Transcript
Fixed Induction Loops Speech Systems Portable Loops
How induction loops work? Induction Loop Systems are designed to give the hard of hearing a better quality of life. Hearing aids have the facility to switch between the microphone ‘M’ and the telecoil ‘T’ When switched to the ‘M’ position, the hearing aid picks up all surrounding sound, sometimes these sounds are not what the person wants to hear i.e, background noise. When switched to the ‘T’ position, the hearing aid only picks up sounds that are transmitted through the loop system. The system works by using a microphone that picks up voice communication from the staff/cashier. The audio is then amplified and changed to a frequency which is transmitted out through an ariel in the form of a magnetic field. When switching to the ‘T’ position the hearing aid only picks up the staff/cashier. Any background noise is cancelled out greatly improving the quality of the sound.
Where they are fitted and used? Fixed loop systems are fitted to desks and counters where normal one to one conversations take place. Speech systems are fitted to counter positions to aid clear communication where a physical barrier exists. Portable loop systems are used in various locations where a fixed loop is not present. There are 2 million hearing aid uses in the UK. A recent survey by Action on Hearing Loss (formerly the RNID) showed that only 17% of public and commercial sites provide acceptable and compliant hearing loops.
1 in every 7 UK residents is affected by hearing loss.
Fixed induction loop system overview The fixed induction loop system is mounted under the desk/counter and is switched on at all times. The microphone is located next to the monitor in clear sight of the staff member ready for when a customer approaches, switches to the ‘T’ position and uses the system. In most cases a customer will use the system without you having knowledge of this so it is important to always speak clearly.
Fixed induction loop system operation The following steps should be adhered to so that the system can be used without issue or complaint from a customer:
1 Ensure all signage is displayed clearly and is free from visual obstructions. 2 Ensure the microphone is clearly visible and free from any objects covering it. 3 Check the system daily to ensure that the ‘Green’ light on the amplifier is on and that the ‘Blue’ light flashes as the system picks up your voice.
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Speech system overview The speech system has been designed to enhance communication through a glazed screen or another physical barrier. An induction loop aerial is connected to the system so that it transmits the staff members voice on the loop frequency as well as through the speakers. The levels can be adjusted separately to suit different acoustic environments and staff members comfort levels.
Speech system operating instructions
Turn the system on by pressing the ‘Power’ button on the front of the amplifier and the green LED will illuminate.
To adjust the volume level to the Cashier turn the volume control marked ‘Staff’. Turning the knob clockwise will increase the volume and turning it anti-clockwise will decrease the volume
To adjust the volume level to the Customer turn the volume control marked ‘Customer’. Turning the knob clockwise will increase the volume and turning it anti-clockwise will decrease the volume.
The microphone on the cashier side is a directional type, so to ensure that the system performs to it’s optimum level the microphone needs to be pointing directly towards you.
The system is fitted with an induction loop facility for people who use a hearing aid. The system is enabled when the amplifier is switched on, however the customer will not hear you if the ‘Mute’ switch is activated as detailed above.
If a customer wishes to use the loop facility they need to switch their hearing aid to the ‘T’ position, this will turn off the microphone in the hearing aid and switch it to pick up your voice using the loop frequency transmitted from the system.
To temporarily mute the cashier microphone press the switch marked ‘Mute’ on the base of the speaker combi unit. You will still be able to hear the customer but the customer won’t be able to hear you.
Portable induction loop system operation The main unit is placed on a desk or counter between the customer and the member of staff, with the rear of the unit facing the staff member and the front with the ‘T’ position label facing the customer. Switch the system on using the power button on the rear of the unit marked ‘On/Off’ the green light will illuminate. During normal operation when conversation is taking place, the blue LED will flash in conjunction with speech to indicate that the unit is working. The unit will operate for 20 minute intervals on a single press of the power button. It will also operate for a minimum of 24 hours when pressed for 2 seconds providing the unit is fully charged. To ensure the unit is ready for use when required, place it on charge periodically, e.g. once a month, using the power adaptor, this should be plugged into a 13 amp mains socket with a flexible lead connected to the socket on the rear of the main unit marked ‘12v DC’.
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