An audiometer is a machine used by ENT specialists and audiologists for the purpose of measuring an individual's hearing loss. At first glance, the device has a similar appearance to a volt meter. The latter is a sound system that functions in much the same way as the aforementioned machine. However, an audiometer is specifically designed to assist medical professionals to diagnose hearing loss in adults and children.

Prior to the invention of this device, the biggest challenge faced by medical professionals was how to measure each person's hearing loss, especially if the loss of hearing was only experienced in one ear. In such cases, audiologists had no choice but to rely on primitive tests, such as hand clapping at different intensities to manufacture various sound volumes and subsequently test the individual's hearing. This diagnostic method, however, was often inaccurate.

Based on advancements in the world of medical technology, numerous machines exist today that are more efficient and complicated than manual testing. Audiometers themselves have also undergone major changes since the designing of the first model. Modern models can now transmit virtually all frequencies needed to accurately test a person's hearing.

The machine is also capable of producing a tangible document called an audiogram, which prints on graph paper. The latter can be sent to a doctor or specialist for evaluation. In this way, the patient can be fitted for a hearing aid, or sent for further testing, depending on the information found in the audiogram report.

The device works by creating a wide selection of sounds that can be played at different frequencies. In addition, they can be transmitted at different volume levels and intensities. These sounds and the volumes at which they are played are reduced little by little until the patient being tested can no longer clearly hear the various sounds being transmitted.

Even though conducting such tests without headphones is possible, the majority of medical practitioners prefer headphones for testing of this type. This is because headphones improve the accuracy of the test. The person being evaluated is typically instructed to respond to every sound that can be heard clearly and told to communicate with the testing administrator when the different sounds are no longer audible.

An audiometer is generally designed as an individual device. However, digital equipment of this type is also available in today's modern world, but it is important to understand that digital devices cannot be used independently. Rather, they are dependent upon particular types of computer software. Speech therapists often use such equipment to evaluate patients.

Many individuals anticipate that the accuracy of audiometer machines will be perfected as time goes on, due to advancements in the arena of medical technology. Such devices are highly useful for both ear, nose and throat specialists and ear doctors. Essentially any person faced with hearing loss or similar problems will find that the benefits associated with such devices are very helpful.