Interacoustics

Equinox – the PC-based audiometer

Sunday, 04 November 2007 09:14
Published in Articles
Written by  David Conrad Armes Read 502 times

The word pc-based can be misleading. Perhaps pc-integrated would describe it better. Either way, it’s important to understand that the audiometric signals are not created in the PC. What has happened is that we have divided the functions of an audiometer into two groups. In one group are the electronics that create and deliver test signals. These are state-of-the-art, as ever, but now fit into a compact, beautifully-designed unit that will grace any sound-proof booth or office. In the other group are the switches and dials. These have been moved to the PC screen or you can use a specially-designed audiometric keyboard.

The change is driven by the increasing need to automate and integrate audiometric information into record systems, typically a database. The software on the PC is the binding link, automating transfer of data between the audiometer and the database where it is available for other uses such as hearing-aid fitting or comparison with previous audiograms. Having to enter data manually is a thing of the past.

But there is more to it than that. Bringing the PC into the system gives the audiologist greater control over how their system is set-up. The audiologist has a set of requirements when they place their order. These become protocols in the software and are delivered with the system. But the audiologist can adapt these protocols at any time, create new ones, even change how switches appear on the screen or customize reports on the printer. Anyone who has travelled in the audiological world knows how much individual preferences matter. This is part of bringing control closer to the people who use the equipment.

We call our system Equinox to give the idea of balance between two needs: complex and precise control over the test signals and freedom of use for the audiologist. That reflects the driving philosophy here at Interacoustics. And it seems to work!

You are here: Home News Articles Equinox – the PC-based audiometer
25 May 2013