in·duc·tion - the process by which an electrical conductor becomes electrified when near a charged body, by which a magnetizable body becomes magnetized when in a magnetic field or in the magnetic flux set up by a magnetomotive force, or by which an electromotive force is produced in a circuit by varying the magnetic field linked with the circuit

 

Sounds very technicial right? - Well the concept behind induction loop systems is actually quite simple. Many manufacturers' hearing aids have a 'T' position which allows them to pick up the electromagnetic field generated by a telephone's earpiece and convert it into a sound suited to an individual's specific hearing requirements. Induction loop systems use this principle but generate a much larger field than that created by a telephone earpiece and radiate it around a room via a 'loop' (usually a single turn of wire) for the benefit of any hearing impaired person(s) located within it.

In most situations it is impractical to issue any form of separate receiver and the use of the individual' hearing aid is a major step to bringing people with hearing loss back into full contact with their environment. Only induction loop systems are capable of doing this. Sadly, not all hearing aids are fitted with the loop facility. In the UK, almost all NHS aids are equipped with a 'T' position, as are many privately sold aids. In the UK private sector, it is often the audiologist who decides whether to offer the loop reception facility, but generally they do offer aids with a 'T' setting. At present, about 95% of hearing aids in the UK are said to have the loop receiving function.

In a very basic form, an induction loop system consists of a loop of wire around the edge of an area connected to a special amplifier. The input of the amplifier is connected to the sound source that the hard of hearing users of the area want to hear more clearly. The amplifier drives an audio current (not voltage) through the loop. This current generates a magnetic field in the area enclosed by the wire that a suitably fitted hearing aid can receive. Recent legislation, aimed at improving the quality of life of disabled people, has led to an increased demand for induction loop systems.

We have installed several thousand induction loop systems in countless public buildings and places of worship over the last twenty years. Let our experience and knowledge assist you with installing the best induction loop system for your building! As main agents for the UK's leading induction loop manufacturers, PAS carry large stocks of loop drivers at all times and can respond to urgent orders and installation demands.

We are constantly involved on new build schemes which have a requirement for an Induction Loop to meet the requirements of the DDA and building regulations. We are happy to advise on the practicality (sometimes some loop systems can be impractical!) the suitability and method of installation to suit the construction of the rooms and building. Send us your building plans now to enable us to prepare a scheme and quotation for your latest scheme.

An alternative to induction loops for problem buildings or installations can be found with Infra-red audio systems. Using IR light based technology, audio signals can be radiated around a room or area to a recipient using a dedicated receiver. This receiver can be worn by any person regardless of their hearing capabilities in the form of a headset, or a hearing aid user may make use of a special receiver which connects to a small neck worn loop. This effectively provides them with a personal induction loop.

Infra-red systems are usually installed when the magnetic background noise levels in a room are high (radiated mains fields), confidentiality is required within the room, or when conventional loop cabling is impractical to install.

We tailor systems exactly to meet each requirement selecting from a number of products for different requirements and installation requirements. Our IR systems can be found in government buildings from Aberdeen to Southampton and all points in between! Click here to see an example of where we have fitted Infra Red Audio Systems.