Locate the processor you have for troubleshooting advice and instructions.

Question: My 7-year-old daughter is a bilateral cochlear implant recipient who received her first implant when she was one year old and the second one this summer.  We would like information about FM options that will allow her to hear with both implants.

That is a very good question!  With sc

Each day, before you turn the processor on, check that the cable is properly connected to the processor and not broken or cracked; the sensitivity or volume control level is as recommended by your clinician; and the transmitting coil is in place.

Each night, after you turn the processor off, remove the batteries, and store the speech processor overnight with the drying aid. Moisture or humidity may cause cut-outs or failures.

Each day, before you turn the processor on, check that the cable is properly connected to the processor and not broken or cracked; the sensitivity or volume control level is as recommended by your clinician; and the transmitting coil is in place.

Each night, after you turn the processor off, remove the batteries, and store the speech processor overnight with the drying aid. Moisture or humidity may cause cut-outs or failures.

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Offering ways to uncover problems

Signal Check: For checking signals

Here’s a little wand you should always have on hand for troubleshooting problems. It verifies that your processor’s transmitting coil is sending a signal across your skin, to the implant. If the signal going to your implant ever cuts in and out, or disappears completely, simply place the Signal Check over the coil. Make sure the processor is switched on. If the red light lights up, you’ll know the coil is working.

A number of cell phone features may produce radio frequency (RF) interference with your cochlear implant, which may cause you to hear buzzing when you bring the phone up to your implant. This buzzing can overpower a caller’s voice, making it difficult or impossible to use the phone.

Interference can come from the transmission signal that sends the call, the antenna, battery or screen backlight. Cell phones that are not telecoil compatible may also produce interference when using a telecoil.  

The Nucleus behind-the-ear (BTE) processors and microphones have an RF shielding to provide some protection against interference. Yet there are certain cell phone features you can look for to minimize interference even further.

There are several cell phone accessories that will reduce or eliminate interference when using a phone that is not compatible with your cochlear implant system.  These accessories keep the cell phone away from your implant's components, minimizing interference:

Sync up with your iPod™ or other MP3 player. Link directly to your cell phone— even with wireless Bluetooth^® devices! Plug into your home stereo or TV. Nucleus^® Freedom™ is the one hearing device that is totally compatible with your high-tech world, with a wide range of optional accessories. Accessories enable you to enhance a variety of your everyday listening experiences. Use them to enjoy music on your iPod™, hold a phone conversation or better hear your favorite television program.

There are many cellular phones available today that are compatible with the Nucleus® cochlear implant system.  Shopping for a phone that is right for you may take some research.

NEW! Cochlear service agreements are now available for purchase online!

If you have ever worried about your sound processor not working after your warranty expires, a Cochlear Service Agreement* may be the answer. Cochlear understands that being without sound is frustrating for our recipients and that is why we offer Service Agreement coverage - so that you can have the best possible assurance of uninterrupted hearing. With several options to choose from, you’re sure to find the plan that’s right for your hearing lifestyle. Now it’s even easier to purchase a Service Agreement any time after your warranty expires.

Nucleus Sound Processors are powerful and built to withstand daily use in a wide range of environments.  From time to time you may experience intermittent sound, or no sound due to battery life, excessive moisture or natural wear and tear on the external components.