Designed for installation in high level security windows, the STS-K023 provides crystal clear two-way communication in environments such as banks, pharmacies, CBD outlets, federal buildings, law enforcement, public transport hubs, embassies and consulates.

The system features a Level 8 ballistic-rated STS-BL8, a glass-mounted, all-in-one speaker and microphone customer unit which enhances security by fitting in existing holes of 2.5-4 inches diameter in the glass.

At a glance

• Robust construction, durable and long-lasting steel components
• Stainless steel wire management tubing included
• Built-in hearing loop technology makes every window ADA compliant
• Advanced audio settings including AGC, Volume IN/OUT adjustment, feedback suppression adjustment, call recording and call button options, headset connection option – wired or wireless.
• Simple installation, all parts included in the box

Each complete kit comprises:

• STS-A31H, Window Intercom System Amplifier
• STS-SU1-3W-SIL-400, Staff Unit Speaker and Microphone
• STS-BL8, Customer Side Level 8 Ballistic Rated Speaker and Microphone Unit with Window Mounting Kit
• IL-AE98, Window Mounted Hearing Loop Aerial
• PS-55, Power Supply

The STS-K023 is part of a new range of window intercom systems specifically designed to enhance communication and security at windows with existing openings in the glass.  The range also includes the STS-K022, a Level 3 ballistic-rated version, and a non-ballistic option, the STS-K021.

Technical support is available to help installers, specifiers and architects select the right system for their project.  Contact info@contactainc.com Tel. +1 616 392 3400

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Why Choose an RF Systems?

Radio frequency can be the ideal assistive listening technology for certain applications, making it easy to access for both venues and users.

The installation of an RF system is simple as transmitters can be fitted into the venue post-construction with less installation concerns.

The RF systems can be used as assistive listening in large venues such as stadiums, conferences or auditoriums. The FM signal is less restricted by physical objects and can pass through walls and partitions. It is also suitable for outdoor use and therefore can also be used for tour guiding applications in trade shows, education venues or museums, using portable transmitters. The systems offers a large number of coded channels, allowing for multiple systems to be used in the same venue.

RF technology delivers a wide frequency bandwidth with improved audio reproduction making it ideal for both speech and music. Users can connect a variety of listening options to their personal RF transmitters including Earphones, Headphones or inductive neck loops.

NEW Contacta RF-915

Our new RF-915 systems go a few steps further than our previous model by having:

• Increased Transmission Range: Using adjustable power setting, our new transmitters offer improved coverage to cover larger venues, utilizing 25 selectable channels. Our new system uses a more reliable 915MHz frequency to increase predictability of performance.
• Intelligent Group Programming: Fast set-up of groups of receivers via new Smart Chargers and an optional PC software suite.
• Improved Sound Quality: Wider frequency bandwidth up to 12KHz delivers best in class sound quality.
• Improved Audio connectivity; Balanced XLR inputs, Phantom Power and Inbound Bluetooth streaming utilizing two parallel inputs. Dante Transmitters available from mid-2024.
• All-new Handheld Mic transmitter, ideal for educational applications.
• New and improved OLED and LCM displays, with bright backlight and large fonts to assist both installers and users.

Contacta’s RF systems are TAA and ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility solutions align with federal procurement requirements.

Ready to break down communication barriers in your business with our RF technology? Learn more about the exciting possibilities our systems offer by clicking here or click here to get in touch TODAY.

Contacta is here to help your organization create inclusive environments with our superior assistive listening technology.

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In the last 4 weeks our team delivered four training webinars to demonstrate the full capabilities of the new v 2.2.6 version of the software to Contacta global network of dealers. Attendees were able to see first-hand how easy it is to create customized hearing loop systems for any setting. We are delighted with the positive response we received and we encourage users to work with the software for their loop designs.

During the webinar, we provided a thorough demonstration of the software, showcasing its many features and capabilities such as the all-new metal loss calculator. The new and improved reports produced by the software can now be customised and personalised.

A recording of the webinar will also be available on our official YouTube channel, allowing anyone to see for themselves what this suite can do. It’s a great opportunity to help you improve your loop design skills and get you a better understanding of designing hearing loops to the IEC 60118-4 standard.

We are excited to see the many ways in which the 3D visualizer will be used in the future, and we are committed to providing our users with the very best tools and resources. More webinars will be announced soon on a variety of topics, so stay tuned for further updates.

If you are a Contacta distributor and want to take your hearing loop systems to the next level, request your license key today.

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Contacta made a return to ISE 2023 with the launch of new products, new software suits and a showcase of their entire portfolio. Integrated Systems Europe is one of the premier exhibitions for AV and systems integration worldwide.

A must-see on the booth was the brand new VLD1 vehicle loop driver, a design created in response to demand from bus and coach operators needing to comply with new accessibility standards.

With challenging operation conditions in these vehicles, the VLD1 and its unique set up software needed thoughtful design to mitigate signal loss. It underwent rigorous vibration and temperature testing to make sure it complied with the relevant standards for electronic products installed in such a challenging environment.

ISE 2023, which brought together more than 700 exhibitors from the global AV and systems integration industry, was also the first opportunity customers had to get close-up to our V22 large area loop driver.

The V22 is the latest addition to their flagship V Series range and was a powerful constant current, single output driver packed with new additional features. It was designed for loop systems in medium to large venues for perimeter and figure-eight loop layouts.

New to visitors was also their STS-K009IP rated window intercom call systems as well as a brand-new IP rated screen-mounted system. This IP55 range is designed for outdoor environments; think delivery points, ski resorts, or security checkpoints. The IP rating meant it protected against water, dust and dirt ingress.

Visitors were hands-on this year too. As well as being able to experience a live demo of their market-leading window intercom systems, there was also the chance to design a large area hearing loop system on Contacta’s all-new and improved Loop Design 3D Visualiser.

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The theater in the museum offers an immersive experience into the universe, and recently added a new hearing loop system, which provides an effective way to broadcast information to visitors who are hard of hearing.

Along with offering a variety of shows about space and the atomic world, the planetarium also features “Dark Side: The Light Show,” set to the Pink Floyd’s “The Dark of the Moon” at 4 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.

Beyond the regular showings, the Grand Rapids Amateur Astronomical Association also hosts events with the planetarium. The two organizations also partnered for public observation nights that started in April and run through early November at the James C. Veen Observatory, 3308 Kissing Rock Ave. in Lowell Township.

Dates align with optimum moon phases and are posted on GRAAA.org but could be canceled if there is cloud cover. Updates will be posted at 6:30 p.m. the night of the event.

Staring into space – Grand Rapids Magazine (grmag.com)

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Apple

Apple will be coming out with Live Captions for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. This feature will be used for any audio content, such as audio-based text messages, FaceTime calls, streaming video, or in-person conversation. Transcriptions take place locally on the device, without transmitting information to iCloud or any other service, so conversation is private and secure. This feature will be rolled out later this year in software updates.

Last year, Apple launched SignTime on Global Accessibility Awareness Day. SignTime links customers with on-demand sign language interpreters directly from their web browsers. Customers can communicate with AppleCare and Retail Customer Care by using American Sign Language in the US, British Sign Language in the UK, or French Sign Language in France. This year for GAAD, SignTime is launching in Canada, with plans to expand to additional countries.

Apple is honoring GAAD all week. The Accessibility Assistant shortcut is coming to the Shortcuts app on Mac and Apple Watch later in the week to help recommend accessibility features based on user preferences. In addition, Apple Store locations around the world are offering live sessions to help customers discover accessibility features on iPhone, and Apple Support social channels are showcasing how-to content.

To learn more about additional features Apple is launching for Global Accessibility Awareness Day, click here.

Google

Google has an app called Live Transcribe that provides real time captions for the Android operating system. The app takes speech and captions it live using just the phone microphone. It is available in over 80 languages and dialects. Recently, they’ve launched Offline Mode, meaning you can use the app to transcribe even if you’re not connected to the internet. This feature is available in English, Japanese, German, French, Italian, and Spanish.

To learn more about Live Transcribe, click here.

Google’s Sound Notifications feature notifies you when there are important sounds around you (e.g. a doorbell ringing, a baby crying, fire/smoke alarms, etc.) through haptics, flashing lights, and phone notifications. They’ve come out with an update that allows you to customize personal sounds in your house like the microwave beeping versus the dishwasher beeping.

For Global Accessibility Day in 2020, Google Maps came out with a feature called Accessible Places, designed to more prominently display accessibility information about a location or business. For individuals with hearing loss, they can easily see if a venue has a hearing loop installed. This can be the deciding factor in whether or not a person goes to a restaurant, movie theater, store, etc.

To learn more about this feature, click here.

One billion people worldwide have disabilities. Making your website and online resources easily accessible is so important and directly benefits you as well. It expands your potential audience exponentially since more users are able to use your site. It’s as simple as providing captions on videos, using organized headings, choosing colors mindfully, and overall, when creating content, always keeping accessibility in mind.

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Statistics:

According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, more than 37 million individuals aged 18 and over report some trouble hearing. About 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids. Of the 26.7 million people over age 50 with a hearing impairment, only one in seven (14%), use a hearing aid. Experts say that overall, people struggle with hearing loss for an average of 10 years before seeking treatment. Whether it be due to the stigma around it, the cost, or oftentimes denial, there are many factors that play into why people avoid getting their ears checked; however, more and more studies are showing the consequences associated with untreated hearing loss.  The bottom line is, “If you are postponing treatment or refusing to acknowledge your hearing loss altogether, you are placing both your physical and mental health at risk,” (Soundrelief.com).

Consequences:

Refusing to get your hearing checked out can lead to isolation due to avoidance or withdrawal from social situations. As hearing loss gets worse and worse, the temptation to stay home with the TV turned all the way up sounds much more enticing than socializing in a room full of people and not being able to follow along in conversation. Pretty soon, tasks that you once enjoyed such as attending plays, going out to eat, and large gatherings become daunting and frustrating.

Trouble hearing or understanding isn’t the only result of untreated hearing loss. Since the ear plays a role in balance, mild hearing loss can triple the risk of falling. Some studies have even linked mild hearing loss to a doubling of dementia risk, and moderate hearing loss can triple it.

Take action:

Since the majority of hearing loss is gradual over time, it might not be immediately noticeable. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some signs that you might have some degree of hearing loss:

• Muffling of speech and other sounds
• Difficulty understanding words, especially against background noise or in a crowd
• Trouble hearing consonants
• Frequently asking others to speak more slowly, clearly, or loudly
• Needing to turn up the volume of the TV or radio
• Withdrawal from conversations
• Avoidance of some social settings

If you suspect you might be struggling with hearing loss, the sooner you take action, the better. Having your ears regularly tested is the most effective way to be proactive in your hearing health. The stigma around hearing loss has caused people to be embarrassed of needing hearing aids as the devices have become associated with looking older, weaker, and less capable. The more people avoid using hearing aids, the more the stigma is perpetuated. Research has shown that wearing hearing aids reduce loneliness, delay dementia, lower the risk of falls, reduce the impact of anxiety and depression, and overall improve quality of life (Healthyhearing.com).

This new year, protect your ears, get your hearing tested, and advocate for your own hearing health and the hearing health of others. Here’s to a happy and healthy 2022!

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The outcome of this project is to make rail travel accessible to all. To accomplish this, these trains will include accessible restrooms and vestibules, an accessible Food Service car, and lifts for customers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users. The trains will also be equipped with inductive hearing loops for those with hearing loss.

Amtrak recognizes that the ability to hear clearly is not only important, but it’s a necessity while traveling.

In response to the Covid-19 Pandemic, Amtrak will provide touchless restroom controls and automated steps. For a quality traveling experience, the trains will offer enhanced lighting and panoramic windows, larger vestibules, and a more contemporary food service experience with self-service options. And for an enjoyable ride, the trains will be equipped with comfortable seating, individual power outlets, USB ports and even onboard Wi-Fi.

The list is endless when it comes to the accommodations that the new trains will offer. They have all their boxes checked, from comfort to safety, and most importantly, accessibility. It’s great to see Amtrak get “in the loop”.

To learn more about the project, visit the article below:

Amtrak to Transform Rail Travel with $7.3 Billion Investment in State-of-the-Art Equipment

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In this past year, however, the concerns about maintaining good hygiene and its effect on the health of individuals have been highlighted by the coronavirus crisis. There is a greater awareness of space and sanitation considerations, meaning there is a shift towards environments that place the safety of staff and customers first.

People want to be protected, so partitions have begun reappearing at service counters and points of contact in every walk of life.

Is communication easy for your customers?

Screened barriers may provide security, but they can be a barrier to clear communication. Muffled voices make transactions frustrating for everyone involved.

Companies need to ensure that speech issues are being carefully considered, as communication through safety screens in banks, post offices, and other customer-facing organizations will not be easy for customers or staff without speech transfer systems to aid it.

Speech transfer systems ensure that customers and staff can converse freely and flawlessly.

Speech can be transferred effectively through obstacles using open duplex technology, which negates the use of ‘push to talk’ or voice switched operation. These speech transfer systems provide high quality, handsfree conversations to take place between staff and customers, providing the best communication experience possible.

Benefits

Contacta speech transfer systems allow hassle-free installation, and once installed, they enable staff to go about their duties with no disruptions.

• Provide crystal clear communication through screens and barriers
• Always on, meaning no button presses required to start communication
• Robust, long-lasting, and easy to clean
• A huge range of design options, available to meet every need
• All systems include an integrated hearing loop
• Unique optional features: headset connection output via a Break Out Box, LED Call alert function and call recording output

Accessibility

Inclusivity and accessibility are also key to engaging customers.

A hearing loop is therefore included with every Contacta speech transfer system, meaning customers with hearing loss who wear compatible hearing instruments (hearing aids, neck loops, etc.) will receive audio transmitted directly to their device.

Our speech transfer systems can be customized for a wide variety of applications and environments.

Get in touch today to allow free and flawless conversations during transactions.

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There is a growing awareness in the United States of the needs of air passengers with hearing loss. It has taken time for so-called ‘hidden disabilities’ to be included in accessibility strategies, which previously have focused heavily on those who have a physical disability or use a wheelchair.

Well-known travelers, such as the BBC’s Frank Gardiner or Paralympic athlete Hannah Cockcroft, make the news when they are left sitting on board an airplane or struggle to access the terminal’s toilets.

But the headlines rarely feature, if ever, a person who’s missed their flight or ended up in the wrong destination because they couldn’t hear the announcements.

Hearing loops have been in UK airports for many years. Maintenance of those hearing loops, their performance, signage and staff awareness have all come into much sharper focus in recent years because of the Civil Aviation guidelines for passengers with hidden disabilities.

While systems have also been installed in airports in central Europe, Far East, and Australia, it’s been a different story in the United States. As Stephen Frazier writes in this month’s Sound and Communications magazine, airports here have been slow to address the communication needs of passengers with hearing loss. But that is now changing, and it’s good to see that Contacta’s technology is a key part of that.

Both Greater Rochester International Airport in New York and Phoenix Sky Harbor international airport in Arizona have installed our HLD9 hearing loop drivers.

They power newly-installed hearing loops in key areas across the airport where it is imperative for passengers to hear the audio announcements.

At Greater Rochester Airport, 23 of the drivers help passengers to hear at the departure gates and two of the concourses.

The systems are connected to the airport’s PA system at Phoenix Sky Harbor and are arranged in a phased array configuration. This confines each gate’s loop signal within its borders and prevents overspill and the confusion that could arise from announcements being overheard.

Mr. Frazier estimates that of the 2.5 million passengers that travel through Greater Rochester alone, a fifth of them have a measurable hearing loss. The beauty of hearing loops is that they are universal and developed to international standards, so travelers from anywhere in the world with a telecoil in their hearing device can make use of them.

As Mr. Frazier points out, this isn’t the whole story, and support from staff, text services and other developing technologies will have a role to play in encouraging hearing-impaired passengers to take flight.

But we are delighted to know that Contacta has an essential role to play and that our state of the art products are giving people the freedom and confidence to travel. Let’s hope airports throughout the United States continue to take up loop technology.

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