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Learning Library > How Hearing Aids Work
How Hearing Aids Work
Hearing aids are designed to bring sound more effectively into the ear. Most hearing aids consist of at least four parts:
- Microphone
Converts sound waves into electrical energy
- Amplifier
Increases the strength of the incoming signal
- Receiver
Converts the amplified electrical energy back into sound waves
- Power Source
Provides energy for the various hearing aid functions
Other common parts include:
- Telecoil
Picks up electromagnetic fields from the telephone to allow for a clearer signal with less background interference and no feedback.
Telecoils are often compatible with many assistive listening systems, such as those found in concert halls or theaters.
- Volume control
Allows adjustment of gain.
- Toggle button
Allows user to change between programs or settings on a multimemory device.
- Remote control
Allows user to change gain or programs, and some allow direct input of audio devices.
- Directional microphone
Amplifies sound from the front more than the sides and rear. This feature is very useful in understanding speech in noisy situations.
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