The Main Components Of Audiometers

By Essie Osborn


There are special devices used to check the level of hearing loss a person has. These are known as audiometers and are often used at audiology facilities, as well as throat, nose and ear offices. Typically these include embedded hardware that has been attached to headphones. There is also a test button that can be used on most standard 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.

Generally speaking, the clinical devices are known to produce the most accurate of results. These are also more expensive than most traditional software kinds. Often they are employed in professional places, such as research facilities, hospitals, audiology centers and other places in which accuracy and precision of results is the ultimate priority.

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 is a term derived from Latin. Generally it is defined as measuring the ability of one to hear. This field is focused on checking hearing ability at varying levels. Still, the science involved also tracks ability of one to distinguish between various sounds, intensities and pitches. These devices can measure Otoacoustic emissions and even acoustic reflex. The results from tests are beneficial to physicians during the diagnostic process.

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.

Hearing loss may be caused by numerous things. Loss may be considered partial or total, and permanent or temporary. Usually the amount of hearing loss is best determined by assessing the increase in volume that is needed for the subject to detect the sound. This is an issue of decreased sensitivity to sounds normally heard.

Calibration is the most important thing related to these devices. Many models and makes are available, even versions for use at home. The highest level of accuracy is expected from those used at professional facilities. Still, the right calibration can guarantee accurate and consistent results from nearly any meter. There are many who suffer with loss, which might be total, partial, permanent or temporary.




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