What is a TTY (or TDD)?
TTY is an abbreviation of Teletypewriter. These were originally large bulky awkward devices used by the military and later used in newsrooms all over the world. In 1964, a Deaf physicist named Robert Weitbrecht invented an acoustic coupler (a modem) that would allow a standard teletypewriter to communication over existing phone lines. For the first time since the invention of the telephone, deaf and hard of hearing individuals had access to the telephone. In the years since 1964, TTYs have become smaller, easier to use, and several new features have been added. Still, the underlying technology has changed very little. TDD is an acronym for Telecommunications Device for the Deaf. TDD is the term most often used in state and federal government services. For example, the Federal Communications Commission and the Americans with Disabilities Act regulations both use the term TDD. A TDD is simply a TTY by another name. TT is an acronym for Text Telephone. This term is rarely used. The prefer