Audioscan Axiom - Manual (Page 45)

Axiom ® User's Guide Version 1.8  May 2015
Coupling the hearing instrument for Test box Speechmap
The ANSI S3.46-2013 standard specifies RECD referenced to the HA-1 coupler and suggests its use in test
box verification for all instrument types. Audioscan software allows for BTE coupling to either HA-1
through earmold, or HA-2. The appropriately referenced RECD will be applied.
BTE instruments may be coupled either directly to the HA-2 (BTE) coupler, or to the HA-1 coupler using
the client’s earmold and blue putty. When using the earmold, ensure that the mold is well-sealed to the
coupler and that the medial end is flush with the inside of the coupler opening. Putty should not extend into
the coupler cavity or block the sound outlet. Vents should be sealed at the lateral end. Coupling method used
for BTE instruments (HA-2 or HA-1) must be specified in Instrument type selection on Speechmap screen.
See Using Speechmap, RECD.
Custom instruments are sealed to the HA-1 coupler with putty so that the end of the eartip is flush with the
inside of the coupler opening. Putty should not extend into the coupler cavity or block the sound outlet of the
instrument. Vents should be sealed at the faceplate end. It is very important that the instrument be well-sealed to
the coupler.
Open fit instruments may not be verified using Test box speechmap.
RITE (Receiver in the ear) instruments are coupled to the HA-1 coupler using putty to seal the receiver module
or soft tip to the coupler opening.
Excess low frequency output is usually due to open vents or a poor seal to the coupler.
For health reasons, hearing instruments and earmolds should be clean before putty is applied and putty should
be replaced frequently.
Positioning the hearing instrument
1. The hearing instrument should be coupled to the appropriate coupler. See Coupling the hearing instrument.
2. Place the instrument and coupler in the test chamber so that the front microphone opening of the instrument
is on the crossbar within the test zone.
3. Position the test box reference microphone as close as possible to the microphone opening of the hearing
instrument without touching it.
4. Close and seal the test chamber.
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