Development of a Microprocessor Based Audiometer for Threshold Shift Studies

Abstract : In order to permit the collection of data on hearing threshold shift resulting from firing Army weapons, a multichannel microprocessor-controlled audiometer was developed. The system features four synchronized channels for determining hearing thresholds by a fixed frequency, fix test-time Von Bekesy tracking method. Nonstandard, noise excluding headsets were developed as part of the system. Biological calibration of the system was accomplished by comparison to a clinical audiometer and a validation test was completed to demonstrate system accuracy and reliability. The results indicate the system is as accurate as, and more reliable than, the clinical audiometer. (Author)