- 1952: "The junction transistor"
is introduced. Due to its enhanced data, this transistor is very
suitable for hearing aid constructions and many manufacturers
introduce their first transistorized behind-the-ear instruments.
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- 1954: The first hearing aid
built into spectacles is produced using transistors.
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- 1955: The first in-the-ear
hearing aid is developed.Due to their size and shape, most of
the first in-the-ear instruments are often referred to as "at-the-ear"
instruments, because they are attached to an ear mold and protrude
outside the ear.
-
- 1959: Hearing instruments
which only fill the ear canal - known as "in-the-canal"
(ITC) instruments - become a reality only after a smaller battery
is developed.
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- 1964: In the 'sixties hearing
instruments become smaller and more reliable. Body-worn devices
account for less than 10% of the market. The first behind-the-ear
instrument featuring an integrated circuit is marketed.
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- 1969: The first hearing aid
which utilizes a built-in directional microphone is manufactured.
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