What is an FM system?
An FM system is an enhancement to hearing aids designed specifically to help improve speech understanding in difficult listening situations. The system delivers sound directly to the ears, cutting through the background noise, making sure you don’t miss what you want to hear.
FM systems are wireless and easy to use. They consist of a microphone (transmitter) that you can place near the speaker, TV, radio or any sound source you are trying to hear better. The sound is then amplified and delivered directly to your ears via a receiver (coupled to your hearing aid) without the interference of background noise. Once background noise is reduced, speech is easier to understand.
The FM signal can be transmitted distances up to 30 feet or more. The result is a direct and clear link from the source of the sound you want to hear to your ears.
Whether you are wearing a BTE or a custom instrument, there are many options for improving listening in noise and/or group situations using an FM system. Please contact one of our audiologists to determine which solution is best for you and your listening needs. We also provide free in-house demonstrations of FM equipment at either our Amherst or Orchard Park locations.
Who is a candidate?
FM systems are designed for hearing aids users who do well in quiet but struggle in noisy environments. If you have trouble hearing in situations such as noisy restaurants, places of worship, conference rooms, in the car, or on the telephone or cell phone then an FM system may be a perfect solution for you. As FM equipment is used in conjunction with hearing aids, ideal candidates are those who are motivated to use the necessary additional equipment in difficult listening situations.
FM systems are also ideal for hearing impaired children to use in school. The teacher speaks into a microphone and the sound is transmitted directly to the hearing impaired child's hearing aid, allowing the child to hear the teacher’s voice over the background noise. This is also useful when the teacher is writing on the board and has their back to the class.
When is FM used?
FM can be used in many everyday listening situations. Some typical daily situations include:
- Talking with someone in a social situation: At home, work, on a busy street, at a shopping center or in a restaurant.
- Group conversations: At a family get together, in a very noisy restaurant, at business meetings or conferences.
- Making telephone calls on home, cellular or cordless phones.
- Watching TV and listening to music.
- Schools and further education: In classes at schools and universities, on outings and excursions, in lectures, or on museum tours.
- Transportation: In cars, trains, trams and buses.
- Sports of all kinds: When cycling, playing golf, skiing, jogging or hiking.
- Events: At a theater, in concerts, at the movies, in church services, or at community meetings.
FM System Components
Transmitters
Hearing Evaluation Services uses Phonak FM transmitters. There are a variety of transmitters available to meet individual hearing needs. The transmitters can be hand held, worn around the neck or stationary. Some are very basic and simple to use while others are more sophisticated and incorporate advanced features such as Bluetooth technology. Your audiologist will sit down with you and discuss the most appropriate choice to meet your individual needs. The FM transmitter is used in conjunction with an FM receiver.
Receivers
Hearing Evaluation Services uses a variety of Phonak FM receivers. Some FM receivers used with behind-the-ear hearing aids are connected directly to the hearing aid and others are integrated into the hearing aid. There is also a receiver that can be worn around the neck for use with custom in-the-ear products that have a t-coil. The FM receiver is used in conjunction with an FM transmitter.