The ability to measure soundwaves can be as simple as having the right hand-held device. There are any number of reasons to measure, monitor, and/or control noise levels. Whether it be industrial plants, factories, construction sites, or any number of situations, having the right tool is vital.
That is where having a decibel meter at your disposal can be invaluable. As is the case with virtually any other kind of job, the right tool can make all the different in the world. If you think that you may have need of a decibel meter in the future, this guide will help you understand how to properly use the device.
What is a Decibel Meter?
Before you run out and buy a decibel meter online, it helps to first know what the device is all about. This wonderful piece of technology is a sound pressure measuring instrument that uses (you guessed it) the decibel scale. It may also be referred to as a sound pressure level (SPL) meter, among other names.
Using a microphone, the device pics up on sound pressure deviations, converting them into an electrical signal that uses a preamplifier to make it stronger. The measured noises are then displayed on the screen using decibels (dB) and some can even show things like continuous sound level (Leq) if needed. These portable devices run on batteries and can be used for determining industrial, environmental, or machine noise levels.
How to Use a Decibel Meter
There are a few general guidelines when it comes to using a decibel meter. Make sure that you use it at a sufficient distance from any reflectors or obstacles that could interfere. Keep the microphone anywhere from 1.3-1.5 meters from the ground and make sure that the sound level meter is facing the source of the sound.
Measurements can be impacted by a number of elements, including environmental elements. Be sure to keep a detailed record of the conditions being faced that day, including the number and duration of measurements, time of day, measurement location, type of sound level meter, any weather conditions, and a description of each of the sounds.
Indoors
If you’re using a decibel meter indoors, make sure that there are no obstacles between the microphone and the source of the sound. Simply point in the direction of the sound and wait for a reading to come back.
Outdoors
If at all possible, take measurements in dry conditions. Make sure to note wind direction and speed, humidity, temperature, etc. because they can all impact your reading. For anything above 5m/s winds, consider wind protection.
Types of Decibel Meters
You are going to find that decibel meters come in two classes. Each tells you about the device’s accuracy when compared to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidelines. The class also defines the accuracy under the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards.
Type 1/Class 1. Accuracy can be more or less important depending on what the reading is for. If you are looking for a more precise reading, Type 1/Class 1 decibel meters are used for precision-grade readings. For the most part, these devices are used in places like lab testing where the environment is under stringent guidelines.
Type 2/Class 2. This type of sound level meter is far less complex. You would find these used for general noise level assessments in commercial, educational, residential, and industrial settings. They provide fairly consistent readings but aren’t necessarily delivering the pinpoint accuracy that a Type 1/Class 1 device would provide. Know what standards need to be followed before choosing a device.
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