Hearing Loop System Overview

A compliant and effective hearing or induction loop system, designed to deliver measurable benefits to end-users and conform to all aspects of the international performance standard (such as IEC 60118-4), comprises six primary components.

1.   An Audio Source (such as a microphone)

For an induction loop system to deliver clear and understandable sound, it’s essential that the audio source is captured accurately. If the source is speech, a quality microphone is needed. For audio from equipment like TVs or sound mixers, a direct line input is the best method.

2.   An induction loop driver (Amplifier or Transmitter)

The induction loop, or hearing loop, amplifier—commonly known as a ‘driver’—is the core component of any induction loop system. Unlike standard voltage-output speaker amplifiers, loop drivers are specifically engineered to deliver current through the loop cable, which is essential for generating the magnetic field required by hearing aids.  For portable hearing loops these are referred to as transmitters and usually incorporate the microphone component.

3.   The ‘loop’ cable and accessories

One of the most visible parts of an induction loop system is the cable that creates the physical ‘loop’ or multiple loops. Hearing Loop offers loop cable in two main forms: a robust cable option popular when retro-fitting a system, and a flat copper tape designed for installation beneath carpets or other types of flooring. When using the flat tape, it’s strongly recommended to include warning tape. This not only secures the loop cable in place but also alerts carpet installers to its presence, helping to prevent accidental damage.  Portable hearing loops offer neck ‘loops’, whereby it is the individual person that is looped, as opposed to an area.

4.   Signage and notification

Clear signage is a critical element of any induction loop system. Since the system is silent and hidden from view, users won’t be aware it exists unless they’re informed — and most won’t have their hearing aids set to the telecoil mode by default. Without visible indicators, the loop system is unlikely to be unused. Signs should be prominently displayed at all entrances and on the walls within the space to ensure users are properly informed.

5.   Testing equipment

Every induction loop system should include tools that allow staff or operators to routinely monitor the system. This ensures the loop is powered on and functioning correctly. Loop receivers or ‘listeners’ are a popular option and allow those who don’t wear hearing aids to ‘listen’ to the system and identify any problems.

6.   Training 

Ensuring staff are adequately trained with regards use of the hearing loops system is imperative to comply with IEC 60118-4.  Training makes sure the hearing loop system is used properly and reliably. It helps staff support users effectively and ensures the organization follows all required standards and laws. This way, the accessibility investment truly benefits those who need it

Fixed or Portable System?

Usually, you would be looking at one of two options.  Either a fixed system, or a portable system.  However, there are a number of factors that would influence the equipment that we would recommend, including the following:

• What the system will be used for
• Size of the room
• What audio inputs are required: ie. Microphone, TV, projector etc
• If there an existing PA system
• the number of people who require access to the loop
• whether hearing loops are required in adjacent rooms
• the need for privacy and confidentiality
• whether substantial amounts of metal are present in the room
• ease of and cost of installation
• budget
• ownership of the building

A brief overview of each system can be found below:

Fixed Hearing Loops

A fixed hearing loop would comprise of an Amplifier and a length of loop cable that would be installed around the perimeter of the room.  This creates an electromagnetic field which would be picked up by the receiver in the hearing aid. The amplifier could either connect to your existing PA system if you have one or can be supplied with its own microphone (or set of microphones) that would pick up the sound of those speaking.  You can also connect various other audio sources such as TV’s/Projectors using one of the many audio outreach plates available. Anyone wearing a hearing aid with the T-coil setting could connect to the hearing loop.  The type of amplifier required and length of loop cable would be determined by the size of the room.

Benefits: 

• Budget Friendly
• unlimited number of users within the loop area,
• easily connects to existing PA system

Disadvantages:

• requires maintaining,
• cost of installation
• does not provide 100% confidentiality
• can-not install standard perimeter loop in adjacent rooms

Portable Hearing Loops

A Portable Hearing loop, such as one of our Phonak Roger Systems, includes a state of the art wireless microphone or Basestation transmitter coupled with neckloop receivers worn by those who are hard of hearing .  The system sends the sound via radio frequency from the audio source, be it a presenter, group discussion, TV or PA System, to neckloops receivers or in some cases, directly to the hearing aids themselves.  The neckloop is discreet, lightweight, easy to use and is accessible to any hearing aid with a Tcoil.  The type of system required is determined by the type of audio input.

Benefits: 

• low/no maintenance
• no installation
• fully portable
• 100% confidential
• can be used in more than one location if shared
• noise cancelling technology

Disadvantages: 

• users limited by number of neckloops available