K973320 · Decibel Instruments, Inc. · EWO · Nov 25, 1997 · Ear, Nose, Throat
Device Facts
Record ID
K973320
Device Name
ARTICULATE FITTING SYSTEM
Applicant
Decibel Instruments, Inc.
Product Code
EWO · Ear, Nose, Throat
Decision Date
Nov 25, 1997
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 874.1050
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
The Articulate Fitting System™ is used with the ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer to fit and program Articulate Hearing Devices. The ProDigit 2000™ Audiometer produces controlled levels of test tones and signals intended for use in conducting diagnostic hearing evaluations and assisting in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders.
Device Story
Articulate Fitting System comprises ProDigit 2000 audiometer, IntraCanal Probe (ICP) transducer, ICP interface, and Articulate Fitting software. System integrates with HI-PRO hearing aid programmer. Used by audiologists/professionals in clinical settings to perform audiometric testing, real ear measurements, and hearing aid programming. Input: acoustic stimuli (pure tones, speech, masking signals) delivered via ICP. Processing: software utilizes automated fitting algorithms and visual tools to calculate and apply fitting parameters to programmable hearing devices. Output: diagnostic hearing data, real ear measurement results, and programmed hearing aid settings. Benefits: enables precise, individualized hearing instrument fitting and diagnostic evaluation of otologic disorders.
Clinical Evidence
Bench testing only. Evaluated electroacoustic performance of the IntraCanal Probe (ICP), including frequency response, linearity, and maximum undistorted acoustic output versus constant voltage input. Results demonstrated a smooth, well-defined acoustic frequency response within specified limits and linear response below maximum output levels.
Technological Characteristics
Computer-based audiometer; IntraCanal Probe (ICP) transducer; HI-PRO universal hearing aid programmer interface. Features include real ear measurement, dB SPL audiometry, and automated fitting algorithms. System is networked/integrated with external hearing aid programming hardware.
Indications for Use
Indicated for use by trained audiologists or audiometric professionals to conduct diagnostic hearing evaluations, assist in the diagnosis of otologic disorders, and fit/program Articulate Hearing Devices in patients requiring hearing assessment or amplification.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
An audiometer or automated audiometer is an electroacoustic device that produces controlled levels of test tones and signals intended for use in conducting diagnostic hearing evaluations and assisting in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders.
Predicate Devices
Decibel Instruments ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer (K940999)
Madsen Electronics RH2000 Real Ear Measurement System (K945199)
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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.k973320
## SECTION 2 510(k) SUMMARY
This summary of 510(k) safety and effectiveness information is submitted in accordance with the requirements of SMDA 1990 and 21 CFR § 807.92.
NOV 2 5 1997
Submitter's Name: Decibel Instruments, Inc. 3857 Breakwater Ave. Hayward, CA 94545 USA Telephone: (510) 264-4330 Contact Person: Adnan Shennib, Chief Technical Officer
Date of Summary: August 29, 1997
Device Name: Articulate Fitting System™
Device Classification: Audiometer (77 EWO); 21 CFR § 874.1050
Legally Marketed Predicate Devices: The legally marketed predicate devices are:
- The Decibel Instruments ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer (K940999), . determined to be substantially equivalent to a legally marketed (preAmendment) device on April 22, 1994, and
- The Madsen Electronics RH2000 Real Ear Measurement System (K945199), determined ● to be substantially equivalent to a legally marketed (preAmendment) device on April 11, 1995.
Device Description: The Articulate Fitting System™ is used with the Decibel Instruments ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer for audiometric testing, real ear measurements, and fitting and programming the commercially available Decibel Instruments Articulate Hearing Devices. The System has four main components:
- The legally marketed Decibel Instruments ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer, a . computer-based audiometry system;
- The Decibel Instruments IntraCanal Probe™ (ICP), a transducer placed in the ear canal . for audiometric testing;
- The Decibel Instruments IntraCanal Probe™ Interface, which provides the communication . link between the ICP and the ProDigit 2000™ Audiometer and allows real ear measurements; and
- The commercially available HI-PRO hearing aid programmer with the Articulate Fitting . software utilizes automated fitting algorithms and visual tools to program the Articulate Hearing Devices following audiometric evaluation.
Intended Use: The Articulate Fitting System™ is used with the ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer to fit and program Articulate Hearing Devices. The ProDigit 2000™
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Audiometer produces controlled levels of test tones and signals intended for use in conducting diagnostic hearing evaluations and assisting in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders.
## Descriptive Summary Of Technological Characteristics And Those Of Predicate
Devices: The ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer is a computer-based instrument used to evaluate human hearing function and to assist in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders. The audiometer is typically used by trained and qualified audiologists or other audiometric professionals. The instrument generates audio stimuli having various acoustic properties in order to elicit responses from the test subject; the responses are used to assess hearing function. Typical stimuli consist of pure tones, speech, and masking signals which are delivered to the ear via acoustic couplers, or transducers.
The Articulate Fitting System™ is indicated for use with the ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer to conduct audiometric evaluation, and to fit and program Articulate Hearing Devices. In addition to the features of the ProDigit 2000™ Audiometer, the Articulate Fitting System provides programming capabilities (including auto-fit calculations) for Decibel Instruments Articulate programmable hearing instruments when used with the commercially available HI-PRO Universal Hearing Aid programmer. The Articulate Fitting System also provides individualized fitting capabilities and subjective testing for fit of all Decibel Instruments Articulate hearing instruments, both non-programmable and programmable models. Other features include real ear measurements and dB SPL audiometry using the IntraCanal Probe (ICP).
The Madsen Electronics RH2000 Real Ear Measurement System (Aurical) is a computerbased instrument used to evaluate human hearing function and to assist in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders. In addition to standard audiometric capabilities, the Aurical provides programming capabilities for programmable hearing instruments when used with the commercially available HI-PRO Universal Hearing Aid programmer, as well as subjective testing for fit of hearing instruments. Other capabilities include real ear measurements, noise signals testing, auditory area mapping and hearing instrument evaluation.
Performance Data: Testing was conducted by Decibel Instruments. Inc. to evaluate the electroacoustic performance of the IntraCanal Probe (ICP). The frequency response, linearity. and maximum undistorted acoustic output versus constant voltage input and frequency were measured. The ICP demonstrated a smooth, well-defined acoustic frequency response within specified limits, and the response was linear below the maximum undistorted acoustic output levels. When used in accordance with the labeling, the ICP can be expected to deliver accurate acoustic stimuli for performing audiometric testing.
Conclusion: The information and data provided in this 510(k) Notification establish that the Articulate Fitting System™ used with the ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer is substantially equivalent to the legally marketed predicate devices.
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Image /page/2/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo for the Department of Health & Human Services. The logo features a stylized caduceus symbol, which is a staff with two snakes entwined around it, topped by a stylized eagle. The words "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES" are arranged in a circular fashion around the caduceus symbol.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Public Health Service
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
Ms. Lisa S. Jones, R.A.C. Regulatory Affairs Consultant Decibel Instruments, Inc. c/o Devices for the Future, LLC 9223 Ilona Lane Houston, TX 77025-4218
Re: K973320 Articulate Fitting System (Audiometer) Dated: August 29, 1997 Received: September 3, 1997 Regulatory Class: II 21 CFR 874.1050/Procode: 77 EWO
NOV 25 1997
Dear Ms. Jones:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) notification of intent to market the device and we have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (Premarket Approval), it may be subject to such additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21, Parts 800 to 895. A substantially equivalent determination assumes compliance with the Current Good Manufacturing Practice requirement, as set forth in the Quality System Regulation (QS) for Medical Devices: General regulation (21 CFR Part 820) and that, through periodic OS inspections, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will verify such assumptions. Failure to comply with the GMP regulation may result in regulatory action. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register. Please note: this response to your premarket notification submission does not affect any obligation you might have under sections 531 through 542 of the Act for devices under Radiation Control provisions, or other Federal laws or regulations.
This letter will allow you to begin marketing your device as described in your 510(k) premarket notification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marked predicate device results in a classification for your device and thus, permits your device to proceed to the market.
If you desire specific advice for your device on our labeling regulation (21 CFR Part 801 and additionally 809.10 for in vitro diagnostic devices), please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4613. Additionally, for questions on the promotion and advertising of your device, please contact the Office of Compliance at (301) 594-4639. Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR 807.97). Other general information on your responsibilities under the Act may be obtained from the Division of Small Manufacturers Assistance at its toll-free number (800) 638-2041 or (301) 443-6597 or at its Internet address http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/dsmamain.html".
Sincerely yours,
W. Liao Yu
Lillian Yin, Ph.D. Director, Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, Ear, Nose and Throat, and Radiological Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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510(k) Number (if known):_ 长97 33 ZC
Device Name: ARTICULATE HEARING SysTEM
Indications For Use:
Intended Use: The Articulate Fitting System™ is used with the ProDigit 2000™ Personal Digital Audiometer to fit and program Articulate Hearing Devices. The ProDigit 2000™
Audiometer produces controlled levels of test tones and signals intended for use in conducting diagnostic hearing evaluations and assisting in the diagnosis of possible otologic disorders.
## (PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
Daniel le Seigman
Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, ENT and Radiological Devices 510(k) Number
Prescription Use_ V (Per 21 CFR 801.109)
·
OR
Over-The-Counter Use__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Optional Format 1-2-96)
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.