| TCI Cellular HAC(Hearing Aid Compatible) |
For our hearing impaired customers we now have two active cellular handsets in each of our offices for testing. So if you are worried about hearing aid compatibility TCI Cellular is committed to keeping you connected!
| Type of Device | Name of Device | Level of Functionality | Compatibility Ratings | FCC ID |
| w385 | Motorola w385 | B | M4, T4 | 1HDT56HC1 |
| w323 | Motorola w323 | A | M4, T4 | 1HDT56GS1 |
| W315 | Motorola 315 | C | M3 | 1HDT56GE1 |
| LG UX 260 | LG Rumor Aqua | A | M3, T3 | BEJLX260 |
Explanation of HAC & Rating System
Hearing aids do not always function well with wireless handsets. Hearing aids operate by using a microphone to pick up sound waves, converting the sound waves into electrical signals to be amplified. Distortion or amplification of unwanted sound (noise) often occurs.
The FCC''s hearing aid compatibility requirements address hearing aids that operate in either of two modems - acoustic coupling ("M" rating) or inductive coupling ("T" rating). Hearing aids operating in acoustic coupling mode receive through a microphone and then amplify all sounds surrounding the user, including both desired sounds, such as a telephone''s audio signal, and unwanted ambient noise. Hearing aids operating in inductive coupling mode turn off the microphone to avoid amplifying unwanted ambient noise, instead using a telecoil to receive only audio signal-based magnetic fields generated by inductive coupling-capable telephones. The FCC''s "M" or "T" ratings indicate whether a handset can be expected to function well with a hearing aid and are generally marked clearly on the handset packaging. The "M" or "T" rating does not guarantee that the handset will function without distortion or noise, so TCI Cellular recommends that you test the handset before purchasing.
Levels of Functionality
TCI Cellular offers HAC-compatible handsets and devices in all major categories including low-cost ("C" level) ($0 to $100), moderate-cost ("B" level") ($100-$250), and high-end/feature rich ("A" level) ($250 and higher). Costs generally correlate with the number of features, but, if through experience, TCI Cellular finds that a certain handset contains features that work well with hearing aids, such as volume control, it will be labeled accordingly with an "A" level for functionality. TCI Cellular''s sales staff is trained to assist all existing and prospective customers looking for a HAC-compliant device/handset. HAC-compatible handsets and devices vary in their inherent "levels of functionality," but typically at least one (1) HAC-compliant handset/device with features and services typical of its price category can be found that meets each customer''s price range.
