Information on TTY Telephones

TTY telephones are specialty telephones that allow people who are deaf or hearing impaired to communicate through telephone calls.

Cell Phones

Some cell phones are equipped with TTY software. This translates a typed message into speech.

Software

TTY telephones are equipped with software that takes the place of a TTY operator. The software translates text from a TTY telephone into computerized speech for the intended recipient.

Hardware

TTY telephones are equipped with a display screen, keyboard, and a red light that blinks in different ways to alert the user to the status of a phone call.

Corded Phones

Land-line telephones can be converted to TTY telephones by hooking a TTY machine into the telephone where the receiver would normally be.

Internet Phone Calls

By using the Internet, your computer can function as a TTY capable telephone. Sign into an online TTY service and communicate through a TTY operator. This operator will translate your message into speech or your speech into text.

References

• TTY Information
• TTY Facts

Resources

• TTY Devices