Hearing Health Guide
Definition
A telecoil is a miniature induction coil embedded in many hearing aids, cochlear implant processors, and some headsets that detects the magnetic field produced by telecoil-compatible telephones, hearing loops (audio induction loops), and other assistive listening systems. When the telecoil is activated, the hearing aid switches from its microphone to the electromagnetic signal, picking up audio directly from the source without picking up surrounding noise.
Telephones and hearing loops generate a varying magnetic field that carries audio information. The telecoil in a hearing aid acts as an antenna. It picks up this magnetic field and converts it into an electrical signal that is then amplified and delivered to the ear. Because the coil receives only the magnetic signal from the target source, not airborne sound, background noise is largely eliminated.
Activating the telecoil is typically done through a program setting on the hearing aid (often labeled 'T' or 'T-coil' in the hearing aid's app), a switch on the device, or an automatic detection mode that switches when it senses a compatible magnetic field.
Hearing loops (audio induction loops) are installed in many theaters, houses of worship, airports, ticket counters, and meeting rooms. A wire loop installed around the perimeter of the space carries an electrical signal from the venue's sound system, generating a magnetic field throughout the loop area that telecoil-equipped hearing aids can pick up directly.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires assistive listening systems in many public venues. Hearing loops are one compliant technology. Look for the universal hearing loop symbol (a stylized ear with a T) to identify telecoil-compatible venues.
Common Questions
Free LSTN Tools