Loop Systems

A loop system enables hearing aid users to hear sound more clearly in either a public area eg office, or private area eg home. A perimeter of insulated wire is fixed around a designated listening area connected to a power source, an amplifier and a microphone. The microphone picks up sound from the sound source and carries the sound to the amplifier, which in turn sends the sound signal in the form of a current around the loop. The current flowing through the loop causes the wire to act like a transmitting aerial. A hearing aid user can receive this signal if the hearing aid has the T facility. Workplaces or public areas which have a loop system in place usually display a notice to show people they have the facility.

There are different types of loop system available including neck loops for an individual user, home loops for use in a domestic situation, counter loop systems for use around public counters or a reception area, and portable loop systems which are flexible and can provide cover for large meeting rooms.

For more information and advice on loop systems and other assistive technology for people with hearing impairment, contact DeafHear (formerly the National Association for Deaf People)