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 The FONIX 6500-CX
The 6500-CX is the world's most complete hearing aid analyzer. Frye Electronics keeps it that way by continually updating the programming as new hearing aids and revised standards are introduced. Whether the testing is done in a sound chamber or in the real ear, the FONIX 6500-CX has the answers you need to evaluate and fit hearing aids.
Testing to Standards
Quality control in the manufacturing of hearing aids is based on testing to published standards. Currently the FONIX 6500-CX provides test sequences for the ANSI, IEC and JIS standards. Because these measurements are fast and accurate, the FONIX 6500-CX is used by virtually all the world's hearing aid manufacturers. In addition, there are provisions in the programming that can be used, when needed, to prevent incorrect results (testing artifacts) when testing sophisticated circuits.
Composite/Real Time Signal
Testing to pure-tone standards is only a small part of the capability of the FONIX 6500-CX. The real time composite signal provides measurements several times a second. Along with great speed, measurements with this complex signal provide immediate information about the presence or absence of intermodulation distortion, while avoiding the "artificial blooming of the lows" caused by the use of pure tones in the measurement of Automatic Gain Control hearing aids.
Multiple Option Package
Most users purchase the Multiple Option package so they have instant access to input/output curves, gain, averaging, and telecoil measurements. The CIC option provides nonstandard, but realistic and validated measurements, of these very small in-the-canal hearing aids.
The Star Option
Testing Digital Aids With the recent introduction of digital hearing aids, other testing problems arose and have been overcome by additions to the programming of the FONIX 6500-CX. Noise reduction circuits of these aids can interpret conventional test signals as noise and alter the response of the hearing aid. The Digital Speech in Noise program in the Star Option provides randomly interrupted real time signals that the aid interprets as speech, leading to accurate test results. It also provides bias tones to see how the aid responds in the presence of noise at different frequencies. The ICRA and the ANSI 92 speech spectra are provided.
Enhanced DSP
Enhanced DSP is an exciting new test for digital aids that is unique to the 6500-CX. It measures both the group delay—the digital aid's processing time—and the phase of the hearing aid. The group delay of the digital aid is especially important for monaural or open vent fittings because sound can travel faster to the unaided ear than the aid can process it for the aided ear, creating an echo effect. The phase measurement is important for binaural fittings to ensure that the hearing aids are working together as a team. (See the supplemental Enhanced DSP brochure for more details.)
Spectrum Analysis
Live Speech and Environmental Sounds
The spectrum analysis mode, a standard feature on all FONIX 6500-CX units, allows you the versatility of testing the aid with your choice of external signals, whether it be environment CDs or live voice. You can also test for the occlusion effect or apply any number of signals used in research or clinical practice.
Customizing the Menus
In order to make it convenient for the user to take advantage of the versatility of the FONIX 6500-CX, we have added the ability to customize the menu choices. There are five custom setups available, in addition to the default menu. This is handy because different types of hearing aids may require different settings, and different users may have their own testing preferences. Having six different customized menus can be a great time saver.
New 6050 Sound Chamber
We have recently upgraded the sound chamber for the FONIX 6500-CX. This new sound chamber has improved seals and will provide greater isolation than our previous chamber. In addition, we have arranged the physical layout and construction of the hearing aid test area to allow greater flexibility in the positioning of hearing aids and couplers.
- A major advantage of the newer chamber is the improved isolation from ambient noise, both through the air and from the surface on which it is placed.
- The chamber's internal physical layout has also been improved. The test surface upon which the hearing aid is placed is now a simple large plane, easing the task of device placement. Basic directional hearing aid testing is more easily done.
- The battery replacement module has been relocated to the right hand side of the chamber. The battery type selection has been updated to include the newer 5a size and the elimination of the now obsolete mercury types.
- Servicing of the sound box is now simpler. The test surface with its battery replacement circuit board is held in place with a velcro fastener system.
- A durable woven fiber screen replaces the thinner foam of the old chamber
The 6050 is completely compatible with our previous chamber, the 6020, and thus can be retrofitted to older 6500 analyzers already in the field. As with the 6020, cabling is kept simple. Only two cables connect the chamber with the electronics module. Well-determined battery substitution supply impedance is retained. Internal acoustic reflections are low, making measurements fast and accurate. The built-in magnetic test coil and Telewand interface jack are still there.
Quik-Probe Option
Speed and Accuracy in the Fitting Process
The FONIX 6500-CX would not be the most complete hearing aid analyzer without a great real ear measurement capability. The Quik Probe Option is just that. The composite, real time signal and its variations, the ICRA and ANSI digital speech signals, are basic to the ability to do tests quickly and accurately. The hand-held module adds to the convenience. Experienced users tell us how quickly they can use the module to get the needed results. And, you can use the spectrum analysis mode to show how the real speech of an accompanying person reaches the aided ear. The spectrum analysis can be a great counseling tool. Confirming your fitting with real ear measurements is the mark of the dedicated professional. The hearing aid client and third party payers will also appreciate this validation of the fitting. And don't forget to keep a record of how each hearing aid went out the door!
Flexibility Provided
Not everyone uses real-measurements the same way, so we have made Quik-Probe as flexible as possible. You can choose automatic or manual modes, composite or pure tone signals. You can make measurements in gain or SPL.
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