Assistive Listening Technology

FM / Radio

How it works

Sound, like someone talking into a microphone or music playing through a sound system, is sent to an FM transmitter. This transmitter broadcasts the sound using radio waves. Anyone wearing a compatible FM receiver, like a headset, neckloop, or hearing aid accessory, can pick up the signal and hear the sound clearly, even from across the room.

The receiver sends the sound to the listener’s ears either through a headset or, for those using hearing aids or cochlear implants with a T-coil, through a personal neckloop that wirelessly transfers the sound.

Find out more

With an FM system, a person doesn’t have to rely on the venue. They can bring their own gear and use it almost anywhere, making them much more independent.

While many places should have induction loops installed, the reality is that some businesses and public spaces still don’t, despite legal requirements. And in some places, like restaurants or outdoor settings, induction loops just aren’t practical.

An FM system gives someone with hearing loss their own lightweight, portable setup that’s easy to use and works in all kinds of everyday situations, especially where hearing aids alone might not be enough because of background noise or distance.

How to Access an FM/Radio System

Look

Look for assistive listening signs. (Find out more about signeage here)

Ask

Ask the venue staff for a receiver.

Switch

If using a neck loop be sure to switch to the 'T' or 'MT' setting on the hearing aid(s), cochlear implant or bone conduction device.

Listen

Listen to clear audio.

FM/Radio Advantages

Simple

Relatively simple setup.

Outdoor Friendly

Can be used outdoors.

Group Friendly

Ability to assist groups of people with hearing loss during tours or travel outdoors or indoors.

Good Range

Has a range of approximately 500 feet / 153 metres • Some systems offer

Multi-channel

Multi-channel audio available.

FM/Radio Limitations

Needs Multiple Receivers

Receivers required for all users (approximately 1 for every 25 seats).

Battery Issues

Receivers require battery replacement or recharging after use.

Staff Burden

Facility owner time required to provide, explain, retrieve, and maintain receivers (hygiene concerns)

Variable Range

Frequency range can vary in different locations.

Licensing Issues

Some systems require license for FM/radio.

Signal Interference

Can conflict with other RF devices in narrow license free frequency bands.

Common FM/Radio Applications

FM/Radio Standards

Find out more about standards

EQUIPMENT PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Neck loop must provide a signal compliant with IEC 60118-4 when measured as specified in IEC 62489-1

ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS

Compliant if receivers provided as defined by ADA Table 2193

FM systems for people with hearing loss

Featured
News

"Interesting in hearing better in group settings? You may want look into FM and DM systems. Using microphones and receivers (including hearing aids), these systems help you hear better and reduce background noise. Common in school settings, they help filter out unwanted noise."