Vehicle Hearing Loop Amplifier System

VLAU-2 PSVAIR Compliant Inductive Loop Amplifier System for Passenger Carrying Vehicles

The Nortek VLAU-2 Vehicle Hearing Loop Amplifier System is a dual-channel audio-frequency induction loop system, also known as an AFILS, designed for passenger-carrying vehicles. It helps vehicle operators make onboard audio announcements accessible to passengers who use compatible hearing aids.

The VLAU-2 is designed for bus, coach, tram and rail replacement vehicle applications where passenger information systems need to support hearing-impaired passengers. It can be used with vehicle announcement systems, driver communication systems and Nortek audio message systems to improve accessibility across passenger areas.

Available in Cab / Saloon and Dual Saloon versions, the Nortek VLAU-2 can support different vehicle layouts, including single deck and double deck vehicles. It can be installed using perimeter loop wiring for wider passenger area coverage or with Nortek loop pads for more localised areas such as cab platforms and priority seating areas.

Vehicle hearing loop systems for accessible passenger transport

A vehicle hearing loop system helps passengers using hearing aids receive clearer audio from onboard announcements or communication systems. Instead of relying only on loudspeakers, the system transmits audio through an induction loop that can be picked up by compatible hearing aids.

For public transport operators, vehicle builders and fleet managers, this helps improve accessibility and supports compliance requirements for passenger-carrying vehicles. Nortek’s VLAU-2 system is designed specifically for the automotive and public transport environment, rather than as a domestic or building-based hearing loop product.

NORTEK VEHICLE LOOP AMPLIFIER SYSTEM (VLAU-2)

Vehicle Loop Amplifier System Brochure download

 

The Nortek VLAU-2 Vehicle Hearing Loop Amplifier System is a dual channel audio-frequency induction loop system (AFILS) product designed to facilitate full PSVAIR compliance in passenger carrying vehicles.

The VLAU-2 is designed to partner with Passenger Information Systems in order to expand the system audio to also include hearing impaired passengers using hearing aids, which enables vehicle operators to fully meet PSVAIR system compliance within in-scope Bus, Coach and Rail Replacement applications.

Available in both Cab / Saloon and Dual Saloon models a single VLAU-2 unit can cover single or double deck vehicles and is designed for use with either a perimeter loop wire for full passenger seating area coverage, or pairs of Nortek loop pads grouped for localised cab platform area or priority seating areas.

In Cab / Saloon applications typically one pair of localised loop pads are assigned to the cab / passenger boarding area to facilitate communication between the driver cab mic and passenger. The Saloon output is then assigned to cover either priority seating areas or the passenger deck seating area with audio taken from the vehicle’s onboard PSVAIR or PA system. A microphone input is provided for the driver cab area which can be controlled automatically based on signals from the vehicle handbrake.

In Dual Saloon configurations with no driver microphone requirement, a single audio input is taken from the vehicle PSVAIR system and distributed to independently controlled Loops installed on the Lower and Upper Decks. Alternatively this configuration can be used to drive single deck loops and / or priority seating configurations.

Options of either speaker tap or line level audio input options are available which make the VLAU-2 directly compatible with the majority of established PSVAIR information systems on the market today and is suitable for fitment into both new vehicle and retro-fit campaigns.

The VLAU-2 can also be used to extend the often limited integral AFILS loop range offered by some portable rapid fit systems in order to further expand the passenger audio to full seating area coverage within large single or double deck vehicles.

Speaker level inputs are hard wired via the multiway TE connector whilst Mic and Line level inputs are connected using 3-pin mini XLR plugs.

Conventional controls are provided on the front of the unit for easy installation, set up and in-service adjustments. No requirement for Apps, Software or Engineer Visits

The VLAU-2 Inductive Loop Amplifier is available in four configurations to suit different applications

VLAU-2 SC-MX  Cab & Saloon Driver Mic Input (Cab) & Speaker Level Input (Saloon)

VLAU-2 SC-IT Dual Saloon Single speaker level input feeding both Saloon channels

VLAU-2 LX-MX Cab & Saloon, Driver Mic Input (Cab) & Mini XLR Line Level Input (Saloon)

VLAU-2 LX-IT Dual Saloon. Single Line Level Mini XLR Input feeding both channels

Unlike many domestic hearing loop products used within the vehicle environment our system is designed, tested and fully warrantied for continuous operation in Automotive applications, and is CE, UKCA and E-Marked. Being dual zoned, a single VLAU-2 unit can replace two of the single output domestic products, effectively saving money on both the product cost and installation time.

A headphone output is provided to aid the installation process.

Features

    • 24 Volt DC Operation – no requirement for additional DC-DC Converters
    • Independent Dual Zone Operation – Cab & Saloon or Dual Saloon Options
    • Easy Installation and Adjustment – No requirement for apps or software
    • Cost effective – replaces the requirement for using two products with single output
    • Speaker, Line & Mic Level input configurations
    • Automatic Driver Mic activation on Cab Loop controlled by Handbrake input
    • Convection Cooled – No Fan noise or moving parts
    • Microprocessor controlled Intelligent Protection Circuits
    • Directly Compatible with most industry PSVAIR systems including McKenna and Hanover
    • Low & High Sided Inputs for external remote control (factory option)
    • Industry Standard TE Automotive Connectors
    • Rugged Mini XLR Input Connections
    • CE, UKCA and E-Mark approvals
    • Custom Wiring harness Options for Volume Users
    • Designed and Manufactured in the United Kingdom

Although designed for Automotive Use, the Nortek Inductive Loop Amplifier can also be used in commercial applications such as Counter and Kiosk installations with the addition of a suitable 24v dc Power Supply. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

For more information on the VLAU-2 Vehicle Loop Amplifier System please use the enquiry form below

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Nortek VLAU-2 Vehicle Hearing Loop Amplifier System?

The Nortek VLAU-2 is a vehicle hearing loop amplifier system designed to make onboard audio announcements and communication systems accessible to passengers who use compatible hearing aids.

What does AFILS mean?

AFILS stands for Audio Frequency Induction Loop System. It is a hearing loop system that transmits audio to compatible hearing aids, helping hearing-impaired passengers hear announcements or communication more clearly.

Which vehicles is the VLAU-2 suitable for?

The VLAU-2 is suitable for passenger-carrying vehicles including buses, coaches, trams and rail replacement vehicles. It can be configured for different vehicle layouts, including cab, saloon and dual saloon applications.

Can the VLAU-2 help with PSVAIR compliance?

Yes. The Nortek VLAU-2 is designed to support PSVAIR compliance in passenger-carrying vehicles by helping make passenger information audio accessible to hearing-impaired passengers.

Can the VLAU-2 connect to passenger information systems?

Yes. The VLAU-2 is designed to work with passenger information systems and vehicle audio systems, allowing announcements and messages to be transmitted through an induction loop system.

Can the VLAU-2 cover different areas of a vehicle?

Yes. Depending on the installation, the system can be used with perimeter loop wiring for wider passenger area coverage or with loop pads for more localised areas such as cab platforms or priority seating areas.

Is the VLAU-2 designed for vehicle use?

Yes. The VLAU-2 is designed for use in automotive and public transport environments, making it suitable for vehicle installations where reliability, accessibility and compliance are important.