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How to Use a Decibel Reader

A decibel reader, also known as a sound pressure level (SPL) meter, is a useful tool to have when you need to know how loud something is. Uses for a decibel reader might include measuring the effectiveness of a sound proof room, avoiding a noise ordinance violation or measuring the loudness of your work place. When using a decibel reader, it is important to note that decibel readers measure loudness on a logarithmic scale. This means that for every six-decibel increase, the perceived loudness of sound doubles.

Instructions

    • 1

      Turn on your decibel reader by pressing the power button.

    • 2

      Point the end of the decibel reader containing the microphone at the sound source that you wish to measure.

    • 3

      Press the "dBA" mode button if you are not measuring sound that contains very high or very low frequencies. Press the "dBC" mode if the sound you are measuring contains very low or very high frequencies.

    • 4

      Set your decibel reader to "Fast" mode if you want it to respond very quickly to increases or decreases in sound level. Set your decibel reader to "Slow" mode if you want it to respond to increases or decreases in sound level slowly. In other words, "Fast" mode will give you more of an instant reading, whereas "Slow" mode will give you more of an average reading.

    • 5

      Watch the LCD screen on your decibel reader to make note of the changes in sound pressure level.

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