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(Induction loop information and installation UK)
How do Induction Loop Systems work?
An audio frequency Induction Loop System (AFILS) comprises of a cable in the form of a loop connected via an amplifier to one or more sources of sound signals. The amplifier produces an audio frequency electric current in the induction loop leading to a magnetic field being produced in the space around the loop cable. Any lines of magnetic flux that pass through the coil in a receiver, such as a hearing aid will generate a current in that coil that is then converted back to audio and fed into the listeners ear.
The signal from an audio source such as a TV, radio, CD player, microphone etc. is fed into the induction loop amplifier which amplifies and sets the signal level in the same way as any other amplifier. The amplified signal, instead of going to a loudspeaker, is fed into the loop that is normally placed around the perimeter of the room to be covered.
Hearing aids in the M position utilise an omni-directional microphone for amplifying localised speech. Whilst these are effective for local conversations in quiet environments they are less effective for listening to speech or music at a distance or in noisy areas. This is because the aid’s microphone picks up the wanted sounds compressing these together with the general noise and reverberation of the room and unwanted speech of other conversations. If the required sound can be supplied directly into the hearing aid then the unwanted sounds are excluded or reduced. An induction loop system provides this.
In order for the system to work effectively, the correct induction loop equipment has to be specified. The type of amplifier is determined by the room shape and size and by the required number and type of input sources to be used. The loop design and installation is critical and can be in the form of a basic square loop to a complex “electric grill” shape. Loop cables can be chased into walls, fixed onto skirting boards or dado rails or fixed underneath carpets.
Amplifiers can be free-standing, wall mounted or rack mounted. Microphones can be table mounted, wall or ceiling mounted. Systems can be expanded with the use of outreach plates which mount into standard single gang electrical pattresses.
Where can I get more information on the Disability Discrimination act and Induction loop systems?
The
UK Government Web site
provides details of the Disability Discrimination Act.
What brands of Induction Loops do Phoenix Technologies install?
Signet AVX, Ampertronic, Current Thinking.
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