A relay service is a service that allows people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired to communicate with people who are not. Relay services use a variety of technologies to facilitate communication, including text telephone (TTY), video relay, and IP relay.
What does a Relay Service Do?
A relay service operator acts as a bridge between two people who are trying to communicate. The operator listens to the auditory signal from the hearing person and types out the words. The operator then reads the typed words to the deaf or hard of hearing person. The operator can also translate between spoken and signed languages.
What are the Main Types of Relay Service?
There are three main types of relay service:
- TTY relay: This is the oldest type of relay service. TTY users type their messages to the operator, who then reads the messages to the hearing person.
- Video relay: This type of relay service uses video to facilitate communication. The deaf or hard of hearing person can see the hearing person on a video screen, and the hearing person can see the deaf or hard of hearing person on a video screen.
- IP relay: This type of relay service uses the internet to facilitate communication. The deaf or hard of hearing person can type their messages to the operator, who then sends the messages to the hearing person via text message or email.
What is the Difference Between TTY and Relay Service?
TTY and relay service are two different types of communication technologies that can be used by people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired. TTY is a device that allows people to type messages to each other. Relay service is a service that allows people to communicate with each other through an operator.
Who Can Use the Relay Service?
Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired can use the relay service. The relay service is also available to people who are deaf-blind or have other disabilities that make it difficult for them to communicate.