Types of telephones
There are three types of telephone devices available that allow people who cannot speak or hear to use telephones. All of these telephones include a keyboard, screen, and modem. The three types are:
- TTY: TeleTYpewriter
- TDD: Telecommunications Device for the Deaf
- TT: Text Telephone
Basic guidelines for using the telephone
To answer a TTY call: Place the telephone handset on the TTY couplers with the phone wire to your left. You and the caller will type back and forth, using GA (go ahead) to signal the other person to type and SKSK (stop keying) to end the conversation.
The toll-free Massachusetts Telephone Relay Service transmits calls between voice and TTY callers. A relay operator types your message to a TTY user and reads you the response. Relay operators are legally and professionally bound to keep all information confidential.
Mass. Relay Numbers (24 hours)
Voice to TTY: 711-0183
TTY to Voice: 711-2370