266 Appendix
Modifications
The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or modifications
made to the device that are not expressly approved by HTC Corporation may
void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
FCC Hearing-Aid Compatibility (HAC) Regulations for Wireless Devices
On July 10, 2003, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Report
and Order in WT Docket 01-309 modified the exception of wireless phones
under the Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988 (HAC Act) to require digital
wireless phones be compatible with hearing-aids. The intent of the HAC Act is
to ensure reasonable access to telecommunications services for persons with
hearing disabilities.
While some wireless phones are used near some hearing devices (hearing aids
and cochlear implants), users may detect a buzzing, humming, or whining noise.
Some hearing devices are more immune than others to this interference noise,
and phones also vary in the amount of interference they generate.
The wireless telephone industry has developed a rating system for wireless
phones, to assist hearing device users find phones that may be compatible with
their hearing devices. Not all phones have been rated. Phones that are rated
have the rating on their box or a label located on the box.
The ratings are not guarantees. Results will vary depending on the user’s hearing
device and hearing loss. If your hearing device happens to be vulnerable to
interference, you may not be able to use a rated phone successfully. Trying
out the phone with your hearing device is the best way to evaluate it for your
personal needs.
M-Ratings: Phones rated M3 or M4 meet FCC requirements and are likely to
generate less interference to hearing devices than phones that are not labeled.
M4 is the better/higher of the two ratings. RHOD300 is rated M3.
Hearing devices may also be rated. Your hearing device manufacturer or hearing
health professional may help you find this rating. Higher ratings mean that the
hearing device is relatively immune to interference noise. The hearing aid and
wireless phone rating values are then added together.