0 What To Know Concerning Audiometers

By Dianne Crane


Audiometers are machines that are used in order to evaluate loss of hearing. They are standard pieces of equipment used at ear, nose, throat offices and at audiology facilities. Typically they include embedded hardware unit that is attached to headphones and a test subject button that may be controlled through a standard computer.

The systems may also be used with bone vibrators as a way to test conductive hearing devices. There are both software and hardware audiometers available, both come in many configurations. The meters that connect through standard PCs can be run by anyone at their home to test hearing although the accuracy of the device is not high because of a lack of standard for calibration.

In general, clinical PC-based versions are known to be more accurate and efficient in terms of results. They are also more expensive than the majority of software meters. Often these models are used at research facilities, audiology centers and hospitals, places where accuracy is a main priority.

An audiometer used to test the hearing of a person should be calibrated regularly to guarantee that the level show on display is equal to the stimulus to which the subject is exposed. Having the correct calibration ensures consistent measurements, regardless of where the measurements were recorded. Furthermore, having reliable and accurate measurements are an important part of characterizing and quantifying any hearing loss. Calibration for these units is mostly done using an Ear Simulator System, or Audiometric Calibration System.

Audiometry, the term taken from Latin words meaning to hear and to measure, is the science of measuring the hearing ability. Mostly the field focuses on measuring ability to hear at certain levels, but this science also tracks the ability one has to decipher between various sound intensities, identify pitch, or distinguish speech from background noise. Otoacoustic emissions and acoustic reflex are also measurable through these devices. The measuring units can help doctors diagnose diseases of the ear in addition to hearing loss.

Meters are available through many retailers. Prices will differ, mostly based on the version. Models that are more complex and known to provide high accuracy are usually expensive and only used at professional offices. There are also at-home models that are easy to use.

Hearing loss may be brought on by a host of factors. It is considered the total or partial inability for one to hear. The loss is marked by a lowered sensitivity to sound that is usually heard. The severity of the issue is categorized by the volume increase necessary for one to detect sound.

Audiometers are machines used in the field of audiometry. These machines, which come in many models, measure the loss of hearing. The more complex the devices are, the more accurate the results tend to be. Usually the best of which are found in professional health care facilities. Units can be purchased for use at home, but they are not expected to have as accurate of results. Calibration of the units is important to test results. The loss of hearing can be a result of many factors and is usually partial or total, and temporary or permanent.




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