Tuesday, April 29, 2014

General Information To Know On 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.

These are sometimes used with bone vibrators to assess conductive hearing units. There are software and hardware meters available, as well as the many models that fit under those categories. Meters are designed to be able to attach to computers directly ad can be used from home. However, the accuracy level of at-home test results is not usually as high because there is no standard for calibration.

In general, clinical devices are produce efficient results that are more accurate. These units are also more costly than traditional software versions. Many times these are used in professional settings, such as audiology centers, research facilities, hospitals and other spaces where precision and accuracy are a major priority.

These devices are employed to test the hearing ability of an individual. Therefore, they should be calibrated on a frequent basis to guarantee that the level that is featured on the display matches the stimulus given to the test subject. Proper calibration is important to producing measurements that are consistent and accurate, regardless of where a test is administered. Furthermore, having measurements that are reliable is crucial when it comes to characterizing the loss. Calibration is usually done through use of an Ear Simulator Systems or ESS, or an Audiometric Calibration System or ACS.

Derived from Latin, audiometry is a term defined as measuring ability of a person to hear. This field is mostly centered on evaluating the ability to hear at different levels. Nonetheless, the science behind it also involves tracking ability to distinguish between varying pitches, intensities and sounds. These machines are also capable of measuring acoustic reflex and Otoacoustic emissions. The results from tests can be helpful during the diagnostic period.

Meters are sold through many retailers. Prices will differ depending on the type. Models that offer better results are usually more complex and therefore more costly. These are usually only seen in professional settings. There are also versions designed for at-home use.

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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