Induction Loop Systems (ILS) or Hearing Enhancement Systems (HES) have revolutionised accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments, offering a direct and efficient way to transmit audio signals to hearing aids and cochlear implants. At the heart of these systems lie loop mediums – crucial components that facilitate the transmission of audio signals from the audio source to the telecoil found in hearing aids and cochlear implants. Here, we’ll delve into the array of loop mediums shaping the landscape of induction Loop Systems or Hearing Enhancement Systems:

1. Direct Burial Cable (DBC)

Direct Burial Cable loops are one of the most widely used loop medium for Induction Loop Systems or Hearing Enhancement Systems. It has copper wires – an excellent electrical conductor, making it an ideal material for transmitting audio signals. Direct Burial Cable loops are typically installed in a series of arrays of a room or venue, inducing magnetic field that is picked up by telecoil-enabled Hearing Aids or Cochlear Implants and then converted into audio signals.

The insulation for Direct Burial Cables are able to resist the corrosive alkali effects present in cement and concrete. Hence, these loops can be installed within the screed layer and without the need for additional conduits or protective casings, reducing installation time and labour.

DBCs have a max outer diameter of 5mm, which contributes to space efficiency and eliminates the sight of visible wires or cables. This feature is advantageous in environments where aesthetics and space management are crucial such as theatres, museums, places of worship and hospitals since the Installation of DBCs is dependent on the type of floor finishing and venue.

• Floor finishings: If the final floor finishings are tiles, vinyl or timber wood flooring, then it would be most practical to opt for DBC installation since it will be embedded in the screed or underneath the timber wood panels.
• Venue: Installation of DBC would be most suitable when the venue or area is levelled throughout. It would not be practical for DBCs to be installed for tiered seatings as it would be difficult to secure to the rebars before the screed is poured. Even if the tiered seats are pre-existing, it would be less cost-effective and time-consuming to have to cut grooves or channels to lay the DBCs into and screed over to cover.

2. Flat Copper Tape (FCT)

Flat copper tape loops are another popular choice for loop mediums. Instead of using Direct Burial Cables, flat copper tape is utilized, which offers flexibility and ease of installation.

The Flat Copper Tape is typically adhered to the protective layer of Duct Tape to prevent any damages to the insulation which may result in an electrical short or even an open circuit. Following that, a layer of Blue Text and Hearing Loop Logo on White Printed Warning Tape is applied, which provides an indication to carpet and vinyl fitters to avoid cutting the Flat Copper Tape.

Flat copper tape loops are particularly suitable for retrofitting existing spaces, as they can be discreetly installed beneath carpeting without major modifications. The thin profile of the tape makes it less noticeable and reduces tripping hazards. Although slightly more prone to damage than Direct Burial Cables Loops, proper installation and maintenance and coordination is critical to ensure optimal performance.

3. Pre-Formed Loops

Pre-formed loops consist of loop conductors that come in various shapes and sizes, designed to fit specific applications or venues. These loop mediums are typically made from flexible copper wire and are pre-formed into specific shapes, such as rectangle or square to match the layout an area, usually a counter setting like an information counter or ticketing counter. Pre-formed loops offer convenience and ease of installation. Pre-formed or counter loops are commonly used when a Hearing aid or Cochlear implant user would like to communicate to the staff directly one-on-one. In addition to that, it offers a certain degree of privacy since the loop is directed towards the hearing aid user that is standing within range of the counter loop while those who are not, would not be able to pick up the signal and eavesdrop on sensitive information.

Conclusion:

Understanding loop mediums is a critical component of hearing enhancement systems utilizing magnetic induction technology. Direct Burial Cable, flat copper tapes and pre-formed loops offer various options to cater to different installation requirements and venue layouts. Each type of loop medium has its advantages and considerations, depending on factors such as room size, installation feasibility, portability needs, and specific user requirements. By understanding the characteristics and applications of these loop mediums, designers and installers can select the most suitable option to ensure effective and inclusive communication for individuals with hearing loss.

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