Telecommunications… Telephones and the Deaf

Does the above look familiar to you? Then maybe you’re familiar with a TTY or TDD.

TTY (TeleTypeWriter) and TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) are both terms that can be used interchangeably to refer to a telephone used by a D/HH person.

Using the telephone requires hearing, which makes it inaccessible for most D/HH people. A TTY is the answer. D/HH people can use the TTY to type messages back and forth. It is the equivalence to instant messenger! The only drawback is that the person on the other end must also have a TTY, which can cost anywhere between $200-$800.

If you are not able to shell out the cost of a TTY, but still want to call your Deaf friends, have no fear… You can use Relay!

Relay is a service that is mandated by the federal government. All states are required to have a relay service accessible by dialing 711 on any phone.

So when you’re ready to call your Deaf friend, just dial 711, to get the relay operator. The relay operator will call your friend, and type everything you say, and read to you everything your friend types.

If you’re new to relay, there is a bit of a learning curve. Here are a few points to remember:

• The operator is not supposed to be involved in the conversation.

• Speak directly to your friend, not to the operator.

• The operator will type everything you say, exactly as you say it. That means, if you say “tell her it was nice seeing her again,” the operator will type exactly that.

• The operator will also add some additional information such as “sounds professional” or “dogs barking in background.”

• You need to take turns while using a TTY, so you say “Go Ahead” (GA) to let the other person know it’s their turn.

• When you are done with the conversation you say “Stop Keying” (SK) to let the other person know you are done.

• Remember to speak slowly enough so that the relay operator can type what you are saying.

 

Remember using Relay can take a little getting used to, but it is a wonderful service for D/HH and hearing people alike.