best noise canceling headphones

There is a huge choice of Sound Level Meters and other noise measurement instruments available on the market, all with different features. These vary hugely in price, and whilst you can pick up equipment for 20 online, it is also possible to spend over 5000 on a single instrument! Choosing the right meter is a confusing process, and can be very expensive if the wrong decisions are made.

The following guide is designed to help you choose the best noise measurement solution, whatever the application, as well as offering advice on after-purchase considerations.

The main thing to think about when choosing equipment is - does the instrument enable you to comply with relevant guidelines, regulations and standards? To comply with Control of Noise at Work regulations brought in in 2005, you will need to make the following two measurements:

LCPeak: Maximum C-weighted peak sound pressure LAeq: Equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure

If there is a need to provide hearing protection, you may also need to measure other levels, such as the leq in octave frequence bands, or the LCeq (continuous C-weighted sound pressure level). If you are unsure as to what you need, ask an experienced supplier.

Another consideration is whether you will need to make both environmental and occupational noise measurements. If this is the case, you will need a piece of equipment which is capable of measuring additional levels, such as L90, L10 and Lmax. Many modern sound level meters have this functionality, as well as useful data logging, which enables the user to store measurements for later use. Also, if you need to measure a person's individual exposure to noise over a long period of time, you might want to consider a personal noise dosemeter, like the DoseBadge manufactured by Cirrus Research.

Then think about whether the equipment comes with all of the accessories required to operate it according to the manufacturer's instructions. All too often a competitive price can disguise the fact that you will need to buy the other things you need separately. The extras you'll need include an acoustic calibrator (preferably made by the same manufacturer as the sound level meter), a windshield and carrying case.

Another crucial requirement for any piece of noise measurement equipment is the ability to have it recalibrated and serviced in accordance to relevant standards, guidelines and regulations, as well as the manufacturer's recommendations. Any instrument that cannot be recalibrated cannot be trusted to make measurements accurately. It is important that instruments are serviced and recalibrated regularly by approved companies, or the original manufacturer. Buyers should steer clear of instruments which come supplied without a calibration certificate, or include an additional charge for certification.

An additional factor to consider is whether equipment meets all the guidelines, regulations and standards of the country it is going to be used in. There are different national, European and international standards for acoustic calibrators, noise dosemeters and sound level meters, and it is important to check that the instrument you buy is suitable for the areas you intend to operate in.

Is the equipment easy to use, straight out of the box? As a rule of thumb, the more expensive the Sound Level Meter, the more functions that instrument will provide. In some cases this added functionality can make it extremely difficult to use. Some of the newest meters on the market however, such as the new Optimus range from Cirrus Research, successfully combine advanced features and ease of use.

Last, but not least, does the equipment come with all the software you need to get the best out of it, and is it "future proof?" Most noise measurement equipment doesn't come with reporting software as standard. If you need to report on your measurements quickly then putting together your findings can often be quite time consuming. Try to ensure the equipment you buy comes with full reporting software that interrogates the data you have captured and displays it quickly in easy to understand graphical reports, tables and indexes - more importantly make sure you get this reporting software for free. A good example is Cirrus' NoiseTools software:

Finally, make sure that your equipment can be easily updated or upgraded. This could save time and money should your noise measurement needs change in the future.

best noise canceling headphones

noise canceling stereo headphones

noise canceling stereo headphones

Cirrus Research plc specialises in the design, creation and distribution of noise measurement equipment that is designed to help users meet the requirements of guidelines and legislation throughout the world. For more information on selecting the right instruments for your needs, please visit the Cirrus Research noise measurement website.

best noise canceling headphones: best noise cancelling headset

This article, the best article ever, kindly provided by UberArticles.com