Hearing aids are indeed miracles that assist us in getting back into society after feeling so isolated. For example, while having a conversation with a friend, listening to a favourite song, or paying attention to crucial sounds, such as a car honk, hearing aids do not let you feel that you are missing out on a lot. But have you ever sat down and wondered how they actually function?
As a central unit of a hearing aid, there are several small components that are crucial to creating excellent sound for you. This guide will teach you about the different hearing aid parts and each part's role.
Basic Parts Of Hearing Aids And Their Functions
Hearing aids have main parts, and all of them are crucial for you to be able to hear well. Let’s break down the basic parts of hearing aids and their functions:
Microphone
The microphone is the input device by which sound is received. It can record whatever is being said to you, the sound of car horns, any sound. When it captures the sound, the microphone converts the same into electrical signals, which are then switched to the amplifier.
Amplifier
An amplifier is supposed to increase the volume of sound. It increases the volume of faint sounds and the clarity of the electrical signals picked up by the microphone.
Receiver (Speaker)
The loudspeaker, also known as the receiver, is where loud sound begins to come from. It picks up the electrical signals from the amplifier, changes them into sound waves, and directs them into the ear canal. The receiver ensures that you can receive sound in the best possible manner, whether it be voices or other sounds in the environment.
Battery
The battery is the hearing aid's energy supply system. It supplies the energy required for all subsystems to operate. There are two main types of hearing aid batteries: disposable and rechargeable.
● Disposable Hearing Aid Batteries
Zinc-air batteries are small, disposable batteries that supply the required power to hearing aids for a few days. They must be recharged and replaced when they become drained. Zinc-air batteries are available in small sizes, depending on the type of hearing aid in use. Disposable batteries are advantageous because they are easily available and can be replaced frequently.
● Rechargeable Hearing Aids
The current rechargeable hearing aids have lithium-ion batteries that are recharged through a charging dock. These batteries normally discharge for, say, one full day on a single charge, making them better than disposable ones.
Hearing Aid with Battery vs. Rechargeable: Which is Better?
Hearing Aid Parts Diagram
When it comes to the discussion about hearing aids, there is always a need to refer to certain diagrams that highlight the hearing aid parts because these components vary a lot. Here are descriptions of the basic parts of various types of hearing aids, along with their diagrams:
BTE Hearing Aid Parts Diagram (Behind-the-Ear)
A BTE hearing aid has a small plastic case that is worn behind the ear of the user. The sound gets transmitted through a tube to an earmold or custom ear tip that goes into the ear canal. Here's a breakdown of the parts:
- Microphone: Records sound from the surrounding area.
- Amplifier: Boosts the sound signals.
- Receiver: Turns the amplified signal back into sound.
- Battery compartment: Serves as the energy source for the hearing aid.
- Earhook or tubing: Transmits sound to the ear.
RIC Hearing Aid Parts Diagram (Receiver-in-Canal)
A RIC hearing aid is really a BTE hearing aid, but it is equipped with a smaller and almost inconspicuous body. The receiver is located deep in the ear canal, making the size of the device smaller.
- Microphone: Picks up external sounds.
- Amplifier: Boosts the incoming sound.
- Receiver (Speaker): Located in the ear canal to deliver loud sounds straight to the ear.
- Battery: Powers the device.
- Wire or tube: Links the receiver to the body of the hearing aid.
ITE Hearing Aid Parts Diagram (In-the-Ear)
An ITE hearing aid sits entirely in the outer ear and is slightly larger than an IIC or CIC hearing aid. Though it can be seen when worn, it offers more room for incorporating larger elements into the design.
- Microphone: Records noises coming from the environment.
- Amplifier: Increases sound intensity.
- Receiver: Delivers the amplified sound.
- Battery compartment: Houses the power source.
- Volume control: Some models have an additional knob for controlling the volume of sound produced.
IIC Hearing Aid Parts Diagram (Invisible-in-Canal)
An IIC hearing aid is the smallest hearing aid and is fitted deep into the ear canal, hence is not visible when worn.
- Microphone: Records the environment noises.
- Receiver (Speaker): Placed on the external auditory meatus in order to generate sound.
- Battery: Powers the device.
- Ventilation system: Enables the natural sounds and air to get into the ear.
CIC Hearing Aid Parts Diagram (Completely-in-Canal)
A tiny CIC hearing aid resides solely in the ear canal; however, it is somewhat larger than an IIC. This type is generally selected for discrete fit and a high degree of sound power amplification.
- Microphone: Able to capture sound from the surroundings.
- Receiver (Speaker): Transmit loud sound through the ear canal with the help of earphones.
- Battery: Supplies power to the device.
- Custom mold: It comfortably sits in the ear canal.
Other Hearing Aid Parts
Program Button
By tapping this button, users can switch from one listening mode to another. For instance, they can switch from a program that works well when there is little noise to another that works well when there is much noise.
Ear Mold or Dome
The ear mold or dome refers to that part of the hearing aid that goes inside the ear canal and holds the hearing aid in position.
- Open Domes are intended to allow in more natural sounds but boost the required frequencies of speech.
- Closed Domes give a more secure seal, shutting out external sounds to allow for improved reinforcement of speech sounds.
Telecoil (T-coil)
The telecoil is a small device that can enhance the quality of sound in telephone and sound systems used in places such as public transport, theatres and the like with hearing loop systems. This one receives electromagnetic signals and amplifies sounds while rejecting extraneous noise.
Hearing Aid Receiver Wire
A hearing aid receiver wire joins the microphone, the amplifier to the receiver, and the speaker inside the ear. It relays loud so that the sound gets to the ear and is distinct.
Volume Controls
Such controls allow you to increase or decrease the sound volume according to what makes you comfortable. The volume level can be adjusted, whether in a quiet room or a noisy room, and you can always set it to low or high.
Memory Controls
Each memory setting enables you to store different sound levels for different environments. For example, one memory setting might be a loud restaurant and another is watching television at home. It also helps when one wants to transition from one environment to another without setting up each time.
Ear Hook
A hook attaches to the back of the hearing aid and hooks on the ear. It helps maintain a firm grip on the device and aligns the receiver with the ear canal for efficient functioning.
Vent
A tiny hole in the hearing aid through which air is allowed to move in and out of the ear. It is useful to avoid the sensation of fullness in the ear and enhance overall comfort. Further, it may be effective in preventing the accumulation of pressure inside the ear.
Wax Guards
Wax guards are little filters that help prevent earwax from blocking the hearing aid's receiver or speaker. They work as a shield to ensure the device functions well while supporting good sound quality.
Conclusion
Knowing the different components of your hearing aid enables you to fully utilize this fantastic tool. Whether you are walking in the middle of the street, arguing with friends, or simply enjoying the silence, your hearing aid guarantees that you will never miss anything.
Knowing these fundamental hearing aid parts allows you to use them as effectively as possible. As we all know, listening well is not merely the ability to perceive sound but the ability to be involved and aware at all times.
Read more:
Best Gifts for Your Loved Ones with Hearing Loss
Ceretone Core One vs Eargo 7 Hearing Aids: Alternative, Reviews & Price
Ceretone Beacon vs Sennheiser All-Day Clear - RIC Hearing Aid Reviews
Lexie B2 Hearing Aids vs. Ceretone Beacon: Why Pay More for Less?
RIC vs. BTE Hearing Aids: Which Suit Your Needs and Budget
Types of Hearing Aids: How to Pick the Best One for You
Why Do My Ears Itch When I Wear My Hearing Aid? Here’s How to Fix It
FAQs
A hearing aid's components include the microphone, amplifier, receiver or speaker, battery, dome or ear mold, volume and program selectors, and accessories such as telecoil or wax guards. Every element in its structure functions to further enhance and produce sound as intended.
Another channel is the small wire present, especially when using RIC (Receiver-In-Canal) hearing aids. This wire links the hearing aid's primary part to the receiver or speaker inside the ear canal. Hearing is a process in which the hearing aid transmits amplified sound to the ear.
Hearing aid domes are particularly prone to falling out if they are a different size, inserted poorly, or if the accumulation of earwax has caused them not to fit correctly. A hearing care professional may be able to modify or change them for a better fit for you.
You should perform simple tasks like cleaning or replacing wax guards or batteries, but to avoid making the situation worse, you should have the manufacturer perform any other complicated repair.
The molds used in hearing aids vary in durability and can usually be used for 1-2 years. However, they should be replaced if they become too small, damaged, or worn, as this affects both the quality of the sound and comfort.
