutions from your local electronics store. Professional-grade systems, such as those used by firefighters and police, may cost a bit more up front, but will save you money in the long run in terms of better reliability, fewer repairs, and greater longevity. Wireless headset systems are an effective and convenient method of ensuring clear communication on the water. Clear communication is an essential element in maintaining a safe and pleasant airboating experience; it could even save a life. About the author: Michael Walsh is director of business development for Sonetics Corp, a leading supplier of wireless headset systems for fire, aviation, commercial, and industrial environments. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of St. Thomas and is actively involved in the development and deployment of wireless headset communication systems. Sonetics helps more than 500,000 customers in 90 countries solve their toughest communication problems. Visit www.soneticscorp.com or call 800-833-4558 for more information.
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