Computer
- You require a PC running Win95 / 98 / Me / NT / 2000 / XP / Linux,
SUN - Solaris, or a Macintosh running OS X.
- Any of the popular browsers such as Firefox, Safari, etc.
- The latest version of the Java plug-in from SUN (most newer
PC's come with this version of Java plug-in already installed).
- A good-quality sound card.
- All applications on your computer, except your web browser, must be closed.
- All sound-processing features on your sound card such as "Bass Boost",
tone control, reverbaration, DSP, etc. must be disabled.
- Any audio equipment connected to your computer must be disabled. Speakers
must be turned OFF.
- The volume on your computer must be at the level you usually use or lower.
You can lower volume by going to volume adjustment in the Mixer software. In Windows this is done
by selecting Start -> Programs -> Accessories -> Entertainment -> Volume
Control. Check your computer manual for other platforms.
- Since the hearing test results will appear
in a separate browser window, you must allow pop-up
windows in your browser and your firewall before starting the test.
Java Plug-in & System Test
- When you click on the "Proceed" button located further down the page
a simple application called "System Test" will be launched.
The application will test your computer system
for compatibility with our software. It will also determine whether you
require a Java plug-in.
- If you require a Java plug-in, download it from Sun's website.
If no automatic install takes place make sure to double-click on the downloaded
.exe file to install it.
- Make sure that Java version 5.0 or higher is used during testing.
Headphones
- Should be of good quality (for example AKG K-270 or KOSS R/80).
- Closed-type headphones are the best choice as they
reduce outside noise.
- Headphones must be plugged into the headphones output on your
computer. The headphones output is usually marked as such and it is most often located on
the back pannel of the computer. In most cases, it is a miniature stereo
output, similar to the output socket on a portable CD player. If necessary, refer to your
computer manual for more details.
Earphones
- Should be of good quality (for example some models of SONY,Panasonic,JVC,AKG,KOSS).
- Miniature earphones (or earbuds) can be turned into good-quality "closed-type headphones"
by wearing earmuffs over them. Good earmuffs (for example Thunder 29 from Howard Leight) offer
about 29-31 dB noise
reduction (better than most headphones). You can buy them in many hardware
stores for about $20 US. Earmuffs can also be used
to protect your hearing in noisy situations.
- Earphones must be plugged into the headphones output on your
computer (as described above).
Noise
- All noisy equipment (such as fans, radios, etc.) must be switched OFF to minimize
background noise that can interfere with the test.
- You should perform the test when the noise level in the room and outside is at its lowest.
Safety
- Volume calibration is the first step in the hearing test.
You must follow the provided instructions to protect your hearing and your
computer/audio equipment.
- if at any time during the
calibration or hearing test you feel any discomfort or
you find volume levels too high remove the headphones / earphones and stop the test immediately.
- AURAL Volume Calibration should be performed by somebody with good
hearing.
- SLM-based Volume Calibration is provided for more advanced
users. It requires SLM (Sound Level Meter) and a proper Acoustical
Coupler (please see our website for more information about couplers). SLM-based Calibration
allows for more objective and more precise volume calibration.
Copyrights / License
- All sounds produced by WWW Hearing Test modules are licensed by Digital Recordings for your
personal, environmentally-responsible and non-commercial use only.
- Reproduction, duplication or public use or broadcasting of WWW Hearing Test sounds is strictly
prohibited.
- Recording, editing, reuse, reformatting, resynthesizing, remixing, filtering or any other
type of processing for use in another product or for resale is strictly prohibited without written
license and permission from Digital Recordings.
- Commercial use and resale of WWW Hearing Test products and sounds produced by WWW Hearing Test
package is strictly prohibited without written license and permission from Digital Recordings.
Click here for additional information
on some of the points raised above.
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