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Larson Davis SoundAdvisor 831C Reference Manual

Sound level meter
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SoundAdvisor
Model 831C
Sound Level Meter
Reference Manual

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Summary of Contents for Larson Davis SoundAdvisor 831C

  • Page 1 Larson Davis SoundAdvisor Model 831C Sound Level Meter Reference Manual...
  • Page 2 Changes and improvements to the information described in this manual may be made at any time. Safety If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Larson Davis, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. Recycling PCB Piezotronics, Inc.
  • Page 3 Module 5 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C ........5-1 Module 6 Creating a Measurement Setup .
  • Page 4 Module 18 Using 831C Sound Recording ........18-1 Appendix A Technical Specifications ................A-1 Appendix B Measuring Sound Using IEC 61672-1 .............B-1 Appendix C...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Module 1 Model 831C Features he SoundAdvisor Model 831C SLM is a Class 1 acoustic monitoring instrument with a full-color touchscreen that measures noise frequency, sound pressure level, and community and environmental sound. The “C” in 831C refers to the full-color screen. G4 LD Utility software (G4) connects your meter to your PC via USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, or TCP/IP.

  • Page 6: Applications

    2 GB internal industrial grade data memory TAKE NOTE memory can be purchased from • 240 x 320 full-color graphic LCD display with touchscreen user Larson Davis as an option. interface • Quiet Touch elastomeric keypad • Meter uses NiMH, photo-lithium, lithium-Ion, and alkaline cells; 4-AA batteries provide upwards of 8 hours operating time •...

  • Page 7: Standard 831C Package Contents

    The 831C is shipped in protective packaging. First, verify the shipment contains all parts and accessories for the configuration you selected. Retain the packaging for safe shipment for calibration service. Table 1.1 SoundAdvisor 831C Standard Package Accessory Type Available Items...
  • Page 8 Table 1.1 SoundAdvisor 831C Standard Package Accessory Type Available Items Microphones (377B02) -inch free-field (377C20) -inch random ½ ½ prepolarized microphone, 50 incidence prepolarized mV/Pa, providing performance microphone, 50 mV/Pa, providing conforming to Class 1 sound performance conforming to Class...

  • Page 9: About Serial Numbers

    1.6.1 Firmware Options 1.6.2 Hardware Options • 1.6.1 Firmware Options To purchase these The following upgrades/options are available to purchase from Larson Davis. LEARN MORE options, see “Contact Larson Davis” on page ii-2. 831C-LOG Time History data logging with periods from 2.5 ms to 24 hours.

  • Page 10: Hardware Options

    Make direct USB communication with Sierra Wireless RV50X cellular gateway. 831C-AUD Using the AudCal software from Larson Davis in conjunction with your SoundAdvisor 831C enables you to test the calibration of audiometers and sound booths. 831C-SCH Accounts and scheduling feature for G4 LD Utility.
  • Page 11 Table 1.2 Accessory Type Available Options (426E01) 1/2-inch ICP Low Noise Microphone Preamplifier (PRM2103) Outdoor microphone preamplifier (requires Options microphone preamplifier adapter (ADP074) EPS Environmental Shell Protects microphone and preamplifier from rain and wind with mounting options for pipes, poles, and most tripods EPS030-831 Weather-proof enclosure for remote noise monitoring;...
  • Page 12 Table 1.3 Cables: Extension and Interface Cables Microphone Extension CBL138 USB Cable CBL139 AC/DC Output Cable Cable: EXCXXX (shielded), where XXX is the length in feet (XXX = 010, 020, 050, 100 and 200 available) SoundAdvisor Model 831C Available Options and Accessories...
  • Page 13 Module 2 Instrument Overview his module describes the hardware and visual, and display components that enable the SoundAdvisor Model 831C to perform as a reliable and diversely competent meter for sound monitoring. In this module: Assembling Your 831C SLM ....................2-1 2.1.1 Connecting the Microphone and Preamplifier ............

  • Page 14: Assembling Your 831C Slm

    • Ground yourself so the pogo pin is not exposed to static shock. • Never use excessive force. • Gripping tightly or screwing tightly is unnecessary. • Do not remove the microphone grid cap and expose the diaphragm. FIGURE 2-1 Microphone and Preamplifier PRM831 The bottom of the microphone attaches to the top of the preamplifier.

  • Page 15: Preparing The 831C For Long Term Storage

    2.1.4 Preparing the 831C for Long Term Storage The Hardware Power Switch on the bottom of the 831C disconnects the batteries from the 831C hardware (For reference, see Figure 2-4). The real-time clock maintains its value while the switch is off. The power switch prevents battery drain when the meter is not in use for an extended period of time.
  • Page 16 read as an incorrect battery type, which may happen to fully discharged NiMH batteries. Use an external battery charger to restore charge, then install in meter. Additionally, the batteries may be too hot or too cold. The 831C is compatible with Energizer, Duracell, and other commer- CAUTION cially-recognized brands of these battery types: •...
  • Page 17 Installing Batteries The battery compartment of the 831C is on the back of the instrument. When installing batteries, always insert 4 fresh AA batteries, and observe polarity markings as shown here. Charging Batteries in the 831C Before you begin: Install batteries as shown in "Installing Batteries" on page 2-5. •...

  • Page 18: Using External Power

    Step 4 Select Save, then click Yes to confirm your choice. Batteries charge more efficiently when the meter is powered off. For details TAKE NOTE about 831C button LED indicators, see “Understanding Charging Status LED Indicators” on page 2-6. Step 5 Power the meter OFF.

  • Page 19: Understanding 831C Power Events And Indicators

    Using USB Port Power The 831C can be powered via the mini-USB Type B port with the PSA029 external power supply and the included power cable (CBL138). The mini-USB Type B connector is located on the bottom of the meter. If you operate the 831C without batteries and power is interrupted, CAUTION you may loose your data.

  • Page 20: Powering On Or Off

    Understanding a Low Power At Boot-Up Event At start up, the 831C performs a power check. If the supplied power is too low, the low power icon displays over top of the first display. For more information see Table A.3, “Low Power At Boot-Up”. 2.2.4 Powering On or Off Powering On Press and hold the ON/OFF button...

  • Page 21: Instrument Hardware Overview

    2.3 Instrument Hardware Overview FIGURE 2-3 831C Instrument Overview (front) Standard 1/2” free field or random incidence PRM831 microphone Preamplifier Release button to disconnect the preamp from the meter 240 x 320 full-color graphic LCD display with touchscreen user interface (shown with Dark color theme) Display navigation softkeys...

  • Page 22: Using The Keypad

    FIGURE 2-4 Instrument Hardware AUX connector intended for use with USB mass storage, cellular modem, GPS, headphones, speak- ers, and future devices. Hardware Power Switch when set to “ 0 ” com- pletely powers down the 831C for storage. Set to “ | ” for instrument operation.

  • Page 23: Basic Run Functions

    2.3.2 Navigating and Selecting To navigate the display on the meter, you can press directly on the touchscreen using the tip of your finger, or use the navigation buttons as shown in Table 2.1. Table 2.1 Buttons for Navigation Action Button(s) Description Top left &...

  • Page 24: Entering Text

    ( ). If needed, additional pages of measurement data are available to purchase from Larson Davis. When the 831C is first powered on, the Live tab (Page 1) is the first screen you )to navigate between tabs.

  • Page 25: About Status Bar Icons And Indicators

    FIGURE 2-5 Navigating Tabs to the Right Module 4 Using the Data For complete details on each tab and page, see LEARN MORE Display. 2.4.3 About Status Bar Icons and Indicators The status bar at the top of the screen displays the meter, measurement, connection, alert status, and battery status as shown in Figure 2-6.
  • Page 26 battery from fully charged to depleted, left to right. The bolt symbol appears over the battery icon if the battery is currently charging. External Power Icon The external power connection icon appears when the 831C is powered from an external power supply or from the USB port. WiFi Status Icon See 13.3 Using WiFi On Your 831C.
  • Page 27 FIGURE 2-7 Under Range vs. Normal Range Data Display Under Range Display Normal Range Display Values in an “under range” condition display darkly on the Live tab. OBA Overload Icon The OBA Overload icon displays while the input to the Octave Band Analyzer is overloaded.

  • Page 28: Main Menu Overview

    If the touchscreen is enabled, or if you’re operating the meter remotely, tapping the icon produces the following result: Table 2.3 Using the Measurement Status Icon Resulting Measurement State Action Measurement State Tap Once Stop Double Tap Pause Pause Tap Once Stop/Reset Tap Once Stop/Reset...

  • Page 29: Tools Menu Overview

    Access all data files on the meter or the inserted USB drive. For more information, see Module 8 Managing Measurement Data Files. Calibrate Calibrate the microphone for accurate measurement. See Module 5 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C. Setup Manager Setup measurement parameters and metrics. See Module 6 Creating a Measurement Setup.

  • Page 30: Power Control Menu Overview

    Communication Quick access to communication properties. See Module 13 831C Network and Connections. 2.4.6 Power Control Menu Overview To access the following actions on the Power Control menu, press power once. • Battery Information • Display Brightness • Power Off •...
  • Page 31 Module 3 Getting Started In this module: Operating the 831C Using the Meter Display ..............3-1 Operating the 831C Remotely .....................3-1 3.2.1 Operating the 831C from G4 LD Utility Software ..........3-2 3.2.2 Operating the 831C from the LD Atlas App ............3-2 3.2.3 Operating the 831C from a Web Browser ............

  • Page 32: Operating The 831C Remotely

    • 3.2.3 Operating the 831C from a Web Browser 3.2.1 Operating the 831C from G4 LD Utility Software Step 1 Launch the G4 LD Utility software. Step 2   Go to Help Manuals G4 LD Utility Manual. Step 3 Begin by completing the applicable processes in Module 2 Getting Started in 3.2.2 Operating the 831C from the LD Atlas App Step 1...

  • Page 33: Setting File Storage Preferences

    3.2.3 Operating the 831C from a Web Browser We recommend using G4 LD Utility or LD Atlas, but if needed you can operate your meter remotely by using a web browser. Step 1 Establish a network connection from the 831C to the Internet. For more information, see Module 13 831C Network and Connections.

  • Page 34: Using The 831C File Storage Calculator

    After a measurement ends, the meter system properties displays a dialog where you can choose to store the measurement or cancel. • Store After a measurement ends, the meter system properties automatically store the data file. Step 3 Select one of the following options from the Data Storage drop-down menu: •...
  • Page 35 Module 4 Using the Data Display he 831C takes a measurement, and simultaneously displays that same information in a variety of ways. Using the 831C tabs (select left or right) and their associated pages (scroll down and up), you can take a measurement and view the following metrics at the same time: •...

  • Page 36: Understanding The Live Tab

    by default. This allows you to view the current SPL without disrupting your measured data. Press the UP or DOWN navigation buttons to scroll up or down through the pages on the Live tab. For more The labels for sound metrics on the 831C are designated by international LEARN MORE information, look for specific standards.

  • Page 37: About The Big Digit Sound Page (Live Tab

    4.1.2 About the Big Digit Sound Page (Live Tab Page 2) The big digit display is best for observing the instantaneous sound level and for watching when the measured sound exceeds a defined trigger level. FIGURE 4-2 Live Tab: Big Digit Display Page The current value on the Big Digit display corresponds to the “Any Level”...

  • Page 38: About The Normalized Octave Band Page (Live

    4.1.4 About the Normalized Octave Band Page (Live Page 4) This page only displays when you enable the Spectral Ln feature in the TAKE NOTE measurement setup file. Similar to the regular octave band pages, the normalized band pages show octave bands (for 1/1 or 1/3) and the numerical values of the highlighted band.

  • Page 39: About The Preamplifier Interface Page (Live

    4.1.6 About the Preamplifier Interface Page (Live Page 6) Use the information on the preamplifier interface page to validate the proper operation of the meter. Figure 4-6 shows how this page’s display may differ, depending on the preamp installed. FIGURE 4-6 Live Tab: Preamplifier Interface Page Current preamplifier.

  • Page 40: About The Memory Page (Live

    Reviewing Battery States Any of the following battery states can appear on the Power Page. • Estimated battery runtime • If the meter is being powered by batteries, an estimated run- time is listed in hours. • Charger Off • The batteries are not charging.

  • Page 41: Understanding The Overall Tab

    4.2 Understanding the Overall Tab The Overall tab values include all records in the current measurement. Overall is similar to the Live tab, with an SLM page and subsequent pages showing sound data. The overall data resets when the measurement is stopped and saved, or when you press the Reset button Pages on the Overall tab become available depending on your installed TAKE NOTE...

  • Page 42: About The Octave Band Analyzer Page (Overall Page)

    4.2.3 About the Overall L Page (Overall Page) FIGURE 4-11 Overall Tab: Leq Page Metrics displayed on this page are ones you chose in the measurement setup. and the L of the overall measurement. The L (Z frequency weighting) is the overall Zpeak reading of the peak detector during the measurement.

  • Page 43: About The Normalized Octave Band Page (Overall Page)

    Table 4.2 Overall Octave Band Colors “Leq” is the average sound level of the highlighted frequency band for the duration of the measurement. is the maximum sound level of the highlighted frequency band. The maximum spectrum is determined by the Max Spec setting. Bin Max: When set to Bin Max, this value is the maximum value which occurred during the entire measurement for that frequency band.

  • Page 44: About The Ln Percentiles Page (Overall Page)

    The normalized octave band page displays the numerical values of the highlighted band. The data is then normalized using the Spectral Ln value you select in the measurement setup file. Table 4.3 Reference Spectra Options User Defined 1 2 3 4 Positive Frequency Weighting Negative Frequency Weighting -A -C...

  • Page 45: About The Exceedances Page (Overall Page)

    4.2.7 About the Exceedances Page (Overall Page) An exceedance occurs when the level defined by the current weighting and detector exceeds the Trigger Level you set in the measurement setup FIGURE 4-16 The Exceedances page has 2 L and 3 L After the exceedance During the exceedance peak...

  • Page 46: About The C Minus A Impulsivity Page (Overall Page)

    The Community Noise page displays the values LDN and LDEN which are commonly used to evaluate community noise. Since community noise metrics are based upon a full day, measurements shorter than 24 hours do not present valid data for this metric. The metric CNEL is equivalent to LDEN.

  • Page 47: About The Metrics Matrix Page (Overall Page)

    FIGURE 4-20 Sound Exposure Level Page 4.2.13 About the Metrics Matrix Page (Overall Page) FIGURE 4-21 The metrics matrix page shows all the data the meter is always measuring in one page. You can use the ENTER 5 button to move the cursor and enable more information;...

  • Page 48: Viewing Weather Related Data

    4.3 Viewing Weather Related Data Observe weather readings on the Live Tab, Overall Tab: Weather Page as shown in Figure 4-23, in the Event History Data, and in the Event Time History Data. For more information on accessing weather-related data, see the G4 LD Utility Manual from LarsonDavis.com.

  • Page 49: Understanding The Session Log Tab

    4.4 Understanding the Session Log Tab FIGURE 4-24 On the Session Log tab, the 831C creates a time-stamped record for every meter action, including Calibrate, Run, Pause, Resume, Stop, Voice Message, and Sound Recording, and others. When you store a data file or press the Reset button the session log clears and begins a new log.

  • Page 50: Enabling Or Disabling Display Tabs

    I f you need to adjust the graphic display complete the process in this section. Step 1 On the 831C, go to Menu ( )Adjust Graph. Step 2 Use the UP, DOWN ( ), and RIGHT, LEFT ( )navigation buttons to select a new Y Max and Y Min.
  • Page 51 Determining Noise Floor, Overload, and Under Range Levels ......5-1 5.1.3 Understanding Calibration Stability ..............5-2 Choosing a Calibrator ......................5-2 Reviewing the Calibration Settings ..................5-3 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C ................. 5-5 5.4.1 Calibrating While Using Meter Security (Lock Mode) ..........5-6 5.1 Understanding the Calibration Process In this section: •...

  • Page 52: Understanding Calibration Stability

    A warning appears when the difference between these two values exceeds 3 dB. 5.2 Choosing a Calibrator Larson Davis recommends the following calibrator for the 831C: • Larson Davis Model CAL200: 94/114 dB @ 1 kHz.

  • Page 53: Reviewing The Calibration Settings

    The following instances require you to enter unique correction values in the Calibration Settings tab as shown in 5.3 Reviewing the Calibration Settings. • Using a free-field microphone: For details, see the calibration data shipped with calibrator. • The calibrator and instrument are at a temperature other than room temperature (23°...
  • Page 54 FIGURE 5-1 Calibration Settings tab If your calibrator has unique values, use these fields to manually enter and save them. Sensitivity data prepopulates based on your micro- phone selection. The actual value is calculated during calibration. Step 3 Navigate to the Calibration History tab. FIGURE 5-2 Calibration History tab Every calibration is logged as an event in the Calibra-...

  • Page 55: Calibrating Your Soundadvisor 831C

    A reminder is displayed as a popup X number of days before the interval time has expired. Step 4 Press Close ( ) to save your settings. 5.4 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C Step 1 On your SoundAdvisor, press Tools Calibrate. Step 2 Choose your calibrator from the Select Calibrator drop-down menu.

  • Page 56: Calibrating While Using Meter Security (Lock Mode)

    Meter Interface" on page 11-3 Step 1 Press the Cal ( ) button to navigate directly to the Calibrate display. Step 2 Complete the calibration process as shown in 5.4 "Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C" on page 5-5. SoundAdvisor Model 831C Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C...
  • Page 57 Module 6 Creating a Measurement Setup he 831C makes measurements based on the values you save in the setup file (Setup). Setups are created, edited, and deleted using the Setup Manager. This module describes using the Setup Manager on the 831C, and guides you through the process of saving a Setup, to receive the following values and sound metrics for your measurement: corresponding to values you select for...
  • Page 58 6.2.2 Customizing Setup Values On the Setup Manager Tabs Some tabs (pages) in this section become available when you purchase and install optional firmware from Larson Davis. If a step indicates a feature that isn’t available on your meter, move on to the next step.
  • Page 59 Step 1 On the 831C, navigate to the Setup Manager File List (first page). Step 2 Highlight and select your setup file in the list ( ). The name of your setup displays in the Settings: line (see Figure 6-3). Step 3 Use the right ( ) softkey to navigate to the General tab as shown in Figure...
  • Page 60 About Using the Gain Feature When using a microphone with sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa, the input overload occurs approximately as shown in Table 6.1. Table 6.1 OBA Overload Levels Input Gain, dB OBA Range Overload Level, dB peak High High Normal Normal About Integration Methods...
  • Page 61 Enter any value from 00.01 to 99.99%. For more information, see “Ln Value” in the Appendix C Glossary on page C-1. Additionally, you can edit the Ln values and view the calculated value with a measurement in progress. Step 7 Use the right ( ) softkey to navigate to the Control tab as shown in Figure 6-7.
  • Page 62 SPL Trigger Levels: When the measured SPL (Slow, Fast, or Impulse) is greater than the trigger level you set here, the exceedance begins. The measured SPL is defined by the current weighting and detector. Peak Trigger Level: Set 3 peak levels independent of the SPL triggers.
  • Page 63 Step 13 If the weather option is enabled on your meter, use the right ( ) softkey to navigate to the Weather tab as shown in Figure 6-10. FIGURE 6-10 Setup Manager: (Optional) Weather Tab This section applies only when weather accessories are connected to the 831C.
  • Page 64 On the Control tab, there are 6 Run Modes available. Your choice determines which other settings and features are available. Click on a link below to learn about a run mode. In this section: When combined with the Using Manual Run/Stop Mode •...
  • Page 65 Using Stop When Stable Mode on-site or off-site control of a measurement Recommended for: Measures sound or noise until it changes. Strength: Step 1 Select Stop When Stable from the Run Mode drop-down menu. Step 2 Enter values for Delta (dB) and Time as stability parameters. If the parameter is detected, the measurement stops.
  • Page 66 Using Single Block Timer Mode unmonitored measurements Recommended for: One measurement automatically starts and Strength: stops at the date and time you set. Step 1 Select Single Block Timer from the Run Mode drop-down menu. a. Enter a Start (y-m-d) date and Time, and an End (y-m-d) date and Time, where Time is the time of day.
  • Page 67 6.3 Troubleshooting a Measurement Setup File Setting the LD Default measurement setup as the Active setup can clear the meter when it’s doing something unexpected and you don’t know why. Step 1  On the meter, select Menu Setup Manager. Step 2 Select Default by highlighting it, then pressing .
  • Page 68 Module 7 Making a Measurement aking a measurement on the 831C can be as simple as viewing a live reading of the area using the Big Digit display, or as sophisticated as setting it up with environmental accessories, deploying it in the field, and logging measurements when the sound level is above 80 dB over the course of many months in all weather conditions.

  • Page 69: Before You Start

    Creating a Custom Setup File On the Meter. Step 4 Calibrate the meter. For complete instructions, see 5.4 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C. 7.1.1 Position the 831C The best position for sound recording is to mount the 831C on a tripod.

  • Page 70: Performing An Area Sound Field Check

    As a result, when performing measurements in the presence of low level airflows, we recommended that you place a windscreen over the microphone and preamplifier. Larson Davis provides the WS001 windscreen, which is a 3 ½-inch diameter ball made of open cell foam.

  • Page 71: Performing The Measurement

    FIGURE 7-3 Standard Area Sound Before Measurement The time reads 00:00:00.0 on both the Live and Overall displays. (Otherwise the previous measurement was not stored or reset.) The measurement status icon is set to Stop. The live sound is steady and within range. For more detail about the information displayed here, see 4.1.1 LEARN MORE...

  • Page 72: Pausing The Measurement

    Table 7.1 (Continued)Measurement State LED Indicators Measurement State Red LED 7 Green LED 9 Waiting for valid Delayed ----* data to begin wink running To learn more about the displays and icons, see 2.4 Display LEARN MORE Elements Overview. The Measurement Range The measurement ranges over which the 831C meets the standards depends upon the selected frequency weighting.
  • Page 73 Enabling the Back-Erase Feature The back erase is visible on the Overall page, when the measurement is paused, and only after the measurement has run more than 5 seconds since the last run or resume. The back erase feature is unavailable when any of the following have been enabled in the Active setup: Pressing any other key besides the back-erase option will end the TAKE NOTE...

  • Page 74: Resetting A Measurement

    Back Erase on the Session Log The session log displays an icon to indicate data has been erased. FIGURE 7-5 Back Erase Back erase icon appears when part of the mea- surement is erased during a pause. The amount of time erased is shown in the information box.

  • Page 75: Stopping The Measurement

    7.2.3 Stopping the Measurement When you stop the 831C during a run or a pause, this stops the run clock. Resuming a run continues the overall measurement; the run clock also begins again from the time indicated when the stop occurred.
  • Page 76 Module 8 Managing Measurement Data Files ach time you manually or automatically store measurement results, a new data file is created or appended and saved to the location you specify. While the 831C has 1.8 GB of available internal memory, USB, and cloud storage options are also available.

  • Page 77: Using The Data File Manager

    Table 8.1 Auto-Store Preference and Stop Method Run Mode Type of Stop Prompt (Auto-Store) Store (Auto-Store) Stop When Stable Timer stop Prompts when stable Stores automatically Manual stop Prompts when stopped Stores automatically Single Block Timer Timer stop Prompts at timer’s end Stores automatically Manual stop Prompts when stopped...

  • Page 78: Viewing A Measurement Data File

    When a USB drive is inserted, the USB icon displays. Shows the available internal storage by default. If you insert a USB drive and set your File Storage Meter Prefer-  ence to Store (Setup Manager System Properties  Preferences), this information refers to the available USB storage.

  • Page 79: Using Load Settings

    data file icon displays in-line with the file name to indicate that you are seeing a data file and not live data. 8.2.2 Using Load Settings From a data file, you can load the measurement Setup properties used to create the data file into the Active setup. Before you begin: •...

  • Page 80: About Data File Naming Conventions

    Step 2 Highlight the desired data file, and select Menu ( Step 3 Select Create Average from the pop-up menu. Step 4 In the Data File Manager, highlight a different data file, and select Menu Step 5 Select Add to Average from the pop-up menu. Step 6 Repeat steps 4–5 until all data files you want to average have been added.

  • Page 81: Moving Or Copying Data Files To A Usb Drive

    Table 8.2 Data File Naming Conventions File Naming Run Mode Example Additional Information Convention Continuous- Stores YYMMDDXX.LD0 1610110A.LD0 The filename includes the year, Every 15 mins or 10 month, and day followed by a mins hexadecimal number that increments from 00–FF to create a unique filename.
  • Page 82 Step 5 Examine the Data File Manager to confirm the desired action. If the USB drive is removed during a measurement, the USB not available TAKE NOTE icon appears, the measurement ends, and data with that measurement is not visible on the meter. When the USB drive is reinserted, the USB caution icon appears.
  • Page 83 Module 9 System Properties his module is a reference for all SoundAdvisor™ 831C system properties and settings. In this module: Setting Instrument Identification ..................9-1 Updating the Meter Time ....................9-2 Using NTP to Sync the Meter Clock ..................9-2 Editing Power Settings ......................9-3 Setting Meter Preferences ....................9-6 Setting Localization Options ....................9-9...

  • Page 84: Updating The Meter Time

    9.2 Updating the Meter Time  On your 831C, go to Tools System Properties, press the top-right )until the Time page displays. softkey ( There are several ways that you can update the time on the meter: by using GPS, NTP servers, PC clock, or by manually setting the time. This page is designed to be manually updated.

  • Page 85: Editing Power Settings

    FIGURE 9-2 NTP Servers FIGURE 9-3 If you’ve synced with NTP and lose the Internet connection, the 831C attempts to reconnect to servers for up to 2 ½ hours. During this time the NTP icon persists. If the serv- ers cannot be reached after that time, the 831C stops trying to reconnect, and the NTP icon is removed.
  • Page 86 9.4.1 Changing Batteries and Editing the Battery Type On your 831C, go to Tools  System Properties, then press the top-right ) until the Power tab displays. softkey ( When changing batteries, the Battery Type must match the type of batteries you’re installing.
  • Page 87 Pressing the (ON / OFF) key returns the instrument and the display to the state it was in when the Auto-Off time expired. 9.4.3 Using Analog Power-Save Mode On your 831C, go to Tools  System Properties, then press the top-right ) until the Power tab displays.

  • Page 88: Setting Meter Preferences

    9.4.6 Setting the External Shutoff Voltage On your 831C, go to Tools  System Properties, then press the top-right ) until the Power tab displays. softkey ( If desired, you can customize the external shutoff voltage. When the voltage of an external battery drops below this value, the 831C shuts off to prevent damage to the external batteries.
  • Page 89 Step 2 Select a option from the Mic Correction drop-down menu. Use Table 9.1 as a reference. Table 9.1 Microphone Correction Options Option Current Microphone Simulates No Correction RI:FF Random Incidence Free-Field FF:RI Free-Field Random Incidence FF:RI 2016/8 Free-Field with EPS2106 Random Incidence FF:FF 2016/8 Free-Field with EPS2106...
  • Page 90 Step 2 Select an option from the AC Output drop-down menu, then press Close ) to save your changes. 9.5.3 Enabling the Reset Prompt Whenever you make a measurement that you don’t want to keep, you can Reset button to clear the unsaved data. When you enable Reset press the Prompting, the meter requires you to confirm your choice before clearing the data.

  • Page 91: Setting Localization Options

    The 831C LCD screen has 6 color theme options: 3 light and 3 dark. We recommend the light screens when you’re operating the meter in sunlight or outdoor settings. We recommend the dark themes for indoor or low-light use. FIGURE 9-6 Available 831C Color Themes 9.6 Setting Localization Options To access the following settings on the meter, go to Tools...

  • Page 92: Enabling Or Disabling Options

    Display Options 9.8 Enabling or Disabling Options This section shows how to enable or disable firmware options purchased from Larson Davis. Default options don’t appear in the list since they cannot be disabled. Step 1 On your SoundAdvisor 831C, go to Tools ...
  • Page 93 While this process can be completed from the meter interface as described in this section, it is most easily be accomplished in G4 LD Utility software. Before you begin: • We recommend that you use 2-Step Verification when using Google® G-mail™.

  • Page 94: Enabling Or Disabling Cloud Storage

    Step 6 Click Close ( ) to save your settings and exit the menu. 9.10.1 Enabling Alert Notifications In 831C firmware version 4.5+, this workflow is only available by using G4 LD Utility software. Email and text alert notifications are now configured as part of the user account in G4.

  • Page 95: Utilizing The Logic In Or Logic Out Feature

    FIGURE 9-9 Cloud Storage Settings on 831C Clear Queue The 831C queues alert notifications for cloud storage to send at a later time if the network connection is lost, etc. If you don’t want these older notifications to send, click Clear to delete them.
  • Page 96 When Logic Out is set to Modem, a connected modem (such as a Sierra Wireless™ cellular modem), becomes active. This connection is particularly used in conjunction with the Larson Davis NMS044/045 system. For more information, access the system reference manual from LarsonDavis.com.

  • Page 97: Choosing Preamp Heater Options

    9.13 Choosing Preamp Heater Options If a heater is detected as part of your chosen preamp, select your preference for the heater control. Step 1  On the meter, press Tools System Properties, then press the top-left ) until the Other page displays. softkey ( Step 2 Choose a setting from the Heater drop-down menu.

  • Page 98: Generating An App Password

    Step 1  On the meter, press Tools System Properties, then press the top-left softkey ( ) until the Reference Spectra page displays. Step 2 Use any of the following methods to define reference spectra values. FIGURE 9-11 Setting Reference Spectra Values Use any of the meter navigation buttons to highlight a band.
  • Page 99 Step 2 On the top navigation panel, choose Security. Step 3 On the “Signing in to Google” panel, choose App Passwords. If you don’t see this option: • 2-Step Verification is not set up on your account • 2-Step Verification is set up for security keys only •...
  • Page 100 Module 10 System Information ystem information is contained on the About Menu.  On the 831C, go to Tools About to view the following details on 3 tabs: FIGURE 10-1 About, Standards, Options Tabs SoundAdvisor Model 831C 10-1...
  • Page 101 Module 11 Managing 831C Security he SoundAdvisor 831C provides a meter lock and network security options to prevent the unauthorized use of an instrument or tampering with measurement data when operating remotely. In this module: 11.1 Using the Meter Lock ......................11-1 11.1.1...
  • Page 102 Step 2 Choose an option from the Lock Mode drop-down menu. In each lock mode option, the meter displays differently, and certain meter operations are restricted. Refer to Table 11.1 to understand which lock mode fits your measurement study needs. Table 11.1 Allowed Operations Per Lock Mode Lock Mode Available...
  • Page 103 11.1.2 Unlocking the Meter from the Meter Interface To unlock the 831C from the meter interface, follow these steps: Step 1 Tools or Press the ENTER button. Step 2 Press ENTER again to open the virtual keypad. Step 3 Enter your unlock code, then press ENTER.
  • Page 104 Step 2 Connect the instrument to your PC and G4 as shown in Section 2.1 of the G4 LD Utility Manual. (In G4, go to Help  Manuals  G4 LD Utility.) Step 3 Update your meter firmware to version 4.5 + as shown in 14.2 "Upgrading 831C Firmware by Using G4 LD Utility"...
  • Page 105 Module 12 System Utilities he System Utilities can repair or recover any file system problems. These functions are similar to what you might use to troubleshoot a hard drive.  To access these features on the 831C, go to Tools System Utilities.
  • Page 106 Module 13 831C Network and Connections his section shows how to create physical and network connections for operating the 831C remotely, and other uses. In this module: 13.1 Configuring 831C Network Connections ................13-1 13.1.1 Connecting 831C to an Ethernet Port ..............13-1 13.2 Setting Up the Meter’s Network ID ...................13-2 13.2.1 Setting a Static IP Address ..................13-2...

  • Page 107: Setting Up The Meter's Network Id

    Step 2 Connect the assembly as shown in Figure 13-1. FIGURE 13-1 831C Connected to Ethernet Port Insert the Ethernet adapter Plug in to an Ethernet port (DVX012) into the auxiliary port in a wall jack or in another on the bottom of the 831C. supported device.

  • Page 108: Connecting The 831C To An Email Server

    FIGURE 13-2 System PropertiesNetwork tab Step 3 Enter your IP, Subnet, and Gateway, and DNS addresses. Coordinate with your IT professional if you need more information. If you want the meter to return to using a unique (dynamically-assigned) IP address instead click the Disable button. Step 4 Reboot the meter for these settings to take effect.

  • Page 109: Using Wifi On Your 831C

    13.3 Using WiFi On Your 831C In this section: • 13.3.1 Connecting to a WiFi Network • 13.3.2 Using 831C as a WiFi Access Point 13.3.1 Connecting to a WiFi Network To connect the 831C to an existing WiFi network, complete the process in this section.

  • Page 110: Disconnecting A Cloud Storage Dropbox Account

    • Connect a WiFi USB adapter or USB hub (for multiple devices) to the 831C. The WiFi status icon appears in the top left. Step 1 On your 831C, go to Tools Setup WiFi. Step 2 Select Menu. Step 3 In the menu window that opens, select Set Access Point, and confirm your choice in the pop-up window.
  • Page 111 Module 14 Upgrading Software, Firmware, and Options n addition to meter operation, the G4 LD Utility (G4) is also used to install firmware and option upgrades as shown in the following processes. In this module: 14.1 Updating the G4 LD Utility ....................14-1 14.2 Upgrading 831C Firmware by Using G4 LD Utility ............14-1 14.3 Upgrading Meter Firmware Options .................14-2 14.4 Enabling or Disabling Optional Firmware ................14-3...
  • Page 112 Before you begin: • When you purchase a meter upgrade or option, you receive the firmware option file as an email attachment from Larson Davis. Save this file to your PC on the Desktop. • Power on your meter, and connect it to your PC via the USB cable (CBL138, part of the PSA029 power supply) or via TCP/IP.
  • Page 113 Step 1 In the G4 Meters Panel, connect your meter to your PC via the included USB cable or via TCP/IP. When connected, the meter icon displays in blue as one of the following connection types: Connection Types: Ethernet (LAN or other) TCP/IP via Internet WiFi Step 2...
  • Page 114 Step 2 Press the top-left or top-right softkey ( )until you see the Options screen. Step 3 Select the checkbox in-line with the option you want to enable or disable on the meter. If you have unsaved data or are currently running a measurement, the meter TAKE NOTE notifies you that a reset is needed to save the Options settings.
  • Page 115 Module 15 Using Measurement History his module shows how to use the Measurement History feature of firmware option 831C-ELA, which allows you to segment the data gathered between Run and Stop into measurement intervals. Measurement intervals are saved as individual records in a single data file. Option 831C-ELA provides exceedance-based logging analysis with manual or timed storage of statistical data and measurement history.
  • Page 116 Selecting Timed Stop Mode With Measurement History • LEARN MORE To view suggested • Selecting Continuous Mode With Measurement History applications for each run mode, see 6.2.4 Choosing a Run Mode • Selecting Single Block Timer Mode With Measurement History Selecting Daily Timer Mode With Measurement History •...
  • Page 117 FIGURE 15-1 Timed Stop Mode The measurement setup shown here makes 1 measurement history record that last 20 seconds. want enable alert notifications measurements using this Setup, see 15.1.1 "Setting Alert Notifications Measurement History" on page 15- Select a Trigger Source and Trigger Level (dB) for the alert. The Trigger Level cannot be less than 0.1 (dB).
  • Page 118 If you start the measurement at 10:10, the measurement record stores at 11:05, 12:05, and so forth. In this case, the initial measurement history record has only 50 minutes of data, while all others contain the full hour. If desired, select Cal. Check, and enter the Time of day it should occur.
  • Page 119 Selecting Single Block Timer Mode With Measurement History Enter a Start (y-m-d) date and Time, and an End (y-m-d) date and Time, where Time is the time of day. Select the Enable Measurement History checkbox. If you want to send a measurement interval exceedance alert, select your preferred method in-line with Alerts, and select a Trigger Source and Trigger Level (dB) for the alert.
  • Page 120 Recommended Next Steps • To enable alert notifications for this Setup, see • Make a measurement. For more information, see Module Module 7 Making a Measurement. • View and interpret the resulting data. For more information, see 15.2 Viewing Measurement History Data Files. 15.1.1 Setting Alert Notifications for Measurement History 15.2 Viewing Measurement History Data Files In this section:...
  • Page 121 Selected record number/Number of measure- ments Graph of Leq values for each record (interval), in sequence by time Leq and max values of the current measure- ment interval (based on highlighted position). Interval or Record # of highlighted selection Measurement duration of highlighted selec- tion Date and time measurement started Changing the Displayed Record...
  • Page 122 Module 16 Using Time History he Time History feature provides a table of metrics recorded at regular intervals according to the settings you choose, and provides a method of graphing the measurement metrics over time. This feature is active on your instrument when you purchase and enable firmware option 831C-LOG or 831C-ELA.
  • Page 123 Step 3 Check Enable Time History and select the desired time Period from the drop- down menu. Step 4 Enable the desired Time History Options. Not all options are available for every time period. Table 16.1 shows data that is displayed for each Time History Metric, depending on the Time Interval Option you select.
  • Page 124 Table 16.1 Time History Available Metrics Time Interval Options Time History Metrics 2.5, 5, 10 ms 20 & 50ms 100 & 200 ms 500 ms, 1 s, 2 s 5 s -24 h ωeq ωpeak ω ω ω ω ω ω...
  • Page 125 Step 5 Select any additional settings on the Setup Manager tabs. For more information on this process, see 6.2.2 Customizing Setup Values On the Setup Manager Tabs. Step 6 Press Close ( ) and save your Setup. Step 7 Set it as the Active setup file. Step 8 Make a measurement as shown in 16.2 Making a Time History Measurement With Sound Markers.
  • Page 126 Step 4 Press Close ( )and save the Setup. Step 5 Enter the Setup Manager, highlight the name of the Time History setup, and set it as the Active setup file. Step 6 Run a measurement and navigate to the Time History or Live tab. Step 7 Press the Menu softkey( ) and select Mark Sound Type.
  • Page 127 Viewing Time History Octave Spectra Pages If you indicated OBA metrics, the Time History tab contains multiple pages of Octave Spectra data as shown in Figure 16-4. From the Time History tab, press the up or down ( ) navigation buttons to view additional pages. Highlight, then press on each Time History page to see which values you TRY THIS...
  • Page 128 Module 17 Using Event History his module shows how to perform a measurement using Event History, a feature of option 831C-ELA. This firmware upgrade provides event-based logging analysis and event history data with manual or timed storage of statistical data and measurement history. FIGURE 17-1 Sound Event An event starts when the measured sound...
  • Page 129 The G4 LD Utility also provides a simple, file transfer-style interface for TAKE NOTE configuring, saving, and transferring Setup files to your PC or to another meter. For more information, refer to the G4 LD Utility Manual. Step 2 Highlight the name of the Setup you want to configure with Event History. If your Setup includes Continuous Run Mode on the Control tab, see TAKE NOTE Table...

  • Page 130: Setting Up The Event History Measurement

    FIGURE 17-2 Event Time History •Period The period is the duration of each time history sample during the course of an event. The Event Time History feature provides regularly logged metrics over the duration of a sound event according to the period you specify here. •Spectral Mode Enabling Spectral...

  • Page 131: Storing Event Data

    17.2 Storing Event Data Event history data can be displayed during a measurement and after it has been stopped. However, how and when measurement data is stored in a data file depends on the meter Auto-Store preference, or the Run Mode selected in the measurement setup file.
  • Page 132 FIGURE 17-3 Event History Tab Green line represents the Trigger Level Selected event number/number of events or event records The 3 events are 3 instances in which the noise level exceeded the Trigger Level for the Minimum Duration as indicated in the Setup. Event Indicator.

  • Page 133: Using Running Leq As An Event Trigger

    FIGURE 17-5 Event History Tab- 1/3 Octave Page Press to switch between the frequency graph, OBA value, or the reference. ω The highlighted band is the L eq average sound 2–3. level for the duration of the event at the selected fre- quency.
  • Page 134 Before you begin: This section explains an advanced application of step 4 in 17.1 • "Setting Up the Event History Measurement" on page 17-1. Complete steps 1–3 before proceeding. Step 1 On the Event Triggers tab, select Running Leq from one of the Trigger Source drop-down menus, and enter a Trigger Level in dB.
  • Page 135 Step 2 Edit or verify the saved values as shown in 9.14 "Setting Reference Spectra" on page 9-15. Step 3 On the 831C (or in G4), open the Setup Manager, and select your connected meter from the blue drop-down menu on the right. Step 4 From the Setup Manager file list, select the Setup you want to edit, and press ) until the Event Triggers tab displays.
  • Page 136 FIGURE 17-8 Event History with Level Triggering The yellow line indicates the event trigger level, which was set at 84dB. The Leq in this example ran for a 24 hour period using a 1 second Time History Period. FIGURE 17-9 Event History with Level Triggering and Events The bars represent events logged during the measurement.
  • Page 137 FIGURE 17-10 Event History with Dynamic Triggering 0:00:00 1:56:39 3:53:19 5:49:59 7:46:39 9:48:18 11:44:58 13:41:38 15:38:18 17:34:58 19:31:38 21:28:18 23:24:58 Background tracking level Dynamic Trigger Level The Leq is set the same as in Figure 17-8 Event History with Level Trigger- ing.
  • Page 138 About the Background Level The background sound level used with dynamic triggering is the user- indicated Ln level (Setup Manager  Ln Tab), calculated using an algorithm which includes the rise rate in dB per minute. There are 5 Dynamic Trigger Parameters options available: Table 17.2 Dynamic Response Tracking Ln...
  • Page 139 Module 18 Using 831C Sound Recording ound recordings on the 831C are often used to identify the source of loud noises during a measurement. This feature is available when you purchase and install firmware option 831C- SR. The upgrade allows you to trigger a recording and add a sound type label to the resulting measurement data using 3 methods: by creating a manual sound recording, by setting automated event-triggered recording, and by using measurement history event recording.

  • Page 140: Setting Up Markers For Sound Recording

    To enter or edit a sound type name, highlight the name field and press Step 2 When your sound settings are complete, press the Close softkey ( ), and save the Setup. Step 3 Next, set your setup file as the Active Setup. Step 4 Press the Close softkey( ), and save your Setup.

  • Page 141: Making An Automated Event Sound Recording

    FIGURE 18-2 Mark Sound Type Sound Recording Select a marker with sound recording enabled. This initiates the Pre-trigger period followed by the sound recording. Step 3 Select the checkbox in-line with a marker to start the recording. When finished, a labeled sound record displays in the data file.

  • Page 142: About Sound Recording Constraints

    Step 4 Save the Setup, set it as the Active setup file, and Close ( ) the Setup Manager. Step 5 Run a measurement and examine the resulting sound recordings. Based on the settings shown in Figure 18-3, when the measured sound is above 65 dB (SPL 1 Trigger Level) for at least 4 seconds (Trigger Time) the event recording would include 11 seconds of sound (Pre-trigger + Snapshot Time).

  • Page 143: Enabling Measurement History Sound Recording

    18.4 Enabling Measurement History Sound Recording With both 831C-ELA and 831C-SR, or 831C-MSR, firmware options installed, you can set up the 831C to automatically initiate a sound recording snapshot at the beginning of each measurement history period. Before you begin: ...

  • Page 144: Understanding Recording Settings And Sound Quality

    Step 1 Go to Tools Calibrate Settings, and reference section 5.4   Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C. The 831C automatically calculates the sound recording range based on the Peak Overload value. Step 2 Go to Tools  Setup Manager ...

  • Page 145: Sound Recording Playback

    While a WAV file requires much more space, this format preserves frequency detail best. If you plan to examine octave bands or specific frequencies of a sound recording, we recommend using the WAV format. The following table describes the approximate file size for a 60-second sound recording.
  • Page 146 Step 2 Highlight the file you want to open and press Step 3 Use the top-left softkey ( ) to display the Session Log tab. Step 4 Select a sound event from the list. This opens the sound player. FIGURE 18-7 Session Log Playback 18.6.2 Playback After Saving in G4 After the sound recording is stored, you can access it most easily from the G4...
  • Page 147 Appendix A Technical Specifications Instrument Platform ......................A-2 A.1.1 Standards Met .......................A-2 A.1.2 Supplied Microphone Specifications ..............A-2 A.1.3 Microphone Preamplifier Specifications .............A-2 A.1.4 SLM Performance ....................A-2 A.1.5 User Interface Specifications ................A-4 A.1.6 Input Specifications ....................A-4 A.1.7 USB Client Interface Specifications ..............A-4 A.1.8 USB Host Interface Specifications ...............A-4 A.1.9...

  • Page 148: Instrument Platform

    A.1 Instrument Platform A.1.1 Standards Met Safety: A.1.2 Supplied Microphone Specifications IEC 61010-1:2010: Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Model 377B02, ½-inch free-field, prepolarized condenser microphone EMC Emission: Typical Sensitivity: CISPR 11:2015 with Amend 1 (EN 55011) 50 mV/Pa (+/-1.5 dB) corresponding to -26 dB re.
  • Page 149 Table A.2 SLM Performance (Nominal Values) ≥117 ≥102 ≥120 ≥108 ≥120 ≥106 23-140 18-120 20-140 12-120 20-140 14-120 ≥114 ≥96 ≥121 ≥110 ≥120 ≥106 Linearity Range 25-140 24-120 19-140 10-120 20-140 14-120 ≥104 ≥87 ≥117 ≥104 ≥114 ≥96 36-140 35-120 23-140 15-120 26-140...

  • Page 150: User Interface Specifications

    A.1.5 User Interface Specifications • NoiseTutor • Computer with custom software using Keyboard: 13 keys, quiet elastomer touch with blue SWW-G4-SDK or SWW-G4-WIN back-lighting for measurement control and data navigation A.1.8 USB Host Interface Specifications Status Indicators: Type: USB 2.0 High-Speed, standard A connector •...

  • Page 151: Ac Performance Specifications

    A.1.10 AC Performance Specifications Pin # Description Signal Type Ground, Digital and Power Ground 0 dB Gain 20 dB Gain Supply 6, 7 Vext, External Power Input Input, +10.8 to +30 Maximum* Maximum* AC Output Output re V, 0.5 A (dB re 20 (dB re 20 Setting...

  • Page 152: Battery Specifications

    A.1.13 Battery Specifications Table A.3 Low Power At Boot-Up (Continued) Size: 4 x AA size cells (LR6) Power Power Parameters Icon Action Types: 1.5 V Alkaline, 1.2 V NiMH rechargeable, 1.5 V Level Source Photo–Lithium External < External Halts NiMH Charge Time: USB to power outlet (not PC), Shutoff boot-up meter powered OFF during charging <...

  • Page 153: Data Storage Specifications

    A.2 Model PRM831 The Larson Davis PRM831 is an electret microphone preamplifier for use with a Larson Davis Model 831 Sound Level Meter. It requires little supply current and is capable of driving 300 feet of cable. The preamplifier operates over wide ranges of temperature and humidity.
  • Page 154 Temperature Sensitivity <±0.05 dB from -40° to +80° C (14° to +176 °F) Humidity Sensitivity <±0.05 dB from 0 to 90% RH, non-condensing at 50° C (122 °F) Dimensions 12.7 mm diameter x 73 mm length (0.50" diameter x 2.88" length) Microphone Thread 11.7 mm - 60 UNS (0.4606 - 60 UNS)
  • Page 155 Table A.6 Certificate of Conformance; PRM831 Preamplifier Model: PRM831 Serial Number: 10123 Certificate of Electrical Conformance Frequency response of this model PRM831 preamplifier was tested at a level of 1 Vrms with 12pF microphone capacitance and driving a short cable. Output level at 1kHz is 0.9878 Vrms (-0.107 dBV), uncertainty 0.033 dB. Results are displayed relative to the level at 1kHz.

  • Page 156: Base Software

    A.3 Base Software A.3.1 Standards Met A.3.2 Correction Filters • Frequency response correction filters are Sound Level Standards: • IEC 61672-1:2013 Class 1, Group X available for sound field/microphone type • IEC 60651 Ed 1.2 (2001) plus Amendment 1 environmental protection (1993-02) and Amendment 2 (2000-10) Type accessories.

  • Page 157: Measurement System

    A.3.3 Measurement System Fast AFmin CFmin ZFmin Minimum Integration Method: • Equivalent level integration method can be Fast AFmax CFmax ZFmax Linear or Exponential. Maximum • Exponential integrates the output of the Impulse AImin CImin ZImin selected time weighting (Slow, Fast or Minimum Impulse) Impulse...

  • Page 158: Measurement Control

    • Time Acquired: h:m:s time the level rises above the threshold and measure the duration while above the level minus 2dB. A.3.6 Measurement Control Label Count Duration Multiple control modes provide for manual and SPL 1 0 to 99999 h:m:s.s ωƬ...

  • Page 159: Octave Band Analysis Software - Option 831C-Ob3

    A.4 Octave Band Analysis Software – Option 831C-OB3 Standards Met 1/1 Octave Center Frequencies Octave Filter Standards: IEC 61260-1:2014/Part 1, 1/1 8 Hz to 16 kHz and 1/3-octave Bands, Class 1, Group X, all filters ANSI/ASA S1.11-2014/Part 1, 1/1 and 1/3-octave Bands, 1/3 Octave Center Frequencies Class 1, Group X, all filters 6.3 Hz to 20 kHz...
  • Page 160 ≥ 108 ≥ 89 ≥ 80 ≥ 61 ≥ 102 ≥ 98 ≥ 101 ≥ 89 32 to 140 31 to 120 30 to 110 30 to 90 110 to 39 23 to 120 9 to 110 1 to 90 16.0 ≥...
  • Page 161 Table A.9 Octave Band Analysis 1/3 Octave Linearity Range ≥ 107 ≥ 90 ≥ 81 ≥ 62 ≥ 99 ≥ 97 ≥ 104 ≥ 86 34 to 140 31 to 120 29 to 110 28 to 90 41 to 140 24 to 120 6 to 110 4 to 90...
  • Page 162 Cont...Octave Band Analysis 1/3 Octave Linearity Range 0 dB +20 dB 0 dB +20 dB 0 dB +20 dB 0 dB +20 dB Gain Gain Gain (dB) Gain (dB) Gain (µdB) Gain (dB) Gain (dB) Gain (µdB) (µdB) (µdB) 2500 ≥...
  • Page 163 FIGURE A-3 Self-generated noise levels for 1/1 octave filters with direct input Direct 1/1 OBA Noise Floor 50.0 40.0 30.0 20.0 High +0dB High +20dB 10.0 Normal +0dB Normal +20dB -10.0 -20.0 -30.0 1000 10000 FIGURE A-4 Self-generated noise levels for 1/3 octave filters with PRM831 PRM831 1/3 OBA Noise Floor 50.0 40.0...
  • Page 164 FIGURE A-5 Self-generated noise levels for 1/3 octave filters with direct input Direct 1/3 OBA Noise Floor 50.0 40.0 30.0 20.0 High +0dB High +20dB 10.0 Normal +0dB Normal +20dB -10.0 -20.0 -30.0 1000 10000 OBA Measurement System Statistics are sampled every 100ms from the selected Integration Method: Follows setting for SLM OBA frequency weighting and time weighting into 0.1 Frequency Weightings: Independent of setting for...

  • Page 165: Event Logging Software - Option 831C-Ela

    A.5 Event Logging Software – Option 831C-ELA Measurement History Pa²s Sound Exposure ωE ωƬE Time Period: Selectable from 1 minute to 99 hours 59 minutes OBA Live ωeq(f) ωƬeq(f) Synchronization: Selectable to sync to time-of-day Equivalent Level clock, for periods of 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30 minutes, and Spectrum 1, 24 hours (requires 831C-...

  • Page 166: Time History Software - Option 831C-Log

    A.6 Time History Software – Option 831C-LOG Time-History Measurement System • ASmax AFmax AImax CSmax CFmax The Time History can log an abundant selection of CImax ZSmax ZFmax ZImax acoustic and non-acoustic metrics at equal time • ASmin AFmin AImin CSmin CFmin CImin...

  • Page 167: Frequency Response

    A.8 Frequency Response A.8.1 Plane Parallel To Display Screen The following data was taken using the Larson Davis Model 831 Sound Level Meter with a PRM831 preamplifier at degrees increasing by 10, starting with 0° and rotating to 250°. The frequency was measured in Hertz and ranged from ~200 Hz to 20K Hz.
  • Page 168 FIGURE A-7 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 40° 80° 120° 160° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-8 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 10° 50° 90° 130° 170° Frequency (Hz) SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-22...
  • Page 169 FIGURE A-9 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 0° 30° 70° 110° 150° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-10 Directional Characteristics 0° 350° 10° 340° 20° 330° 30° 320° 40° 310° 50° 300° 60° 290° 70° 280° 80° 1000 Hz 270°...
  • Page 170 FIGURE A-11 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone 0° 350° 10° Frequency (Hz) 340° 20° 281.84 330° 30° 320° 40° 354.81 446.68 310° 50° 562.34 300° 60° 707.95 290° 70° 891.25 1122.02 280° 80° 1412.54 1778.28 270° 90° 2238.72 260° 100° 2818.38 3548.13 250°...
  • Page 171 FIGURE A-13 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone 0° 350° 10° Frequency (Hz) 340° 20° 298.54 330° 30° 320° 40° 375.84 473.15 310° 50° 595.66 300° 60° 749.89 290° 70° 944.06 1188.5 280° 80° 1496.24 1883.65 270° 90° 2371.37 260° 100° 2985.38 3758.37 250°...
  • Page 172 FIGURE A-15 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 20° 60° 100° 140° 180° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-16 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 40° 80° 120° 160° Frequency (Hz) SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-26...
  • Page 173 FIGURE A-17 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 10° 50° 90° 130° 170° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-18 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 0° 30° 70° 110° 150° Frequency (Hz) SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-27...
  • Page 174 FIGURE A-19 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone 0° 350° 10° Frequency (Hz) 340° 20° 281.84 330° 30° 320° 40° 354.81 446.68 310° 50° 562.34 300° 60° 707.95 290° 70° 891.25 1122.02 280° 80° 1412.54 1778.28 270° 90° 2238.72 260° 100° 2818.38 3548.13 250°...
  • Page 175 FIGURE A-21 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone 0° 350° 10° Frequency (Hz) 340° 20° 298.54 330° 30° 320° 40° 375.84 473.15 310° 50° 595.66 300° 60° 749.89 290° 70° 944.06 1188.5 280° 80° 1496.24 1883.65 270° 90° 2371.37 260° 100° 2985.38 3758.37 250°...

  • Page 176: Perpendicular To Plane Of Display Screen

    A.8.2 Perpendicular to Plane of Display Screen FIGURE A-23 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 20° 340° 60° 300° 100° 260° 140° 220° 180° Frequency (Hz) SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-30...
  • Page 177 FIGURE A-24 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 40° 320° 80° 280° 120° 240° 160° 200° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-25 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 0° 30° 330° 70° 290° 110° 250° 150° 210° Frequency (Hz) SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-31...
  • Page 178 FIGURE A-26 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone Mic at n° 10° 350° 50° 310° 90° 270° 130° 230° 170° 190° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-27 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone 0° 350° 10° 340° 20° Frequency Hz 330° 30° 320° 40° 310°...
  • Page 179 FIGURE A-28 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone 0° 350° 10° Frequency (Hz) 340° 20° 330° 30° 320° 40° 310° 50° 300° 60° 290° 70° 1122 280° 80° 1413 270° 90° 1778 2239 260° 100° 2818 3548 250° 110° 4467 240° 120°...
  • Page 180 FIGURE A-30 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone 0° 350° 10° 340° 20° Frequency (Hz) 330° 30° 320° 40° 310° 50° 300° 60° 290° 70° 280° 80° 1000 1259 270° 90° 1585 1995 260° 100° 2512 250° 110° 3162 3981 240° 120°...
  • Page 181 FIGURE A-32 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 40° 320° 80° 280° 120° 240° 160° 200° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-33 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 0° 30° 330° 70° 290° 110° 250° 150° 210° Frequency (Hz) SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-35...
  • Page 182 FIGURE A-34 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone Mic at n° 10° 350° 50° 310° 90° 270° 130° 230° 170° 190° Frequency (Hz) FIGURE A-35 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone 0° 350° 10° 340° 20° Frequency Hz 330° 30° 320° 40° 310°...
  • Page 183 FIGURE A-36 Model 831 with 377C20 Microphone 0° 350° 10° Frequency (Hz) 340° 20° 330° 30° 320° 40° 310° 50° 300° 60° 290° 70° 1122 280° 80° 1413 270° 90° 1778 2239 260° 100° 2818 3548 250° 110° 4467 240° 120°...

  • Page 184: Random Incidence

    Normalized to 1 kHz at 0 degrees. FIGURE A-39 Random Incidence Randomized Frequency (Hz) A.8.4 Typical Z-Weight Frequency Response For frequency responses of the Model with the PRM2103 preamplifier, see the Larson Davis PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier Manual. SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-38...
  • Page 185 FIGURE A-40 Z Frequency Weighting, Direct Input Z Frequency Weighting, Direct Input Z Frequ -10.0 -20.0 -30.0 -40.0 -50.0 -10.0 -60.0 -70.0 -20.0 -80.0 1E-1 1E+0 1E+1 1E+2 1E+3 1E+4 1E+5 Frequency (Hz) -30.0 SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-39...

  • Page 186: Declaration Of Conformity

    A.9 Declaration of Conformity SoundAdvisor Model 831C A-40...
  • Page 187 Measuring Sound Using IEC 61672-1 B.1 Overview This appendix presents information for assessing the SoundAdvisor Model 831C according to IEC 61672-1 sound level meter functionality of the Larson Davis Edition 2.0 2013-09. B.2 Section 9.3 a) Reference Sound Pressure Level d) Periodic Testing The reference sound pressure level is 114 dB re 20 µPa.
  • Page 188 Table B.1 831C with PRM831 and 377B02 Microphone average frequency responses and corrections Required by IEC 61672-1 1678.80 0.01 -0.01 0.24 0.25 -0.25 0.25 1778.28 -0.01 0.01 0.26 0.25 -0.25 0.25 1883.65 -0.08 0.08 0.40 0.32 -0.32 0.25 1995.26 0.20 -0.20 0.43 0.63...
  • Page 189 Table B.1 831C with PRM831 and 377B02 Microphone average frequency responses and corrections Required by IEC 61672-1 12589.25 0.23 -0.23 -0.26 -0.03 0.03 0.55 13335.21 0.24 -0.24 -0.26 -0.02 0.02 1.00 14125.38 0.08 -0.08 -0.15 -0.07 0.07 1.00 14962.36 0.05 -0.05 -0.01 0.04...
  • Page 190 Table B.2 Directional Response of 3 ½-inch Windscreen 0.13 0.17 0.20 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.13 0.17 0.20 0.17 0.03 0.17 0.13 944.06 0.20 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.17 0.10 0.17 0.23 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10 1000.00 0.10 0.10 0.23 0.17 0.13 0.07 0.10...
  • Page 191 Table B.2 Directional Response of 3 ½-inch Windscreen -0.37 -0.40 -0.37 -0.50 -0.67 -0.70 -0.70 -0.83 -0.77 -0.90 -0.93 -0.77 -0.60 9440.61 -0.13 -0.20 -0.27 -0.43 -0.57 -0.57 -0.77 -0.83 -0.77 -0.90 -0.97 -0.90 -0.70 10000.00 -0.20 -0.20 -0.17 -0.40 -0.47 -0.47 -0.70...
  • Page 192 EPS 2116 Correction Test Sound Level Meter Filter (See Table A.2) Random Incidence FF:RI 2116 Free Field to Random Incidence EPS 2116 Response FIGURE B-2 Situational Correction Factors for the EPS2116 Correction Factors for the EPS2116 2.00 0.00 -2.00 -4.00 -6.00 -8.00 -10.00...
  • Page 193 266.07 0.04 -0.10 -0.06 0.20 281.84 0.05 -0.04 -0.06 0.20 298.54 0.06 -0.01 -0.02 0.20 316.23 0.10 -0.02 -0.04 0.20 334.97 0.09 -0.06 -0.04 0.20 354.81 0.10 0.00 -0.01 0.20 375.84 0.08 -0.06 -0.04 0.20 398.11 0.12 -0.03 0.03 0.20 421.7 0.11 -0.02...
  • Page 194 1778.28 0.79 0.04 0.23 0.20 1883.65 0.77 0.02 0.18 0.20 1995.26 0.85 0.10 0.17 0.20 2113.49 0.70 0.15 0.12 0.20 2238.72 0.75 0.20 0.08 0.20 2371.37 0.55 0.15 0.00 0.20 2511.89 0.72 0.12 -0.07 0.20 2660.73 0.74 0.14 -0.07 0.20 2818.38 0.77 -0.21...
  • Page 195 The electrical design of the input device to insert electrical signals into the preamplifier is a series 12pF ± 5% capacitor. The Larson Davis ADP090 is used for this purpose. The ADP090 is also use for noise floor measurements by attaching the included BNC short on the front of the ADP090.
  • Page 196 Highest Sound Pressure Level The highest sound pressure level the Larson Davis 831C is designed to accommodate at the level of overload is 140 dB. The maximum peak-to-peak voltage is 28 Vpp input through the ADP090. k) Battery Power Voltage Range The battery power supply voltage range for which the 831C conforms to this standard: 16.8 Volts maximum...
  • Page 197 FIGURE B-3 EM Field Orientation EM Field Principal Direction SoundAdvisor Model 831C B-11...
  • Page 198 Glossary C.1 Overview This appendix contains technical definitions of key acoustical and vibration terms commonly used with Larson Davis instru- ments. The reader is referred to American National Standards Institute document S1.1-1994 (R2004) for additional definitions. Specific use of the terms defined are in the main body of the text.
  • Page 199      L p t    q     -- - L avg qLog 10       Bin Max Bin Max is one of 2 choices for the Max Spec setting on the OBA Page of the Setup Manager. See also "At Lmax"...
  • Page 200 Daily Personal Noise Exposure (L EP,d It is the level of a constant sound over the Criterion Duration that contains the same sound energy as the actual, unsteady sound over a specific period. The period is generally shorter, so the sound energy is spread out over the Criterion Duration period.
  • Page 201 • Doubling of the Perceived Sound Level = (approx) 10 dB Note: The latter is frequency and level dependent, but the value “10 dB” is a good rule of thumb, especially around 1 kHz. Table C.1 shows the actual value of a specific item, such as sound power, for which the sound level is calculated.
  • Page 202 Table C.2 Sound Power Increase Linear form, non-squared units Level form Ration of Value to Exponential Form 20•Exponent Reference of Ratio 1,000 10,000 100,000 1000,000 Department of Defense Level (LDOD) The Average Sound Level calculated in accordance with Department of Defense Exchange Rate and Threshold Level.
  • Page 203 Energy Equivalent Sound Level (Leq) The level of a constant sound over a specific time period that has the same sound energy as the actual (unsteady) sound over the same period.  t   t d ------------------------- - 10Log where p is the sound pressure and the Measurement Duration (specific time period) T=T2-T1.
  • Page 204 Free Field A sound field that is free of reflections. This does not mean that the sound is all coming from one direction as is often assumed, since the source of sound may be spatially extensive. See the defini- tions of near and far fields for more detail. This definition is often used in conjunction with rever- berant field.
  • Page 205 Flat-Weighting: A filter that does not adjust the levels of a frequency spectrum. It is sometimes an alternative selection for the frequency-weighting selection. Z-Weighting: Similar to a flat-weighting curve, this is a bandpass filter with a passband from 10 Hz to 20 kHz.
  • Page 206 See “Energy Equivalent Sound Level (Leq)”, “Sound”, and “Time Weighting” Level (dB) A descriptor of a measured physical quantity, typically used in sound and vibration measure- ments. It is attached to the name of the physical quantity to denote that it is a logarithmic mea- sure of the quantity and not the quantity itself.
  • Page 207 Frontal incidence (Free Field): The microphone has been adjusted to have an essentially flat fre- quency response when in a space relatively free of reflections and when pointed at the source of the sound. Random incidence: The microphone has been adjusted to have an essentially flat frequency response for sound waves impinging on the microphone from all directions.
  • Page 208 A microphone measures what is there from any direction: Most measurements are intended to measure the sound level of a specific source, but most microphones are not directional so they measure whatever is there, regardless of source. Rules: 1. When making hand-held measurements, keep your body at right angles to the direction of the sound you are interested in and hold the meter as far from your body as possible.
  • Page 209 shorter the allowed time). The sound levels must be measured with A-frequency weighting and slow exponential time weighting. See “Projected Noise Dose” on page C-12.  –  q  L i L c 100T ----------- - 10 where T is Measurement Duration, T is Criteria Time, L is TWA, L is Criteria Level, q is exchange...
  • Page 210 Sound Exposure Level (SEL, LE) The total sound energy in a specific time period usually expressed in decibels. The following equation shows that the sound pressure is squared and integrated over a specific period of time  t   t ---------------------------- - 10Log 10 This is called the sound exposure.
  • Page 211 pressure which is 20 Micro-pascals ( Pa). There are various descriptors attached to this level depending on how the actual sound pressure is processed in the meter: Instantaneous: The time varying reading on a meter face on in a meter output due to changes in the sound pressure.
  • Page 212 Sound Speed The speed at which sound waves propagate. It is measured in meters per second. It should not be confused with sound or particle velocity which relates to the physical motion of the medium itself.  20.05 degC m sec ...
  • Page 213 Time Weighting The response speed of the detector in a sound level meter. There are several speeds used. Slow: The time constant is 1 second (1000 ms). This is the slowest and is commonly used in envi- ronmental noise measurements. Fast: The time constant is 1/8 second (125 ms).
  • Page 214 Larson Davis - a PCB Piezotronics division LarsonDavis.com P/N I831C.01 Rev N firmware version 4.5.0 ©2020 PCB Piezotronics, Inc. Worldwide Corporate Headquarters Toll-free (in the US): 888-258-3222 3425 Walden Avenue Phone: 716-926-8243 Depew, NY 14043-2495 USA USA fax: 716-926-8215 E-mail: sales@larsondavis.com...

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