The assistive listening system hardware includes the OWI-KSTM-LT-84 Transmitter-Radiator from Listen Technologies, as well as the required receivers. The receivers are designed to interface with the telecoil built into the majority of hearing aids and cochlear implants. This bundled package allows D’Agostino’s clients the option of specifying infrared (IR). Most schools opt for RF (radio frequency) for wireless because it costs less and is more readily available. However, RF covers wide areas and this can cause signal interference with nearby classrooms. A student, for example, may pick up what the teacher next door is saying or hear a movie that is playing nearby.
IR-based systems, on the other hand, transmit signals through direct line-of-sight only. This means that IR signals in one classroom will not interfere with the signal next door even if they are the same frequency.
The OWI speaker can double as a PA speaker. To ensure that emergency announcements can be made even if electrical power is lost, PA systems are typically hard-wired to a dedicated speaker in each classroom used for only that purpose. The system is connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS battery backup) and a generator that turn on automatically during a power outage. Because the OWI speakers are built with a multi-coil speaker and priority override features, they eliminate the need for aseparate PA speaker. In the event of power loss, the OWI speaker will still function.
Regardless of the technology or systems installed, there are many incentives for schools to stay current with the ADA requirements for the hearing impaired in its classrooms and larger assembly areas. Schools that fail to comply may receive complaints, which can now be filed online with the Department of Justice. In addition to remedying the situation, schools can incur fines from $55,000 to $150,000.
Ultimately, though, this is really about children and the quality of education they receive.
“As parents we want our kids to do well at school because we want them to have the best opportunities in life,” says Listen Technologies’ Schaeffer. She adds that schools also benefit by way of better test scores, which are often tied to funding.
“The ADA requirements provide K-12 students that have hearing loss with the same advantages and opportunities as everyone else. It’s a win-win-win for the child, parents and the school.”
Jeff Elliott is a Torrance, Calif.-based technical writer. He has researched and written about industrial technologies and issues for the past 20 years.
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