home stereo: ICast wireless connects iPod to home stereo
Soundcast Systems (http://www.soundcastsystems.com) on Monday introduced iCast, a US$299 wireless interface for the iPod that helps it to interface with a home stereo system. Soundcast Systems (http://www.soundcastsystems.com) on Monday introduced iCast, a US$299 wireless interface for the iPod that helps it to interface with a home stereo system.
The price of the iCast includes both a transmitter and receiver -- the receiver plugs into the home entertainment or stereo system, while the transmitter provides a dock connector for the iPod (multiple inserts are included to accommodate different iPod models). The transmitter and receiver connect without requiring any programming or setup.
The iCast transmitter charges the iPod's battery when it's placed in the dock, and tracking and menu controls continue to operate while the iPod is in the dock. The iCast receiver -- made in black to match most home stereo gear -- also duplicates several iPod functions, so it can operate as a remote control if the stereo is located in another room from the iPod.
The iCast uses the 2.4GHz frequency range to communicate between transmitter and receiver. It employs Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology to search for open bands, to prevent the iCast from being disrupted by interference with microwave ovens, cordless phones and other devices that work in the same frequency range. Soundcast said the iCast base can work up to 150 feet through multiple rooms indoors.
Soundcast also plans to offer separate iCast receivers if you want to connect your iPod to different stereos in your home -- the receivers alone cost $129. Expect to see the iCast hit retail stores in April.
Jetzt testen!
The price of the iCast includes both a transmitter and receiver -- the receiver plugs into the home entertainment or stereo system, while the transmitter provides a dock connector for the iPod (multiple inserts are included to accommodate different iPod models). The transmitter and receiver connect without requiring any programming or setup.
The iCast transmitter charges the iPod's battery when it's placed in the dock, and tracking and menu controls continue to operate while the iPod is in the dock. The iCast receiver -- made in black to match most home stereo gear -- also duplicates several iPod functions, so it can operate as a remote control if the stereo is located in another room from the iPod.
The iCast uses the 2.4GHz frequency range to communicate between transmitter and receiver. It employs Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) technology to search for open bands, to prevent the iCast from being disrupted by interference with microwave ovens, cordless phones and other devices that work in the same frequency range. Soundcast said the iCast base can work up to 150 feet through multiple rooms indoors.
Soundcast also plans to offer separate iCast receivers if you want to connect your iPod to different stereos in your home -- the receivers alone cost $129. Expect to see the iCast hit retail stores in April.
Jetzt testen!
home stereo: Friendtech iDea Wireless Home Dock and Wireless Hi-Fi Headset Hands On
This iDea Wireless Home dock is pretty much an iPod dock that can support PSPs, any MP3 player and mobile phones (using the cellphone adapter).
The iPod portion of the dock works just like a standard iPod dock&mdash you plug in your iPod, plug the dock AC adapter into the wall and USB 2.0 cable into your computer and blammo, just like the official universal dock. The neat part comes when you use the RCA and S-Video cables to connect this to your TV.
By doing so, you can watch your iPod Video's movies on your regular TV screen—yes, this dock comes with both cables. You can listen to your tunes on your home stereo system, which is honestly going to sound much better than any standard dock's speakers. Navigation from the couch is fairly easy using the wireless remote. All the functions are there: scroll right, scroll left, menu, ok, play/pause, and volume adjustment. The only problem we had was actually seeing the iPod's screen from the couch. It would have been much better if they could replicate its UI on the TV instead of having to squint at the iPod to find the next video or song to play.
This dock also works with a PSP, but unfortunately we didn't have a PSP to test it with, so we can't tell you how well it works. The audio jack and power port fits directly into where the PSP's ports are so it can charge and play simultaneously.
You can also plug in a standard MP3 player (read: Non iPod) into the audio jack to pipe the music over your TV or Stereo. Just don't expect any video usage out of it like an iPod Video. Cellphones like the Sony Walkman series also work fine with this too. All three device types give pretty great sounding audio without any kind of distortion from passing through the dock.
The other fun item is the Wireless Hi-Fi headset. This thing was super easy to use. All you had to do was put in the included AA batteries, click the "RF Power" button on the wireless remote for the dock, turn on the headset and instant audio. The dock uses 2.4 GHz to broadcast audio for the internal wireless version (the one shown), and 900 MHz for the external wireless one. That means you'll have to cycle through the available channels to find one that doesn't get interference from your WiFi. The range was pretty good, and we could hear music all the way from the living room into the john.
All in all, the headset's sound quality was nice, if a little lacking in power. The construction feels a little plasticky, but solid enough so it could fit around my giant noggin.
So, if you're looking for something to hook up your iPod/Cellphone/MP3 player to your home stereo or TV, this is it. Lots of functionality with little to no problems with the execution. – Jason Chen
The iPod portion of the dock works just like a standard iPod dock&mdash you plug in your iPod, plug the dock AC adapter into the wall and USB 2.0 cable into your computer and blammo, just like the official universal dock. The neat part comes when you use the RCA and S-Video cables to connect this to your TV.
By doing so, you can watch your iPod Video's movies on your regular TV screen—yes, this dock comes with both cables. You can listen to your tunes on your home stereo system, which is honestly going to sound much better than any standard dock's speakers. Navigation from the couch is fairly easy using the wireless remote. All the functions are there: scroll right, scroll left, menu, ok, play/pause, and volume adjustment. The only problem we had was actually seeing the iPod's screen from the couch. It would have been much better if they could replicate its UI on the TV instead of having to squint at the iPod to find the next video or song to play.
This dock also works with a PSP, but unfortunately we didn't have a PSP to test it with, so we can't tell you how well it works. The audio jack and power port fits directly into where the PSP's ports are so it can charge and play simultaneously.
You can also plug in a standard MP3 player (read: Non iPod) into the audio jack to pipe the music over your TV or Stereo. Just don't expect any video usage out of it like an iPod Video. Cellphones like the Sony Walkman series also work fine with this too. All three device types give pretty great sounding audio without any kind of distortion from passing through the dock.
The other fun item is the Wireless Hi-Fi headset. This thing was super easy to use. All you had to do was put in the included AA batteries, click the "RF Power" button on the wireless remote for the dock, turn on the headset and instant audio. The dock uses 2.4 GHz to broadcast audio for the internal wireless version (the one shown), and 900 MHz for the external wireless one. That means you'll have to cycle through the available channels to find one that doesn't get interference from your WiFi. The range was pretty good, and we could hear music all the way from the living room into the john.
All in all, the headset's sound quality was nice, if a little lacking in power. The construction feels a little plasticky, but solid enough so it could fit around my giant noggin.
So, if you're looking for something to hook up your iPod/Cellphone/MP3 player to your home stereo or TV, this is it. Lots of functionality with little to no problems with the execution. – Jason Chen
home stereo: Friendtech iDea Wireless Home Dock and Wireless Hi-Fi Headset Hands On
This iDea Wireless Home dock is pretty much an iPod dock that can support PSPs, any MP3 player and mobile phones (using the cellphone adapter).
The iPod portion of the dock works just like a standard iPod dock&mdash you plug in your iPod, plug the dock AC adapter into the wall and USB 2.0 cable into your computer and blammo, just like the official universal dock. The neat part comes when you use the RCA and S-Video cables to connect this to your TV.
By doing so, you can watch your iPod Video's movies on your regular TV screen—yes, this dock comes with both cables. You can listen to your tunes on your home stereo system, which is honestly going to sound much better than any standard dock's speakers. Navigation from the couch is fairly easy using the wireless remote. All the functions are there: scroll right, scroll left, menu, ok, play/pause, and volume adjustment. The only problem we had was actually seeing the iPod's screen from the couch. It would have been much better if they could replicate its UI on the TV instead of having to squint at the iPod to find the next video or song to play.
This dock also works with a PSP, but unfortunately we didn't have a PSP to test it with, so we can't tell you how well it works. The audio jack and power port fits directly into where the PSP's ports are so it can charge and play simultaneously.
You can also plug in a standard MP3 player (read: Non iPod) into the audio jack to pipe the music over your TV or Stereo. Just don't expect any video usage out of it like an iPod Video. Cellphones like the Sony Walkman series also work fine with this too. All three device types give pretty great sounding audio without any kind of distortion from passing through the dock.
The other fun item is the Wireless Hi-Fi headset. This thing was super easy to use. All you had to do was put in the included AA batteries, click the "RF Power" button on the wireless remote for the dock, turn on the headset and instant audio. The dock uses 2.4 GHz to broadcast audio for the internal wireless version (the one shown), and 900 MHz for the external wireless one. That means you'll have to cycle through the available channels to find one that doesn't get interference from your WiFi. The range was pretty good, and we could hear music all the way from the living room into the john.
All in all, the headset's sound quality was nice, if a little lacking in power. The construction feels a little plasticky, but solid enough so it could fit around my giant noggin.
So, if you're looking for something to hook up your iPod/Cellphone/MP3 player to your home stereo or TV, this is it. Lots of functionality with little to no problems with the execution. – Jason Chen
The iPod portion of the dock works just like a standard iPod dock&mdash you plug in your iPod, plug the dock AC adapter into the wall and USB 2.0 cable into your computer and blammo, just like the official universal dock. The neat part comes when you use the RCA and S-Video cables to connect this to your TV.
By doing so, you can watch your iPod Video's movies on your regular TV screen—yes, this dock comes with both cables. You can listen to your tunes on your home stereo system, which is honestly going to sound much better than any standard dock's speakers. Navigation from the couch is fairly easy using the wireless remote. All the functions are there: scroll right, scroll left, menu, ok, play/pause, and volume adjustment. The only problem we had was actually seeing the iPod's screen from the couch. It would have been much better if they could replicate its UI on the TV instead of having to squint at the iPod to find the next video or song to play.
This dock also works with a PSP, but unfortunately we didn't have a PSP to test it with, so we can't tell you how well it works. The audio jack and power port fits directly into where the PSP's ports are so it can charge and play simultaneously.
You can also plug in a standard MP3 player (read: Non iPod) into the audio jack to pipe the music over your TV or Stereo. Just don't expect any video usage out of it like an iPod Video. Cellphones like the Sony Walkman series also work fine with this too. All three device types give pretty great sounding audio without any kind of distortion from passing through the dock.
The other fun item is the Wireless Hi-Fi headset. This thing was super easy to use. All you had to do was put in the included AA batteries, click the "RF Power" button on the wireless remote for the dock, turn on the headset and instant audio. The dock uses 2.4 GHz to broadcast audio for the internal wireless version (the one shown), and 900 MHz for the external wireless one. That means you'll have to cycle through the available channels to find one that doesn't get interference from your WiFi. The range was pretty good, and we could hear music all the way from the living room into the john.
All in all, the headset's sound quality was nice, if a little lacking in power. The construction feels a little plasticky, but solid enough so it could fit around my giant noggin.
So, if you're looking for something to hook up your iPod/Cellphone/MP3 player to your home stereo or TV, this is it. Lots of functionality with little to no problems with the execution. – Jason Chen
home stereo: iPod’s tower of power!
[2006-07-21]
Apple fans regularly put the iPod on a pedestal – but now there’s a speaker dock that does the same!
Literally towering above the competition, Intempo’s new iPod dock wants to replace your home stereo – and its swish styling might just swing it a place in our living room!
Dubbed the iFi-01 the dock’s got two 15 watt speakers, which rotate for proper stereo separation, plus a 30 watt subwoofer to give your tunes some grunt.
There’s a remote control too, which will shuffle forward and back through the iPod’s selected playlist, not just change the volume up and down.
It’d be nice to have seen a DAB radio too – after all, that’s what Intempo’s famous for, but it’s a solid speaker system all the same, made from sturdy aluminium to really challenge your home Hi-Fi.
Apple fans regularly put the iPod on a pedestal – but now there’s a speaker dock that does the same!
Literally towering above the competition, Intempo’s new iPod dock wants to replace your home stereo – and its swish styling might just swing it a place in our living room!
Dubbed the iFi-01 the dock’s got two 15 watt speakers, which rotate for proper stereo separation, plus a 30 watt subwoofer to give your tunes some grunt.
There’s a remote control too, which will shuffle forward and back through the iPod’s selected playlist, not just change the volume up and down.
It’d be nice to have seen a DAB radio too – after all, that’s what Intempo’s famous for, but it’s a solid speaker system all the same, made from sturdy aluminium to really challenge your home Hi-Fi.
home stereo: Shure ships E500PTH sound-isolating earphones
Posted by Dennis Sellers Jul 17, 2006 at 2:43am
Shure has released the E500PTH Sound Isolating Earphones, which utilize three miniature speakers—one tweeter and two woofers—in an in-ear package.
The E500PTH ships with the PTH control, which lets listeners alternate between “complete immersion in their music” or audio activity and a connection with outside ambient sounds, according to the folks at Shure. The sound isolating earphones block 30-37dB of outside noise with a good seal, the company adds. The E500PTH comes with soft, flexible sleeves that contour to the inside of the ear.
With eight pair of sleeve options for a personalized fit, the E500 also offers two modular cables, a 1/4-inch to 1/8-inch adapter for home stereo listening, a volume attenuator for airplane use, and a zippered carrying case. Priced at US$499, the E500PTH carries a two-year limited warranty.
Shure’s PTH accessory will also be sold separately for $59 and is compatible with Shure’s E500 or any other standard earphone.
Shure has released the E500PTH Sound Isolating Earphones, which utilize three miniature speakers—one tweeter and two woofers—in an in-ear package.
The E500PTH ships with the PTH control, which lets listeners alternate between “complete immersion in their music” or audio activity and a connection with outside ambient sounds, according to the folks at Shure. The sound isolating earphones block 30-37dB of outside noise with a good seal, the company adds. The E500PTH comes with soft, flexible sleeves that contour to the inside of the ear.
With eight pair of sleeve options for a personalized fit, the E500 also offers two modular cables, a 1/4-inch to 1/8-inch adapter for home stereo listening, a volume attenuator for airplane use, and a zippered carrying case. Priced at US$499, the E500PTH carries a two-year limited warranty.
Shure’s PTH accessory will also be sold separately for $59 and is compatible with Shure’s E500 or any other standard earphone.
home stereo: Curbed Enthusiasm for Apple Nowhere to be Seen
Thomas Catino
07/10/2006 11:00 AM EST
Last Saturday, the new Apple Store in Stamford, CT opened in the Stamford Town Center amid great fanfare. Hundreds of people lined up outside the store well before its 10 a.m. opening to get the first taste of the “Apple experience.” Security guards were in sight to make sure Apple enthusiasts kept their emotions in check and did not get out of control. Even before its openin, Apple employees held a pep rally inside the store before running outside the store to give high-fives to customer in line.
Though the store offered t-shirt giveaways to the first 1,000 visitors, as well as a Grand Opening Sweepstakes giveaway valued at $2,229 (includes an iMac, iPod nano, printer, camera and camcorder), most came out of curiosity to see the much-anticipated Apple store and test out its wide range of products. Apple literature puts it best when saying that “the hands-on Apple Store experience provides visitors with a chance to test-drive Apple's entire product line including the iPod Hi-Fi, an all-new high-fidelity speaker system that works seamlessly with the iPod to redefine the home stereo system, the fifth generation iPod with its gorgeous 2.5-inch color screen that can display album artwork, photos and video, as well as the iPod nano, the revolutionary full-featured iPod that holds 1,000 songs yet is thinner than a standard #2 pencil.”
Additionally, to entice consumers, the store has a weekly schedule of workshops and other events. However, judging by the crowd of people that flocked to the newest Apple store, the products alone are enough to appeal to consumers and build brand loyalty for Apple that has never been higher. Yet, with all the excitement and buzz created by the launch of new Apple retail stores, Apple Computer (Nasdaq: AAPL) shares have been treading water.
According to a Bloomberg News report, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is preparing to roll out a competitor to the market-leading iPod that could reach shelves by the end of the year, building on its Windows Media Player. Even though it is destined to have a difficult time competing with Apple, since the iPod holds about 75% of the U.S. market for digital media players, analysts are concerned that innovation within the digital media player market could jeopardize Apple's top spot. However, within the next few months, Apple is expected to redesign the iPod and make some product enhancements and features, such as designing an iPod cellphone or creating a new video iPod. One last concern that plagues Apple is the recent drop in flash memory prices. Baird analyst Tristan Gerra said that prices of NAND flash memory could forecast that Apple's upcoming 6 Gigabyte and 8 Gigabyte nano iPods may be delayed.
Despite being hit with some bumps in the road, these minor roadblocks are not something to fret over. Apple shares have already been discounted from its 52-week high of $86.40 and at the current beaten down price of $55.55 and with a relatively low price to earnings ratio, are a great value considering the momentum and future mileage of the Apple iPod.
07/10/2006 11:00 AM EST
Last Saturday, the new Apple Store in Stamford, CT opened in the Stamford Town Center amid great fanfare. Hundreds of people lined up outside the store well before its 10 a.m. opening to get the first taste of the “Apple experience.” Security guards were in sight to make sure Apple enthusiasts kept their emotions in check and did not get out of control. Even before its openin, Apple employees held a pep rally inside the store before running outside the store to give high-fives to customer in line.
Though the store offered t-shirt giveaways to the first 1,000 visitors, as well as a Grand Opening Sweepstakes giveaway valued at $2,229 (includes an iMac, iPod nano, printer, camera and camcorder), most came out of curiosity to see the much-anticipated Apple store and test out its wide range of products. Apple literature puts it best when saying that “the hands-on Apple Store experience provides visitors with a chance to test-drive Apple's entire product line including the iPod Hi-Fi, an all-new high-fidelity speaker system that works seamlessly with the iPod to redefine the home stereo system, the fifth generation iPod with its gorgeous 2.5-inch color screen that can display album artwork, photos and video, as well as the iPod nano, the revolutionary full-featured iPod that holds 1,000 songs yet is thinner than a standard #2 pencil.”
Additionally, to entice consumers, the store has a weekly schedule of workshops and other events. However, judging by the crowd of people that flocked to the newest Apple store, the products alone are enough to appeal to consumers and build brand loyalty for Apple that has never been higher. Yet, with all the excitement and buzz created by the launch of new Apple retail stores, Apple Computer (Nasdaq: AAPL) shares have been treading water.
According to a Bloomberg News report, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is preparing to roll out a competitor to the market-leading iPod that could reach shelves by the end of the year, building on its Windows Media Player. Even though it is destined to have a difficult time competing with Apple, since the iPod holds about 75% of the U.S. market for digital media players, analysts are concerned that innovation within the digital media player market could jeopardize Apple's top spot. However, within the next few months, Apple is expected to redesign the iPod and make some product enhancements and features, such as designing an iPod cellphone or creating a new video iPod. One last concern that plagues Apple is the recent drop in flash memory prices. Baird analyst Tristan Gerra said that prices of NAND flash memory could forecast that Apple's upcoming 6 Gigabyte and 8 Gigabyte nano iPods may be delayed.
Despite being hit with some bumps in the road, these minor roadblocks are not something to fret over. Apple shares have already been discounted from its 52-week high of $86.40 and at the current beaten down price of $55.55 and with a relatively low price to earnings ratio, are a great value considering the momentum and future mileage of the Apple iPod.
home stereo: HT820 Bluetooth Stereo Headphones & DC800
Music lovers will discover the freedom of listening to music without the hassle of cables or wires. The Bluetooth stereo headset allows you to listen to music from your mobile phone and the DC800 gateway makes it possible to access many different music sources – home stereo, Playstation or iPod and to control music volume and tracking remotely. All of this without missing a call, whether at home or on the go! Top class battery offers up to 14 hours of music, 17 hours talk time and 500 hours standby, with a 3.5mm cable for airplane use. Price at time of press is from RRP €99.90.
Technorati Tags: IrishDev.com - News
Technorati Tags: IrishDev.com - News
home stereo: Are You Protecting Your Childs Hearing Properly?
5.2 million 6-19 year old have hearing loss directly related to noise exposure. Don't let your child be part of this unfortunate group. PEACE & QUIET Offer your child peace and quiet, says the Noise Center. Noise poses a serious threat to children's hearing, health, learning and behavior. (And I can't think of an adult who functions well in a noisy environment either.) "Peace" and "quiet" usually go together because without "quiet" there can be no "peace" ...
by Susan Dunn
5.2 million 6-19 year old have hearing loss directly related to noise exposure*. Don't let your child be part of this unfortunate group.
PEACE & QUIET
"Offer your child peace and quiet," says the Noise Center. "Noise poses a serious threat to children's hearing, health, learning and behavior." (And I can't think of an adult who functions well in a noisy environment either.) "Peace" and "quiet" usually go together because without "quiet" there can be no "peace."
Aside from turning down the TV and stereo, lowering your voice, and providing the opportunity for quiet time in both their work and leisure, take a look at the toys you allow your children to play with.
Fortunately my children didn't suffer hearing loss from the obnoxiously loud toys they played with, but I must admit I told them to quit for my sake, not theirs, and I was always standing a good bit father away from their toy than they were. One father I know immediately disarms any noise-making function on a toy his child receives, and this may not be a bad idea.
And because they're young doesn't work in this case. You might assume, for instance, that your teenager can take that 85 decibels (dB) music because he's a teenager, but that isn't the case. Children's ear canals are shorter than adults, and therefore more vulnerable to damage in this way.
A study conducted by the Henry Ford Health System found that many current toys, including tape recorders, bike horns, cap guns, and toy telephones, are not safe for your child's hearing. Of the 25 they tested, more than half of them made sounds higher than 115 dBs.
According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, at 110 dB, the maximum undamaging exposure time is one minute and 29 seconds.
NOTE: In researching this article I found a variety of decibels, as well as length of exposure before damage and also read studies saying that individuals varied in their tolerance for noises. The data is not consistent, but will give you a range. Should you be wondering what protection to take when, ask your personal healthcare professional for medical advice.
PERMANENT INSTANT DAMAGE
The ear is more unforgiving than you may know. A loud enough noise can cause instant, permanent damage, some noises can cause damage if heard long enough, and there is also cumulative effect over time. Prevention is crucial because noise-induced hearing loss can't be corrected, and hearing aids don't do much good.
Sound is vibration and has three properties: intensity, frequency and duration. "Intensity" is what is measured in decibels (dBs). A measure called dBA indicates damage to hearing. The higher the dBA number, the greater the risk of damage to hearing. This is because intensity translates to pressure on the eardrum.
What sound has what dBs? There is a long list of dBs (which they equate with dBAs) on the League for the Hard of Hearing website ( http://www.lhh.org/noise/decibel.htm ), including various recreational and work situations. A noisy squeeze toy rates an alarming 135dB from them.
"Noise levels above 85 dB will harm hearing over time," they caution, and "noise levels above 140dB can cause damage to hearing after just one exposure." 140dB is also the pain threshold; most of us hearing a sound at this level will feel it as well. All values are approximate.
According to www.dangerousdecibels.org , harm can occur with 103 dBs after 7.5 minutes, 106 dBs after less than 4 minutes, 109 dBs after less than 2 minutes, and 115 dBs after around 30 seconds.
Here is a list of sounds and the decibels to give you an idea:
·0 The softest sound a person can hear with normal hearing aka "hearing threshold"
·10 normal breathing
·20 whispering at 5 feet, broadcasting studio, rustling leaves
·30 soft whisper, library
·50 rainfall, light traffic, average home
·60 normal conversation, air conditioning unit
·80 alarm clock
·85 noisy restaurant
·90 city traffic
·110-120 rock concert, speedboat, headphones on maximum
·110 shouting in ear, baby crying, many power tools
·120 thunder, jet takeoff at 200'
·130-140 firecracker, gunshot, powerful car speakers
·180 rocket launching
According to the Noise Center, musical toys measure over 110 decibels, comparable to many power tools.
TEENS
With your teenagers, pay special attention. So many of the things they love are not advisable:
Clubs and discos, 91 - 96 dBA +
Dance floor, 85 - 100 dBA
At the bar, 90 dBA or more
Personal stereo systems. 60 - 114 dBA
Rock concerts, 100 dBA or more average
Car stereos, up to 154 dBA in the car!!
Home stereo, 80 - 115 dBA
If you take your kids hunting or to the shooting range, take the hearing protectors along. Firearms are all high and a single exposure can cause permanent hearing loss. Examples, 12-guage shotgun, 150-165 dB, shotgun, 163-172 dB, rifle, 143-170 dB. Most firearms start at 100 dB and can go as high as 190 Db.
You may also assign your older child or teenage chores involving power tools which require supervision for safety, including hearing safety.
Also note than a firecracker can cause immediate damage.
RECREATION
Two other things children and teens like should be monitored. Noise levels at video arcades can exceed 100 decibels (similar to factory machinery), and computer games and stereo systems can go as high as 135 dB (the level of a jackhammer), with car stereos reaching up to 154 dB, and an action movie is generally beyond 90 dB.
No one knows exactly what level damages a child's ears, but the Noise Center's Rule of Thumb is: IF YOU HAVE TO SHOUT TO BE HEARD THREE FEET AWAY, THE NOISE IS TOO LOUD AND IS DAMAGING TO YOUR HEARING.
Don't let your child become a statistic. According to Dangerous Decibels, approximately 30 million Americans have hearing loss, and 50 million have tinnitus, an early indicator. According to a study done by Montgomery and Fujukawa in 1992, "Over the last 10 years, the percentage of 2nd graders with hearing loss has increased 2.8 times; hearing loss in 8th graders has increased over 4 times."
Check with your child's pediatrician for specific information. This is not medical advice.
*According to the 3rd National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey [Niskar, 2000]. Reported on DangerousDecibels.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
1.Educate yourself about noise levels
2.Provide your child with peace and quiet
3.Make it clear you value peace and quiet
4.Counteract that "loud is cool"
5.Ask your local theater to lower decibel levels
6.Provide ear protection
7.Model good hearing protection
8.Include instruction the same way you do when you tell them brushing their teeth twice a day prevents tooth decay
9.Turn down the volume of everything at home and tell your child why you're doing it
About the Author
©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc . I offer coaching, distance learning courses, and ebooks around emotional intelligence. Free ezine, Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc. Daily tips, send blank email to EQ4U-subscribe@yahoogroups.com . I train and certify EQ coaches. Get in this field, dubbed "white hot" by the press, now, before it's crowded, and offer your clients something of real value.
Copyright Susan Dunn - http://www.susandunn.cc
by Susan Dunn
5.2 million 6-19 year old have hearing loss directly related to noise exposure*. Don't let your child be part of this unfortunate group.
PEACE & QUIET
"Offer your child peace and quiet," says the Noise Center. "Noise poses a serious threat to children's hearing, health, learning and behavior." (And I can't think of an adult who functions well in a noisy environment either.) "Peace" and "quiet" usually go together because without "quiet" there can be no "peace."
Aside from turning down the TV and stereo, lowering your voice, and providing the opportunity for quiet time in both their work and leisure, take a look at the toys you allow your children to play with.
Fortunately my children didn't suffer hearing loss from the obnoxiously loud toys they played with, but I must admit I told them to quit for my sake, not theirs, and I was always standing a good bit father away from their toy than they were. One father I know immediately disarms any noise-making function on a toy his child receives, and this may not be a bad idea.
And because they're young doesn't work in this case. You might assume, for instance, that your teenager can take that 85 decibels (dB) music because he's a teenager, but that isn't the case. Children's ear canals are shorter than adults, and therefore more vulnerable to damage in this way.
A study conducted by the Henry Ford Health System found that many current toys, including tape recorders, bike horns, cap guns, and toy telephones, are not safe for your child's hearing. Of the 25 they tested, more than half of them made sounds higher than 115 dBs.
According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, at 110 dB, the maximum undamaging exposure time is one minute and 29 seconds.
NOTE: In researching this article I found a variety of decibels, as well as length of exposure before damage and also read studies saying that individuals varied in their tolerance for noises. The data is not consistent, but will give you a range. Should you be wondering what protection to take when, ask your personal healthcare professional for medical advice.
PERMANENT INSTANT DAMAGE
The ear is more unforgiving than you may know. A loud enough noise can cause instant, permanent damage, some noises can cause damage if heard long enough, and there is also cumulative effect over time. Prevention is crucial because noise-induced hearing loss can't be corrected, and hearing aids don't do much good.
Sound is vibration and has three properties: intensity, frequency and duration. "Intensity" is what is measured in decibels (dBs). A measure called dBA indicates damage to hearing. The higher the dBA number, the greater the risk of damage to hearing. This is because intensity translates to pressure on the eardrum.
What sound has what dBs? There is a long list of dBs (which they equate with dBAs) on the League for the Hard of Hearing website ( http://www.lhh.org/noise/decibel.htm ), including various recreational and work situations. A noisy squeeze toy rates an alarming 135dB from them.
"Noise levels above 85 dB will harm hearing over time," they caution, and "noise levels above 140dB can cause damage to hearing after just one exposure." 140dB is also the pain threshold; most of us hearing a sound at this level will feel it as well. All values are approximate.
According to www.dangerousdecibels.org , harm can occur with 103 dBs after 7.5 minutes, 106 dBs after less than 4 minutes, 109 dBs after less than 2 minutes, and 115 dBs after around 30 seconds.
Here is a list of sounds and the decibels to give you an idea:
·0 The softest sound a person can hear with normal hearing aka "hearing threshold"
·10 normal breathing
·20 whispering at 5 feet, broadcasting studio, rustling leaves
·30 soft whisper, library
·50 rainfall, light traffic, average home
·60 normal conversation, air conditioning unit
·80 alarm clock
·85 noisy restaurant
·90 city traffic
·110-120 rock concert, speedboat, headphones on maximum
·110 shouting in ear, baby crying, many power tools
·120 thunder, jet takeoff at 200'
·130-140 firecracker, gunshot, powerful car speakers
·180 rocket launching
According to the Noise Center, musical toys measure over 110 decibels, comparable to many power tools.
TEENS
With your teenagers, pay special attention. So many of the things they love are not advisable:
Clubs and discos, 91 - 96 dBA +
Dance floor, 85 - 100 dBA
At the bar, 90 dBA or more
Personal stereo systems. 60 - 114 dBA
Rock concerts, 100 dBA or more average
Car stereos, up to 154 dBA in the car!!
Home stereo, 80 - 115 dBA
If you take your kids hunting or to the shooting range, take the hearing protectors along. Firearms are all high and a single exposure can cause permanent hearing loss. Examples, 12-guage shotgun, 150-165 dB, shotgun, 163-172 dB, rifle, 143-170 dB. Most firearms start at 100 dB and can go as high as 190 Db.
You may also assign your older child or teenage chores involving power tools which require supervision for safety, including hearing safety.
Also note than a firecracker can cause immediate damage.
RECREATION
Two other things children and teens like should be monitored. Noise levels at video arcades can exceed 100 decibels (similar to factory machinery), and computer games and stereo systems can go as high as 135 dB (the level of a jackhammer), with car stereos reaching up to 154 dB, and an action movie is generally beyond 90 dB.
No one knows exactly what level damages a child's ears, but the Noise Center's Rule of Thumb is: IF YOU HAVE TO SHOUT TO BE HEARD THREE FEET AWAY, THE NOISE IS TOO LOUD AND IS DAMAGING TO YOUR HEARING.
Don't let your child become a statistic. According to Dangerous Decibels, approximately 30 million Americans have hearing loss, and 50 million have tinnitus, an early indicator. According to a study done by Montgomery and Fujukawa in 1992, "Over the last 10 years, the percentage of 2nd graders with hearing loss has increased 2.8 times; hearing loss in 8th graders has increased over 4 times."
Check with your child's pediatrician for specific information. This is not medical advice.
*According to the 3rd National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey [Niskar, 2000]. Reported on DangerousDecibels.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
1.Educate yourself about noise levels
2.Provide your child with peace and quiet
3.Make it clear you value peace and quiet
4.Counteract that "loud is cool"
5.Ask your local theater to lower decibel levels
6.Provide ear protection
7.Model good hearing protection
8.Include instruction the same way you do when you tell them brushing their teeth twice a day prevents tooth decay
9.Turn down the volume of everything at home and tell your child why you're doing it
About the Author
©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc . I offer coaching, distance learning courses, and ebooks around emotional intelligence. Free ezine, Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc. Daily tips, send blank email to EQ4U-subscribe@yahoogroups.com . I train and certify EQ coaches. Get in this field, dubbed "white hot" by the press, now, before it's crowded, and offer your clients something of real value.
Copyright Susan Dunn - http://www.susandunn.cc
home stereo: NEWS ACROSS THE METRO
Pump down the volume, Greenwood says
Turn that radio down!
Greenwood’s aldermen last week voted unanimously to enact a noise ordinance.
If a car radio, boom box, television, home stereo or whatever can be heard 100 feet away, then it’s too loud, according to city regulations. A police officer can write a ticket to a driver, homeowner or others controlling an electronic device.
Permits can be issued at City Hall for outside events that otherwise might violate the ordinance.
Agency receives national honors
The Olathe Housing Authority once again was named a high performer by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“We have been fortunate to receive that honor almost every year,” said Kathy Rankin, Olathe’s housing and transportation manager.
The Housing Authority also received two Awards of Merit recently from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. The awards recognize innovative projects, programs and services.
“Turning Housing Into Homes” won for its innovation, using landscaping vouchers and a competition to encourage public housing tenants to take pride in their homes.
The authority’s “Welcome Bucket” program provides new tenants with housewarming packages containing educational materials, emergency contact magnets, brochures from local organizations, and advice on home upkeep and maintenance.
Software works on brain’s wiring
The Liberty School District is using software that’s said to rewire the brain’s ability to process speech.
“Fast ForWord” is a set of computer games by Scientific Learning Corp. based in Oakland, Calif. For the past several weeks, struggling readers have spent 90 minutes a day whipping through mental exercises.
Fast ForWord’s programs tackle issues of memory, attention, processing and sequencing. Scientists studying the brain’s “plasticity,” or potential for change, found that certain exercises speed learning ability.
The programs will be available to students at three elementary schools, both middle schools and both junior high schools at a cost of about $300,000.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| Russ Pulley, rpulley@kcstar.com | Brandon Babcock, bbabcock@kcstar.com | Lindsay Hanson Metcalf, lmetcalf@kcstar.com
Turn that radio down!
Greenwood’s aldermen last week voted unanimously to enact a noise ordinance.
If a car radio, boom box, television, home stereo or whatever can be heard 100 feet away, then it’s too loud, according to city regulations. A police officer can write a ticket to a driver, homeowner or others controlling an electronic device.
Permits can be issued at City Hall for outside events that otherwise might violate the ordinance.
Agency receives national honors
The Olathe Housing Authority once again was named a high performer by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
“We have been fortunate to receive that honor almost every year,” said Kathy Rankin, Olathe’s housing and transportation manager.
The Housing Authority also received two Awards of Merit recently from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. The awards recognize innovative projects, programs and services.
“Turning Housing Into Homes” won for its innovation, using landscaping vouchers and a competition to encourage public housing tenants to take pride in their homes.
The authority’s “Welcome Bucket” program provides new tenants with housewarming packages containing educational materials, emergency contact magnets, brochures from local organizations, and advice on home upkeep and maintenance.
Software works on brain’s wiring
The Liberty School District is using software that’s said to rewire the brain’s ability to process speech.
“Fast ForWord” is a set of computer games by Scientific Learning Corp. based in Oakland, Calif. For the past several weeks, struggling readers have spent 90 minutes a day whipping through mental exercises.
Fast ForWord’s programs tackle issues of memory, attention, processing and sequencing. Scientists studying the brain’s “plasticity,” or potential for change, found that certain exercises speed learning ability.
The programs will be available to students at three elementary schools, both middle schools and both junior high schools at a cost of about $300,000.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| Russ Pulley, rpulley@kcstar.com | Brandon Babcock, bbabcock@kcstar.com | Lindsay Hanson Metcalf, lmetcalf@kcstar.com
