The database-based sound measurement and analysis system (DSA) is used to automatically select suitable sound protection products. In addition to this, it also fulfills the functions of a user-friendly sound level measurement and noise analysis. More over it is able to simulate the effect of various personal protection equipment (PPE) against noise as well as the simulation of hearing difficulties.

Recording and evaluation of noise situations

In everyday work place scenarios, the DSA system records noise with the associated measuring microphone. The software immediately displays the variation in sound level over time of recording. By acquisition of the A-weighted average noise level, the level calculator provides the exposure level in a quick and convinced manner. The menu point “simulation” in the expendable database can now provide a choice of frequency optimized hearing protection equipment.

Simulation and comparison of the auditory impression

Furthermore, it is possible to simulate the effect of the protective equipment and make it audible. This is particularly useful, if the listening experience of different PSA is to be demonstrated or compared. Likewise, audibility of warning signals with applied PSA can be determined. By switching the selection field from PSA to hearing loss characteristics, the effects of different levels of hearing loss can be simulated e.g. in making prevention. By including the possibility of recording by means of a microphone various audio examples (music, language) can be prepared individually.

Applications

Recording and evaluation of noises

• Automatic preselection of suitable hearing protectors
• Determination of A-weighted equivalent continuous sound level LAeq and C-weighted peak sound pressure level LCpeak
• Calculation of octave spectra as a basis

Simulation

• Auditory impression of different protective measures in specific noise situations and generate motivation to wear protective equipment
• Imitation of different types and degrees of hearing difficulty and imparting of acoustic impressions
• Demonstration of such effects on audio experience and communication

Database 1

• Damping characteristics of hearing protectors
• Upgradeable for products of other manufacturers

Database 2

• Sound samples of various noise sources
• Ability to integrate user-specific noise sources and own recordings

Storage and interface for documentation

• Reuse of recorded sounds and calculations
• Data export to spreadsheets via *.csv files
• Automatic calculation of daily exposure level

Technical data

System components

• Computer: Netbook with 10.1 "display, USB and sound interfaces
• Microphone: Electret microphone with max. SPL 140 dB
• Interface converter: converter for IEPE / USB with 16 bit max. 48 kHz sampling frequency
• Playback device: Active speaker

Technical specifications

• Measuring range : >60 ... 140 dB (A)
• Display accuracy: 0.1 dB
• Accuracy: +/- 1.5 dB (at 94 dB and 1 kHz)
• Frequency evaluation: A / C
• Evaluation: Fast / Slow (according to characteristic value)
• Microphone: ¼ "electret microphone, omnidirectional, with windscreen
• Storage temperature: -10 to + 60 ° C below 80% r. a. m.
• Operating temperature: 0 ° C to + 35 ° C below 70% r. a. m.

System configuration

DSA case with measuring system:

• Netbook with Windows OS
• DSA program with hearing protection database
  and sound samples
• IEPE measuring microphone with wind protector
• Microphone stand and connection cable
• IEPE interface converter to USB
• USB connection cable
• Operation manual

DSA case with speaker system:

• Active speaker box
• Power cord
• Audio connection cable
• socket splitter