Calibrating Your Device
- Get something with a speaker.
- Put the 2 devices at the same distance of the speaker, with the microphones facing the speaker.
- Play the calibration tone and adjust the volume so the Sound Level Meter or the calibrated phone say that the level is between 60-70 dB to use as reference.
What is a Type 1 sound level meter?
A Class 1 Sound Level Meter is a noise measurement device that meets the international standards of IEC 61672-1:2002 (or an equivalent such as BS EN 61672-1:2003). Class 1 able to measure a wider sound frequency range and meet narrower tolerances which result in a more accurate response.
What are the acceptable VU meter readings for analog audio systems?
Typically the levels considered when designing systems using a VU meter are:
- Reference level (typically +4 dBu, valid with tones only);
- Standard output level (10 dB above reference, typical peak levels);
- Clip level (6 dB above standard output level, “headroom” to allow for unusual conditions)
How does a sound level meter work?
The sound level meter consists of a calibrated microphone, electronic circuits, and a display. The microphone detects small air pressure variations associated with sound and converts them into electrical signals. The aforementioned signals are then processed using the instrument’s electronic circuitry.
Do sound meters need to be calibrated?
We often get asked, “Why do I need to calibrate my sound level meter?” The answer is simple, calibration is vital to check that your sound level meter is working properly when you measure noise.
When should a sound level meter be calibrated?
Calibration of your sound level meter by its manufacturer manufacturer is something I recommended annually. Some regulations (like the 2005 Control of Noise at Work Regulations) state that a sound level meter should be returned every two years and the acoustic calibrator every year.
What is the difference between a Type 1 and Type 2 sound level meter?
A Class 1 sound level meter is often called a ‘precision’ grade meter and a Class 2 sound level meter is a ‘general grade’ meter because of their difference tolerance levels. At the outer extremes of the frequency range, you can expect Class 1 meters to have narrower tolerances and therefore a more accurate response.
What are the different types of sound level meters?
Types. The IEC 61672-1 specifies “three kinds of sound measuring instruments”. They are the “conventional” sound level meter, the integrating-averaging sound level meter, and the integrating sound level meter.
