Parts Of (IR) Infrared Hearing Systems

IR hearing systems are great for sending additional sound to those who are in need of hearing assistance. Often churches will have a system like this installed for members who are frustrated in church because their hearing is starting to fade and they cant hear the sermons. It is helpful to know the different parts to most common style IR hearing systems and to know the functions of them. A similar principle and theory is the same as wireless microphones.

Transmitter

This device is used for sending the already mixed signals via infrared to the receivers. The transmitter is normally pointed towards the congregation on the stage or on the side of the stage. They look like little, thin, black boxes that either hung or extended out from its pinned source. The soundboard sends a low impedance signal through a special cable line, designated for the transmitter. Do not send these signals for what ever reason, through an audio snake. A professional installer of the product that you choose will likely setup a transmission line and the transmitter in your church for you.

Receiver

The receiver is the part of the entire IR hearing system that the members who are hard of hearing will hold. There will normally be a half dozen or more of these units around. Most of the units will include a volume control for those who need less or more audio. The receivers will require batteries. They generally come with their own battery type and a nifty charger for them. Make sure before every service you have your units fully charged up and ready to go. Also, the receiver needs a “line of sight” to the transmitter in order to get a clear any signal. These units can be damaged easily so make sure that you handle them with care. There is no way to control how the people of the congregation who are using these units, will take care of them. Make sure that the people who are using the receiver know just how fragile these receivers are.

Battery Charger Unit

Almost all high end IR hearing systems are equipped with a battery charger to charge the batteries for the receiver units. Try to have the charger in a place where even the ushers have access to set the units down and to have them charged.

Conclusion

It is best to know and understand all the utilities that IR units are capable of. To know how long each battery must be charged and how to connect them to the receivers is useful for a efficient setup. Try to take care of the units as they can be damaged easily from poor use. Make sure you've checked out the article on Hard Of Hearing Systems for information about other hearing systems.

Back to Church Sound Articles