Otolink software

Otolink software
Issue 17.1
2 CHAPTER ONE
Introduction

Otolink software
User Manual

Issue 17.1 : April 2013

Otolink V2.20.0.56 onwards

Doc Ref: MANOLK:17.1

Copyright Notice

No part of this publication may be copied by any means,

translated or distributed to third parties without the express
written permission of Otodynamics Ltd.

Copyright © 2013 Otodynamics Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

Otodynamics Ltd
30-38 Beaconsfield Rd
Hatfield Herts AL10 8BB

0120
 Otolink 3
User Manual

Contents

1 Introduction 7

2 Installing PC software 8
2.1 Introduction 8
2.2 Minimum PC specifications 8
2.3 Installing EZ•Screen or ILO V6 9
2.4 Otolink CD menu 10
2.5 Install Otolink 11
2.6 Completing Otoport driver installation 14
2.6.1 For Windows Vista, W7 and W8 14
2.6.2 For Windows XP 14

3 Getting started 19
3.1 Connecting the Otoport 19
3.2 Opening Otolink 21
3.2.1 Data Download window 22
3.2.2 Otolink tray icon 23
3.2.3 Shortcut icons 24
3.2.4 Otolink Suite 24
3.3 Otolink for the Otocheck LE 26

4 Data download 27
4.1 Otoport download options 28
4.1.1 Delete Test Data from Otoport? 28
4.1.2 Only Download New Test Data? 28
4.1.3 Open EZ•Screen/V6 after Download? 28
4.2 Downloading test data 29
4.2.1 EZ•Screen/V6 data notes 30
4 CHAPTER ONE
Introduction

5 Data viewer 31
5.1 Finding test records 32
5.1.1 Selecting a record to view 33
5.1.2 Selecting individual tests 33
5.1.3 Selecting multiple tests 33
5.1.4 Right-click menu 34
5.2 Summary 35

6 Data review 36
6.1 Patient details 36
6.2 TEOAE results 37
6.2.1 Test details 37
6.2.2 Stimulus 39
6.2.3 Response 39
6.3 DPOAE results 40
6.3.1 Test details 40
6.3.2 Stimulus 42
6.3.3 Response 42
6.4 DP Growth (Otoport Advance only) 43
6.4.1 Test details 43
6.4.2 Stimulus 45
6.4.3 Response 45
6.4.4 Line fit data 45
6.5 File and Data Management menus 46

7 Printing 47
7.1 Shortcut printing 47
7.1.1 Print 48
7.1.2 Print pair 49
7.2 Customisation 50
7.2.1 Printing tab 50
7.2.2 Configuration tab 51
7.2.3 Test data quality alerts 51
7.3 Print 52
7.4 Print format 52
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User Manual

8 Data management 53
8.1 Export 54
8.1.1 Export options 55
8.1.2 NCHAM, Hi*Track 55
8.1.3 Ascii export 59
8.2 Transfer 60
8.3 Archive 61
8.4 Import 62
8.5 Delete 62
8.6 Database functions 63
8.6.1 Backup 63
8.6.2 Restore 64
8.6.3 Empty 64
8.7 Edit details 65
8.7.1 Patient Details 66
8.7.2 Test Details 66
8.7.3 Saving edits 66
8.8 Edit History 67
8.8.1 File Menu 68

9 Otolink NOAH 4 module 69

9.1 Installing the Otolink NOAH module 69
9.2 Otoport use with NOAH 4 69
9.3 Using the Otolink NOAH module 70
9.4 Registration 72

10 About & Language 73

11 Firmware updates 74
11.1 Updates 74
11.1.1 Updates Available 75
11.1.2 Update Firmware 76
11.2 Services 77
6 CHAPTER ONE
Introduction

12 User profiles 78
12.1 Otolink user security 79
12.2 Adding and editing users 79
12.3 Otolink Login 80

13 Worklist 81
13.1 Add a new patient 83
13.2 Worklist file management 83

14 Custom settings 85
14.1 Auto download on Connect 85
14.2 Action when Otolink closed 86

15 Otoport configuration 87
15.1 Test modes 88
15.2 Users 89
15.3 Facility & Risk 90
15.4 Other Options 91
15.4.1 DP stim cal 92
15.5 Saving configuration changes 92
15.6 Configuration File menu 93
15.7 Configuration for Otocheck LE 94

16 Troubleshooting 95
16.1 Otolink communication problems 95

17 Index 98
 Otolink 7
User Manual

1 Introduction

All references in this manual to ‘Otoport’ refer to all Otoport family models,
including Otocheck.
Otolink is a software package designed to get the most out of your Otoport.
The easy to use interface enables you to:
• Download test data
• View and manage test data
• Export test data in a range of formats
• Print test data
• Upload worklists to your Otoport
• Update your Otoport with new firmware releases
‘ On advanced Otoport models you may also:
• Configure your Otoport
• Transfer Otoport data into Otodynamics EZ•Screen and ILO V6 software
packages
8 CHAPTER TWO
Installing PC software

2 Installing PC software

2.1 Introduction
There are several stages to Otolink installation and they should be
conducted in the order detailed below. Prior to the installation close all
programs running on your PC.

Note:

You will require Windows Administrator privileges to complete

this installation. Please contact your IT administrator if you do
not have this level of PC access.
To ensure smooth Otolink installation and operation, it is
recommended that User account control (UAC) is turned off, or
set to the lowest level on Windows Vista, W7 and W8.

2.2 Minimum PC specifications

Processor
Pentium III 1GHz
Operating System
Windows 8
Windows 7
Windows Vista
Windows XP
RAM
Windows 7, Vista and W8 - 1024 MB minimum
Windows XP - 256 MB minimum
Otolink installation
Hard disk: 50MB min free
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User Manual

V6 & EZ•Screen installation

Hard disk: 50MB min free
CDR / DVDR
Recommended for database archiving and backup

2.3 Installing EZ•Screen or ILO V6

The Otoport you have purchased may be supplied with EZ•Screen or ILO
V6 software as standard. This software is also available as an option. For
most data types, EZ•Screen / ILO V6 is not essential for review of data on
the PC as data can be viewed in Otolink. Otoport Advance TEOAE tests
that include 6KHz band data and DP Growth tests can only be viewed in
ILO V6. EZ•Screen / ILO V6 software can be used for clinical data review
and data management.
If you are going to use EZ•Screen / ILO V6, it should be installed
before Otolink is installed. Refer to the EZ•Screen or ILO V6 manual for
installation instructions. If the installation is solely for viewing Otoport data,
ensure that EZ•Screen or ILO V6 is installed with the OAE instrument
type set to Otoport Viewer / Training mode.
10 CHAPTER TWO
Installing PC software

2.4 Otolink CD menu

Insert the Otolink CD into your CD-ROM drive. The menu below will be
displayed.

Select the various options using a left mouse click.

Install Otolink
This will begin the Otolink software installation.

Manual
This opens the Manual, for on-screen viewing.

Browse CD
This allows the contents of the CD to be viewed.

Visit Website
This will open the Otodynamics website on your web browser (your PC will
need to be connected to the internet).
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User Manual

2.5 Install Otolink

Select Install Otolink from the CD menu.
Otolink installation comprises a number of stages which vary according
to whether Otolink has previously been installed on your PC. The
installation process also installs the USB drivers required for the Otoport to
communicate with the PC.

Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting Next when necessary.

Select the tick/check box to ‘Always trust software from Otodynamics Ltd’
and then click Install.
12 CHAPTER TWO
Installing PC software

During installation, you may see the following message:

The software has been verified by Otodynamics engineers. Select

Continue Anyway.
A message is displayed when installation is complete. Before pressing the
Finish button, it is recommended that your Otoport is connected to the PC
using the cable provided. Otolink will then automatically be configured for
your Otoport type and where necessary drivers will be updated or installed.

Select Finish.
 Otolink 13
User Manual

Following the installation, Otolink will automatically run. Shortcuts to the

Otolink Suite and Otolink Data Viewer will be placed on your PC desktop.
To start Otolink manually, double-click either icon.

Note:

If it is necessary to uninstall Otolink, re-start your PC following

this process prior to reinstallation of the software.
14 CHAPTER TWO
Installing PC software

2.6 Completing Otoport driver installation

Otoport drivers were loaded onto your PC during the Otolink installation.
To complete the driver installation, follow the instructions below.

2.6.1 For Windows Vista, W7 and W8

Connect the Otoport to the PC (see section 3.1) and Windows will
automatically complete the driver installation process.

2.6.2 For Windows XP

Connect the Otoport to the PC (see section 3.1).
The New Hardware wizard should start automatically when the Otoport is
connected. If it does not then the Update Hardware wizard can be started
by navigating to Device Manager, right clicking on Otodynamics Otoport
and selecting Update driver. Do this for both the Otoport channels A and
B if listed.

Important Note:

The black and white Otoport requires driver installation on both

its A and B communications channels. The driver installation
process must therefore be conducted twice, once for each
channel.

If you fail to install both channels you may see a USB driver
error message. This may be remedied by simply re-plugging
the Otoport into the PC and following the steps below. If this
does not work then see section 16.1 Otolink communication
problems.

When the Otoport is connected it will be detected by your PC and a

message will pop up to acknowledge the detection of new hardware.
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User Manual

The found new hardware wizard will automatically start.

Select No, not this time and click Next.

Accept the option to Install the software automatically.

16 CHAPTER TWO
Installing PC software

If the driver is not found during the automatic search, click Back and select
Install from a specific location then Next.

Select Search removable media and click Next.

 Otolink 17
User Manual

If the CD is not available, the drivers can also be installed by selecting

Include this location in the search and browsing to the folder
C:\Program Files\Otodynamics\Otolink\Drivers.
Windows will search for the correct drivers.

When the drivers have been found Windows will prompt that the drivers
have not passed Windows logo testing. The drivers have been certified for
use by Otodynamics engineers. Select Continue Anyway.
18 CHAPTER TWO
Installing PC software

Windows will then install the drivers.

Once complete click Finish.

For black and white Otoports, repeat the process for channel B.
Once complete, again click Finish. The driver installation for the Otoport is
now complete and the hardware is ready to communicate with the Otolink
PC software.
 Otolink 19
User Manual

3 Getting started

3.1 Connecting the Otoport

Plug the Otoport into the PC using the PC download cable provided. Do
not connect more than one Otoport to the same PC at any one time.
The end with USB symbol (fig 1) should be connected to a USB socket on
the PC (fig 2). Fig 1
Fig 2
20 CHAPTER THREE
Getting started

The Otoport connector should be plugged into the bottom of the Otoport
with the arrow facing upwards (fig 3).
If the cables provided with your Otoport have a locking connector (fig 4),
squeeze the release keys at the sides of the connector when inserting or
removing the plug.

Fig 3

Fig 4
If the Otoport is off when connected, a battery charge graphic will be
displayed on the Otoport screen, indicating the current battery level.
If the Otoport is on when connected to the PC and Otolink software is
running, the Otoport will continue to display the screen shown at the time of
connection. It is not possible to control the Otoport until disconnected from
the PC.
Once connected, Otolink will automatically detect the Otoport. After a
few seconds a window will appear on your PC screen stating ‘Talking to
Otoport’.
When the Otoport is connected, Otolink will automatically open to the
download screen (see section 3.2). If this does not happen, then there may
be a problem with your Otolink or USB driver installation. Try reinstalling
Otolink from the CD (section 2.4). If this does not resolve the problem, refer
to the troubleshooting guide (chapter 16).
 Otolink 21
User Manual

3.2 Opening Otolink

Otolink will automatically start each time your PC is started. The software
will run in low PC memory usage mode until an Otoport is detected. The
shortcut icons on the PC desktop will manually start Otolink if necessary.
There are three routes for accessing Otolink functions - the Data
Download window, the tray icon and the shortcut icons.
22 CHAPTER THREE
Getting started

3.2.1 Data Download window

When the PC first detects an Otoport, the Data Download window is

automatically opened.

Note:

The Data Download window area of the Otolink software will

only open when an Otoport is connected to the PC. If there is
no Otoport connected, the software will display the message No
Otoport connected. Please check connection from PC to
Otoport and retry. Ensure the Otoport is connected correctly
and retry.
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User Manual

3.2.2 Otolink tray icon

An Otolink tray icon will be placed in your system tray on the bottom right
of your PC screen.
Left-click on the Otolink tray icon to open the Data Download window.
Right-click on the Otolink tray icon to open a pop-up menu:

Data Download - Data Download window.

Otolink Suite - Central control area.
Data Viewer - View downloaded test data.
User Profiles - Turn on Otolink user security.
About & Language - Information about Otolink, the Otoport connected and
language selection.
Exit - Close Otolink.
24 CHAPTER THREE
Getting started

3.2.3 Shortcut icons

Shortcut icons are placed on the desktop. Double-click on either icon to

open the relevant area of Otolink as described in the following sections.
The shortcuts may not function on Windows 7 or Vista operating systems if
User account control is active.

3.2.4 Otolink Suite

Otolink Suite is the central control area for the Otolink package. The
functions that are available depend on the Otoport model in use. Functions
available are also controlled by two levels of Otolink user. Administrators
will have access to all areas. Users without admin rights will only have
access to the Data Viewer, Data Download, Patient Worklist and About
& Language areas.
 Otolink 25
User Manual

The top area of the screen has an Otoport Battery Charge indicator
showing the Otoport battery level. The charge percentage is given
adjacent to the graphic. This area also displays the three character GSN
(unique machine ID) of the Otoport connected.
If Otolink Suite is opened when an Otoport is not connected, the GSN will
read ‘No otoport connected’ and the Battery Charge indicator will be empty.
Firmware Updates
Enables the Otoport to be updated with files supplied by Otodynamics.
Data Viewer
Allows downloaded data to be viewed.
User Profiles
Enables Login to be turned on and off and user accounts to be set up.
About & Language
Information about Otolink, the Otoport connected and language selection.
Data Download
Opens the data download window.
Patient Worklist
Enables lists of patients for testing to be entered on the PC before upload
to the Otoport.
Custom Settings
Sets auto download and auto start up options.
Otoport Configuration
Enables test parameters to be set and saved on the PC before upload to
the Otoport.
Manuals
Provides access to Otoport and Otolink manuals.
26 CHAPTER THREE
Getting started

3.3 Otolink for the Otocheck LE

Otolink functions for the Otocheck LE are more limited than for the other
products in the Otoport range.
Data download is not available and the download window will not
automatically appear on connection. The worklist function is also
unavailable. The Config function is limited to turning configurability on the
unit on or off (see section 15.7).
 Otolink 27
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4 Data download

The Otoport Download screen provides download options and Otoport

information.
An Otoport Battery Charge indicator provides information on the Otoport
battery level and the charge percentage is given adjacent to the graphic.
The number of patients and number of tests stored on the Otoport are
displayed for information.
The PC and Otoport dates and times are displayed. Select Sync time with
PC to synchronise the Otoport date and time with the PC’s.
A shortcut to the Otolink suite area is provided.

Note:

Ensure the PC date and time are correct before you synchronise
the date and time.
DO NOT set to an earlier date if there is data on the Otoport.
28 CHAPTER FOUR
Data download

4.1 Otoport download options

Download Options are provided in the bottom half of the screen.

4.1.1 Delete Test Data from Otoport?

This option enables the deletion of Otoport data following successful
download.
Select Yes to delete the data or No to leave the data stored on the Otoport.
If Yes is selected a confirmation message will appear after the download is
complete.

4.1.2 Only Download New Test Data?

If Yes is selected, then Otolink will only download tests which were
recorded after the latest test for that unit in the Otolink Data Viewer.
If No is selected, then Otolink will download all the tests on the Otoport.
It may be useful to select No in order to retrieve tests which have been
deleted from the Data Viewer but are still on the Otoport.
Test records which are currently in the Otolink database will not be
duplicated in either case.

Note:

If a patient name and/or ID is edited in EZ•Screen or V6 software

and the same data is downloaded again with the original patient
details, the edited and unedited patient will then be present in
the EZ•Screen and V6 database.

4.1.3 Open EZ•Screen/V6 after Download?

This function provides the option to automatically open EZ•Screen/V6
software following download of data (if EZ•Screen or V6 is installed). This
is useful if you wish to review the Otoport data at the time of download.
Alternatively EZ•Screen/V6 can be opened using the shortcut provided on
your PC desktop.
Select Yes to open EZ•Screen/V6 or select No if you do not wish to open
EZ•Screen/V6. If you choose to open EZ•Screen/V6, see the EZ•Screen/
V6 manual for more information.
 Otolink 29
User Manual

EZ•Screen/V6 download is not available for all Otoport models. The

download function is greyed out and inactive if the function is not provided
with the Otoport connected or if EZ•Screen/V6 is not installed.

4.2 Downloading test data

Once you have chosen your desired download options, select Download to
initiate the download. Select Close to exit the Download Options screen.
During the download process a sequence of Otoport download screens
will appear. Each screen has a progress bar, which indicates progress
of each sub task. When the progress bar is full the sub task is 100%
complete.
As standard there are three sub-tasks. First, the required Otoport
configuration data is downloaded. The software then builds a list of
patients to download. The sub task states Building download list. Finally,
the data is downloaded and the sub task states Downloading data.
When the download is complete the Download data screens will close.
If you have selected to delete the Otoport data, the delete confirmation
screen will appear. Select Yes to delete the data or No to leave the data
stored on the Otoport.
All the Otoport data has been downloaded and is available for viewing in
a Data Viewer, which will automatically open (see use with EZ•Screen/V6
below).
If EZ•Screen/V6 is installed, all the data will be transferred to this software
for review. An additional subtask progress bar is displayed during the
download process and states Importing data. A confirmation message
appears at the end of the process to confirm the data has been transferred
to EZ•Screen/V6. See the appropriate manual for details. The data is also
available via the Data viewer, but this will not automatically open.
30 CHAPTER FOUR
Data download

4.2.1 EZ•Screen/V6 data notes

The OAE waveform response from the Otoport is reprocessed in
EZ•Screen/V6 and all of the OAE data is recalculated from this waveform.
You may notice up to 0.2dB difference in signal and noise values. The
total noise is 3dB different. The test outcome and band passes will not be
affected as these are imported directly from the Otoport.
The stimulus level is recalculated from the stimulus waveform and a
variation of a few dB may be observed.
The units for noise reject reported in EZ•Screen/V6 are in mPa. The
Otoport units are in dB SPL.
Data that has the ‘Noisy’ or ‘Poor probe fit’ stop reasons may have incorrect
NLo/NHi values in EZ•Screen/V6.
Total DPOAE level in DP Zoom and DP 12 frequency tests:
EZ•Screen/ILOV6 uses a different method to calculate the DPOAE level
from the Otoport. Otolink displays the level recorded on the Otoport. So
the total DPOAE level shown in EZ•Screen/ILOV6 and Otolink will be
different. Other DPOAE test types (which test in half octave steps) are
unaffected.
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5 Data viewer
TRAINING
REQUIRED

The Data Viewer opens automatically following data download unless used
with EZ•Screen/V6 (see section 4.2. for use with EZ•Screen/V6). It can also
be accessed from the tray icon menu, from the shortcut icon or through
Otolink Suite. The Data Viewer displays and manages downloaded
Otoport data. Records are shown alphabetically by name.
Summary shows information for the test highlighted.
32 CHAPTER FIVE
Data viewer

5.1 Finding test records

Name or ID fields may be partially entered providing partial entry filter

functions. If the complete Name or ID is entered, only exact matches will
be displayed. The Filtered Records list will be updated so that it displays
only those tests which match the data entered. Deleting the contents of
these fields will remove the filtering.
You can filter records by Test type, Tester ID, Otoport ID or Probe ID.
The Download Date, Test Date and Date of Birth fields enable date
ranges to be selected. The default settings for these fields include all
records in the database. Date format is Day / Month / Year. Dates may
be selected by highlighting the day, month or year. Changes can be made
either by entering values on the keyboard or by scrolling up and down with
the mouse or keypad arrow keys. The records list will be automatically
updated to show only results filtered by this criteria.
If the New Data button is selected, then only the most recently downloaded
tests are displayed. The New Data button is selected as default when the
Data Viewer automatically opens after data download to make the finding
of new tests easier.
Filter fields are shaded when that filter is in use.
The Reset Filters button resets all filters so that all of the records are
displayed.
 Otolink 33
User Manual

5.1.1 Selecting a record to view

When you have set the filters you require you may view the results in
the Filtered Records section. If no filters have been set all downloaded
records will be available.
The bottom right of the filtered records area reports the number of tests
filtered compared to the total number of tests in the database.

5.1.2 Selecting individual tests

Use the up and down arrows on your PC keyboard or your mouse to select
an individual test.
Clicking on any of the column titles will sort the data by that field. Clicking
a second time will reverse the sort order.
Tests which met the pass criteria set on the Otoport will be highlighted in
green.
The currently selected test will appear in bold type and an arrow will be
shown beside the record on the left margin.
The details for the selected test will appear in the Results section.

5.1.3 Selecting multiple tests

In order that a number of tests may be processed (printed, deleted etc.)
in a batch, it is possible to select multiple tests. Tests can be selected by
clicking on the check box on the left of the table. A check mark indicates
that the test has been selected. To deselect a test, click on the check mark
again.
Alternatively, all of the filtered records can be selected using the Select All
button.
The currently selected records can be cleared by clicking the Clear All
button.
34 CHAPTER FIVE
Data viewer

The number of records currently selected is shown at the bottom of the

table.
The selected tests can be processed using the options in the File or Data
Management menus or the Print shortcuts (see chapter 7 Printing).
If no tests have been selected using the check boxes and Export, Transfer
or Archive are chosen from the Data Management menu, then the user has
the option to process all of the currently filtered tests.

5.1.4 Right-click menu

If a test in the Filtered Records is selected using a right-click, the options

Delete Test(s), Delete Patient(s), Edit Details and Data Review can be
selected.
See chapters 6 and 9 for Data review and Data management.
 Otolink 35
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5.2 Summary
The Summary area shows the patient name and ID of the selected test,
as well as the Test type, Ear tested and the test File name. Icons also
provide a graphic representation of the test type, result and ear.
Summary data for different test types are also shown, which is explained in
the following sections. A test result graph is displayed that includes valid
band/test point indicators.
The data available depends on the Otoport model used and on the type of
test performed. The fields for the different test types are explained in the
Data review section that follows.

Note:

Valid bands are not shown for Otocheck, Otoport Lite or Otoport
DP+TE models on tests where the pass criterion is judged on
total OAE rather than on individual bands (Wide Band or Narrow
modes).
36 CHAPTER SIX
Data review

6 Data review
TRAINING
REQUIRED

Click on the Data review button or the test result graph to show the Data
review module, which provides detailed graphical and numerical test and
patient data.
The screen is made up of various sections, which can be expanded or
reduced using the blue and yellow arrows.
There are labelled tabs in some sections, which reveal additional
information.
If normative data limits were set on the Otoport, they will be displayed in
Data review.
Data is highlighted in yellow (or in bold on the printouts) to draw attention to
test quality issues. Stimulus level achieved, stimulus stability/percentage
OK, waveform reproducibility, noise reject percentage and duration are
included.
It is possible to enable or disable the Test data field warnings in the
Configuration area.

Note:

Otoport Lite and Otocheck models show the Patient details

and Test details sections (they do not include the graphs and
numerical tables).

6.1 Patient details

The Patient Details tab displays detailed biographical information. Not all
of the displayed fields are available on the Otoport, but they can be entered
in Edit Details (see section 8.7)
The patient name and ID are also displayed in the window header for quick
reference.
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User Manual

6.2 TEOAE results

6.2.1 Test details

Result
The outcome of the test.
Ear
The Left or Right ear tested.
Target stim
The target stimulus level set for the test.
Achieved stim
The stimulus level achieved at the Checkfit stage of the test.
Protocol
The test mode set on the Otoport when the test was performed.
Noise reject
The noise reject level as it was set at the end of the test.
TEOAE
Displays the total TEOAE across a wide frequency range.
Noise
Displays the total noise across a wide frequency range.
38 CHAPTER SIX
Data review

Duration
The duration of the test in seconds.
NHi/NLo
The percentage of data rejected. NHi - The amount of data rejected due
to noise being above the noise reject level. NLo - The amount of data
accepted due to noise being below the noise reject level.
Stim. Stability
The % correlation between the stimulus recorded at the beginning of the
test and that present at the end of the test. A high level indicates that test
conditions were good and there was little probe movement. A low level
indicates significant probe movement.
Reproducibility
Measure of the reproducibility (correlation) between the two waveforms
recorded during a TEOAE test.
Fit Size (0-9)
The size of the ear canal, on a scale of 1 (small) to 9 (large), indicated by
the stimulus intensity recorded during Checkfit.
Otoport ID
The GSN (unique machine ID) of the machine used for the test.
Tester ID
The ID of the tester who performed the test. If Otoport login is not turned
on, this field will always show ADN. This is the Otoport default Admin
account.
Probe ID
The serial number of the probe used in the test.
File name
The name of the data file created for the test.
Date of test
Time of test
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User Manual

6.2.2 Stimulus
All the stimulus data is collected during the Checkfit period before the test
starts.
A numerical level of the achieved stimulus is displayed.
A stimulus waveform graph shows a time based (ms) view. With a good
probe fit the waveform should have an initial large positive and then
negative peak followed by a flat line response.
A spectrum shows how the energy in the stimulus waveform is distributed
over frequencies (kHz). This distribution is dependent on the fit of the probe
and the geometry of the individual ear canal.

Note:

On Otoport DP+TE devices, to optimise speed of testing, a low

cut filter is used during Checkfit. The stimulus display therefore
doesn’t show low frequency energy, as this has been filtered
out, but the stimulus delivered will contain a broad frequency
spectrum.

6.2.3 Response
Waveform
The response waveform displays the two interleaved OAE waveforms
(named A and B). Waveform A is shown in white and waveform B in yellow.
Frequency spectrum
The response spectrum screen shows the signal and noise levels recorded
in 80Hz frequency bands. This is the information which is summarised by
the half-octave histogram but the response spectrum displays the data at a
much higher frequency resolution.
Graph
Test data is displayed graphically on the histogram screen in ½ octave
bands: 1k, 1.5k, 2k, 3k, 4k and 6kHz (optional for Otoport Advance only).
The blue section of each band represents the OAE signal level within each
band and the red section represents the noise level at that frequency.
A band indicator is shown above the graph if the band meets the set
criteria.
Table
Displays the signal and noise sound levels at the specified half octave
frequencies and the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (signal minus noise). If the OAE
at this frequency has met the set criteria then the SNR value is shown on a
green background.
40 CHAPTER SIX
Data review

6.3 DPOAE results

6.3.1 Test details

Result
The outcome of the test.
Ear
The Left or Right ear tested.
Target stim
The target intensities for the primary stimulus levels L1 and L2.
Noise mode
Noise mode reports the method by which the noise floor in DP tests was
calculated. Rapid is the mean of the frequency bins close to the DP
frequency and is most suitable for screening. Standard is the mean + 2
standard deviations and is more suitable for clinical diagnostics.
Protocol
The test mode set on the Otoport when the test was performed.
Noise reject
The noise reject level as it was set at the end of the test.
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Start Freq.
The lowest frequency tested.
End Freq.
The highest frequency tested.
Resolution
The number of frequencies to be tested per octave.
DPOAE
Displays the total DPOAE summed over the tested frequencies.
Duration
The duration of the test in seconds.
NHi/NLo
The percentage of data rejected NHi - The amount of data rejected due
to noise being above the noise reject level. NLo - The amount of data
accepted due to noise being below the noise reject level.
Stim OK
The percentage of the presented stimuli that were within 1dB of the levels
achieved during calibration.
Fit Size (0-9)
The size of the ear canal, on a scale of 1 (small) to 9 (large), indicated by
the stimulus intensity recorded during Checkfit.
Otoport ID
The GSN (unique machine ID) of the machine used for the test.
Tester ID
The ID of the tester who performed the test. If Otoport login is not turned
on, this field will always show ADN. This is the Otoport default Admin
account.
Probe ID
The serial number of the probe used in the test.
File name
The name of the data file created for the test.
Date of test
Time of test
42 CHAPTER SIX
Data review

6.3.2 Stimulus
All the stimulus data is collected during the Checkfit period before the test
starts. DPOAE testing requires two stimulus channels and channel A is
shown in white and channel B in yellow.
A numerical level of the achieved stimulus is displayed for each channel.
A stimulus waveform graph shows a time based (ms) view produced by
each of the stimulus channels. With a good probe fit the waveform should
have an initial large positive and then negative peak followed by a flat line
response.
A spectrum shows how the energy in the stimuli waveforms are distributed
over frequencies (kHz). This distribution is dependent on the fit of the probe
and the geometry of the individual ear canal.

6.3.3 Response
Graph
Test data is displayed graphically on the graph screen at the frequency
points tested. The blue section of each band represents the OAE signal
level within each band and the red section represents the noise level at that
frequency.
A test point indicator is shown above the graph if the test point meets the
set criteria.
There is an option to view a DP bar or line graph.
Table
Displays the DP stimulus frequencies (F1 and F2) tested and the DP
stimulus levels (L1 and L2) achieved. The signal and noise sound levels at
the specified half octave frequencies and the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (signal
minus noise). If the OAE at this frequency has met the set criteria then the
SNR value is shown on a green background.
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6.4 DP Growth (Otoport Advance only)

6.4.1 Test details

Result
The outcome of the test.
Ear
The Left or Right ear tested.
Noise mode
Noise mode reports the method by which the noise floor in DP tests was
calculated. Rapid is the mean of the frequency bins close to the DP
frequency and is most suitable for screening. Standard is the mean + 2
standard deviations and is more suitable for clinical diagnostics.
Protocol
The test mode set on the Otoport when the test was performed.
Noise reject
The noise reject level as it was set at the end of the test.
Total OAE
Displays the total DPOAE summed over the tested frequencies.
Duration
The duration of the test in seconds.
44 CHAPTER SIX
Data review

NHi/NLo
The percentage of data rejected NHi - The amount of data rejected due
to noise being above the noise reject level. NLo - The amount of data
accepted due to noise being below the noise reject level.
Stim OK
The percentage of the presented stimuli that were within 1dB of the levels
achieved during calibration.
Fit Size (0-9)
The size of the ear canal, on a scale of 1 (small) to 9 (large), indicated by
the stimulus intensity recorded during Checkfit.
Otoport ID
The GSN (unique machine ID) of the machine used for the test.
Tester ID
The ID of the tester who performed the test. If Otoport login is not turned
on, this field will always show ADN. This is the Otoport default Admin
account.
Probe ID
The serial number of the probe used in the test.
File name
The name of the data file created for the test.
Date of test
Time of test
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6.4.2 Stimulus
The displays are the same as the DPOAE section above.

6.4.3 Response
Graph
The DPG graph shows the DPOAE levels recorded at each of the
six intensity levels presented. The x-axis shows the target L2 levels
(45-70dBSPL). The y-axis shows the DPOAE level recorded in uPa or
dBSPL depending on the test setting. If the line fit criteria are met then the
best fit line is plotted in yellow on the graph.
A test point indicator is shown above the graph if the test point meets the
set criteria.
Table
Displays the DP stimulus frequencies (F1 and F2) tested and the DP
stimulus (L1 and L2) target and achieved levels. The signal and noise
sound levels and the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (signal minus noise) at the
frequency tested.
If the OAE at this frequency has met the set criteria then the SNR value is
shown on a green background.

6.4.4 Line fit data

DP threshold
This is the predicted level of L2 stimulus where no measurable DPOAE will
be produced. Only available for DP Growth uPa tests.
Slope
This is the rate of growth of DPOAE with increase in L2.
DP at 80
This is a predicted level of DPOAE obtained by extrapolating the data to
L2=80dBSPL.
Fit R2
A measure of the quality of the fit of the best fitting line to the data.
46 CHAPTER SIX
Data review

6.5 File and Data Management menus

Various functions are available from the drop-down menus in the top left
corner of the screen.
The File menu has options for printing.

The Data Management menu provides facilities for tests to be exported,

archived, imported, deleted, edited etc.

Details of these functions are included in the following chapters.

The File and Data Management functions act on the single highlighted
test, all tests selected, or the currently filtered tests depending on the
function selected.
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7 Printing

Printing of tests selected in Data Viewer can be initiated from the options
in the File menu or from the two shortcut icons in the top right corner of the
screen.

7.1 Shortcut printing

If the shortcuts are used, the tests will be printed (or PDFs created)
directly, with no print options provided (see section 7.3). The output type
options (print or PDF) for shortcut printing are described in section 7.2
Customisation.
The shortcut print icons print OAE tests for the single highlighted result or
all the selected tests.
48 CHAPTER SEVEN
Printing

7.1.1 Print

When the Print icon is clicked, the test result(s) for a single ear will be
printed.

Sample print:

Facility name
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7.1.2 Print pair

The Print pair function finds an opposite ear test which best matches the
test selected and prints both test results together. The criteria for selecting
the second test are: the test was for the same patient, the same test type
and the opposite ear and was performed within 24 hours.
For TE and DP tests, if more than one test meets this criteria then
preference is given to pass results, results with more band passes, or the
result with the larger total OAE.
DP tests also consider the target stimulus level.
DP Growth tests are only paired if the tests have the same starting stimulus
level and test frequency.
If no matching test is found, the user will be warned and given the option to
print the single test in the two ear format.
The test data printed in two ear format is identical to that in single ear
format.

Sample print:

Facility name
50 CHAPTER SEVEN
Printing

7.2 Customisation
This area allows the user to change the appearance of the printout and the
dataviewer.

7.2.1 Printing tab

Customisation\printing allows the user to add the name and address of

their organisation to the top of the Otolink printout, add a custom logo,
change the layout of the two ear print (standard or reversed format), or
setup printing to PDF file.
To load a custom logo, select Show Logo Image and use the browse
button to select the image to add, which needs to be in bitmap (.bmp)
format.
If files are printed to PDF, each print will be saved with a unique filename
with the format:
For single ear prints:
PatientName_PatientID_TestDataFilename_1Ear_Date_Time

For two ear prints:

PatientName_PatientID_TestDataFilename_2Ear_Date_Time

Select the Auto open PDF(s) box to open and display PDF files when they
are created.
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7.2.2 Configuration tab

It is possible to configure which screening fields are displayed in

Dataviewer, Data review and the printouts. These include patient details
and test result information. If using your Otoport in a clinical environment,
you may wish to turn off these fields.

7.2.3 Test data quality alerts

By default, data is highlighted in yellow (or in bold on the printouts) to
draw attention to test quality issues. Fields are highlighted when they
are outside the range expected in good test conditions. Stimulus level
achieved, stimulus stability/percentage OK, waveform reproducibility, noise
reject percentage and duration are included.
It is possible to enable or disable the Test data quality alerts in the
Configuration area.
52 CHAPTER SEVEN
Printing

7.3 Print
Print provides a Print Options screen before printing, with facilities for
printer selection via the Setup button, print preview, printing to file and
printing multiple copies.

Note:

If more than one test is selected using the test check boxes,
printing begins immediately without the print options being
available.

7.4 Print format

The format of the test printout depends upon the Otoport model used in
the test; Otocheck and Otoport Lite printouts do not include data tables or
response bar graphs.
TE and DP tests have some different fields in the Test Details and
Technical Details sections.
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8 Data management

The data management area provides facilities for selected data to be

exported, edited, deleted, transferred, archived or imported and allows the
entire database to be backed up or restored.
Otoport data is stored by Otolink in two forms - a single database file
containing all the data on all of the tests and an individual file containing
detailed results from each test. The individual files have the suffix OtoTE
for TEOAE, OtoDP for DPOAE, OtoDPZ for DP Zoom and OtoDPG for DP
Growth tests. DTA (TEOAE) and DPG (DPOAE) files are also created for
compatibility with Otodynamics ILO V6 and EZ•Screen software.
Data in both forms is stored when data is archived or backed up.
54 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

8.1 Export

Export allows the user to export all the tests in the filtered record list, or
any selected test(s). The number of tests to be exported is displayed at
the top of the screen. The Export Types supported are OZ Data Systems,
NCHAM Hi•Track and Configurable Ascii.
Default filenames are provided but can be changed by adding a new name
to the Export Filename field.
The directory where the export file will be saved can be changed by clicking
on the folder icon on the right of the Export Filepath window.
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8.1.1 Export options

AutoExport enables new data downloaded from the Otoport to be
automatically added to the chosen export file. Additional downloads
append tests to the file if the file is present. Tip - To avoid duplication in
the export file created, set Only Download New Test Data? to YES on the
Otoport Download screen. A new file is generated on download if no file
exists. (Not available for Excel export).
You may also choose to have separate result folders created for future
downloads from different Otoports. The Sub Folders will be identified by
the GSN (machine ID) of the Otoport. Note that Sub Folders will only be
created for new downloads. Data already downloaded to the Data Viewer
will not be separated into subfolders.
When you configure the Export area and Close, all settings are saved.

Note:

If AutoExport is selected, test results are exported when data is

downloaded from the Otoport. Only data entered on the Otoport
will be exported and any additional fields added or edited in
Otolink will not be included. Tests that have been auto-exported
can be re-exported after they have been edited, but doing so
will result in multiple copies of the same test result in the export
file, unless a new export file is started. It is recommended that
AutoExport is turned off if you plan to edit patient details within
Otolink. Tests can then be exported manually after edits have
been made.

8.1.2 NCHAM, Hi*Track

If the Export Type is set to NCHAM Hi*Track, the test results are exported
to the file Otolink.txt ready for import to Hi*Track.
A number of features have been incorporated in order to make import to
Hi*Track as simple as possible.

Required Fields
Hi*Track requires that Date of Birth is provided. Any record which does not
have a date of birth will not be exported and the user will be advised to add
a date of birth.
Not all of the patient data accepted by Hi*Track can be entered on your
Otoport. The additional information can be added by using the Edit Details
function in Otolink (see section 8.7 and Hi*Track pick lists below).
56 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

Hi*Track pick lists

Hi*Track pick lists are generated by Hi*Track software. They can be used
by Otolink to improve the transfer of data between the programs.
If NCHAM Hi*Track export is selected, Otolink looks for pick list files in the
directory Otolink\Hi Track in order to provide drop-down lists to help fill out
the fields in the Edit Details area. If the files are not found, the pick list
information is not available.
If you have any of the Hi*Track pick list files below:
Nur_Type.txt
Pednames.txt
Screener.txt
Then copy or move them to the directory:
C:\Program Files\Otodynamics\Otolink\Hi Track
This makes the lists available within Otolink’s Edit Details function.

If Pednames.txt file is available, Physician can be chosen from a drop-

down list of the Physicians listed in the file. If the file is not present then a
physician name can be typed (50 characters maximum).
If Nur_Type.txt is available then the Nursery type can be chosen from a
drop down list of the options listed in that file. If the file is not present then
nursery is chosen from a default drop-down list.
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Note:

If NICU is set to Yes, this will override any selection made in

the Nursery level field and the Hi Track export file will show a
Nursery level of 2.

Setting up users
The Otoport and Hi*Track use different methods for identifying users.
In order to correctly assign Otoport test results to Hi*Track users it is
necessary to match each Hi*Track user with the appropriate Otoport user.
On your Otoport note the Name and User ID for each user. If you have
not yet set up users on your Otoport then refer to the Otoport manual for
instructions.
On your PC, open the Otolink Data Viewer. Select Data Management,
then Export.

Select NCHAM, Hi*TRACK as the Export Type, if it is not already selected.

Then select the Hi*TRACK Users button.
If Otolink cannot find a screener.txt file in C:\Program Files\Otodynamics\
Otolink\Hi Track, the Hi*TRACK Users button will be greyed-out and will
not function. Check that you have copied your screener.txt file to the
correct location.
58 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

The Hi*TRACK Users window will show the Hi*TRACK User ID and User
Name for all of the users listed in the screener.txt file.

For each Hi*TRACK User enter the matching Otoport Tester ID and
Otoport Tester Name in the adjacent field. When all of the users have
been correctly matched select Save.
Otoport Tester records will be exported to the Hi*Track file with the
matching Hi*TRACK User ID instead of the Otoport Tester ID.
Alternatively, set up your users on the Otoport using the same 3 character
ID that is used in Hi*Track.
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8.1.3 Ascii export

The fields exported in an Ascii export may be selected by using the Ascii
Config button.

Select the fields required in the Export and choose the File Extension
type. Note that not all of the fields are available for all Otoport models.
When you are satisfied with your selection, select Save. Select Cancel to
discard your selection.

Separate Ascii export files are created for different test types.

Note:

The Ascii Config button will not be available unless

Configurable Ascii is selected as the Export Type.
60 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

8.2 Transfer

Tests stored in Otolink can be transferred to ILO V6 or EZ•Screen by

selecting Transfer from the Data Viewer menu. All the filtered records or
any selected tests will be transferred.
Tests are automatically transferred by Otolink if V6/EZ•Screen is installed
when the tests are downloaded from the Otoport. This function enables
data to be transferred if V6/EZ•Screen has been installed after data has
been downloaded.
Select Transfer Data to import the selected data to V6/EZ•Screen.

Note:

It is not be possible to transfer data to V6/EZ•Screen for all

Otoport types. A warning message will be displayed if the
data for transfer was collected on an Otoport type where V6/
EZ•Screen is not possible.
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8.3 Archive

The Archive function allows selected tests to be stored in a separate

location and purged from the Otolink database if required.
It is necessary to perform separate operations to archive TE and DP data.
Select Yes in the Purging box to delete the data from the Data Viewer
database after it has been archived. Select No to retain the data in the
Data Viewer.
Select Archive Data to begin the archiving process. Select Close to return
to Data Viewer.
62 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

8.4 Import

The Import function allows archived or backed up data to be incorporated

into the Data Viewer database. This enables archived data to be viewed
and data downloaded to different PCs to be merged into a single database.
Browse to the Otolink database file location and select Import Data. The
Close button exits this area.

8.5 Delete
Select Delete Test(s) to delete tests from the Data Viewer database. Test
details transferred to ILO V6 or EZ•Screen or exported to another format
will not be deleted.
A highlighted test, or multiple tests selected using the check boxes, can be
deleted. The user is required to confirm the deletion before it takes place.
To delete all tests, use Data Management > Database functions > Empty
(see section 8.6).
Select Delete Patient(s) to delete one or more patients from the Data
Viewer database. Delete Patient removes all the individual test results for
the selected patient from the Data Viewer.
The patient for deletion is chosen by selecting an individual test for that
patient. Other test results for that patient are automatically located and
deleted. Multiple patient records can be deleted using the check boxes
to select a single test for each patient. The user is required to confirm the
deletion before it takes place.
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8.6 Database functions

Database Functions provides options to Backup, Restore and Empty the

database.

8.6.1 Backup
The Backup function enables the entire database to be backed up to
the chosen location. Browse to the folder C:\Program files\Otodynamics\
Otolink and select OK.

The function creates a file with a date and time stamp in the form:
LogData_yyyymmdd_hhmmss.gbk
For example: LogData_20090302_123530.gbk is the backup file made on
3rd March 2009 at 12:35:30.
The DTA and DPG files are copied to the appropriate sub folder within the
backup location.
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Data management

8.6.2 Restore
The Restore function takes the files stored by the database Backup and
restores them to the Data Viewer database.

Confirmation is necessary before the database Restore as this function will

over-write the existing database.

8.6.3 Empty

Empty removes all tests from the Data Viewer database. The user is
required to confirm the deletion before it takes place.
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8.7 Edit details

Edit Details is selected from the right-click shortcut or from the Data
Management menu.
The Otolink Edit Details function allows test record details for a highlighted
record to be amended and additional information to be added.
Only a single test can be selected for edit, but changes made to the patient
details held for that test can be copied to the other tests held for that
patient. If multiple tests are selected, it will not be possible to select Edit.
The Edit Details screen is divided into two sections - Patient Details and
Test Details. In both sections fields are highlighted when they have been
edited.

Note:

If User Profiles is turned on, Edit is only available to users with

Admin rights (see section 2.1).
66 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

8.7.1 Patient Details

The Patient Details section lists all of the data that is common to all of the
tests for this patient.
Select Change all tests for this patient (default) to copy the changes
or additions made to all of the test records held for this patient (all tests
with the same ID and Name). Select Change for this test only if you
wish to amend details for this record alone. You may need to do this if, for
example, a test had been mistakenly saved to the wrong patient record.
There are a number of fields listed in this area which are not available on
the Otoport, but can be added here.
Users of Hi*Track will be able to select entry to some of these fields via
drop down lists (see section 8.1).

8.7.2 Test Details

The fields Ear and Tester can be edited. Changes made in this area will
apply only to the selected test.
The test date and time and the DTA filename for the selected test are also
displayed.

8.7.3 Saving edits

When you have completed your editing, select Save to confirm your edits,
or Cancel to discard them.
A message stating how many test records have been changed will be
displayed.
If you have changed the ID or Name fields and your new details match
other tests in the database, you will be asked if you wish to continue. If you
do continue, the patient details for the existing tests in the database will be
changed to match the new details you have entered.
After editing, the edited test will be highlighted unless the changes made
mean it is not available due to the current filters set.
A record of edits is available from Edit History in the Data Management
area.
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8.8 Edit History

The Edit History table shows all the edits made to the database. The
columns of the table show:
Name - Patient name prior to the edit.
ID - Patient ID prior to the edit.
Filename - Shows the filename of the test edited if changes were made in
the Test Details section or if Change for this test only was selected.
Editor - If User Profiles was on when the edit was made, the name of the
user who made the edit is stored.
Date/Time - Shows the date and time when the edit was made.
No. Tests Edited - Shows the number of test records changed by this edit.
The table is ordered by Date/Time with newest edit first.
Click on a row in the table to select an edit and show the details of it in the
boxes below the table.
Before Edit: Shows the names of all edited fields and the details of those
fields prior to the edit for the currently selected test.
68 CHAPTER EIGHT
Data management

After Edit: Shows the names of all fields and the details of those fields
after the edit for the currently selected test.

Note:

If User Profiles are turned on, Edit History is only available to

users with Admin rights (see section 2.1).

8.8.1 File Menu

The file menu provides three options:

Save to CSV - This creates a CSV (comma separated value) file containing
the whole edit history.
Purge - Asks the user to select a date and then deletes all of edit history
prior to that date.
Close - Closes the Edit History window.
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9 Otolink NOAH 4 module

9.1 Installing the Otolink NOAH module

If NOAH 4 is installed on the PC, Otolink will automatically detect this and,
when it starts, the message below will be displayed. Click OK to register
and install the Otolink NOAH module in the NOAH 4 system.

9.2 Otoport use with NOAH 4

To use the Otolink NOAH module, your Otoport will need to be enabled
for NOAH use. Otoports can be NOAH enabled at the time of purchase or
upgraded at a later date.
In order to use the Otolink NOAH module, the Otoport database needs to
be empty, so any existing data should first be downloaded and deleted from
the Otoport.
70 CHAPTER NINE
Otolink NOAH 4 module

9.3 Using the Otolink NOAH module

The Otoport should be turned off for use with Otolink NOAH and colour
Otoports are turned off automatically. Connect the Otoport to the PC.
Open NOAH, select a patient from the NOAH database and click on the
Otodynamics button (Otolink NOAH module).
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The Otolink NOAH module will open and display the patient details. If
previous tests have been conducted for the selected patient, the last test
completed is also displayed.

To load the NOAH patient to your Otoport, select Test NOAH patient.
The Waiting for Download window appears. Disconnect the Otoport from
the PC ready to test the NOAH patient downloaded. Turn on the Otoport
and the patient will be available from the Worklist area for testing.
72 CHAPTER NINE
Otolink NOAH 4 module

Important Note:

If you run the tests under a patient name not loaded from
NOAH, it will not be possible to save that data back to the NOAH
database, but the tests will be downloaded to the standard
Otolink database.

Once you have finished testing the NOAH patient, re-connect the Otoport
and the test data will be automatically loaded into the NOAH database.
The data is deleted automatically from the Otoport ready for the next NOAH
patient to be loaded.
Tests can be reviewed in the Otolink NOAH module, printed from the file
menu or buttons and reviewed in detail in the Data Review area. See
Dataviewer (chapter 5) for more details, which provides the NOAH module
functions.

Note:

The Data Viewer Data management functions are not available

in the Otolink NOAH module. Patient data management should
be conducted in NOAH 4 software.

9.4 Registration
The Otolink NOAH module can be registered and unregistered from the
NOAH menu. Unregistering the module will remove it from NOAH 4
software.

If Otolink is un-installed from the PC, it will also remove the NOAH module.
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10 About & Language

The About & Language screen lists details of Otolink and Otoport versions
and settings. If no Otoport is connected then only Otolink details will be
displayed.

Select the language you require from those available on the drop-down list.
Otolink will then be converted to the language chosen.
74 CHAPTER ELEVEN
Firmware updates

11 Firmware updates

TRAINING
REQUIRED

This area enables the Otoport to be updated with files supplied by

Otodynamics and provides service functions for the Otoport database.

Note:

This area is available only to users with Otolink Admin rights.

11.1 Updates
Important Notes:

1 Only select Update Firmware or Updates Available! if it is

necessary to re-install or upgrade the Otoport firmware. Your
dealer or Otodynamics will provide you with the necessary files
in order to do this.
2 DO NOT disconnect the Otoport during this process. A
confirmation message appears at the end, stating the process
has completed.
3 When performing firmware updates, connect the Otoport to
the PC directly, using the PC cable provided. DO NOT connect
the Otoport via a hub, as this can cause intermittency in the
firmware update process.
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4 If you print directly from the Otoport using Bluetooth (wirelessly),

please ensure that the mini printer is turned off before starting
the firmware update. You may have problems connecting to the
printer after updating if it is turned on during the update process.
The button in the Updates area shows Updates Available! if Otolink
detects a new firmware file relevant to your device. Update Firmware is
shown otherwise.
Prior to firmware update, test data should be downloaded to Otolink and
deleted from the Otoport database and the unit should be turned off.

11.1.1 Updates Available

If Updates Available is shown, then select this to begin the update.

A confirmation message will appear upon successful completion of the

firmware update.
76 CHAPTER ELEVEN
Firmware updates

11.1.2 Update Firmware

The firmware file will be provided by Otodynamics or your dealer. Copy it

onto your PC and note the location.
When Update Firmware is shown, click on the filepath folder icon,
navigate to the location of your update file and select the file.
The Existing Product version of the Otoport is shown.
Select Update Firmware to update the Otoport firmware. The new version
is displayed in a pop-up window before the update begins. Ensure the new
product version is the correct version supplied by Otodynamics or your
dealer. Select OK to continue. A confirmation message will appear upon
successful completion of the firmware update.
If you do not wish to update, select Cancel to exit the firmware area.

Note:

If the firmware update fails and subsequent attempts are

required, it is recommended that you Reset your Otoport to
factory settings (see your Otoport manual for details).
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11.2 Services

The Services functions are for technical support use only. There is no
need to use these functions unless you are explicitly requested to do so.
Format Otoport reformats the Otoport database permanently, deleting any
data held in the database. Data cannot be recovered after a format has
been performed. Format takes around three minutes to complete for black
and white Otoports, but a matter of seconds for the colour device.
Database files downloads the entire database content to PC. This
process takes around 10 minutes.
Image Otoport downloads a complete copy of the internal memory of the
Otoport.
Log Files downloads a copy of data files containing information about the
use of the Otoport.
Update Config enables Otoports to be configured for different functions.
Dealer Config enables Otoports to be setup for use by different
Otodynamics dealers.
78 CHAPTER TWELVE
User profiles

12 User profiles

Otolink can be set up so that important areas can be made secure by user
login and password protection. The downloading data function is available
to all users. The User Profiles area controls login security. Select User
Profiles to turn this function on or off or to add or edit user details.

Note:

This area is available to users with Otolink Admin rights only.

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12.1 Otolink user security

Click on the Yes or No radio buttons at the top of the screen to turn user
security on or off.

12.2 Adding and editing users

If User security is turned on the full User Profiles window will open.
To add a user enter a User Name and Password and select whether or
not the user will have Admin Rights.
Users who have Admin Rights will have access to all areas within Otolink.
Users who do not have Admin Rights will only have access to the Data
viewer, About & Language and Worklist (if available) areas of Otolink.
When the details are complete select Save User Details.
To edit a user click on the User Name in the table and then on the Edit
button. Then alter the fields below the table as necessary. When the
details are complete select Save User Details.
80 CHAPTER TWELVE
User profiles

Reset User will undo edits made to the selected user.

Note that at least one user account must have administrator privileges.
When all users are complete Close the window.

12.3 Otolink Login

When Otolink User Security is switched on, the user will be required to
login to Otolink with their user name and password. Login is required to
access the Otolink Suite, Data Viewer and the User Profiles.
Select the correct Username from the drop-down list and type the
password into the Password field.
Select Login to Otolink to enter the software. Select Cancel Login to exit
this screen.
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13 Worklist

Patient Worklist enables lists of patients to be entered on a PC before

uploading them to the Otoport. Partial or full patient details can be entered
in the worklist.
The format of the worklist will depend on the type of Otoport connected
to Otolink (some Otoports allow fuller patient details to be entered than
others). The formats have either a row per patient (fig 1) or a column per
patient (fig 2), as illustrated below.
Fig 1
82 CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Worklist

Fig 2

Entering data on a PC keyboard prior to a clinic can save time spent

entering details on the Otoport in the presence of the patient.
If there is an Otoport connected to the PC when the worklist area is opened
then any patients on the worklist held on the Otoport will be downloaded to
the PC. This list can then be edited and appended before being uploaded
back to the Otoport.
The worklist area can be opened without an Otoport connected. New lists
can be compiled and previously saved lists can be edited.
If an Otoport is connected to the PC after the worklist area has been
opened then the user has the option to merge the list on the Otoport with
the list on the PC (see Merge Selection below).
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13.1 Add a new patient

To add a new patient to the worklist select Add New Patient then enter the
details in the boxes on the right hand column (or bottom row). The current
selected and total number of patients in the worklist are shown above the
patient table.

Note:

The items in the pull down menus such as Risks and Facility
(when available) cannot be edited from within the worklist area.
These options can be changed in the Otoport Configuration
area (see chapter 15).

To edit a patient’s details select the patient in the list (using the scroll bar to
locate the record if necessary). Then edit the required fields.
To delete a patient from the worklist select the patient from the list by
checking the box at the top of the column. Then select Delete. Checking
the box at the top of the first column showing the header details will select
all the patients for deletion. The number of patients selected is shown on
the Delete button.

13.2 Worklist file management

Worklists may be saved to a file and uploaded later.

Open Worklist... recalls a file containing a previously saved worklist. You
will be prompted to locate and open an existing worklist file. The Merge
Selection window will be displayed.
84 CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Worklist

The Merge Selection area controls which patients from a saved list are
included in the current worklist. The Merge Selection function is also
used if you connect an Otoport with the worklist open. You then select
which patients from the Otoport worklist should be merged with the current
worklist.

Select which entries from the worklist file you wish to import to the current
worklist by checking the box beside the Patient ID. Alternatively, check the
box in the top left corner of the list to select all the patients for import.
The number of patients selected is shown on the Merge button. When you
have selected the patients you wish to import click Merge.
Save Worklist... saves the whole worklist to a file in CSV (Comma
Separated Value) format. You will be prompted to choose a filename
and location. CSV files can be opened and edited in other applications
such as Excel and Notepad. It is therefore possible to create worklists
independently of Otolink in this file format, but the patient details need to be
in the same order as the file created by Otolink.
When you are happy with the changes you have made to the worklist,
selecting Upload to Otoport sends the worklist to the Otoport connected.
A window with a progress bar will be displayed while the worklist is
uploaded.
If you do not wish to save the changes you have made to the Otoport click
on Close. A prompt requires confirmation that changes should not be
uploaded.
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14 Custom settings

14.1 Auto download on Connect

In this area it’s possible to automate data download from your Otoport
when you connect it to your PC and Otolink.
Turn on Auto download On Connect and when you connect your Otoport
any data on the device will automatically be downloaded to the Otolink
database, without the Data Download window appearing.
There are three options available to further customise this process. Switch
the settings to Yes to turn them on or No to turn them off.
86 CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Custom settings

Switch on New Test Only to download new data only to the Otolink
database.
Switch on Allow Delete to be given the option to erase your Otoport data
following download to Otolink.
Setting Auto Print to on will automatically print all the tests downloaded
to your configured printer or PDF output. Set print options to Customise
printouts (section 7.2).
Press Save to keep your changes or Cancel to discard them.

14.2 Action when Otolink closed

When Otolink is closed, it is possible to configure whether to completely
Shutdown the software, or to Minimise To Tray, so Otolink will be running
ready for an Otoport to be connected. If Shutdown is selected, Otolink will
need to be started by one of the Desktop shortcuts.

A further option is to configure whether Otolink automatically starts when

your PC starts. Following automatic Otolink configuration, after connecting
your Otoport for the first time, the setting is On by default. If set to Off,
Otolink will not autostart and should be started with the desktop shortcuts.
This setting is Windows user specific.
This option is not available if Shutdown is the action selected when Otolink
is closed.
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15 Otoport configuration

TRAINING
REQUIRED

The Otoport Config area allows test parameters to be set on a PC before

upload to the Otoport. Test set-ups can be saved on the PC enabling other
Otoports to be rapidly set up, or restored to the saved settings.
The Otoport Config area is divided into four sub areas: Test Modes,
Users, Facility & Risk and Other Options. Each area may be selected
by clicking on the relevant title at the top left of the screen.
When changes are complete you can Upload to Otoport, save the
configuration to a File or discard the changes by selecting Close.

Notes:

1 Otoport Config is only available on higher level Otoport models

and is not available to Otolink users without Admin Rights.
2 Some areas of the Otoport configuration cannot be changed if
there are records in the database or the worklist.
88 CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Otoport configuration

15.1 Test modes

The Test Modes area allows the user to set the parameters which are set
in the Test Setup area on the Otoport.
The test types available on your Otoport are displayed as tabs below the
Test Modes title. Click on the test type you wish to edit.
The modes available on the Otoport for this test type are displayed below
the test type tabs. Select a mode to edit from the pull down menu. A
switch next to the Mode menu allows each mode to be turned On or
Off. Modes which are On are available for selection at the start of a test.
Modes which are switched Off are not available for test.
Tabs for each of the configuration areas for the selected mode are
displayed below the mode menu.
See your Otoport manual for more details on the configuration areas. Each
parameter may be edited as required within the permitted range. The
configuration areas are set out in the same order as the Otoport test setup
area. See the Test Setup section in your Otoport manual.
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15.2 Users

The Users area controls who can use the Otoport and what functions they
can use. The Login switch in the top centre of the tab turns the Otoport
Login function On and Off.
To add a user select Add New User. Enter a Name, Password and three-
character User ID. Select whether or not the user will have Admin Rights
on the Otoport. Choose a default Location, Facility and NICU status for
the user.
To edit a user click on that user in the table and make changes to each field
as necessary.
To delete a user from the list select the user by checking the box at the left
of the row. Then select Delete. Checking the box at the top of the first row
will select all users for deletion.
Note that at least one Otoport user account must have Admin rights.
90 CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Otoport configuration

15.3 Facility & Risk

This area sets up the facility and risk factors that are available on the
Otoport. See the Otoport manual Management section for more details.
You will not be able to edit this area if there are patients in the Otoport
database or Worklist.
Facilities are set on the left of the screen.
Delete existing facilities by selecting the facility in the table and then
clicking the Delete (red X) button. Note that default facilities are included
in User details so deleting facilities may require user details to be edited.
Add facilities by entering the new Facility name and then clicking the Add
(green arrow) button. A maximum of four facilities can be listed on the
Otoport.
Risk factors are displayed on the right of the screen. Risk factors are
added and removed from the list in the same manner as Facilities. A
maximum of 15 risks can be listed on the Otoport.
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15.4 Other Options

The ID input sets the characters available when IDs are entered on the
Otoport. When adding Patient Details characters will be restricted for
Patient ID input according to the chosen format.
The Site ID is a three-letter site identifer and will be saved to each test
record. The ID cannot be changed until all data has been downloaded from
the database and the database has been cleared.
The Device ID is a six-letter device identifer and will be saved to each test
record. This could be used to give simple identification of a unit if multiple
units are used in one site.
92 CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Otoport configuration

15.4.1 DP stim cal

The calibration method used for DP stimuli above 5kHz has been
enhanced in later versions of Otoport firmware (versions 1.14.0.0 onwards
and 3.18.0.0 onwards). This enhanced calibration is on by default and DP
stim cal will show 1.
If necessary for comparison with old recorded data, the Otoport software
can be switched to use the old calibration method by setting DP stim cal
to Off. We do not recommend permanently setting the Otoport to the old
calibration method, as dBSPL values will be less accurate.

Note:

This option is only available for Otoports with DPOAE facilities.

15.5 Saving configuration changes

To upload all changes made to the Otoport configuration, select the Upload
to Otoport button at the bottom of the window. A window will indicate
progress as the new configuration is loaded.
When this window closes configuration of the Otoport is complete.
If you do not wish to save the changes you have made to the Otoport, click
on Close. A prompt requires confirmation before changes are discarded.
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15.6 Configuration File menu

The Configuration File menu is available from the top left corner of the
Otoport Configuration window.
Open From File will load an Otoport configuration file (.EEPROM) from a
location on the PC. This may then be uploaded to an Otoport.
Save to File will save an Otoport configuration to a location on the PC.
This can be reloaded to an Otoport at a later date.
Upload To Otoport will upload the configuration changes.
Close will exit the Otoport Config area. Changes to configuration will not
be loaded to the Otoport.
94 CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Otoport configuration

15.7 Configuration for Otocheck LE

The configuration section for the Otocheck LE controls access to the

configuration section on the Otocheck device. Select Off to lock access to
settings. Select On to allow users to make changes.
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16 Troubleshooting

16.1 Otolink communication problems

If Windows starts the New Hardware Wizard, or indicates that Otoport
drivers are not present, then manually install the USB drivers by following
the instructions in section 2.6.2.
Otolink installation problems can arise from a number of different areas. A
good starting point is to examine the status of the USB controllers using the
windows Device Manager with the Otoport plugged into the PC (accessed
from My Computer>Properties).
If the Otoport is not listed in Device Manager then Microsoft Windows has
not detected the Otoport hardware. USB devices are dynamically detected
each time they are connected to a PC, not just the first time of connection.
Some of the reasons that the Otoport USB will not be detected include:

Otoport is not connected to the user’s PC

Connect to the PC and check to see if Windows now detects new hardware
following the installation instructions in the Otoport manual.

The USB socket on the PC is faulty

Try another USB socket on the PC and check to see if Windows now
detects new hardware following the installation instructions in the Otoport
manual.

The USB cable being used to connect the Otoport is faulty

Try another USB cable to connect the Otoport to the PC and check to see
if Windows now detects new hardware following the installation instructions
in the Otoport manual.
96 CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Troubleshooting

User’s PC is faulty or incorrectly set up

A good check would be to connect the Otoport to another PC (ideally a
different make/brand of PC) and start the installation process from the
beginning.

Fault with the Otoport USB

A good check would be to connect the Otoport to another PC (ideally a
different make/brand of PC) and start the installation process from the
beginning. If the device is still not detected there may be an issue with the
Otoport system.
If the Otoport is listed on the Device Manager next to a yellow question
mark, it means the device drivers have not been installed properly. Ensure
the Otolink CD is placed in your CD-ROM drive then right click on the listed
Otoport device and select Update Driver. The New Hardware Wizard will
be initiated. Follow the instructions in section 2.6 to progress through the
driver installation.
If the Otoport is listed correctly on the Device Manager but does not
function then some part of the driver or Otolink software may not have
installed correctly. Try removing and then reinstalling the software drivers
or Otolink software.

Connectivity break during use

If the software loses connectivity with the Otoport, it will be necessary to
exit the program, disconnect the Otoport and wait five seconds before
reconnecting. After this, restart the program and follow the on screen
instructions.
If your problems persist, please contact your local IT Support, your
Otodynamics distributor or Otodynamics Support.
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98 CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Index

17 Index

A D
About & Language 23, 25, 73 Data review 36
Adding and Editing Users 79 Database files 77
Archive 61 Database functions 63
Ascii export 59 Data Download 22, 23, 27
Auto-export 55 Data management 53
Auto download on Connect 85 Data Management menu 46
Data Viewer 23, 25, 31
B Delete 62
Delete test data from the Otoport? 28
Backup 63 Download 22, 27, 28
Battery Charge 27 Download cable 19
Browse CD 10 DP at 80 45
DP Growth 43
DPOAE 41
C DPOAE results 40
DP stim cal 92
CD menu 10 DP threshold 45
Communication problems 95 Driver installation 14
Config 93 Duration 37, 41, 43
Configuration 25
Connecting the Otoport 19
Customisation\Printing 50 E
Ear 37, 40, 43
Edit details 65
Edit History 67
Empty 64
End Freq. 41
Export 54
Export filtered tests 54
EZ•Screen 28, 30
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F N
Facility & Risk 90 NCHAM 55
File menu 46 NHi/NLo 38, 41, 44
File name 38, 41, 44 NOAH 4 69
Finding test records 32 Noise 37
Firmware Updates 25 Noise mode 40, 43
Fit R2 45 Noise reject 37, 40, 43
Fit Size 38, 41, 44
Format Otoport 77
O
G Open EZ•Screen/V6 after Download?
28
Graph 39, 42, 45 Opening Otolink 21
GSN 38 Other Options 91
Otocheck LE 26, 94

H Otolink 8
Otolink communication problems 95
Hi*Track 55 Otolink Login 80
Hi*Track pick lists 56 Otolink NOAH 4 module 69
Otolink Suite 23, 24, 26
Otolink user security 79
I Otoport Configuration 25
Otoport Download 27
Import 62 Otoport download options 28
Installation problems 95 Otoport ID 38, 41, 44
Installing EZ•Screen/ILO V6 9
Installing PC software 8
Install Otolink 10, 11 P
Password 79
L Patient details 36
Patient Worklist 25, 81
Line fit data 45 PC specifications 8
Login 80 Print format 52
Printing 47
M Print Options 52
Print pair 49
Manuals 25 Probe ID 38, 41, 44
Protocol 37, 40, 43
Purging 61
100 CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Index

R U
Registration 72 Update Firmware 76
Reproducibility 38 Updates 74
Resolution 41 Updates Available 75
Response 39, 42 User Name 79
Restore 64 User Profiles 25
Result 37, 40, 43 Users 89
User Security 79

S
Save Configuration to File 93
V
Saving configuration to Otoport 92 Visit Website 10
Selecting a patient to view 33
Selecting individual tests 33
Services 77 W
Shortcut icons 24 Waveform 39
Shortcut printing 47 Worklist 25
Slope 45
Software 8
Start Freq. 41
Stim 38
Stim OK 41, 44
Stimulus 39, 42, 45

T
Table 39, 42, 45
Target stim 37, 40
TEOAE 37
TEOAE results 37
Test details 37, 40, 43
Tester ID 38, 41, 44
Test Modes 88
Test parameter 87
Total OAE 43
Transfer filtered tests 60
Tray icon 23