What Is a Noise Level Meter?

How loud is this?

A noise-level meter, also known as a sound-level meter, is a device that measures and reports the pressure level of noise. Typically, the meter uses a microphone to pick up sound and convert it to a readable electronic signal.

Classes

Sound-level meters are available in two different classes: class 1 meters are typically used for research and industrial applications and are able to measure a wider frequency range compared with lower-cost class 2 meters.

Indicating Device

The indicating device is generally calibrated to output sound-level readings in decibels (dB), which are logarithmic units of sound intensity.

Domestic Uses

Noise-level meters are often used by consumers to measure noise levels coming from neighboring properties. They can also be used to equalize stereo systems.

Industrial Uses

These meters are often used to measure aircraft noise, in conducting noise pollution studies, or to gauge machine-made industrial noise.

Fun Fact

Although a noise level greater than 70 dB is considered unsafe for human ears, noise-level meters regularly capture levels of 110 dB at live music performances, states QuietNoise.com.

References

• EncyclopediaBritannica.com: Sound-Level Meter
• OSHA.gov: Instruments Used to Conduct a Noise Survey
• QuietNoise.com: Noise Facts