ComPilot - Part 2

Question 1

What are the benefits of 10.6 MHz HIBAN technology?

Answer 1

Not all wireless systems are the same.

Phonak uses a proprietary 10.6 MHz digital inductive wireless technology, called HIBAN.

This technology was selected because it offers many advantages.

• The key advantage is the ability to transmit the full bandwidth audio signal between hearing instruments.
• This is a very stable transmission frequency which is highly resistant to interference.
• The hardware needed for this frequency is very small – obviously this aspect is extremely relevant given the desire for small, cosmetically appealing instruments.

Question 2

What are the limitations of 10.6 MHz HIBAN technology?

Answer 2

The key limitation is that wireless transmission is possible only over a relatively short range/distance.

This means that for connectivity to external devices like telephones, televisions, etc., a body worn hub is needed (ComPilot).

Question 3

What is the difference in signal quality between

• Bluetooth streaming via ComPilot and
• FM streaming via ComPilot?

Answer 3

The signal quality would generally be considered similar.

• The advantage of FM is multiple people can be connected to one transmitter.
• The advantage of Bluetooth (e.g. RemoteMic or TVLink) is the lower price and less delay in signal transmission.

Question 4

Can you use Phonak’s Target software to configure ComPilot with Naída CI?

Answer 4

Yes!

• If a clinician uses Target software with a bimodal recipient, the clinician needs to select Enable Streaming Only and check the box for Enable streaming from ComPilot to any wireless hearing instrument.
• Configuring ComPilot using Target allows the clinician to change ComPilot’s language and stream to both the Phonak hearing aid and the Naída CI.

Question 5

Can you change the language of ComPilot in
SoundWave without pairing?

Answer 5

No!

By default the language is English. In SoundWave^TM 2.2, you have to configure within the SW patient file to change the language (this pairs the ComPilot with the patient).

** NOTE: You can change the language in Phonak’s Target software without having to pair with a specific patient. This could be useful for bimodal streaming in a non‐English speaking country.

Question 6

For a bilateral recipient, can ComPilot be configured as a remote control both bilaterally and/or unilaterally within SoundWave^TM 2.2?

Answer 6

It can only be configured as a remote bilaterally. This is because it pairs with the implants found within the patient file.

If it detects 2 implants, it will pair with both. For a bilateral recipient you cannot force it to pair with only one implant.

Question 7

Can you use ComPilot mic to send voice commands to your mobile phone?

Answer 7

YES!

Simply select this option under Phone Settings when configuring ComPilot in SoundWave^TM 2.2 with the patient file open.

Enable Voice Dial to send voice commands to a mobile phone. A long press of the main button will then put the phone into Voice Dial mode.

Question 8

Which FM systems will work with ComPilot?

Answer 8

There is a standard Europort on the bottom of ComPilot.

• Phonak’s Mlxi FM receiver has been tested, verified, and is labeled for use with the Naída CI.
• Of course Phonak’s Roger will also be tested and validated for use with Naída CI when available.

Question 9

What is the expected lifetime for ComPilot’s battery?

Answer 9

ComPilot’s battery should recharge for 500 cycles (approximately two years) with at least 80% capacity.