äänenpainemittarit

Äänenpainemittari, often referred to as a sound level meter, is an instrument used to measure the sound pressure level in a given environment. It is a key tool for acoustic professionals, industrial hygienists, and safety officers to assess noise exposure and compliance with noise regulations. The device typically consists of a microphone, an electronic circuit for signal processing, and a display to show the measured sound pressure level, usually in decibels (dB).

Different types of sound level meters exist, categorized by their accuracy and features. Type 1 (or Class 1) meters are precision instruments used for accurate measurements in laboratory settings or for legal purposes. Type 2 (or Class 2) meters are more general-purpose and suitable for everyday noise surveys and assessments. Modern sound level meters can often perform various types of measurements, including equivalent continuous sound levels (Leq), peak sound levels, and frequency-weighted sound levels (e.g., A-weighting, C-weighting) to simulate human hearing perception.

The primary function of an äänenpainemittari is to quantify sound. This is crucial for identifying potential hearing hazards in workplaces, assessing the noise impact of construction sites or industrial machinery, and verifying noise levels in public spaces. Calibration of the sound level meter is essential to ensure accurate and reliable readings. Regular calibration against a known sound source maintains the instrument's integrity and the validity of its measurements.