Counter Hearing Loops

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Permanent Counter Hearing Loops

Permanent, professionally installed units, such as service counters at checkout counters, information desks, ticket windows, etc. provide a calibrated hearing loop that meets IEC standards, proper placement for users who both stand and use wheelchairs, correct microphone selection and placement (sometimes affixed), and continuous power. There are different types of aerials and area coverage can vary. When possible the sign should be fitted at the exact position of the loop antenna. This gives consistency and reliability for all users: immediate availability without requesting and the unit will always work well.

There are 4 types of permanent counter hearing loops

  • Above The Counter
  • Under The Counter
  • Window Mount
  • Speech transfer system (STS)
Elections service window with plexiglass, with a counter hearing loop.
Counter hearing loop at elections service counter, Colorado Springs, CO
Counter hearing loop in front of cash register on service counter.
Counter hearing loop at ice cream counter register, Tillamook, OR

Portable Counter Hearing Loops

Portable units are good for one-time or on-the-fly needs, such as for small meetings, but have their limitations. In general, they have a small field, which means orientation, microphones selection, and placement are important.

Portable counter loop and sign at the African American History and Culture Museum
Portable counter hearing loop and availability info at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
conference room table with portable counter loop, external microphone, and headphones. Approximately 10 people can sit around the table
Small conference table: Portable counter hearing loop with omni microphone and receiver/headphones. Microphones can be daisy-chained and extend 30 feet or so.