Technology Update SessionSession 2A Intelligent Hearing Systems (IHS) has introduced three new OAE probes with extended high frequency capabilities for use in human and animal research: The OP23 is a small integrated probe containing two speakers and a microphone with a 20kHz range. The OP23 probe can be used in a dual-probe configuration on the Duet system. The OPHF24 with a 40kHz microphone range, allows connection to an external sound source such as ER3 or ER2 inserts or IHS' new Compact High Frequency transducers. Both the OP23 and OPHF24 provide an easy to clean and replaceable probe head that assures that ear canal debris does not reach the sensitive internal microphone and uses standard ear tips. The OPAN24 is a small animal probe with a 40kHz range. All probes are fully compatible with all IHS hardware. An optional dual-channel external power module allows the use of these probes with other non-IHS research laboratory stimulation and acquisition equipment. The Compact High Frequency transducer, with a 40kHz range, can be used for both AEP and OAE testing. They are lightweight and easily connected to the OPHF24 OAE probe. The transducer can be used for the full range of testing, from clicks and low frequencies, to high frequencies, including speech and other complex stimuli. IHS software modules, SmartEP and SmartDPOAE provide extended high frequency testing capabilities for AEP and OAE up to 40kHz. In addition, a new simultaneous multi-animal testing system will be described including the use of chirp-based in-ear high frequency calibration and small cavity microphone calibration methods. Examples of AEP and OAE high frequency data will be presented. Challenges and issues with high frequency testing will be discussed. Dr. Delgado received his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Miami in 1993. He is currently the Director of Research and Software Development for Intelligent Hearing System Corp. and an Adjunct Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Miami. He has published extensively and developed a large number of medical products for screening and testing of hearing and vision using evoked potentials and otoacoustic emissions. He has also been the principal investigator in a large number of NIH SBIR grants for the development of these products.
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