SOUND LEVEL METERS:

VERIFICATION PROCEDURE

CONTENTS Page
1. SCOPE .................................................. 2
2. FIELD OF APPLICATION ................................... 2
3. REFERENCES ............................................. 2
4. DEFINITIONS ............................................ 3
5. TEST CONDITIONS ........................................ 7
6. SOUND CALIBRATOR ....................................... 8
7. MICROPHONE ............................................. 11
8. ELECTRICAL TEST OF THE SOUND LEVEL METER ............... 13
9. REPORT ................................................. 30
Appendix A: Tests of the overload detection characteristics. 31
Appendix B: Theoretical response to tone bursts............ 33

0. FOREWORD

The purpose of this NORDTEST method is to establish a method for routine

control measurements on sound level meters and on integrating sound level
meters.

The test method assumes that the design and construction of the sound
level meters, etc, are such that an apparatus without any defects will
fulfil the relevant IEC-standards.

During routine control measurements - performed on the sound level meters

at regular intervals 1) - it is therefore not reasonable to make a complete
test according to the standards. The present test method is simplified to
such an extent that it should be possible to perform the measurements on
a single sound level meter within a few hours.

1) The intervals between tests of sound level meters and microphones

should not exceed two years, and the intervals between tests of
sound level calibrators should not exceed one year.

published by key words classification

NORDTEST sound level meters UDC 534.61:620.1
Tekniikantie 12 verification
FIN-02150 ESPOO test method ISSN 0283-7145
FINLAND
www.nordtest.org
 - 2 -

The test method is divided into three separate tests, namely:

- Test of sound calibrator

- Test of microphone
- Test of sound level meter.

Any interaction between these parts is not tested in this method.

1. SCOPE

This document specifies test methods for control measurements on

sound calibrators and on sound level meters for measuring time-
weighted (S, F and I) and time-averaged (LACK and LEA) sound
pressure levels. The purpose of the test method is to verify,
with a high degree of probability, whether the calibrator and sound
level meter still fulfils IEC 942, IEC 651, and IEC 804, if rele-
vant, without making a complete test of all parameters specified in
the standards.

2. FIELD OF APPLICATION

This document applies to calibrators with type approval according

to IEC 942 classes 0, 1, and 2 and to sound level meters with type
approval according to IEC 651 Types 1, 1I, 2, and 2I and IEC 804
Types 1 and 2.

3. REFERENCES

IEC Standard, Publication 651 - Sound level meters

IEC Standard, Publication 537 - Frequency weighting for the measure-

ment of aircraft noise (D-weighting)

IEC Standard, Publication 804- Integrating averaging sound level

meters

IEC Standard, Publication 942 - Sound calibrators

British Calibration Service (NPL) No. 302: General criteria for labo-
ratory approval, Electrical measurements.
 - 3 -

4. DEFINITIONS

For the definitions of terms used in this method, reference should be

made to IEC Publication 50 (801): International Electrotechnical
Vocabulary (I.E.V.), Chapter 801, Acoustics and Electra-acoustics.
Certain additional terms are defined below.

4.1 Sound calibrator

A sound calibrator is a device which generates a sinusoidal sound

pressure of specified level and frequency when coupled to specified
microphone types and configurations. In order to accommodate more
than one microphone type, adaptors may be provided. For the purpose
of this document, any such adaptor shall be regarded as forming an
integral part of the sound calibrator.

4.2 Nominal value

A value of level or frequency specified by the manufacturer as cha-

racterizing a sound calibrator when used with a particular microphone
type and configuration, valid either for all sound calibrators of the
same type or for a single individually calibrated sound calibrator,
at an ambient pressure of 101.3 kPa, a temperature of 20 ºC, and a
relative humidity of 65 %.

4.3 Weighted sound pressure level

The weighted sound pressure level, in decibels (dB), is 20 times

the logarithm to base ten of the ratio of a weighted sound pressure
to the reference sound pressure. The sound pressure is weighted in
accordance with one of the frequency weightings A, B, C, or D, and
is time-weighted in accordance with characteristics S, F, I, or
Peak, the frequency and time weightings being as specified in IEC 651
and IEC 537. The reference sound pressure is 20 µPa (20 µN/m2) and does
neither depend on the frequency nor on the time weighting. When quot-
ing the weighted sound pressure level, the frequency weighting and
the time weighting shall be indicated.

Note. - The term "weighted sound pressure level", used through-out

this paper, is often abbreviated to "weighted sound level"
or "sound level" in English-speaking countries.
 - 4 -

4.4 Frequency-weighted sound pressure level

The frequency-weighted sound pressure level, in decibels (dB), is

twenty times the logarithm to the base ten of the ratio of a
frequency-weighted sound pressure to the reference sound pressure.
The reference sound pressure is 20 µPa. The frequency-weighting shall
be indicated.

4.5 Crest factor

The crest factor of a signal is the ratio of the peak value to the
rms-value measured over a specified time interval, the instantaneous
values of the signal being measured with respect to the arithmetic
mean value. The relation between crest factor and pulse duty factor
for sequences of rectangular pulses and for tone bursts is given in
Appendix A.

4.6 Level linearity

Level linearity means that the reading of the time-weighted sound

pressure levels is a linear function of the level of the input signal,
within the tolerances stated in Sub-clause 8.2.6.

4.7 Linearity range

The linearity range is defined for the integrating sound level meter
as the difference, in decibels (dB), between the upper and lower rms-
levels of continuous sinusoidal signals applied to the input within
which the linearity requirements given in Sub-clause 8.3.1 are met.

4.8 Primary indicator range

The primary indicator range of a sound level meter is a specified

range of the indicator for the time-weighted sound pressure levels
for which the sound level meter readings are within particularly
close tolerances on level linearity, as specified in Sub-clause
8.2.6.

4.9 Indicator range

The indicator range is defined for the integrating sound level meter
 - 5 -

as the range of levels, in decibels (dB), that can be indicated at

each setting of the level range control (if any). It has level
linearity tolerances equal to those within the primary indicator
range as defined in Clause 4.8.

4.10 Reference frequency

The reference frequency is a frequency specified by the manufacturer

in the range 200 Hz to 1000 Hz used for calibration of the absolute
sensitivity of a sound level meter.

Note - A reference frequency of 1000 Hz is preferred.

4.11 Reference sound pressure level

The reference sound pressure level is a sound pressure level speci-

fied by the manufacturer used for calibrating the absolute sensitivity
of the sound level meter.

Note - A reference sound pressure level of 94 dB is preferred, or,

if this level is not within the measuring range of the in-
strument, 84 dB or 74 dB.

4.12 Reference range

The reference range of a sound level meter is a range specified by

the manufacturer for calibration purposes. The reference sound
pressure level shall be included in this range.

4.13 Equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level

The equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level (also

average A-weighted sound pressure level) is defined as follows:
 -6-

where:
LAeq,y is the equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level
re 20 µPa, determined over a time interval T = t2 - 61
PA(t) is the instantaneous A-weighted sound pressure of the sound
signal
PO is the reference sound pressure of 20 µPa
Note - When, optionally, a frequency weighting other than A is used,
the frequency weighting used shall be included explicitly in
the title and the formula of the quantity, for example equi-
valent continuous C-weighted sound pressure level:

If no frequency weighting is used, the quantity is simply

called equivalent continuous sound pressure level.

4.14 A-weighted sound exposure level

The A-weighted sound exposure level is defined as follows:

$*,T= w{( ~,'*Pwf)/(P;* q)} dB

where:
is the A-weighted sound exposure level, re 4x10-10Pa2*s, deter-
LEA,T
mined over a time interval T = t2 - tl

PO is equal to 20 µPa
To is equal to 1 s
t2 2
Note - The expression PA(t)dt is the A-weighted sound exposure,
s t1
EAT*
2
The quantity (po*To) is the reference sound exposure and is
10
equal to 4x10- Pa2*s.

The A-weighted sound exposure level is related to the equivalent

continuous A-weighted sound pressure level as follows:

LEA,T= LAeq,T+ 10 lg(T/T0) dB

 - 7 -

4.15 Pulse range

The pulse range is the largest level difference in decibels (dB)

between the peak signal level of a tone burst and the rms-level
of a continuous low level signal for which the specifications given
in Sub-clause 8.3.3 are met.

4.16 Tone bursts

Tone bursts consist of one or more complete cycles of a sinusoidal

signal. For the purpose of this method the tone burst signals start
and end at a zero crossing of the waveform.

4.17 Burst duty factor

The burst duty factor of the test signal of Sub-clause 8.3.2 is the
ratio of the duration of the tone burst to the duration of a complete
cycle at the repetition frequency.

5. TEST CONDITIONS

5.1 Temperature

The mean temperature of the general laboratory area should be either

20 ºC or 23 ºC with low rates of change of temperature (less than
± 2 ºC/h). To ensure effective general control, the positioning and
control of air ducts should be designed to prevent the formation of
non-uniform areas. The range of variation about the mean must not
exceed the range in which the test equipment operates with sufficient
accuracy, ± 3 ºC about the mean will generally suffice.

5.2 Humidity

It is essential that the laboratory area be kept above the dew point
at all times; the RH should be kept between 35% and 70%.

5.3 Ambient pressure

The measurements described in this paper may be performed at ambient

pressures of common occurrence. If, however, the influence of the
 -8-

ambient pressure on the measurement result is greater than 0.1 dB,

relative to results obtained at normal ambient pressure (101.3 kPa),
the results shall be referred to this pressure.

Note - Although most acoustical measurements are influenced by the

ambient pressure, it is normally only necessary to correct
measurements of the sound pressure levels from pistonphones
for the influence of this parameter.

5.4 Environmental monitoring

Environmental monitoring equipment must be provided to record tem-

perature and humidity conditions within the laboratory. This equip-
ment may be relatively simple, provided it is stable and regularly
checked. The monitored point(s) should be representative of general
conditions within the laboratory; periodic checks, preferably with
separate equipment, should be carried out to ensure that this is so.

6. SOUND CALIBRATOR

In the present NORDTEST method the sound calibrator is regarded as a

necessary accessory of the sound level meter. The accuracy of the
sound level meter - with regard to the absolute sensitivity at the
reference frequency - is therefore dependent on the accuracy and sta-
bility of the sound calibrator used.

The measurements shall be performed at or referred to reference

ambient conditions: 20 ºC, 65% RH, and 101.3 kPa.

6.1 Sound pressure level

The measurement of the sound pressure level can, e.g. - by use of

insert voltage technique - be performed by placing the sound level
calibrator on a microphone of a specified type with known sensitivity.

6.1.1 Tolerance

The sound pressure level referred to the reference ambient condi-

tions, averaged over 20 s of operation and after any stabilizing
time specified by the manufacturer, shall not deviate from the
corresponding nominal value for each specified model of microphone
of sound level meter by more than the tolerances specified in Table 1.
 -9-

6.1.2 Stability

Fluctuations in the output level about the mean level determined in

accordance with Sub-clause 6.1.1 and measured with time-weighting F,
during 20 s of operation, after any stabilizing time specified by the
manufacturer, shall not exceed the stability limits specified in Table 1.

Table 1 Tolerance and stability limits of sound pressure level for

a specified type of microphone.

Calibrator Class 0 1 2
Tolerance (dB) ±0.15 ±0.3 ±0.5
Stability (dB) ±0.05 ±0.l ±0.2

6.2 Frequency

6.2.1 Tolerance

The frequency of the sound generated by the sound calibrator under the
reference ambient conditions, averaged over 20 s of operation and after
any stabilizing time specified by the manufacturer, shall not deviate
from the corresponding nominal value by more than the tolerances
specified in Table 2.

Note - At frequencies other than 1 kHz, significant errors due to

these frequency tolerances may result where a sound calibrator
is used to calibrate a sound measuring device operating in the
A-weighting mode.

6.2.2 Stability

Fluctuations in the frequency of the sound calibrator about the mean

value determined in accordance with Sub-clause 6.2.1 and measured using
a time-window not exceeding 2 s, during 20 s of operation and after any
stabilizing time specified by the manufacturer, shall not exceed the
stability limits specified in Table 2.
 - 10 -

Table 2 Tolerance and stability limits of output frequency.

Calibrator Class 0 1 2

Tolerance (%) ±l ±2 ±4

Stability (%) ±0.3 ±0.5 ±l

6.3 Harmonic distortion

The total harmonic distortion of the sinusoidal sound pressure shall

not exceed 3%.

Note - The measurement of harmonic distotion is optional. It is,

however, recommended, that the distortion is measured as it
may reveal wear on the moving parts of the sound calibrator.

6.4 Tone burst capability

6.4.1 Timing

The sound calibrator may be provided with a tone burst capability

or timing device. Where such a capability is provided, the manufac-
turer shall state the nominal duration of the tone burst and of the
time interval between tone bursts. The actual values of duration of
the tone burst and of the interval between tone bursts shall not differ
from these nominal values by more than 2%.

6.4.2 Other requirements

Where the tone burst capability is intended to facilitate verification

of the rms-performance of sound level meters, it shall comply with
Sub-clause S 8.2.1- 8.2.3. Where it is intended to facilitate verification
of the pulse handling capability of integrating-averaging sound level
meters, it shall comply with Sub-clause 8.3.3.

6.5 Auxilary equipment

Where a barometer or thermometer is supplied in order to facilitate

correction for the effects of changes in ambient pressure or tempera-
ture, the indications of these apparatus shall be checked at least one
point of their measuring range.
 - 11 -

The accuracy of this check shall be such that it relates to less than
half the tolerances in table 1 for the correction procedure for ambient
pressure or temperature.

7. MICROPHONE

7.1 Frequency characteristic

The free field sensitivity of the microphone shall

a be constant as
function of frequency within the tolerances stated in Table 4, page 15.

The frequency characteristics of condenser microphones can, for in-

stance, be measured with an electrostatic actuator. When evaluating
the result, consideration must be given to the free field and pressure
correction curve for the actuator frequency characteristic of the
tested microphone.

Other types of microphones may be tested by measuring them either

in free field or in a pressure chamber at the frequencies marked with
"-" in Table 3, page 14.

Note 1 - If the manufacturer prescribes closer tolerances than stated

in Table 4, the manufacturer's tolerances should be met.

Note 2 - The frequency characteristic of the microphone tested is in-

fluenced by the polarization voltage. If the measurement of
the frequency characteristic is not performed with the
microphone mounted on the actual sound level meter, it is
necessary to control whether the polarization voltage of
the sound level meter has the nominal value (even if this
should be 0 V). The tolerances should not exceed ± 5 V at
200 V polarization voltage and ± 1 V at 28 V and 0 V pola-
rization voltage.

Note 3 - The normal free field correction curves imply that the
microphone is mounted on an infinitely long cylindrical
body of the same diameter as the microphone. If this con-
dition is not satisfied with sufficient accuracy for the
actual use of the microphone, other appropriate correction
curves should be used.
 - 12 -

7.2 Sensitivity

A measurement of the microphone sensitivity shall be performed at

one frequency only (preferably at 250 Hz).

The sensitivity of the microphone should not change more than

± 0.5 dB/year.

Note - Normally the sound level meter is calibrated by its user be-
fore and after each measurement with a sound level calibra-
tor. The sensitivity of the microphone is therefore in
principle without any interest. A significant change in the
sensitivity may, however, still be important as it may be a
sign of instability in the microphone.
If the sound level meter is normally calibrated by its user
with an internal reference voltage, it is essential that the
microphone sensitivity is known and stable.

The measurement of the sensitivity can, for instance, be performed

by use of insert voltage technique by placing a closely controlled
sound calibrator of class 0 on the microphone.

7.3 Residual noise

The total acoustical and electrical noise from the microphone and
the sound level meter shall be at least 5 dB below the specified
minimum A-weighted sound pressure level.

The measurement of the residual noise can be performed by placing

the sound level meter and the microphone in an anechoic chamber
or an adequately anechoic and soundproof box and observing the
reading.

Note - This test gives information about the noise from both the
sound level meter and the microphone.

The noise from the sound level meter is mainly internal

electrical noise, but there may also be contributions of
acoustical noise, for instance, from a transformer for the
polarization voltage.

The noise from the microphone is normally due to thermal

exitation of the diaphragm. The noise increases drastically
 - 13 -

in condenser microphones if flashovers of polarization voltage

occur between the diaphragm and the back plate.

Besides testing the sound level meter, the result of the test
is of value for practical low level noise measurements as the
noise floor of the complete apparatus is measured.

If the acoustical noise from the sound level meter is with-

out any significance, the measurement of the residual noise
may be performed by soundproofing the microphone only.

8. ELECTRICAL TEST OF THE SOUND LEVEL METER

The electrical test of the sound level meter is performed by con-

trolling some of the characteristics specified in IEC 651 and
IEC 804 by means of the measurement methods stated there.

All tests shall be performed after the warm-up period for the in-
strument being tested and at the lowest adequate supply (battery)
voltage stated by the manufacturer.

The present tests concern frequency weighting, time weighting,

detector and indicator characteristics for time-weighted and time-
averaged sound pressure levels, and overload indicator.

8.1 Amplifier characteristics

8.1.1 Frequency weighting

The frequency weighting with tolerances are given in Tables 3 and ft.
For sound level meters of a given type the tolerances are identical
for all weighting characteristics.

Note 1 - If the result of this electrical test of the frequency

weighting is within the tolerances given in Table 4, the
sound level meter is regarded as meeting the specified
characteristics. The influence from the microphone and the
instrument case is normally not superimposed in the present
test. Only if the manufacturer specifies that the micro-
phone is performing part of the frequency weighting, the
frequency characteristic of the microphone shall be super-
imposed.
 - 14 -

Note 2 - If a frequency weighting is introduced with the purpose of

switching between free field and diffuse field, this fre-
quency weighting shall be measured separately.

Table 3 Frequency weighting characteristics (IEC 651 and 537).

Nominal frequency * Exact frequency *

A weighting B weighting C weighting D weighting
(Hz) (Hz)

10 10.00 -70.4 -38.2 - 14.3 - 26.6

12.5 12.59 -63.4 -33.2 -11.2 - 24.6
16 15.85 -56.7 -28.5 - 8.5 - 22.6
20 19.95 -50.5 -24.2 - 6.2 - 20.6
25 25.12 -44.7 -20.4 - 4.4 - 18.7
31.5 31.62 -39.4 -17.1 - 3.0 - 16.7
40 39.81 -34.6 - 14.2 - 2.0 - 14.7
- 50 50.12 -30.2 -11.6 - 1.3 - 12.8
63 63.10 -26.2 - 9.3 - 0.8 - 10.9
80 79.43 -22.5 -7 . 4 - 0.5 -- 9..0
- 100 100.0 -19.1 - 5.6 - 0.3 - 7.2
125 125.9 -16.1 - 4.2 - 0.2 - 5.5
160 158.5 - 13.4 - 3.0 - 0.1 - 4.0
- 200 199.5 - 10.9 - 2.0 - 0.0 - 2.6
250 251.2 - 8.6 - 1.3 - 0.0 - 1.6
315 316.2 - 6.6 - 0.8 - 0.0 - 0.8
400 398.1 - 4.8 - 0.5 - 0.0 - 0.4
- 500 501.2 - 3.2 - 0.3 - 0.0 - 0.3
630 631.0 - 1.9 - 0.1 - 0.0 - 0.5
800 794.3 - 0.8 - 0.0 - 0.0 - 0.6
- 1000 1 000 0 0 0 0.0
1 250 1259 + 0.6 - 0.0 - 0.0 2.0
1 600 1 585 + 1.0 - 0.0 - 0.1 4.9
- 2 000 1 995 + 1.2 - 0.1 - 0.2 7.9
2 500 2 512 + 1.3 - 0.2 - 0.3 10.4
3 150 3 162 + 1.2 - 0.4 - 0.5 11.6
4 000 3 981 + 1.0 - 0.7 - 0.8 11.1
- 5 000 5 012 + 0.5 - 1.2 - 1.3 9.6
6 300 6 310 - 0.1 - 1.9 - 2.0 7.6
8 000 7 943 - 1.1 - 2.9 - 3.0 5.5
-10000 10 000 - 2.5 - 4.3 - 4.4 3.4
12 500 12 590 -- 4 . 3 - 6.1 - 6.2 1.4
16 000 15 850 - 6.6 - 8.4 - 8.5 - 0.7
- 20 000 19 950 - 9.3 -11.1 -11.2 - 2.7

Nominal frequencies are as specified in IS0 Standard 266. Exact frequencies are given above to four significant figures
and are equal to 1 000 . 10jril(), where n is a positive or negative integer.
 - 15 -

Table 4 Tolerances4) on frequency weighting characteristics given

in Table 3 for each instrument type, in decibels (IEC 651).

Nominal frequency
(Hz) Type 1 Type 2

10 +3; - ∞ +5; - ∞
12.5 +3; - ∞ +5; - ∞
16 +3; - ∞ ‘+5; - ∞
20 ±3 ±3
25 ±2 ±3
31.5 ±1.5 ±3
40 ±1.5 ±2
50 ±1.5 ±2
63 ±1.5 ±2
80 ±1.5 ±2
100 ±1 ±1.5
125 ±1 ±1.5
160 ±1 ±1.5
200 ±1 ±1.5
250 ±l ±1.5
315 ±1 ±1.5
400 ±1 ±1.5
500 ±l ±1.5
630 ±l ±1.5
800 ±1 ±1.5
1 000 ±1 ±1.5
1 250 ±1 ±1.5
1 600 ±l ±2
2 000 ±l ±2
2 500 ±1 ±2.5
3 150 ±1 ±2.5
4 000 ±l ±3
5 000 ±1.5 ±3.5
6 300 +1.5; - 2 ±4.5
8 000 +1.5; - 3 ±5
10 000 +2; - 4 +5; - ∞
12 500 +3; - 6 +5; - ∞
16 000 +3; - ∞ +5; - ∞
20 000 +3; - ∞ +5; - ∞

The measurements can be performed either by using a sweep tone or by

measuring at least 10 fixed frequencies in, for instance, 1, 2, 5, -
order, in the range 20 Hz to 20 000 Hz.

The test voltage at the reference frequency should correspond to the

voltage from the microphone at the unweighted reference sound pres-
sure level, but if it doesn't, it shall be no more than 20 dB below .
this voltage.

4) Tolerances are the same for all weighting characteristics. The

tolerance shall be zero at the reference frequency.
 - 16 -

8.1.2 Level range control

When a level range control is included, it shall introduce errors

less than those given in Table 5 for all settings with reference
to a range setting specified by the manufacturer as the reference
range. The reference range shall include the reference sound pres-
sure level defined in Sub-clause 4.11, and the test shall be per-
formed on the basis of this level.

Table 5 Tolerances on level range control accuracy in various

frequency ranges, in decibels (IEC 651).

Frequency
Type 1 Type 2
(Hz)

31.5- 8 000 ±0.5 ±0.7

20 -12 500 ±1.0 -

The level range control shall be tested at 1000 Hz.

8.1.3 Residual noise

The residual noise of the sound level meter shall be measured accord-
ing to Sub-clause 7.3.

8.2 Detector and indicator characteristics for time-weighted levels

8.2.1 Crest factor capability (S)

The sound level meter, with the S detector-indicator in operation,

shall indicate the rms-value of signals with various crest factors
with errors less than shown in Table 6.
 - 17 -

Table 6 Maximum error for detector-indicator system, in decibels

(IEC 651).

Crest factor
<3 G5 < 10

1 I ±1 ±1.5
±O.5 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - ------ - - - - - - - -
1 - -

2I ±1 -
±1 ._-__-_-___------------------.----------------------------
2 - -

The rms-value of the detector-indicator system shall be tested by

comparing the indication for a continuous sequence of rectangular
pulses or for a sequence of tone bursts with that of a reference
sinusoidal signal (see Appendix A).

Note - If only one of the tests is performed, the tone burst test
is to be preferred.

The rectangular test pulses shall have durations of 200 µs and rise
times less than 10 µs. The tone burst signal shall consist of an
integral number of sine waves starting and ending at zero crossing.
The repetition frequency shall be 40 Hz.

Note - It is recommended that the sinusoidal signal has a frequency

of 2000 Hz.

The test signals shall be such that when compared with the reference
sinusoidal signal, using a device that introduces frequency weight-
ing corresponding to that in the sound level meter being tested whit-
in the tolerances given in Table 4 page 15, the rms-values shall be
equal. The C-weighting or Lin characteristic, if any, shall be used.
If the instrument has only A- or B-weighting, then only the tone
burst test shall be performed.

The test signal is fed to the electrical input of the sound level
meter, and the test is performed for the S detector-indicator cha-
racteristic or for the F characteristic, if S is not available in
the sound level meter being tested.
 - 18 -

The rectangular pulse test shall be performed using both positive

going and negative going pulses. The test shall be performed at 2 dB
below the upper limit of the primary indicator range and at intervals
of 20 dB below this level down to the lowest level that produces an
indication of more than 3 dB above the lower limit of the primary in-
dicator range.

Note - For practical reasons, it may be better to perform the test

of overload indication with rectangular pulses, see Sub-
clause 8.4.1, on this point.

8.2.2 Time weighting characteristics F and S

The time weighting characteristics of the detector-indicator shall be

such that it will respond to tone burst as specified in Table 7, and
to a suddenly applied signal with overshoot as specified in Table 8.

Table 7 Response to tone bursts (IEC 651).

Maximum response to
Tolerances on maximum response
Duration of test test tone burst referred
for each instrument type
Detector-indicator tone burst to response to
characteristic continuous signal (dB)
(see Appendix C)
1 2
(ms) (dB)

Continuous 0

+l
F 200 - 1.0 +1
-2

S 500 - 4.1 ±1 ±2
-

Table 8 Maximum overshoot, in decibels (IEC 651).

Detector-indicator
Type 1 Type 2
characteristic

1.1

1.6
 - 19 -

The onset transient characteristics of F and S detector-indicators

shall be tested using single sinusoidal bursts at a frequency in the
range 1000 Hz to 2000 Hz. For a single burst with a duration T and
an amplitude that produces an indication 4 dB below the upper limit
of the primary indicator range when the signal is continuous, the
indication for the burst signal is given in Table 7.

The overshoot for the F and S detector-indicator shall be tested

using a signal that is suddenly applied and thereafter held constant.
The maximum readings shall not exceed the final steady reading by
more than the amounts given in Table 8, when the test signal has a
frequency between 100 Hz and 8000 Hz.

When the range of the indicator is 20 dB or less, the requirement

shall be satisfied for a steady-state level corresponding to 4 dB
below the upper limit of the primary indicator range.

When the range of the indicator is more than 20 dB, the tests of
onset transient characteristics and overshoot shall be conducted
using signals that step up (i.e. suddenly increase) in amplitudes
by 20 dB. The tests shall be performed at 4 dB below the upper limit
of the primary indicator range and at intervals of 20 dB below this
level for all signals that produce an indication.

Note - For sound level meters having a digital indicator, it is

recommended that these tests be performed with the instru-
ments set to the "maximum hold" mode.

8.2.3 Time weighting characteristic I

Responses with tolerances for the I characteristic for single

burst and for a continuous sequence of bursts are given in Tables 9
and 10.
 - 20 -

Table 9 Response to a single burst (IEC 651).

Maximum response to test tone

Tolerance in decibels
Duration T burst referred to response to a
continuous signal
(see Appendix C)
Type 1 Type 2
(ms) (dB)

Continuous 0
20 - 3.6 ±1.5 ±2
5 - 8.8 ±2 ±3
2 - 12.6 ±2 No test

Table 10 Response to a continuous sequence of bursts (IEC 651).

Maximum response to test tone

Tolerance in decibels
Repetition burst referred to response to a
frequency f, continuous signal
(see Appendix C)
Type 1 Type 2
(dB)

Continuous 0
100 -2.7
20 -7.6
2 -8.8

For a single sinusoidal burst with a frequency of 2000 Hz, a dura-

tion T and an amplitude that produces a full range indication when
the signal is continuous, the indication relative to the indica-
tion for the continuous signal shall be as given in Table 9, with
tolerances for Types 1 and 2 instruments.

For a continuous sequence of sinusoidal bursts having a frequency

of 2000 Hz, a duration of 5 ms, a repetition frequency fp, and an
amplitude which produces a full range indication when the signal
is continuous, the indication of the sound level meter relative
to that for the continuous signal shall be as stated in Table 10,
with tolerances for Types 1 and 2 instruments.

The requirements of the tests with a single burst and a continuous

sequence of bursts shall be met at intervals of 20 dB below full
scale down to the lowest level which produces an indication.
 - 21 -

8.2.4 Peak mode

Optionally, the sound level meter may be equipped for measuring

peak values. For instruments of Types 1 and 2, the onset time should
be such that a single pulse of either polarity of 100 µs duration
produces a deflection no more than 2 dB below the deflection pro-
duced by a pulse having a duration of 10 ms and equal peak ampli-
tude.

The amplitude of the 10 ms reference pulse shall be such as to

produce an indication 1 dB below the upper limit of the primary
indicator range. The test shall be repeated with both positive
going and negative going pulses.

The tests shall be performed at intervals of 20 dB down to the lowest

level which produces an indication.

8.2.5 Difference between S F , I , Lea, and peak

Indications in the S, F, and I detector-indicator modes shall not

differ by more than 0.1 dB for Types 1 and 2 instruments for a steady-
state sinusoidal signal at 1000 Hz.

The indication of Leq, if any, shall not differ from the indica-
tion in the S-mode (F-mode, if S-mode is not available) by more than
± 0.3 dB for Type 1 and ± 0.5 dB for Type 2.

For the same signal the indication of the Peak mode shall be 3 dB
higher than the S-mode (F-mode, if S-mode is not available) within
tolerances of ± 0.5 dB for Types 1 and 11 and ± 0.7 dB for Type 2.

The tests shall be performed at the reference level.

8.2.6 Level linearity

The instrument shall satisfy a test for differential level linearity.

The maximum error, both inside and outside the primary indicator
range, permitted for each type of sound level meter for points sepa-
rated by 1 dB and for points separated by up to 10 dB, is given in
Table 11.
 - 22 -

Table 11 Tolerances on differential level linearity in the frequency

range 31.5 Hz to 8000 Hz, in decibels (IEC 651).

Readings Type 1 Type 2

Inside primary indicator range, points ±0.3

±0.2
separated by 1 dB

Inside primary indicator range, points ±0.4 ±0.6

separated by 1 dB to 10 dB

Outside primary indicator range, points ±0.3 ±0.4

separated by 1 dB

Outside primary indicator range, points ±1.5

±1.0
separated by 1 dB to 10 dB

The linearity of the indicator - referred to the reference level -

shall satisfy the requirements of Table 12.

Table 12 Tolerances on level linearity referred to the reference

sound pressure level in the frequency range 31.5 Hz to
8000 Hz, in decibels (IEC 651).

Readings Type 1 Type 2

Inside primary indicator range ±0.7 ±1.0

I

Outside primary indicator range ±1.0 ±1.5

I I

Note - In IEC 651, Table 12 includes errors in the level range

control. In the present NORDTEST method the errors of the
range control are not superimposed.

The test of differential level linearity is only performed with

the level range control at the reference range.

All 1 dB scale divisions in the reference range are measured, and

so controlled that the error between 1 dB divisions and between
any whole 10 dB divisions does not exceed the tolerances in Table 11.
Furthermore, they should be so controlled that the error on the
linearity relative to the reference level does not exceed the tole-
rances in Table 12.

The measurements are made at 1000 Hz.

 - 23 -

Note 1 - When the range of the indicator is more than 20 dB, the
test may be performed at 5 dB divisions only. This also
applies to the lower part of the indicator range if the
resolution of this part of the scale is poor.

Note 2 - For practical reasons it may be better to perform the test

of linearity range (Sub-clause 8.3.1) at this point.

8.3 Averaging and averaging indicator characteristics

A digital indicator shall have a resolution of 0.1 dB or better.

When a discontinuous analogue indicator is used, reduced resolu-
tion is permitted. Resolution shall be equal to or better than 0.2
dB for Type 1 instruments and 1 dB for Type 2 instruments. Because
of the low resolution, special test methods will be required in
order to demonstrate that all requirements of this method are met.

8.3.1 Linearity range

The linearity range (for both equivalent continuous A-weighted

sound pressure level and the optional A-weighted sound exposure level)
shall meet or exceed the requirements stated in Table 13.

Table 13 Minimum values for linearity ranges with tolerances rela-

tive to true linearity, in decibels (IEC 804).

Minimum value of linearity range 60 50

Tolerance ± 0.7 ± 1.0

Error in level linearity is referred to the reference level on the

reference range. The test shall be performed in the Leq-mode with
a sinusoidal signal at 1000 Hz, in 5 dB steps from the reference
level.

A sequence of tone bursts may be used for testing of linearity level

outside the indicator range at signal levels which, if continuous,
 - 24 -

would exceed the limits of the indicator range. The duration of the
tone burst shall be at least 1 ms, and the burst duty factor shall
not lie outside the range of values of Table 14. Alternatively, if
the linearity range extends below or above the indicator range, the
linearity range may be determined using suitable signals and test
points within the integrating sound level meter.

The numerical value of the linearity range shall be not more than
3 dB below the numerical value of the pulse range. It may, however,
be equal to or exceed the pulse range.

Note - If the instrument includes a manual level range control, it

is permissible to allow a reduced linearity range and pulse
range on the lowest and highest level ranges. Any reduction
shall be stated by the manufacturer and shall not exceed 10
dB. The reduction shall include the effects of the micro-
phone and preamplifier.

8.3.2 Time averaging

The indicator shall display the equivalent continuous A-weighted

sound pressure level in decibels and shall meet the requirements
in Table 14. In addition, it may also display the A-weighted sound
exposure level in decibels.

Table 14 Tolerances for time averaging tests (IEC 804).

Tolerances in decibels
Burst duty R.M.S. amplitude of an individual tone burst relative
factor of test to the r.m.s. amplitude of the continuous signal
signal expressed in decibels Type Type
1 2
Continuous 0 - -
l/10 10 ± 0.5 ± 1.0
l/102 20 ± 0.5 ± 1.0
l/1043 30 ± 1.0 ± 1.5
l/l0 40 ± 1.0 -

The time averaging test compares the reading indicated on the re-
ference range for continuous sinusoidal signals with that obtained
from a sinusoidal tone burst sequence having the same equivalent
continuous level.
 - 25 -

A continuous signal at 4 kHz is applied to the instrument to give

an indication 20 dB above the bottom end of the linearity range. A
sequence of tone bursts at a frequency of 4 kHz, whose calculated
equivalent continuous level is identical to the level of the
continuous signal, is substituted. The indication shall be iden-
tical to that of the continuous signal within the tolerances given
in Table 14.

The duration of the sequence of tone bursts shall be at least 10 s.

The duration of individual tone bursts shall be not less than 1 ms.

For instruments capable of measuring A-weighted sound exposure level,

these tests shall also be performed in the A-weighted sound expo-
sure level mode.

All time averaging tests shall be carried out using A-weighting.

Note - The systematic effect of this weighting on the rms-level

is below 0.1 dB for all burst duty factors in Table 14 and
is ignored.

For a duration of the 4 kHz tone bursts of 1 ms, Table 15 may be

applied for the test.

Table 15 Examples of nominal LAeq- and LEA-values, test signals and

integration periods for 1 ms tone burst. The rms-amplitude
of the individual bursts are given in Table 14.

Burst Burst repeti- Integration Nominal LAeq Nominal LEA dB re

luty tion time perioda, s dB re conti- LAeq of continuous
factor nuous signal signal

Continuous 15 0 11.8
1/10 10 ms 15 0 11.8
l/102 100 ms 15 0 11.8
l/103 1 s 3ob 0 14.8
l/104 10 s 6OC 0 17.8

a The timing of the integration period shall be accurate within ±2%

to give errors less than ±0.1 dB.

b Exactly 30 bursts shall be included.

c Exactly 6 bursts shall be included.

 - 26 -

For instruments, whose linearity range is more than 20 dB greater

than their pulse range, the test shall be repeated at a level for
the continuous signal equal to the upper limit of the linearity
range minus the pulse range given in Table 16 or at a level just
below overload condition.

8.3.3 Pulse range

The pulse range shall be specified by the manufacturer and meet at

least the requirements in Table 16.

Note - If the instrument includes a manual level range control,

reduced pulse range is permissible, see Note in Sub-clause
8.3.1.

Table 16 Minimum values for pulse range with tolerances, in deci-

bels (IEC 804).

Tolerance, burst duration < 10 ms but L 1 ms ±2.2 ±2.5

Tolerance, burst duration 110 ms

Note - The tolerances for the pulse range refer to the deviations
from the theoretical value.

An ideal integrating sound level meter will only be limited in pulse

handling capability by the limit imposed at the upper end of the
linearity range. It will measure short duration, impulsive or dis-
continuous signals as accurately as signals that are continuous or
only slowly varying. The following tests ensure that this ideal
characteristic will be met within certain tolerance limits.

Testing is achieved by applying a single short duration tone burst

at a frequency of 4 kHz during a predetermined integration period,
for example 10 s, superimposed upon a low level continuous sinusoi-
dal signal at a level corresponding to the lower limit of the
 - 27 -

linearity range. Timing of the integration period shall be within 2%.

The low level continuous signal and the tone burst shall be in phase
with one another. The test shall be conducted on the reference range
using tone burst durations ranging from 1 ms to 1 s.

The test shall be performed with a peak level of the tone burst
which exceeds the rms-level of the continuous signal by the number
of decibels specified in Table 16.

At no peak level of the tone bursts during this test shall the in-
dicated value deviate from the theoretical value of the equivalent
continuous level of the test signal by more than the tolerances
specified in Table 16.

The equivalent continuous level of the test signal shall be calcu-

lated from the amplitude and duration of the tone burst, the ampli-
tude of the continuous signal, and the integration time interval.
It is recommended that tests be conducted with burst durations of
1 ms, 10 ms, 100 ms, and 1 s, for which the theoretical equivalent
continuous levels are given in Table 17, for the pulse ranges speci-
fied in Table 16 and an integration time interval of 10 s.

Table 17 Examples of theoretical equivalent continuous levels, in

decibels of test signals relative to rms-level of conti-
nuous signal alone for an integration time interval of
10 s. The theoretical LEA- levels are 10 dB higher than
the stated levels for LAeq (IEC 804).

Peak level of the tone burst relative to the

r.m.s. level of the continuous signal in 63 53
decibels*
I

1 ms 20 10.4 *k

10ms 30 20
Tone burst duration
100ms i 40 30

1s 50 40

** The increase from IO to 10.4 is due to the continuous low level

signal.

+ These relative peak levels correspond to the minimum values of the

pulse range, as specified in Table I4
 - 28 -

For instruments, whose linearity range is more than 20 dB greater

than their pulse range, the test shall be repeated at a level for
the continuous signal equal to the upper limit of the linearity range
minus the pulse range given in Table 16.

For instruments capable of measuring A-weighted sound exposure level,

these pulse duration tests shall also be performed with the instru-
ment set to the A-weighted sound exposure level mode.

8.3.4 Timing accuracy

An integrating sound level meter may be equipped to measure and

display the time elapsed since the beginning of an integration or
to permit presetting of a desired integrating period. If timing
facilities are included, they shall measure to an accuracy of 1%
or better.

Tests of timing facilities shall be performed at two averaging

times of the following: 10 s, 1 min., 5 min., 10 min.

8.4 Tests of overload indicators

Overload indicators for the time-weighted (S, F, or I) sound pressure

levels shall indicate excess of the crest factor capacity and occur-
rence of overloading the input stages by strong low frequency com-
ponents.

When overload detectors for the time-weighted sound pressure level

are included, one of the tests described in Sub-clause 8.4.1 and
8.4.3 shall be performed.

Overload indicators for the time-averaged sound pressure levels shall

provide a latched indication if an overload condition has existed
during any part of the integration period. The overload indication
shall be reset only by re-initiation of the computation of an
equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level or an A-
weighted sound exposure level.

The overload indicator for time-averaged sound pressure levels shall

be tested in accordance with Sub-clauses 8.4.2 (tone burst test) and,
 - 29 -

if appropriate, the optinal 8.4.3 (test of overload of input stage

of strong low frequency components).

8.4.1 Test with rectangular pulses

An overload indication shall occur for rectangular pulses when the

indication of the instrument deviates by more than the tolerances
given in Table 6 page 17, for the various crest factor test signals
(see Appendix A). The testing shall be performed 2 dB below the upper
limit of the primary indicator range.

8.4.2 Test with 4 kHz tone bursts

The overload indicator shall be checked at the same time as the per-
formance of the pulse test described in Sub-clause 8.3.3.

The overload indicator is checked by a 1 ms burst of 4 kHz signal.

The amplitude of the tone burst is increased in steps of 1 dB until
overload indication occurs. When the first overload indication occurs,
the peak level of the 1 ms burst and the deviation from the nominal

Leq shall be stated in the test report.

8.4.3 Test with A-weighting

This test applies only to instruments that have the frequency weight-
ing characteristic A. The instrument shall be set to A-weighting and
the microphone cartridge replaced by an electrical impedance equal
to that of the microphone. A sinusoidal signal of frequency 1000 Hz
shall be applied to the instrument through this impedance with an
amplitude which gives a reading of 5 dB below that of the maximum
A-weighted sound pressure level which the instrument is designed to
measure. When applicable, dual independently adjustable level range
controls shall be set according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The frequency of the input signal shall then be lowered in steps to
20 Hz while the amplitude is simultaneously raised by multiples
corresponding to the inverse of the A-weighting characteristic given
in Table 3 page 14. If, at any frequency, the indication of the
instrument deviates from its initial value at 1000 Hz by more than
the tolerance (in practice, the lower tolerance) given in Table 4
page 15, for the corresponding frequency, a clear overload indica-
tion shall occur.
 - 30 -

9. REPORT

The report should contain information on:

The testing laboratory: - Name of laboratory

- Name of the operator

The test conditions: - Date, temperature, humidity, and atmos-

pheric pressure during the measurements
- Make and type of test instrumentation, the
calibration date, and traceability for the
test equipment

The test specimen: - Type and serial numbers

Results of measurements: - All characteristics measured

- The accuracy of the performed measurements
- A conclusion of whether the tested specimens
were within the tolerances stated.
 - 31 -

Appendix A

TESTS OF THE OVERLOAD AND DETECTION CHARACTERISTICS

Tests of the overload and detection characteristics of the instrument

for compliance with Clause 8.2 and 8.3 are carried out with rectangu-
lar pulse sequences and with tone bursts as described in Clauses Al
and A2 respectively.

Al. Rectangular pulse test

Instrument under test

2000 Hz

* The zero of the amplitude scale is taken as the arithmetic mean value of the waveform.

Fig. Al. Measuring setup for test of overload and detector

characteristics.

Apply the 2000 Hz sinusoidal signal to the instrument under test and
simultaneously to a reference system having a true r.m.s. response
and a frequency weighting network N, corresponding to that in the
sound level meter being tested. Note the indication of the reference
meter.

Apply the rectangular pulse sequence and adjust its amplitude to give
an indication on the reference r.m.s. meter identical to that for the
sinusoidal signal. The instrument under test shall then give an indi-
cation within the tolerances specified in this standard.
 - 32 -

For the rectangular pulse shown, the relation between crest factor
(G/u) and pulse duty factor (ti/T) is given by:

where:

G is the peak value of the signal, the instantaneous value being

measured with reference to the arithmetic mean (see Sub-clause 4.2)

u is the r.m.s. value of the signal, the instantaneous value being

measured with reference to the arithmetic mean (see Sub-clause 4.2)

T is the fundamental period of the signal

ti is the time during which the siganl is at its peak value XT.

A2. Tone burst test

The rectangular pulse generator in Clause Al is replaced by a tone

burst generator and the procedure described above is repeated using
the appropriate crest factor. The relation between crest factor and
pulse duty factor for this case is given by:

(l&h> = \/ 2T / ti

where:

6 u and T are as defined above, and where ti is the time during which
the signal has a non-zero value.
 - 33 -

Appendix B

THEORETICAL RESPONSE TO TONE BURSTS

The values given in Tables 7, 9 and 10, pages 18, and 20, are obtained
using the following formulae:

For the single burst in Tables 7 and 9:

∆ L = IO loglo Cl - exp (-ti/T)) dB

For the continuous sequence of bursts given in Table 10:

1 - exp Gt;/d dB
∆ L = 10 log
10
1 - exp (-Y/-r)

where:

ti is the burst duration in seconds

r is the time constant of the exponential averaging circuit as

specified in Fig. 1 and 2, below.

y = lls, in seconds, where f P is the repetition frequency of the

bursts in hertz.

Exponential

Input fzy-1 * averaging circuit

F: time constant
125 ms
t
Indicator
calibrated
in decibels
S: time constant
1000 ms

Fig. 1. Block diagram for an instrument possessing the F and S

detector-indicator characteristics.

Exponential
Peak detector;
averaging circuit Indicator
Input Squaring decay time
N one pole; I H calibrated
circuit constant
time constant in decibels
1 500 ms
35 ms

Fig. 2. Block diagram for an instrument possessing the I detector-

indicator characteristic.