What Is TTY Compatible?

TTY is a method of communication for the deaf and hearing impaired that allows the disabled to use telephones and cell phones. There are many different types of devices that can work with the TTY system, including cell phones, telephones, and computers.

Definition

The TTY compatible designation means that the indicated electronic device will work with TTY software or hardware. This allows a hearing-impaired person to communicate effectively with hearing people, as well as with other hearing-impaired people.

TTY Operators

TTY operators work with hearing-impaired people through the Internet to allow them to call hearing people. These operators translate text into speech and speech into text for either side during the phone call.

Cellphones

Cellphone companies are making a concerted effort to reach out to the deaf community by creating TTY enabled cell phones. These phones come equipped with TTY software that allows a hearing-impaired person to text a message that is delivered via computerized speech.

Telephones

You can buy TTY compatible telephones or plug your regular telephone handset into a TTY device. This device has a display screen and a keyboard much like a computer, allowing the user to engage in a telephone conversation using text that is converted to speech.

Computers

Any computer can be TTY compatible by using either a TTY software package, which turns your computer into a TTY device, or by utilizing a TTY operator through the Internet.

References

• TTY FAQ
• About TTY

Resources

• TTY Devices