ACRIVA 9 ACRIVA 7 In-the-ear hearing instruments INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
TABLE OF CONTENTS General Warnings and Safety Guidelines 7 Introduction 12 Description of Features 13 Inserting Instruments 15 Removing Instruments 16 Operating Your Instruments (ON/OFF) 17 Changing the Volume Level 18 Changing Programs 21 Muting 22 Telecoil Function 23 Telephone Use 24 Changing the Battery 26 Data Logging and Learning 28 Operating the Hearing Instruments with the Optional RC-P Remote Control 29 Operating the Hearing Instruments with the Optional SoundGa
Cleaning the Sound Outlet 33 Microphone Protection System 36 Using Your Hearing Instruments 39 Tips for Communicating with Hearing Impaired People 43 Your Hearing Instrument Configuration 45 Accessories 48 Environmental Protection 49 Product Approval, Markings and Compliance 50 Cell Phone and Hearing Instrument Compatibility 52 International Warranty 54 Common Problems and Solutions 56 Information for the Hearing Care Professional 62 Compliance with Requirements for Europe
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Bernafon hearing instruments. The amplification of sound provided by your hearing instruments was adjusted by your hearing care professional to the needs of your individual hearing loss. With a little practice, you will soon be on your way to better hearing. Please read the entire contents of this booklet before using your hearing instruments. It contains instructions and important information about the use and handling of your hearing instruments and batteries.
General Warnings and Safety G uidelines Hearing instruments and batteries can be dangerous if swallowed or improperly used. Such actions can result in severe injury, permanent hearing loss or even fatality. Familiarize yourself completely with the following general warnings before using your hearing instruments. Hazard Warnings Never allow others to wear your hearing instruments, because they are adjusted for your hearing requirements and may permanently damage another person’s hearing.
Hearing instruments, their parts and batteries should be kept out of reach of infants, children and anyone who might swallow these items or otherwise cause themselves injury. Discard batteries and keep them out of sight of infants, small children, persons of mental incapacity or pets. Clean your hearing instruments and their parts on a regular basis as recommended. Micro-organisms from unclean instruments may cause skin irritations. Be careful with leaking battery liquid, as it is a hazardous substance.
Never put your hearing instrument or batteries in your mouth, they could easily be swallowed. Keep batteries away from medications. Batteries are easily mistaken for pills. In case a battery or hearing instrument is swallowed, see a doctor immediately. Be aware of the possibility that your instruments may stop functioning without notice. Keep this in mind while you circulate in traffic or otherwise depend on warning sounds.
Safety Information ·· Hearing instruments should be used only as directed and adjusted by your trained hearing care professional. Misuse or improper adjustments can result in sudden and permanent hearing loss. ·· Hearing instruments will not restore normal hearing or prevent hearing loss resulting from organic conditions. ·· Be aware that use of a hearing instrument may cause excess earwax to build up in the ear canal which may require removal by a trained medical professional.
·· Do not expose hearing instruments to extreme heat by leaving them in the car, near a radiator, etc. ·· Avoid exposing your instruments to water and moisture i.e. steambaths, showers, heavy rain, etc. ·· Never attempt to dry your instruments with a hair dryer, microwave oven, etc. ·· It is recommended to remove your hearing instruments before sleeping. ·· Protect your instruments by keeping them in the case when you are not wearing them.
Introduction The following instruments are covered in these instructions: Acriva In-the-Ear Hearing Instruments 10 6 AR9 ITED AR7 ITED AR_ILLU_ITED_BW AR9 ITC AR7 ITC AR_ILLU_ITC_BW 7 2 AR9 ITCPD AR7 ITCPD AR_ILLU_ITCPD_BW 8 AR9 CICP/CIC AR7 CICP/CIC AR_ILLU_CICP_BW AR9 ITCD AR7 ITCD AR_ILLU_ITCD_BW AR9 IIC 5 AR_ILLU_IIC_BW In-the-ear hearing instruments vary in size and shape due to the unique characteristics of individual ears.
6 Description of Features 3 3 2 4 4 5 2 6 5 4 6 1 ITCPD/ITCD ITED 10 4 1 AR_ILLU_ITED_BW 3 5 4 7 AR_ILLU_ITCPD_BW 2 6 7 1 ITC 1 Vent 2 Canal 3 Sound outlet with wax protection 4 Microphone opening with O-cap filter AR_ILLU_ITC_BW 5 Battery door 6 Push button (optional) 7 Volume control (optional) 13
5 5 6 1 7 2 3 2 4 7 CICP/CIC 1 Vent 2 Canal 3 Sound outlet with wax protection AR_ILLU_CICP_BW 14 5 3 2 4 1 IIC 4 Microphone opening with T-cap filter 5 Battery door 6 Push button (optional) 7 Pull-out string AR_ILLU_IIC_BW
Inserting Instruments It takes patience and practice to insert your instruments correctly. If you have difficulty, please consult your hearing care professional. ·· Insert your right instrument with your right hand and your left instrument with your left hand. ·· Hold your instrument between your thumb and index finger with the microphone on top. If you have an CIC, or CICP the pull-out string must be on the bottom. The location of an IIC pull-out string can vary.
Removing Instruments ·· Use your thumb to push up against the bottom (back part) of your ear to loosen the instrument. ·· Grasp the instrument at its edge between your thumb and forefinger, and gently remove it from your ear. ·· If your hearing instrument has a removal (pull-out) string, pull it gently. Do not try to remove your instrument by pulling on the battery door. This may cause damage. Contact your hearing care professional if you are having problems removing the instrument.
Operating Your Instruments (ON/OFF) To Turn the Instrument ON Push the battery door closed until it snaps. The hearing instrument will make one long beep as it starts. To Turn the Instrument OFF Place your fingernail underneath the front edge of the battery door and lift to open. open (off) closed (on) Never force the battery door open or closed.
Changing the Volume Level Your hearing instruments are programmed to be at a comfortable volume level for your hearing loss. They are designed to automatically adjust to changes in the sound environment. Some models allow you to adjust the volume yourself with an optional control on the instrument. Volume Control Wheel (optional for ITC) To Increase the Volume Turn the volume control towards the front.
To Decrease the Volume Turn the volume control towards the back. The instrument will click to confirm that the volume has been changed and then will beep when you reach the programmed minimum. The volume control has no mechanical stop. You can continue to turn it, but the loudness will only be altered between the programmed minimum and maximum. Your hearing care professional can program the volume to remain at a fixed level, if desired.
Volume Control With Push Button (Optional for ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED) The instrument automatically adjusts the volume to the changing sound environment. If you desire to manipulate the volume yourself, your hearing care professional can program the push button to be used as a volume control. Please see page 46 to see how this has been configured for your hearing instruments.
Changing Programs (optional for CIC, CICP, ITCD, ITC, ITCPD and ITED) Your hearing instrument can be configured with up to 4 listening programs (optional). Please see page 45 to find out which programs have been configured for your hearing instruments. You can change programs as follows: Push Button If your instrument has been made with a push button, your hearing care professional can program it to change programs. A press on the button will cause the program to change.
Muting (optional for CIC, CICP, ITCD, ITC, ITCPD and ITED) Your hearing instruments can be muted by giving the push button on the hearing instruments a long press (about 2 seconds), via the optional RC-P remote control, or via the optional SoundGate. Please see page 46 to see how the push button has been configured or the Instructions for Use that are included with the optional RC-P, and SoundGate devices. To un-mute the hearing instruments give any control on the instrument, RC-P, or SoundGate a push.
Telecoil Function (optional for ITC, ITCD, ITCPD and ITED) The telecoil helps you hear better when using a telephone or in buildings where inductive loop systems are installed (places of worship, halls, theatres, etc.). When the telecoil is active, you hear directly through the telephone or inductive loop. To access the telecoil, go to the telecoil program. See page 45. This symbol or a similar sign should be displayed wherever a permanent loop has been installed.
Telephone Use Bernafon Veras IFU micro BTE VR_ILU_AutophoneControlMicroBTE_BW_HI Auto Telephone (optional for ITC, ITCD, ITCPD and ITED) Your instrument may have an Auto Telephone functionality. When the hearing instrument is close to a telephone receiver, the Auto Telephone will activate a phone program. When you end your conversation, the hearing instrument will automatically return to the previous program. Not all telephones can activate the Auto Telephone.
Your hearing care professional can configure your instruments to allow answering the phone on both ears or on your preferred ear. If you have a preferred ear, the instrument on the opposite side can be programmed to sound softer or to mute when the Auto Telephone (Acriva 9 ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED only) is active. Please see page 47 to find out how your instruments are configured. ·· Keep magnets out of reach of children and pets. If a magnet is swallowed, see a doctor immediately.
Changing the Battery When the battery is running out, the instrument will beep at regular intervals. You should be prepared to replace the battery. The time until the instruments stop working depends on the battery type and manufacturer. Mercury-free batteries generally cause earlier warning beeps.
Important Battery Information ·· Battery life will vary with conditions of use (batteries will run down faster in noisy environments). ·· Once the sticker is removed, it takes several seconds for the battery to give the adequate voltage. ·· Always keep spare batteries on hand. ·· A used battery should be replaced immediately. ·· If you are not going to use your hearing instruments for a few days, remove the batteries. ·· Any moisture found on a battery should be wiped off immediately with a soft cloth.
Data Logging and Learning Data Logging The data log automatically stores information about your use of the hearing instruments such as hours of wear, usage of programs, etc. This information can be used by your hearing care professional to adjust your instruments. If you do not want this feature to be active, please ask your hearing care professional to turn it off.
Operating the Hearing Instruments with the Optional RC-P Remote Control (optional for ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED) If you have purchased a remote control you can use it to change programs, adjust the volume level up and down, or mute the instruments. For complete operating instructions, please read the separate RC-P remote control Instructions for Use booklet.
Operating the Hearing Instruments with the Optional SoundGate Communication Device (optional for ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED) If you have purchased a SoundGate device you may use it to perform basic functions such as program changes and volume adjustments. In addition, the SoundGate serves as a link between your hearing instruments and external sources such as music players, cell phones, computers, etc.
SoundGate 2 1 Power on/off 2 LED indicator 3 Volume control 4 Auxiliary input key 5 TV key 6 Phone key 7 Microphone inlet 8 Neck strap inlet 9 3.
Instrument Care Healthy ears produce a waxy substance that can clog your hearing instruments. Please follow these cleaning instructions to prevent wax build-up and ensure optimal performance of your instruments. Every Night ·· Check your instruments for earwax and wipe them clean with a cloth or tissue. ·· If necessary, use the cleaning tool to remove wax from the canal and vent openings on your instrument. ·· Open the battery door fully to allow air to circulate.
Cleaning the Sound Outlet The sound outlet is an integral part of your hearing instrument and should be kept clean and free from earwax at all times. Your instrument is built with a wax protection system. See page 45 for the wax protection system specific to your hearing instrument. Please follow the instructions for the type of wax protection your instrument uses. If you have questions, please ask your hearing care professional. WaxBuster System ·· Wipe the hearing instrument with a dry soft cloth.
ProWax Protection System ·· Always inspect your ProWax filter before using the instrument to ensure that it has not become detached from the instrument. ·· Change the filter if you can see that it is clogged or if the instrument does not sound normal. ·· Remove the tool from the shell and push the removal tool into the old wax filter to remove it from the instrument.
·· Push the new filter into the hearing instrument. ·· Discard the used tool. Do not insert tools into the sound outlet. This could damage the receiver. If you cannot clean the hearing instruments completely, it is best to contact your hearing care professional.
Microphone Protection System The microphone is an integral part of your hearing instrument and should be kept clean and free from cerumen (earwax) at all times. Your instruments are built with a protection system. Please follow the instructions for using either the T-Cap or O-Cap filter below. If you have questions, please ask your hearing care professional. Replacing the T-Cap Filter (for IIC, CIC, and CICP) The tool has two ends, one for removal of the T-Cap (A) and one with the new T-Cap attached (B).
·· Using the removal end (A), push it under the top edge of the used T-Cap. ·· Lift the used T-Cap up and out. 8 ·· Using the other end of the tool (B), insert the new T-Cap into the opening and slightly twist the handle so that the new 9 T-Cap is free. ·· Discard the tool and the used T-Cap filter.
How to Replace the O-Cap Filter (for ITC, ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED) The tool has two ends, one for removal of the O-Cap (A) and one with the new O-Cap attached (B). ·· Using the11 removal end (A), insert it into the opening of the used O-Cap and pull it out slowly. Keep the stick straight. ·· Using the other end of the tool (B), insert the new O-Cap into the opening and gently remove the stick. ·· Discard the tool and the used O-Cap filter.
Using Your Hearing Instruments Hearing instruments do not restore perfect hearing. They make sounds louder and help you make the most of the hearing you have. While some immediate benefit is usually noticed, it often takes several weeks for your brain to adapt to the new sounds. The following tips will help you learn to use your hearing instruments. If you have trouble adjusting to them, consult your hearing care professional. Getting Started ·· Wear your instruments at home in a quiet environment.
·· You may notice that your own voice sounds louder. If the voices of others are at a comfortable level, try speaking at a lower volume. ·· Sounds like footsteps, chirping birds, rustling paper, etc. may seem quite loud at first because you probably haven’t heard them for a while. They will soon fade to the background. Dining Out ·· Start with a quiet restaurant (no music or entertainment). ·· Request a table away from the kitchen and other noisy areas. ·· Conversation will be easier in a smaller group.
Attending Theatre, Concerts, Lectures, etc. ·· Try to sit with your better ear closer to the sound source, if possible. ·· Become familiar with the program in advance to make it easier to follow. ·· If your hearing is similar in both ears, sit in the middle. ·· If your hearing instruments have a telecoil (optional), inquire if a loop is available. When the telecoil is active, you hear directly through the inductive loop (see page 23). If no loop is available, sit towards the front.
At Home ·· Always use your hearing instruments. ·· Inform family and friends about your situation. ·· Teach your family to talk clearly and keep eye contact when conversing. ·· Teach your family how to involve you in conversations. ·· Avoid background noise. Hearing on the Telephone ·· Hold the receiver close to the microphone inlet of your hearing instrument. If this causes whistling, move the receiver away a small distance.
Tips for Communicating with Hearing Impaired People (Suggestions for Family Members and Friends) Speech should be clear and distinct. Some people may need to slow down a little but if speech is too slow it can be even more difficult to understand. ·· Do not shout! Many people with hearing impairment are very sensitive to loud sounds. ·· If you are having difficulty being understood, rephrase the statement rather than repeating the same words several times.
·· Encourage those with hearing instruments to wear them as often as possible. ·· Most of all, be patient and understanding. Even when wearing hearing instruments, many people will still not hear or understand everything the first time.
Your Hearing Instrument Configuration Available Programs (optional for CIC, CICP, ITCD, ITC, ITCP and ITED) Your hearing instruments are programmed in the following way: Program 1 2 3 4 Beeps Function Your Instrument Has Been Programmed For: Program 1 2 3 4 Telecoil + Microphone M M M M Telecoil + Damped Microphone M M M M Telecoil Only M M M M Your Instrument Uses: M ProWax M WaxBuster M T-Cap M O-Cap 45
Push Button (two hearing instruments) left right Short push (less than 1 sec.) h volume down h volume up Medium push (about 1 sec.) h program change h program change h synchronized Long push (about 2 sec.) h mute h mute h synchronized Push Button (one hearing instrument) Short push (less than 1 sec.) h volume down Medium push (about 1 sec.) h volume up Long push (about 2 sec.
Telephone Use Preferred telephone ear: (Acriva 9 ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED only) M both M left M right Behavior of Instrument on the NonTelephone Ear M No change M The microphone is softer when the Auto Telephone or Telephone Program is active M The instrument mutes when the Auto Telephone or Telephone Program is active 47
Accessories Bernafon offers a wide range of optional a ccessories that may be purchased to enhance your hearing system. Depending on hearing instrument type and local regulations, the following accessories are available: ·· Remote control (RC-P) ·· SoundGate communication device (for wireless connection to cell phones, music players, etc.
Environmental Protection Your hearing instruments contain electronic components subject to the Directive 2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment. Help to protect the environment by not disposing of your hearing instruments or batteries with your unsorted household waste. Please recycle your hearing instruments and batteries according to your local regulations or return them to your hearing care professional for disposal.
Product Approval, Markings and Compliance All Bernafon Acriva hearing instrument models comply with international standards concerning electromagnetic compatibility. Due to the limited size available on the instruments all relevant approval markings are found in this document. Electromagnetic Interference Your hearing instrument has been thoroughly tested for electromagnetic interference. However, some products may emit electromagnetic energy causing unforeseen interference with hearing instruments.
For ITCD, ITCPD, and ITED models: Your hearing instruments contain a radio transmitter using short range magnetic induction technology working at 3.84 MHz. The magnetic field strength of the transmitter is < – 42 dBμA/m @ 10 m. The electromagnetic emission from the radio system is well below international limits for human exposure. By comparison, the electromagnetic energy of the hearing instrument is lower than that generated by household items such as halogen lamps, computer monitors, dishwashers etc.
Cell Phone and Hearing Instrument Compatibility Some hearing instrument users have reported a buzzing sound in their instruments when they are using cell phones, indicating that the cell phone and hearing instrument may not be compatible. The compatibility of a particular hearing aid and cell phone can be predicted by adding the rating for the hearing aid immunity to the rating for the cell phone emissions (ANSI C63.
The immunity of your Acriva hearing instrument is at least M2/T2. The equipment performance measurements, categories and system classifications are based upon the best information available but Bernafon cannot guarantee that all users will be satisfied.
International Warranty Your hearing instruments have a limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the hearing instruments themselves, but not accessories such as batteries, tubing, earmolds, etc. This warranty is void if a defect is the result of misuse or mistreatment. The warranty is also void if the hearing instruments have been repaired by nonauthorized service personnel.
Notes 55
Common Problems and Solutions Problem Possible Cause Instrument whistles or squeals Instrument not inserted correctly Earwax accumulation in ear canal Instrument may be too loose No volume, level too soft or humming noise Instrument may not be turned ON Battery may be dead or inserted upside down Volume level too soft Instrument may be in telecoil (optional) programm 56
Solution Re-insert instrument Consult your hearing care professional or physician Consult your hearing care professional Check that the battery door is closed completely Re-insert the battery correctly or insert a fresh battery Increase volume level with volume control on instrument (if available) or with the optional RC-P or SoundGate Check to make sure you are in the intended program 57
Problem Possible Cause No volume, level too soft or humming noise Earwax accumulation in ear canal Battery contacts may be dirty or corroded Instrument sound outlet may be blocked Microphone sound inlet may be blocked Your hearing loss may have increased Wax filter blocked by earwax Instrument may be muted 58
Solution Consult your hearing care professional or physician Open and close the battery door several times or clean the battery contacts carefully with a dry cotton swab Check the sound outlet and change the filter if you can see that it is clogged Change the microphone protection (T-Cap/ O-Cap).
Problem Possible Cause Whirring noise, fading, weak or motor-boating sounds Battery contacts may be dirty or corroded Moisture in the hearing instrument Low battery Instrument switches from ON to OFF periodically Low battery Instrument beeps without any action from you (e.g.
Solution Open and close the battery door several times or clean the battery contacts carefully with a clean dry cotton swab Place instrument in Dry-Aid pack. Remove the battery first. Consult your hearing care professional.
Information for the Hearing Care Professional A hearing care professional should advise a prospective hearing instrument user to consult with a licensed physician (preferably an ear specialist) promptly, before dispensing a hearing instrument, if the hearing care professional determines through inquiry, actual observation or review of any other available information concerning the prospective user, that the prospective user has any of the following conditions: ·· Visible congenital or traumatic deformity of
·· Audiometric air-bone gap equal to or greater than 15 decibels at 500 hertz (Hz), 1000 Hz, and 2000 Hz. ·· Visible evidence of significant cerumen accumulation or a foreign body in the ear canal. ·· Pain or discomfort in the ear. Special care should be exercised in selecting and fitting a hearing instrument whose maximum sound pressure level exceeds 132 decibels due to the fact that there may be risk of impairing the remaining hearing of the hearing instrument user.
Compliance with Requirements for Europe This device is in conformance with the requirements of the Directive 93/42/EEC of the Council of the European Communities concerning medical devices, MDD. This is certified by applying the following marking: Additionally for models ITCD, ITCPD, ITED: This device also complies with the essential requirements of the Directive 1999/5/EC of the European Parliament on radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment, R&TTE.
Declaration of conformity is available at: Bernafon AG Morgenstrasse 131 3018 Bern Switzerland 65
Compliance with Radio Communications Requirements for the USA and Canada Bernafon AG Acriva hearing instrument models AR9 ITCD, AR7 ITCD, AR9 ITCPD, AR7 ITCPD, AR9 ITED, AR7 ITED. FCC ID U6XF2ITE01 IC 7031A-F2ITE01 Statement of compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules and RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
Information and Explanation of Symbols The CE conformity marking indicates conformance to all applicable European Directives This symbol indicates that the products described in these instructions for use adhere to the requirements for an applied part of Type B of EN 60601-1. The surface of the hearing instrument is specified as applied part of Type B.
Important information for handling and product safety The crossed-out wheeled bin indicates that the European Directive on waste of electronic equipment applies operating conditions transport and storage conditions The product is designed such that it functions without problem or restrictions if used as intended, unless otherwise noted in these instructions for use During transport or storage, the temperature should not exceed the limit value of – 25°/60° Celsius 69
Service If none of the actions, listed on the previous pages, solve the problem, contact your hearing care professional. Do not attempt to repair your hearing instruments yourself.
< > 9,0 mm < > < 19 mm Placeholder for FSC logo > 8,15 mm < 15 mm >
Canada Bernafon Canada Ltd. 500 Trillium Drive, Unit 15 Kitchener, Ontario Canada N2R 1A7 Phone +1 519 748 6669 Toll Free +1 800 265 8250 contact@bernafon.ca Manufacturer Bernafon AG Morgenstrasse 131 3018 Bern Switzerland Phone +41 31 998 15 15 info@bernafon.ch www.bernafon.com New Zealand Bernafon New Zealand Ltd. Level 1, Building F 27-29 William Pickering Drive Albany, Auckland 0632 Toll Free 0800 44 22 57 Phone +64 9 415 7917 info@bernafon.co.
