Hearing aids operate in one of two modes - acoustic coupling ("M" rating) or telecoil coupling ("T" rating). Hearing aids operating in acoustic coupling mode receive and amplify all sounds surrounding the user; both desired sounds, such as a telephone's audio signal, as well as unwanted ambient noise. Hearing aids operating in telecoil coupling mode avoid unwanted ambient noise by turning off the microphone and receiving only signals from magnetic fields generated by telecoil-compatible telephones. A digital wireless handset with an "M3" (or "U3") rating or a "T3" (or "U3T") rating is considered "hearing aid compatible" or may be used with your hearing aid without causing interference. The rating should be indicated on the handset packaging. The "M" or "T" rating is indicative only, so ASTCA recommends that you test your handset before purchasing to ensure that it works with your particular hearing aid.

For more information regarding hearing aid compatibility requirements see also http://www.accesswireless.org/hearingaid/brochures.cfm

ASTCA offers the following hearing aid compatible handsets at each of our retail stores in Fagatogo and Nuuuli. Talk to an ASTCA sales representative to determine whether your hearing aid functions well with a selected handset.