How do hearing aids work? Sound waves are amplified and travel from the external environment to the eardrum. Once the sound reaches the ear, it is sent to the auditory nerve. There, it is processed by the eardrum into sound waves that can be heard. We’ll discuss some components of a hearing aid system and how they work to answer this question. You can also ask for a piece of professional advice from EarPros US about the latest hearing aids and hearing loss products. This article will also discuss remote controls and programming.
Components of an auditory aid system
The most common hearing aids used to treat hearing loss were analog devices. Today, however, most aids are electronic. An analog audio circuit is the least flexible, as it is difficult to alter its settings once programmed. Instead, the wearer uses a volume control to regulate the overall loudness. However, a digital version of a hearing aid is gaining popularity as it has many advantages over an analog device.
The first device to help people with hearing loss was the acoustic cone, which focused sound energy on the ear canal. According to audiometric rules, modern devices use a computerized electro-acoustic system that transforms environmental sound into audible sound. Some devices even incorporate sophisticated digital signal processing to enhance speech intelligibility and comfort. Several features of modern hearing aids help with speech intelligibility, including noise reduction and wide dynamic range compression.
In-the-ear (ITE)
How do in-the-ear hearing devices work? In-the-ear devices are small, plastic-like devices that fit into the outer ear. They contain electronic components, including a microphone and a small amplifier. The device then delivers the sound to the inner ear. The amplifier sends an electrical signal to a receiver, transforming that signal into acoustic energy.
In-the-ear devices work by amplifying sound vibrations entering the earmold and increasing speech understanding. Sound waves pass through a microphone and are converted into electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the ear through a speaker. They are available in different styles, such as receiver-in-canal, behind-the-ear, and receiver/receiver back in-ear devices.
Remote controls
You’ve probably seen a remote control if you use a hearing aid. Remote controls, either as an app for your phone or a standalone device, allow you to modify the settings of your hearing device. While the automatic switching systems that hearing aids use have been successful, many users still prefer manual processing strategies to maximize their hearing in various environments. But remote controls give you a level of discretion not available with other controls.
Remote controls for hearing devices are available in two styles: corded and wireless. Some of them are compatible with Bluetooth, and you can choose the type that works best for your needs. Both types come with varying levels of functionality and prices. For some devices, you’ll want to choose a wired remote control for convenience, while others will allow you to connect to other devices. If you choose a wireless remote control, it’s important to remember that you will not be able to control other devices, such as MP3 players.
Programming
Programming hearing devices can be a complex process. It involves troubleshooting, which may mean changing or correcting any faults. Modern programming techniques use live speech mapping, which charts the path sound takes to the eardrum. This technique is replacing traditional measurements. If you have trouble hearing, it is important to schedule an appointment with an audiologist.
One method of programming hearing devices is through a computer. A general-purpose computer is connected to an interface unit near the audiologist. The computer then performs a programming function. A hearing professional inputs patient-specific information into the computer and enables the computer to calculate the optimal auditory parameters for the patient. Once these settings have been determined, the computer directly programs the hearing device. A typical hearing aid includes several software programs that adjust the device’s settings.
