STC Wireless Solutions: Wireless Devices
| Device | Rating | Functionality |
|---|---|---|
| Blackberry Pearl Flip 8230 | M4/T4 | A |
| Blackberry Storm 2 | M3 | A |
| Motorola Q9c | M3 | B |
| Motorola W385 | M4/T4 | C |
| Pantec Razzle TXT 8030 | M4/T4 | B |
| Samsung Alias 2 SCH -U750 | M4 | B |
Hearing Aid Compatibility
These handsets have been tested and rated for use with hearing aids for some of the wireless technologies that they use. However, there may be some newer wireless technologies used in these phones that have not been tested yet for use with hearing aids. It is in your best interest to try different features of these phones thoroughly and in different locations, using your hearing aid or cochlear implant, to determine if you hear any interfering noise. Consult STC Wireless Solutions or the manufacturer of the device for information on hearing aid compatibility. If you have questions about return or exchange policies, contact STC Wireless Solutions.
Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) for Wireless Devices
Hearing aids do not always function well with wireless devices. Hearing aids operate by using a microphone to pick up sound waves, converting the sound waves into electrical signals to be amplified. Distortion or amplification of unwanted sound (noise) often occurs.
The FCC's hearing aid compatibility requirements address hearing aids that operate in either of two modes - acoustic coupling ("M" rating) or inductive coupling ("T" rating). Hearing aids operating in acoustic coupling mode receive through a microphone and then amplify all sounds surrounding the user, including both desired sounds, such as a telephone's audio signal, and unwanted surrounding noise. Hearing aids operating in inductive coupling mode turn off the microphones to avoid amplifying unwanted surrounding noise, instead using a telecoil to receive only audio signal-based magnetic fields generated by inductive coupling-capable telephones. The FCC's "M" and "T" ratings indicate whether a device can be expected to function well with a hearing aid and are generally marked clearly on the device packaging. The "M" or "T" rating does not guarantee that the device will function without distortion or noise, so STC Wireless Solutions recommends that you test the device before purchasing.
Levels of Functionality
STC Wireless Solutions offers HAC-compatible devices in all major price categories, including low-cost ("C" level) (<100), moderate-cost("B" level) ($100 - $250), and high-end/ feature-rich ("A" level) (>$250). Costs generally correlate with the number of features, but, if through experience, STC Wireless Solutions finds that a certain device contains features that work well with hearing aids, such as volume control, it will be labeled accordingly with an "A" level for functionality. STC Wireless Solutions' sales staff is trained to assist all existing and prospective customers looking for a HAC-compliant device.
Reach us toll free at 866.499.8120 or email at stcwireless@stcservices.com.