TTY (Teletypewriter)

A TTY (Teletypewriter) is a device or application used to send or receive character by character communication using Baudot signaling.

Also known as:

TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf)

Related Terms:

Direct Connect

A method of connecting a TTY directly into the phone line. When using direct connect, you can dial directly from the keyboard and use auto-answer features.

Integrated TTY

TTY functionality that has been integrated within a computer workstation. This may be found within the 9‑1‑1 telephony system or interfaced in a CAD (computer aided dispatch) system.

TTY Protocol

Refers to the use of unique abbreviations used to control the flow of conversation. The use of TTY protocols is critical to effective TTY communications. More details on the TTY Protocol are in this article.

Relevant NENA Documents
Note: To find and download the document, copy the document number (like NENA-STA-010) from below and search the NENA Standards and Documents page.

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• NENA-STA-027, E9-1-1 PSAP Equipment Standards
• NENA-STA-010, NENA i3 Standard for Next Generation 9-1-1
• APCO/NENA ANS 3.105.1-2015, Minimum Training Standard for TTY/TDD Use in the Public Safety Communications Center

External References

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What’s a TTY? What’s a TDD? What’s a relay system?