- Access Guide for Persons With Disabilities (Facilities Services)
- Telephone Handset Amplifier
To Order Service or Questions: Telecom Help Form or call 206-221-5000
Amplified hand sets, TTY phones, and other devices designed to assist disabled users are available through the UW Information Technology Service Center. If necessary, such special equipment can be configured to meet individual user needs.
Telephone Handset Amplifier
The HA40 by Ameriphone can amplify the voice on the other end of your phone conversations, and is hearing aid compatible without generating feedback. The device connects to the handset on your telephone.
To purchase the HA40, submit a request using the Telecom Help Form with a university worktag or call 206-221-5000. The one-time charge is $50, which includes installation and one 9-volt battery. Your department will need to supply replacement batteries.
Feature button instructions
- Volume Control: Adjust the volume to the most comfortable listening level by moving the volume control slide switch.
- Boost Button: Press and hold down the boost button for more amplification. It also eliminates any background noise and feedback by muting the microphone in your handset. You must remember to release the button when you speak so that the other party can hear you, then press and hold the boost button again when they speak.
- Tone Control: Move the Tone Selector switch right or left to a position that allows you to hear clearly. This will give you the optimum speech clarity so that you can distinguish similar sounds such as “chair” and “share.”
- Battery Indicator: The battery indicator light comes on every time you lift your handset to indicate that the battery level is okay. If the indicator light does not come on, the battery needs to be replaced.
IMPORTANT: Always disconnect the HA40 from the telephone before replacing the battery.
When battery is drained, the handset will still be operable IF you move the volume control switch to the minimum position. While at any other setting, the handset will not work when the battery is drained.
For normal usage, an alkaline battery will last for 6-12 months, while a regular battery will last 4-10 months.
Problems
If any problem arises in using your telephone, disconnect the handset amplifier from the telephone. Re-connect the handset to the telephone. If the problem disappears, then your handset amplifier needs to be repaired. If the problem does not go away when you disconnect the handset amplifier, then the problem lies in your telephone or in your telephone line. (Contact the UW Information Technology Service Center using the Telecom Help Form or 206-221-5000 for repair.)
Warranty
Ameriphone will repair or replace your handset amplifier for one year from the date of purchase if the unit is defective in workmanship or materials. (Battery is not included in warranty.) Proof of purchase is required.
While the department would need to resolve the repair/warranty issue, the UW Information Technology Service Center can provide purchase information.