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138 | Appendix
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one
or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
• FCC Hearing-Aid Compatibility (HAC) Regulations for Wireless Devices
On July 10, 2003, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Report and
Order in WT Docket 01-309 modified the exception of wireless phones under the
Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988 (HAC Act) to require digital wireless phones
be compatible with hearing-aids. The intent of the HAC Act is to ensure reasonable
access to telecommunications services for persons with hearing disabilities.
While some wireless phones are used near some hearing devices (hearing aids and
cochlear implants), users may detect a buzzing, humming, or whining noise. Some
hearing devices are more immune than others to this interference noise, and phones
also vary in the amount of interference they generate.
The wireless telephone industry has developed a rating system for wireless phones,
to assist hearing device users find phones that may be compatible with their hearing
devices. Not all phones have been rated. Phones that are rated have the rating on
their box or a label located on the box.
The ratings are not guarantees. Results will vary depending on the user’s hearing
device and hearing loss. If your hearing device happens to be vulnerable to
interference, you may not be able to use a rated phone successfully. Trying out the
phone with your hearing device is the best way to evaluate it for your personal needs.
M-Ratings: Phones rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and are likely to generate
less interference to hearing devices than phones that are not labeled. M4 is the better/
higher of the two ratings.
Hearing devices may also be rated. Your hearing device manufacturer or hearing
health professional may help you find this rating. Higher ratings mean that the hearing
device is relatively immune to interference noise. The hearing aid and wireless phone