The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) defines Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) for wireless devices in terms of radio-frequency (RF) emissions and telecoil coupling. Cell phones are tested to see if they comply with the FCC's definition of hearing aid compatibility.

"M" refers to the RF emissions level of the handset device, and means the device is intended for use with hearing aids in microphone mode. The higher the "M" rating number on the device, the more likely the device can be used with a hearing aid on the microphone setting.

"T" refers to the device\'s telecoil coupling ability, and means the device is intended for use with hearing aids in telecoil mode. The higher the "T" rating number on the device, the more likely the device can be used with a hearing aid on the telecoil setting.

A telecoil is a small device that is built into some hearing aids for use with the telephone as well as assistive listening devices. To use the telecoil, generally either the hearing aid is switched to the "T" position or a button on the hearing aid is pushed to select the telecoil program. Some newer hearing aids will automatically switch to telecoil mode when using a phone. The telecoil picks up magnetic fields generated by telephones and converts these fields into sound. Telecoils are particularly useful for telephone communication because they permit the volume control of a hearing aid to be turned up without creating feedback or "whistling," and background noise can be reduced especially when using cell phones in noisy places. A hearing health professional can determine whether a hearing aid contains a telecoil and how it is activated.

More information: http://accesswireless.org/

Levels of Functionality

Viaero Wireless offers a variety of HAC phone models to meet the needs of wireless users with hearing disabilities. The mobile units are presented here by category of the full price of the phone (not discounted as part of a contract for service).

• The first category is SmartPhones ($800+ Cost Outright). These phones have advanced features such as a camera, Bluetooth, some desktop functions, e-mail and Internet access capability.
• The next category is Ultra Phones ($450-$799 Cost Outright). These phones have a camera, Bluetooth, and Internet access capability.
• The next category is Best Phones ($300-$449 Cost Outright). These phones may have a camera, Bluetooth, and Internet access capability, but are usually older models.
• The next category is Better Phones ($151-299 Cost Outright). These phones may have a camera, Bluetooth but are more basic models.
• The final category is Good Phones (Less than $150 Cost Outright). These phones may or may not have a camera, Bluetooth, and Internet access capability, and generally are heavier and lack such features MP3 players and expandable memory.