K974287 · Phonic Ear, Inc. · EPF · Feb 10, 1998 · Ear, Nose, Throat
Device Facts
Record ID
K974287
Device Name
FM RECEIVER - AUDITORY TRAINER
Applicant
Phonic Ear, Inc.
Product Code
EPF · Ear, Nose, Throat
Decision Date
Feb 10, 1998
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 874.3320
Device Class
Class 2
Indications for Use
This device is a receiver for an FM group auditory trainer. It is intended to be used with the Phonic Ear PE 571t group auditory trainer transmitter. Auditory trainers are used primarily in institutions (schools, churches, theaters, etc.) to allow teachers, ministers, etc. to communicate with individuals with hearing deficits. This device can also be used with its built-in microphones or plug-in microphones as a stand alone assistive listening device.
Device Story
FM receiver for group auditory trainer system; receives audio signals from compatible FM transmitter or built-in/plug-in microphones; processes audio via user-adjustable controls for gain, tone, and output limiting; output delivered to listening accessories (e.g., headphones/earpieces). Used in classrooms, theaters, and similar environments to improve word discrimination by reducing effects of distance and poor acoustics. Operated by hearing-impaired users or adjusted by clinicians/audiologists using special tools to lock settings. Features include LED indicators for battery status and FM signal reception, frequency channel selection via rotary switches, and multi-mode operation (FM only, FM + mic, or mic only). Benefits include improved speech intelligibility and personalized amplification matching specific hearing loss.
Clinical Evidence
Effectiveness substantiated by clinical study reports by Dr. David Hawkins, Dr. Mark Ross, Robert Benoit, M.A., and Dr. Thomas Giolas, demonstrating improved word discrimination in reverberant or poor acoustic environments.
Technological Characteristics
Solid-state surface mount components; integrated circuits; Cycolac plastic housing; powered by low-voltage rechargeable batteries with fused circuit; FM frequency reception; manual rotary/switch controls for gain, tone, SSPL, and FM level; ANSI S3.22-1987 compliant.
Indications for Use
Indicated for individuals with hearing deficits in institutional settings (e.g., schools, churches, theaters) to facilitate communication with speakers; also functions as a standalone assistive listening device.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A group hearing aid or group auditory trainer is a hearing aid that is intended for use in communicating simultaneously with one or more listeners having hearing impairment. The device is used with an associated transmitter microphone. It may be either monaural or binaural, and it provides coupling to the ear through either earphones or earmolds. The generic type of device includes three types of applications: hardwire systems, inductance loop systems, and wireless systems.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The device is exempt from the premarket notification procedures in subpart E of part 807 of this chapter subject to the limitations in § 874.9.
Submission Summary (Full Text)
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974287
FEB 1 0 1998
# 510 K NOTIFICATION
GROUP AUDITORY TRAINER (Group Amplification System)
PHONIC EAR INC.
## MODEL PE571R
Submitted by:
PHONIC EAR INCORPORATED 3880 Cypress Drive Petaluma, CA 94954-7600
Establishment Registration No. 2918633
SUMMARY
of the
SAFETY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DEVICE
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SUMMARY OF THE SAFETY OF THE DEVICE
- The safety of this auditory trainer FM receiver is equivalent 1. to approved devices and systems of the same type.
- While the highest sound pressure level produced by the device 2. is above 132dBSPL, this output can be limited to the output required by the user. Limiting can be accomplished with a control set and locked by a clinician, audiologist or hearing professional prior to use by the hearing impaired person.
- A notice of the devices' high output capability and a warning 3. that high sound pressure could damage hearing are contained in the user information.
- The audiological controls of the device can be set by a 4 . clinician, audiologist, or hearing professional prior to use These settings provide the by the hearing impaired person. proper amplification to match the hearing loss of the user and to preset the receivers for proper function with the accessories to be used.
- The fitter controls are covered to prevent access by the user 5. and can be adjusted only by use of special tools available to the hearing professional making the initial or subsequent adjustments.
- Other safety notices as required by FDA rules are contained in 6. the user information.
- Device Maintenance and Care instructions are contained in the 7. user information.
- Instructions for the user to follow should the device not 8. function as expected are contained in the user information.
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510K NOTIFICATION PHONIC EAR Model PE571R FM Receiver November 7, 1997 (continued)
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### SUMMARY OF THE SAFETY OF THE DEVICE
- Complete technical specifications required by the FDA rules 9. are contained in the user information. These specifications were obtained by testing devices per ANSI Standard ANSI.S3.22-1987 Specification of Hearing Aid Characteristics.
- Devices are distributed directly to qualified schools or 10. institutions or to Hearing Aid Dispensers, Audiologists, Clinics or others who are qualified to fit the devices to the hearing requirements of the user.
- The device is powered by low voltage batteries which are 11. contained within a battery compartment that is fitted with a locking cover to prevent inadvertent opening. The battery circuit is fused to prevent over heating should a short circuit occur.
- The devices' plastic housing is made of Cycolac plastic which 12. has few known side effects caused by the material. A warning consult a physician should any affect to the skin be to noticed, is contained in the user information.
- A complete line of accessories to be used with the device are 13. the manufacturer and a list of these available from accessories is contained in the user information.
- Addresses and telephone numbers of authorized service centers 14. are available to the user should any questions arise about the function of the device.
- Complete and detailed descriptions on the use, adjustments and 15. functions of the device are contained in the user information.
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### SUMMARY OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DEVICE
- The maximum power output of the receiver can be set to the 1. appropriate level required by the user and then locked at that level to prevent over amplification which could cause pain or discomfort to the listener.
- The sound pressure level of the built-in receiver microphones 2. and the level of the signal received from the FM transmitter can be independently controlled so that the proper balance between the two signal sources can be achieved.
- The CHG/LOW BATT LED located on the front face of the receiver 3. provides a positive indication that the unit's rechargeable batteries are receiving a charge and that the charging circuit It also indicates when the unit's is functioning properly. batteries are low and should be recharged or replaced.
- The NO FM LED located on the front face of the receiver 4 . indicates when no FM signal is being received by a receiver..
- The enlarging lens on the front face of the receiver enables 5. the FM frequency channel number the user to easily see Receivers and transmitters must be set to the same selected. frequency channel in order to function together as a system.
- The inclusion of a 3 position switch allows the receiver to be 6. set to the various operating modes required by the user.
- 7. The inclusion of a 7 position FM level switch for each ear enables the receivers's audio signals to be attenuated so that the transmitter signals are emphasized over the environmental sounds picked up by the receiver's microphones.
- The inclusion of a 7 position SSPL switch for each ear enables 8. the output of the receiver to be limited to the sound pressure level best suited for the user.
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#### SUMMARY OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DEVICE
- 9. The inclusion of a 7 position GAIN switch for each ear enables the level of amplification to be set to best suit the users' needs.
- 10 . The inclusion of a 7 position TONE switch for each ear enables the frequency response of the receiver to be set to best accommodate the specific hearing loss of the user.
- 11. The inclusion of a 2 position microphone switch which enables the receiver to be set for sound reception through the 2 built environmental microphones or through the microphone in contained in a behind-the-ear (BTE) device connected to the receiver. `
- 12. The use of solid state surface mount components and integrated circuits allows the size and weight of the devices to be reduced without loss of any of the beneficial features provided in the design. It also allows the unit to be less obtrusive to the user because of smaller size and easier to use because of the reduction in weight.
- The use of several optional listening accessories provides a 13. more natural sound to the user in different environments because the ambient sounds are processed more nearly like the sound received by normal hearing persons.
- The ability of this device to use a variety of listening 14 . accessories allows the user a wider choice of fitting possibilities to better meet their personal needs.
- 15. By selecting the mode of operation, FM signal only, FM signal and microphone signal together or microphone signal only, the user will be able to set the unit for optimum performance in most listening environments.
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(continued)
## SUMMARY OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DEVICE
- The receiver's FM receiving frequency is controlled by 2 16. rotary switches accessible under a latching cover. This will enable the FM channels to be easily changed by the user as needed in various classroom environments or in other listening situations where multiple FM frequencies may be present.
- The use of an FM Auditory Trainer (Group Amplification System) 17. provides increased word impaired in listening for the hearing discrimination environments such as school classrooms, concert halls, noises, similar situations where or other theaters reverberation or poor acoustical treatment may be found. The use of FM Systems also reduce the detrimental effects caused by the distance between the speaker or sound source and the hearing impaired listener.
- Note: Effectiveness claims outlined in paragraph 17 have been substantiated by the results of many clinical studies made over the years since the introduction of FM Auditory Training Systems. Three such study reports by Dr. David Hawkins, Dr. Mark Ross, Robert Benoit, M.A. and Dr. Thomas Giolas form a part of this 510K submission.
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Image /page/6/Picture/0 description: The image shows a logo for the Department of Health & Human Services. The logo features a stylized depiction of an eagle or bird-like figure with three curved lines representing its wings or body. The text "DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN" is arranged in a circular fashion around the bird symbol.
#### DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Food and Drug Administration 9200 Corporate Boulevard Rockville MD 20850
Robert L. Reinke Director, Regulatory Affairs Phonic Ear, Inc. 3880 Cypress Drive Petaluma, California 94954-7600 Re:
FEB 1 0 1998
K974287 Group Auditory Trainer (Group Amplification System) Model PE571R Dated: November 7, 1997 Received: November 14, 1997 Regulatory class: II Procode: 77EPF, 21 CFR 874.3320
Dear Mr. Reinke:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) notification of intent to market the device referenced above and we have desemnined the device is substantially equivalent to devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to 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 Act. 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 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: Generalivegulation (21 CFR Part 820) and that, through periodic QS 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 smouncements concerning your device in the Federal Register. Please note: this response to your premarket notification 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 actification. The FDA finding of substantial equivalence of your device to a legally marketed 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 premier 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,
hDliau Yin
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
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Page / of /
510(k) Number (if known):_长舟74287
Device Name:_P.E. 571 R
Indications For Use:
This device is a receiver for an FM group auditory trainer. It is intended to be used with the Phonic Ear PE 571t group auditory trainer transmitter. Auditory trainers are used primarily in institutions (schools, churches, theaters, etc.) to allow teachers, ministers, etc. to communicate with individuals with hearing deficits.
This device can also be used with its built-in microphones or plug-in microphones as a stand alone assistive listening device.
(PLEASE DO NOT WRITE BELOW THIS LINE-CONTINUE ON ANOTHER PAGE IF NEEDED)
Concurrence of CDRH, Office of Device Evaluation (ODE)
(Division Sign-Off)
Division of Reproductive, Abdominal, ENT,
and Radiological Devices
and Radiological Device 510(k) Number
Prescription Use_ (Per 21 CFR 801.109)
.
:
OR
Over-The-Counter Use__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Optional Format 1-2-96)
**Restricted Device**
Per 874.420 and 421
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.