Definition and Function
TTY (TeleTYpe) and TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) are text-based telecommunications devices designed for individuals with hearing impairments to communicate over the phone (NCDHHS, 2013). Conversations on a TTY or TDD are typed out, and electrical signals (heard as beeps) are sent for each typed letter (NCDHHS, 2013). These signals travel through the phone line to another TTY or TDD, where they are converted back into letters and displayed on a screen (NCDHHS, 2013).
Key Facts
- TTY and TDD are text-based telecommunications devices used by individuals with hearing impairments to communicate over the phone.
- Conversations on a TTY or TDD are typed out, and electrical signals (heard as beeps) are sent for each typed letter.
- These signals travel through the phone line to another TTY or TDD, where they are converted back into letters and displayed on a screen.
- TTYs and TDDs can be used to have conversations between two individuals who both have these devices.
- If one person does not have a TTY or TDD, a relay system can be used. In a relay system, a deaf individual can call a relay center and reach a relay operator who uses a TTY or TDD. The relay operator then dials the number of the person without a TTY or TDD and relays the conversation back and forth between the two individuals.
- Closed captions, which are like subtitles, are another form of text-based communication used for television shows and movies. They are typically accessed using a decoder machine or a television with a built-in decoder chip.
Direct Communication
TTYs and TDDs allow for direct communication between two individuals who both have these devices (DO-IT, 2021). The typed messages appear on the screen of each device, enabling the users to read and respond to each other in real-time.
Relay Systems
In cases where one person does not have a TTY or TDD, a relay system can be used (National Deaf Life Museum, n.d.). In a relay system, a deaf individual can call a relay center and reach a relay operator who uses a TTY or TDD (National Deaf Life Museum, n.d.). The relay operator then dials the number of the person without a TTY or TDD and relays the conversation back and forth between the two individuals (National Deaf Life Museum, n.d.).
Closed Captions
Closed captions, similar to subtitles, provide text-based communication for television shows and movies (National Deaf Life Museum, n.d.). They are typically accessed using a decoder machine or a television with a built-in decoder chip (National Deaf Life Museum, n.d.). Closed captions allow deaf and hard of hearing individuals to follow the dialogue and understand the content of the program.
Conclusion
TTYs, TDDs, and relay systems are essential tools that enable individuals with hearing impairments to communicate effectively over the phone. These devices provide a means for deaf and hard of hearing individuals to engage in conversations, access information, and participate in society. Closed captions also play a vital role in making television and movie content accessible to the deaf and hard of hearing community.
References
- DO-IT (2021). Do TTY, TDD, and TT mean the same thing? https://www.washington.edu/doit/do-tty-tdd-and-tt-mean-same-thing
- National Deaf Life Museum (n.d.). What’s a TTY? What’s a TDD? What’s a relay system? https://gallaudet.edu/museum/whats-a-tty-whats-a-tdd-whats-a-relay-system/
- NCDHHS (2013). Text Telephone Devices (TTY or TDD). https://www.ncdhhs.gov/documents/files/text-telephone-devices/open
FAQs
What is a TTY or TDD?
TTY (TeleTYpe) and TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) are text-based telecommunications devices designed for individuals with hearing impairments to communicate over the phone.
How do TTYs and TDDs work?
Conversations on a TTY or TDD are typed out, and electrical signals (heard as beeps) are sent for each typed letter. These signals travel through the phone line to another TTY or TDD, where they are converted back into letters and displayed on a screen.
Can I use a TTY or TDD to communicate with someone who does not have one?
Yes, you can use a relay system. In a relay system, a deaf individual can call a relay center and reach a relay operator who uses a TTY or TDD. The relay operator then dials the number of the person without a TTY or TDD and relays the conversation back and forth between the two individuals.
What are closed captions?
Closed captions are like subtitles that appear on television shows and movies. They are typically accessed using a decoder machine or a television with a built-in decoder chip. Closed captions allow deaf and hard of hearing individuals to follow the dialogue and understand the content of the program.
Where can I get a TTY or TDD?
TTYs and TDDs can be obtained through various resources, such as the Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) in your state or through equipment distribution services.
Are TTYs and TDDs still relevant in the age of smartphones and video calling?
Yes, TTYs and TDDs are still relevant for individuals who prefer text-based communication or who may have difficulty using smartphones or video calling due to dexterity or vision impairments.
What are the benefits of using a TTY or TDD?
TTYs and TDDs provide deaf and hard of hearing individuals with the ability to communicate independently over the phone, access information, and participate in society.
How can I learn more about TTYs and TDDs?
You can contact the DSDHH in your state or visit the websites of organizations such as the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and the Telecommunications for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TDI) for more information and resources.