The Important Facts Of Audiometers

By Essie Osborn


Special devices are used in the modern day in order to check hearings loss. These units are called audiometers and they are often seen at audiology offices and the facilities of ear, nose and throat doctors. They feature embedded hardware that connects to headphones, as well as a test button that is used for control purposes and can be operated through most computers.

The devices may be used in conjunction with bone vibrators. This is typically the case when it comes to evaluating conductive hearing units. There are both hardware and software meters that can be used, each kind comes in many different models. Meters can connect directly with computers and be operated in a home setting for testing purposes. Still, accuracy of such results is not expected to be as good with at-home versions because of the lack of calibration.

With the clinical computer-based devices that are used, results are usually more accurate. In fact, these are often what is employed at professional places, including hospitals, research facilities and audiology centers, places where accuracy of results and precision is important. These tend to be more costly than the usual software models.

The devices are primarily used for testing one's ability to hear. It is crucial that these be properly calibrated on a regular basis to ensure the level featured on the display fits with the stimulus that the test subject is exposed to. The right calibration is very important to getting correct measurements that are consistent, no matter where the test is given. Likewise, the results must be reliable because they are used to characterize the type and amount of loss. Calibration may be done with an Audiometric Calibration System, also called ACS, or ESS, an Ear Simulator System.

Audiometry, a term derived from the Latin language, is used to refer to the practice of measuring hearing ability. This field is mostly involved with checking the ability of a person to hear at certain levels. Still, there is some science involved that includes tracking one's ability to distinguish between different pitches, sounds and intensities. The machines are known to measure Otoacoustic emissions, as well as acoustic reflex. Test results can be used in diagnosis.

Meters are available for purchase through many retailers. These will come at different prices. Generally, the more accurate and complex the device, the more costly it will be to purchase. These types are usually what is employed in professional places. But there are also at-home kinds available too.

A lot of things may contribute to loss of hearing. This is often categorized as total or partial, and temporary or permanent. Regardless, the problem is associated with a decrease of sensitivity to sounds that are typically heard. The degree in loss is usually determined by look at the increase of volume that is necessary before sound can be detected.

When it comes to these devices, the most important thing is calibration. There are numerous makes and models of this meter that can be used, even those designed specifically for use at home. The highest accuracy is expected from units used in professional settings. However, proper calibration can ensure consistent and accurate results from nearly any device. There are many people who suffer with hearing loss, which can be temporary or permanent, and total or partial.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Enregistrer un commentaire