Frequently Asked Questions
At Mouseability we understand there are many questions you may wish to ask. We have tried to think of the more obvious questions, but please don’t hesitate to contact us for any further information.
Can I claim back VAT?
If you have a hearing loss and are buying a product for your own use you do not have to pay VAT on the product if it is quoted with an 'ex vat' price. For more information please see our VAT relief page.
What is the difference between digital and analogue clocks?
An Analogue Clock is one with a traditional type face including Minute, Hour and second hands. A Digital type clock will usually show numbers illuminated on a small screen.
I have trouble hearing people on my telephone, is there anything I can use to help me?
We have a device called the PL50 in-line telephone amplifier. This simple device plugs into the handset socket of your telephone; the handset is then plugged into the amplifier. The volume can then be increased using a sliding volume control. You can also adjust the tone by using the sliding tone control. The advantage of this equipment is that if there are hearing people in your household, the amplifier volume can be easily turned off. If you find that your handset does not unplug from the telephone you can use a portable amplifier like the PL10 which can slip onto the handset when you need to use it.
What is Infrared?
Infrared is another means of transmitting sound from your TV to your ears, systems like our Infralight 2 are widely available. There is an infrared transmitter which is mounted on top of your TV; the signal is picked up by either a neckloop or stetoclips worn by the person needing the hearing assistance. The huge advantage of this system is that there are no wires/cables around the room or between the television and the user.
What is a Neckloop?
A neckloop operates in much the same way as a domestic room loop system except that it is usually used with a personal amplifier. This creates your own personal loop which is portable and can be used for conversation or at social events.
What is a Loop Pad?
Loop pads are very useful if laying a loop cable around a room is likely to be a problem. Basically, the loop pad is connected into the amplifier and then placed on the chair seat or back rest. When the person with a 'T' switch hearing aid sits on the pad it will operate the same way as a room loop. This system is particularly useful if you wish to use a loop system at a friend or family’s house as it makes the system much more portable.
What are Stetoclips/Stethoscope Headsets?
If you have a moderate hearing loss then stetoclips/stethoscope headset (similar to a Doctor's stethoscope), when used in conjunction with one of our personal listeners are probably your best option. These create a very good acoustic seal by pushing the sound down into the ear, rather than on top of the ear like over-ear headphones.
Can you suggest a suitable product to help me listen to my TV and Hi-Fi?
One of the most popular products that can be used for your TV/hi/fi is our Domestic Loop Systems LA110 and LA210 these are suitable for use with hearing aids equipped with a 'T' switch. These systems are easy to install; simply lay the loop cable around the room, either under the carpet or around the skirting board using the cable clips provided, and connect into the back of the Loop amplifier. The systems are fitted with adjustable volume and tone controls; the LA210 also has priority microphone function and AGC.
What can I use when I go out to visit friends and family to help me join in conversations?
You could try one of our Personal Listeners or Loop systems. These Lightweight devices can be hand held or placed next to you, providing improved hearing in many different situations. For example the Crescendo 20/5 system (with neckloop) is suitable for people using hearing aids with a 'T' switch. The neckloop enables you to pick up the sounds via your hearing aid. If you do not wear a hearing aid, you can simply select the Crescendo 20/1 system (with Headset). The Crescendo units have a built in microphone which can be directed towards the person talking. The Crescendo systems also come with external 4 metre microphone and leads can be supplied to connect directly to a TV or hi-fi to enhance the sound.
I have trouble hearing people on my telephone, is there anything I can use to help me?
We have a device called the PL50 in-line telephone amplifier. This simple device plugs into the handset socket of your telephone, the handset is then plugged into the amplifier. The volume can then be increased using a sliding volume control. You can also adjust the tone by using the sliding tone control. The advantage of this equipment is that if there are hearing people in your household, the amplifier volume can be easily turned off. If you find that your handset does not unplug from the telephone you can use a portable amplifier like the PL10 which can slip onto the handset when you need to use it.
I would like a Crescendo system and wear hearing aids, what are my options?
The Crescendo amplifier can be used with a number of different accessories which will allow you to utilise your hearing aids. Click any of the links below to see the relevant systems. Crescendo Personal Loop Crescendo 50/2 system Crescendo 50/5 System Crescendo 50/6 System
Can my crescendo amplifier be connected to my computer?
Yes, simply by purchasing a Lead Kit and connecting this into the microphone socket on your crescendo and also into the headphone/line out socket on your computer.
What does the volume control on a Crescendo 50 do?
The rotary volume control on the Crescendo 50 amplifier allows you to control and monitor the level of sound you hear regardless of how loud your sound source is.
How can i record the subtitles from my television?
If you have a freeview digital receiver that has 2 Scart sockets This wiring diagram may be of use to you.
What is the difference between an infralight headset system and an infralight DIR system?
Both systems function in the same and do the same job. The DIR systems have a silicon rubber in-the-ear style headset, this means that it can make a better seal in your ear, and if the system is to be used by more than one person it is more hygienic as it is easily cleaned. There are no performance differences between the two systems.
Are the bellpushes supplied with your doorbell systems waterproof?
The bellpushes that we supply are weather-proof rather than waterproof. This means that the bellpush will be fine outside your home under normal weather conditions such as rain, sleet, snow extreme sunshine.
What is the difference between infra red and radio system's?
For infra red systems the transmitter and receiver must be in line of sight of each other to work. For a radio system the transmitter and receiver do not have to be in line of sight, you can be anywhere within your home and still receive the signal from the transmitter.