About Audiometers And Their Use

By Roxanne Cruz


Audiometers are equipments used to evaluate or diagnose hearing loss. These devices are typically used in audiology centers. The equipment is made of hardware which is connected to headphones and one button that is for the subject. With advanced technology today, computers are used to control these devices. There are also standards for these procedures.

There has been a lot of developments in the field over the years. Different devices are now used for certain purposes. One type that can be used at home is called a screening PC based which people can use to test their own hearing. A more accurate type is the clinical PC based which is used in hospitals, clinics, as well as research facilities.

These equipments must be calibrated routinely to make sure that levels on display are equal to the stimulus the patient is subjected to. Proper calibration ensures that measurements are always consistent and results are accurate. The devices are calibrated using audiometric calibration system. When it comes to diagnostic tools, accuracy is very important.

To test air conduction hearing, a system that includes an ear simulator is used. For this system, an artificial ear calibrates air conduction. Headphones will be applied to the open side of the coupler. There is an internal microphone that detects sound pressure level within the cavity. Outputs will be measured by a sound level meter.

On the other hand, bone conduction hearing is tested using an artificial mastoid. Such device calibrates the bond conduction channels of audiometers. Bone conduction mechanisms can be used to test hearing. This device has a dome shaped part which emulates a human mastoid. The force applied is measured by a force transducer. A sound meter also measures the output.

Different models of the devices are now available. Each of these models may have its own specifications making them suitable for specific purposes. Using these devices, physicians can efficiently diagnose hearing loss and related problems. Diagnostic procedures would require the use of special equipments. These devices have made such a difference in this field.

Since there are already many equipments available, hearing specialists can choose an equipment of their choice. Some types are the stand alone kind and these are usually used for screening. The computer based types are often used for diagnostic purposes. These devices have their own frequencies and intensities which may depend on the exact application they are for.

Diagnostic equipments should always be fully functional and working efficiently. Accuracy is a very important quality of these devices to make sure they provide reliable measurements. Accurate results are necessary to create a correct diagnosis of one's hearing problems. Specialists would need to know the extent of the patient's hearing loss to determine what type of management would be effective.

Hearing specialists realize the need to have audiometers in their clinics. It is very important for physicians to have the right type of equipment. This is essential for them to provide quality treatment and services to patients. With proper diagnosis, patients can be treated effectively so they can be relieved from their symptoms and have better chances at full recovery.




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