IEC 60118-0:2022

Overview

IEC 60118-0:2022 is an internationally recognized standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that provides comprehensive recommendations for measuring the performance characteristics of air conduction hearing aids. This standard is crucial for ensuring consistent and reliable evaluation of hearing aids' electroacoustical properties under controlled conditions. It supports type testing, manufacturer data sheet preparation, and quality assurance during production, supply, and delivery stages.

The document details methods to obtain acoustic measurements using specified couplers and simulators, such as the IEC 60318-5 acoustic coupler and the IEC 60318-4 occluded ear simulator. It addresses measurements for hearing aids with non-acoustic inputs like wireless, inductive, or electrical connections while distinguishing itself from other standards oriented toward simulated in situ conditions or user settings.

As a technical revision, IEC 60118-0:2022 supersedes its 2015 edition and incorporates updated procedures and expanded scope to reflect advances in hearing aid technologies.

Key Topics

Measurement Methods and Equipment

• Acoustic measurement techniques employing acoustic couplers under IEC 60318-5 for standardized impedance loading.
• Optional use of occluded ear simulators (IEC 60318-4) for approximating normal human ear sound pressure levels.
• Specialized acoustic couplers per IEC 60318-8 for extended frequency response measurements, especially for deep insert hearing aids.
• Test enclosures including anechoic chambers and test boxes suitable for precise acoustic evaluation.
• Sequential measurement methods for enhanced accuracy and efficiency.

Performance Characteristics

• Frequency response curves including OSPL90 (output sound pressure level at 90 dB input) and full-on gain responses.
• Total harmonic distortion and difference frequency distortion assessments to evaluate signal integrity.
• Equivalent input noise (EIN) measurements, including one-third-octave band analysis to gauge background noise performance.
• Automatic gain control (AGC) characterizations such as input-output relationships and attack/release times.
• Effects of tone and gain controls on device output.

Non-Acoustic Input Assessments

• Wireless input sensitivity and frequency response.
• Electrical input measurement configurations and sensitivity evaluation.
• Induction pick-up coil performance in vertical magnetic fields, including telephone coil functionality.

Quality Assurance and Production Testing

• Measurement protocols tailored for production-line quality control, supply verification, and delivery acceptance.
• Evaluation of reference test gain, battery current consumption, battery voltage effects, and stability parameters.
• Performance consistency validated through defined nominal characteristics.

Applications

IEC 60118-0:2022 serves multiple practical applications for hearing aid manufacturers, testers, and regulatory bodies:

• Type Testing & Certification: Ensures hearing aids meet internationally accepted electroacoustic performance criteria before market release.
• Manufacturing Quality Control: Provides test methods for production environments to guarantee product consistency and compliance.
• Research & Development: Assists engineers in objectively measuring amplifier characteristics, distortion, and noise for design optimization.
• Supplier and Delivery Verification: Confirms hearing aids maintain performance standards throughout the distribution process.
• Regulatory Compliance: Facilitates adherence to legal requirements by standardizing measurement methodologies.

These applications optimize hearing aid reliability, facilitate international trade, and improve end-user satisfaction through demonstrable device quality.

Related Standards

IEC 60118-0:2022 is part of a broader family of hearing aid standards, closely related to:

• IEC 60318 Series: Defines acoustic couplers and ear simulators (Parts 4, 5, and 8) that are critical accessories for accurate hearing aid measurement setups.
• IEC 60118-8: Focuses on measurements simulating in situ working conditions outside standardized coupler methods.
• IEC 60118-15: Details measurement techniques using speech-like signals and user settings for real-world hearing aid performance assessment.
• IEC 60118-7 (2005): Previously addressed quality control measurements, now incorporated into Clause 10 of the 2022 revision.

By aligning with these standards, IEC 60118-0:2022 fits within a comprehensive framework for electroacoustic evaluation of hearing aids, enhancing consistency across different assessment methods and environments.

Keywords: IEC 60118-0, hearing aid measurement, electroacoustics, acoustic coupler, occluded ear simulator, hearing aid performance, hearing aid quality assurance, frequency response, total harmonic distortion, equivalent input noise, hearing aid testing standards, hearing aid production control, IEC 60318, hearing aid non-acoustic input, hearing aid standardization.