The Basic Components Of Audiometers

By Alyssa Riggs


The structures that are used when evaluating hearing loss in an individual are called audiometers. These machines are typically found at ear, nose or throat office, or audiology centers. Typically embedded hardware is present and connected to headphones. There is also a test button that is controlled through a personal computer.

Sometimes the devices are used in conjunction with bone vibrators as a way to check conductive hearing systems. Hardware and software meters are also included and come in a variety of models. Meters attach to personal computers and can be operated from home for hearing tests. Still, results from these tests are usually not as accurate or reliable because there is no standard when it comes to calibration.

The computer-based models are those that provide the most accurate and efficient results. Said structures are also more expensive than the traditional software devices. Typically these are used at research facilities, hospitals, audiology centers and other similar places that require accurate results.

The audiometers used regularly for testing hearing should be calibrated often to guarantee that they levels on the display are equivalent to the stimulus that the subject is being exposed to. Proper calibration is important when it comes to producing measurements that are consistent, regardless of where, or on what, the test is done. Furthermore, the right measurements are important for quantifying or characterizing the loss. Usually calibration is handled by use of ESS, Ear Simulator System or ACS, Audiometric Calibration System.

The word audiometry is taken from words in the Latin language meaning to measure and hear. The definition for this is the ability of a person to hear. The field is mostly focused on hearing capability at certain levels, but there is also science focused on the ability of a person to distinguish between varying pitches, sounds and intensities. These machines may also be used to measure acoustic reflex and Otoacoustic emissions. Results that are from the test may be used by doctors for diagnosis.

These meters are sold from retailers around the world. Unsurprisingly, the prices will vary dependent on the type. Models that offer the top accuracy cost more and are often used at professional facilities because of this. There are also models made specifically at home.

Many different things can contribute to the loss of hearing. Sometimes this is partial and other time it is total. The main issue is a low sensitivity to sounds normally heard. The loss is quantified based on the level at which the sound must be increased before the test subject can hear it.

Audiometers are structures that are used in the field known as audiometry. The machines, which come in various models, are applied to measure the kind and quantity of hearing loss. The models that are complex usually bring the best results are employed at professional places. Devices used for at home are available from several different stores. These do not usually produce the best accuracy in terms of results. Calibration is important for these devices and impacts the final results. Hearing loss can be the result of many different things and may be temporary or permanent, partial or total.




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