LARSON 831 Manual

Model 831
Sound Level Meter

Manual
Larson Davis
Model 831 Manual
I831.01 Rev Q Manual

Copyright
Copyright 2017, by PCB Piezotronics, Inc. This manual is copyrighted, with all rights reserved. The
manual may not be copied in whole or in part for any use without prior written consent of PCB
Piezotronics, Inc.
Disclaimer
The following paragraph does not apply in any state or country where such statements are not
agreeable with local law:
Even though PCB Piezotronics, Inc. has reviewed its documentation, PCB Piezotronics Inc. makes no
warranty or representation, either expressed or implied, with respect to this instrument and
documentation, its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose. This
documentation is subject to change without notice, and should not be construed as a commitment or
representation by PCB Piezotronics, Inc.
This publication may contain inaccuracies or typographical errors. PCB Piezotronics, Inc. will
periodically update the material for inclusion in new editions. Changes and improvements to the
information described in this manual may be made at any time.
Record of Serial Number and Purchase Date
Model 831 Serial Number: ___________
Preamplifier Model: _________ Serial Number: ___________
Microphone Model: _________ Serial Number: ___________

Recycling
PCB Piezotronics, Inc. is an environmentally friendly organization and encourages our customers to
be environmentally conscious. When this product reaches its end of life, please recycle the product
through a local recycling center or return the product to:
PCB Piezotronics, Inc.
Attn: Recycling Coordinator
1681 West 820 North
Provo, Utah, USA 84601-1341
where it will be accepted for disposal
Warranty
For warranty information, refer to our Terms and Conditions of Sale on our website,
www.larsondavis.com/TermsConditions.aspx.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 831 Features 1-1
Hardware Features ................................................................................................ 1-1
Basic Measurements ............................................................................................. 1-2
Basic Operation ..................................................................................................... 1-2
Available Options ................................................................................................. 1-3
Standard Accessories ............................................................................................ 1-4
Optional Accessories ............................................................................................. 1-5
Chapter 2 First Use 2-1

Unpacking and Inspection ..................................................................................... 2-1
Connecting the Microphone and Preamplifier ...................................................... 2-2
Connecting the Preamplifier ................................................................................. 2-3
Disconnecting the Preamplifier ............................................................................. 2-4
Powering the Model 831 ....................................................................................... 2-4
Chapter 3 Overview 3-1

831 Components ................................................................................................... 3-1
Summary of Displays and Icons ........................................................................... 3-7
Navigating and Selecting .................................................................................... 3-12
Basic Run Functions ........................................................................................... 3-12
Tab and Setting Displays .................................................................................... 3-13
Parameter Selection ............................................................................................. 3-20
Chapter 4 Basic Measurement Setup 4-1

Settings Screen ...................................................................................................... 4-1
Setup Tabs ............................................................................................................. 4-2
Exiting Settings Screen ....................................................................................... 4-15
Setup Manager .................................................................................................... 4-16
Chapter 5 Data Display 5-1

Data Labels ........................................................................................................... 5-1
Tabbed Structure ................................................................................................... 5-1
Live Tab ................................................................................................................ 5-2
Overall Tab ......................................................................................................... 5-13
Session Log Tab .................................................................................................. 5-26
Adjust Graph Scale ............................................................................................. 5-30
View Spectrum Normalized ................................................................................ 5-31

Any Level Display ...............................................................................................5-42
Chapter 6 Run Control 6-1

Run Control Setup .................................................................................................6-1
Run Mode with Measurement History ..................................................................6-3
Run Modes Without Measurement History ...........................................................6-4
Chapter 7 Making a Measurement 7-1

Configuration of the System ..................................................................................7-1
Switching On the Model 831 .................................................................................7-1
Model 831 Setup ....................................................................................................7-3
Calibrating the Model 831 .....................................................................................7-3
Positioning the Model 831 .....................................................................................7-3
Performing the Measurement ................................................................................7-5
Storing the Measurement .....................................................................................7-15
Recovery After Improper Shutdown ...................................................................7-18
Chapter 8 Calibration 8-1

Calibration Overview .............................................................................................8-1
Control Panel - Calibrate .......................................................................................8-2
Acoustic Calibration ..............................................................................................8-5
Sensitivity Tab .....................................................................................................8-13
Calibration Without Preamplifier ........................................................................8-15
Certification .........................................................................................................8-16
E.A. Check ...........................................................................................................8-18
E.A. History .........................................................................................................8-20
Chapter 9 Industrial Hygiene 9-1

Measurement Setup ...............................................................................................9-1
Data Display ..........................................................................................................9-5
Chapter 10 Voice Recording 10-1

Control Panel - Voice Recording .........................................................................10-1
Voice Recorder ....................................................................................................10-2
Chapter 11 Time History 11-1

Metrics Logged ....................................................................................................11-1
Time History Setup ..............................................................................................11-4
Time History Display ..........................................................................................11-9
Locate Record Number ......................................................................................11-16
Link to Measurement History Display .............................................................. 11-17
Markers ............................................................................................................. 11-18
Chapter 12 Measurement History 12-1

Run Control with Measurement History ............................................................. 12-1
Continuous and Timer Modes ............................................................................. 12-2
Timed Stop Mode ................................................................................................ 12-3
Manual and Stop When Stable Modes ................................................................ 12-5
Display of Measurement History Data ................................................................ 12-5
Storing a Measurement History ........................................................................ 12-11
Link to Time History ......................................................................................... 12-11
Chapter 13 Event History 13-1

Level Based Events ............................................................................................. 13-1
Event History Setup ............................................................................................ 13-2
Trigger Method ................................................................................................... 13-3
Event Time History Setup ................................................................................. 13-10
Event History Display ....................................................................................... 13-12
Link to Time History and Measurement History .............................................. 13-22
Chapter 14 FFT and Tonality 14-1

Accessing FFT Mode .......................................................................................... 14-1
Configuring a Measurement ................................................................................ 14-3
Viewing and Analyzing Results ........................................................................ 14-10
Storing Data ...................................................................................................... 14-21
Viewing Stored Data ......................................................................................... 14-21
Return to Sound Level Meter Mode ................................................................. 14-22
Chapter 15 RT-60 15-1

Accessing RT-60 Mode ...................................................................................... 15-1
Making a Measurement ....................................................................................... 15-3
Viewing and Analyzing Results .......................................................................... 15-8
Manually Controlling the Internal Noise Source .............................................. 15-16
Customizing Measurements .............................................................................. 15-20
Storing Data ...................................................................................................... 15-26
Viewing Stored Data ......................................................................................... 15-26
Quality Indicators .............................................................................................. 15-27
Accuracy Grade ................................................................................................. 15-28
Return to Sound Level Meter Mode ................................................................. 15-29

Chapter 16 Sound Recording 16-1
Sound Recording Types .......................................................................................16-1
Sound Recording Setup .......................................................................................16-2
Manual Sound Recording ....................................................................................16-7
Marker Initiated Recording ..................................................................................16-9
Event Sound Recording .....................................................................................16-14
Measurement History Sound Recording ............................................................16-18
Combined Sound Recordings ............................................................................16-19
Sound Recording Playback ................................................................................16-20
Chapter 17 Data Explorer 17-1

Control Panel - Data Explorer .............................................................................17-1
Data Explorer .......................................................................................................17-2
Chapter 18 System Properties 18-1

Control Panel - System Properties .......................................................................18-1
Device ..................................................................................................................18-2
Time .....................................................................................................................18-3
Power ...................................................................................................................18-5
Preferences .........................................................................................................18-10
Localization .......................................................................................................18-20
Displays .............................................................................................................18-23
Options ...............................................................................................................18-29
Logic I/O ............................................................................................................18-31
Chapter 19 Non-Acoustical Inputs 19-1

831-INT ...............................................................................................................19-1
Weather Measurement Using 831-INT ...............................................................19-2
Location Measurement Using 831-INT .............................................................19-10
Chapter 20 Communication 20-1

Control Panel - Communication ..........................................................................20-1
Modem Tab ..........................................................................................................20-3
Wireless Tab ........................................................................................................20-6
RS-232 Tab ..........................................................................................................20-8
SMS Out ............................................................................................................20-12
Network Tab ......................................................................................................20-13
Status Tab ..........................................................................................................20-15
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................20-20
Chapter 21 Lock/Unlock the Model 831 21-1
Control Panel - Lock ........................................................................................... 21-1
Fully Locked ....................................................................................................... 21-5
Locked With Auto-Store ..................................................................................... 21-6
Locked With Manual-Store ................................................................................. 21-7
Calibration When The Model 831 Is Locked ...................................................... 21-8
Chapter 22 About 22-1

Control Panel - About ......................................................................................... 22-1
About ................................................................................................................... 22-1
Standards ............................................................................................................. 22-2
Options ................................................................................................................ 22-3
User ..................................................................................................................... 22-4
Chapter 23 System Utilities 23-1

Control Panel - System Utilities .......................................................................... 23-1
File System .......................................................................................................... 23-2
Chapter 24 Parameters Measured 24-1

Basic Sound Level Measurements ...................................................................... 24-1
Sound Exposure Metrics Measured .................................................................... 24-3
Statistical Metrics Measured ............................................................................... 24-4
Exceedance Counters .......................................................................................... 24-6
Miscellaneous Parameters ................................................................................... 24-6
Time History (831-LOG Required) .................................................................... 24-6
Measurement History (831-ELA Required) ....................................................... 24-6
Event History (831-ELA Required) .................................................................... 24-6
Chapter 25 Memory Utilization 25-1

Out Of Memory Stop .......................................................................................... 25-1
Overall Data ........................................................................................................ 25-1
Session Log ......................................................................................................... 25-1
Measurement History .......................................................................................... 25-2
Time History ....................................................................................................... 25-2
Events .................................................................................................................. 25-2
Voice Messages ................................................................................................... 25-3
Sound Recording ................................................................................................. 25-3
Bad Flash Blocks ................................................................................................ 25-4

Chapter 26 Upgrade Firmware and Options 26-1
G4 LD Utility .......................................................................................................26-1
Upgrading Model 831 Firmware .........................................................................26-2
Upgrading Options ..............................................................................................26-5
Appendix A Technical Specifications A-1

Standards Met by Model 831 ................................................................................ A-1
Model 831 Specifications ..................................................................................... A-2
1/1 and 1/3 Octave Filters ................................................................................... A-22
Position of Instrument and Operator ................................................................... A-31
Frequency Response ........................................................................................... A-33
Vibration Sensitivity ........................................................................................... A-59
Appendix B Measuring to IEC61672-1 B-1

Sections 5, 6, 7 and 9 (except 9.3) ........................................................................ B-1
Appendix C Integrated Level Calculations C-1

Basic Integrated Level Calculations ..................................................................... C-1
Community Noise Descriptors ............................................................................. C-9
Appendix D Glossary D-1

CHAPTER
1 831 Features
Welcome to the Larson Davis Model 831. This versatile

instrument, with graphic display, performs the functions of
several instruments; It puts the combined features of a
precision sound level meter and a real-time frequency
analyzer in the palm of your hand.
Hardware Features
The Larson Davis Model 831 has the following features:
Precision integrating sound level meter
2 GB data storage
160 X 240 graphic LCD display with backlight and
icon-driven user interface
Quiet Touch elastomeric keypad
Large dynamic range > 120 dBA
RMS Detectors: Slow, Fast & Impulse
RMS Frequency Weighting: A, C & Z
Peak Frequency Weighting: A, C & Z
Any LevelTM: Simultaneous measurement and display
of Max and Min sound pressure levels (Slow, Fast and
Impulse detectors), plus Leq and Peak levels, all with
A, C and Z frequency weighting
Weather Measurements (Wind Speed and Direction,
Temperature and Humidity)
Jack for AC/DC output or headset microphone and
speaker
Compatible with 61 m (200 ft.) microphone extension
cable (full scale to 20 kHz)
4-AA batteries provide upwards 8 hour operating
time
Dust tight (IP53) durable plastic case with tripod
mount (tripod not included) and lanyard
Model 831 Manual 831 Features 1-1

USB 2.0 full speed host connector for mass storage,
cellular and dial-up modems and future devices
USB 2.0 full speed peripheral connector for control
and data download by a PC
AUX control connector for USB remote power,
weather transducers and the 831-INT
I/O connector for communicating with peripheral
devices such as weather transducers
Multiple language support: English, French, Italian,
German, Spanish and Russian
Field-upgradeable firmware
Basic Measurements
SPL, Leq, Lmax, Lmin, Lpeak, Lpeak(max)
2 RMS event counters and 3 Peak event counters
LN statistics: computed to 0.01% with 0.1 dB
accuracy over the range L0.01 through L99.99, with
display of six on the meter, and Histogram tables
Basic Operation
Status Bar and About display
Auto-Store with Auto-Reset
Run Timer and Stop-When-Stable Control
Back-erase
Markers to annotate portions of time histories
Real-time clock
Start time, elapsed time and paused time
Time stamping for Lmax, Lmin, Lpeak(max) metrics
Session Log
Lock functions
Calibration with calibration history and list of
calibrators
Power management
Status bar and About display
Names Setup files and Setup Manager
1-2 Basic Measurements Model 831 Manual

Data files and Data Explorer
Automatic data backup to prevent data loss on power
failure
Overall measurement
Community Noise Measurement
Voice Annotation
GPS Data
Available Options
The Model 831 is delivered with all firmware options
available at the time of manufacture already installed.
However, only those options which have been purchased
have been enabled. Any of the other firmware options can be
enabled at a later date, following purchase, using a file
delivered from Larson Davis via the Internet.
Purchase Required Options
Real-time 1/1 & 1/3 Octave Frequency Analysis
(831-OB3)
Measurement History for the manual or timed
storage of statistical data (831-ELA)
Automatic Data Logging with periods from 20 ms to
24 hour (831-LOG)
Fast Spectral Time History Data Logging with
intervals of 2.5, 5.0 or 10 ms (831-FST, requires 831-
LOG and 831-OB3)
Exceedance-based Logging Analysis with Events
(831-ELA). Automatic sound recordings can also be
made when the 831-SR option is also enabled
Industrial Hygiene Measurement (831-IH)
Sound Recording (831-SR)
Advanced IP Communication for Cellular
connectivity (831-COMM)
RT60 (831-RT): Instrument mode for measuring
reverberation time
FFT (831-FFT): FFT Instrument mode
Model 831 Manual Available Options 1-3

No Charge Options
The following options are available at no additional charge:
Weather Data: Wind Speed and Direction,
Temperature, Humidity (831-WTHR)
Analog Modem or RS-232 Communication
(831-MDM)
Standard Accessories
Some of these options may not be The Model 831 is generally delivered with the standard
provided with systems designed for accessories described below.
specific applications.
Microphone Preamplifier
PRM831 (16 to 140 dB measurement range)
PRM2103 (16 to 140 dB measurement range)
Microphone
377B02 1/2 free-field pre-polarized microphone,
50 mV/Pa, providing performance conforming to
Class 1 sound level meter standards
or
377C20 1/2 random incidence pre-polarized
microphone, 50 mV/Pa, providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound level meter standards
Software CD
G4 LD Utility Software for setup, measurement,
download, and data viewing through CBL138 USB,
TCP/IP, serial, or analog modem connections
SLM Utility-G3 software for setup, control and high
speed data download, for which a CBL138 USB cable
is required to utilize the software
Accessory Kit
Included with purchase of 831-FF or 831-ACC including:

831-RI; not included when Model 831-CCS Hard Shell Case
831 is purchased without
microphone and preamplifier. PSA029 Universal AC Power Adaptor, providing
power from PC via USB port
CBL138 USB to mini-B cable, 1.8 m
1-4 Standard Accessories Model 831 Manual

WS001 3 1/2 Windscreen
4 Rechargeable AA NiMH batteries
Other
Lanyard
Optional Accessories
Microphones
1/2 free-field pre-polarized microphone, 50 mV/Pa
1/2 random incidence pre-polarized microphone,
50 mV/Pa
1/4 free-field pre-polarized microphone, 4 mV/Pa,
for higher level and/or higher frequency
measurements (ADP043 adaptor required)
1/4 pressure pre-polarized microphone, 1.6 mV/Pa,
for higher level and/or higher frequency
measurements (ADP043 adaptor required)
Microphone Preamplifiers
1/2 ICP Low Noise Microphone Preamplifier
(requires adaptor ADP074)
PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier
PRM426A12 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier
426A12-NPT Coupler, 1.5X27ISO228-1 to NPT
thread
Environmental Protection
EPS2116 Environmental Shell, protects microphone
and preamplifier from rain and wind with mounting
options for pipes, poles, and most tripods
EPS2106-2 Environmental Shell, protects
microphone and preamplifier from rain and wind
and used with tripod TRP003
EPS2108-2 Environmental Shell, protects
microphone and preamplifier from rain and wind
and used with tripod TRP002
EPS029-831 Weather-proof enclosure for remote
noise monitoring; includes two batteries and
microphone mast
Model 831 Manual Optional Accessories 1-5

EPS030-831 Weather-proof enclosure for remote
noise monitoring; includes battery
EPS031 Pole mount weather proof fiberglass
enclosure for AC power and mounting to TRO019-
XX and TRP020-XX series tripods; includes
enclosure, internal brackets and 9-AH backup
battery
EPS032 Pole mount weather proof fiberglass
enclosure for solar power and mounting to TRP019-
XX and TRP020-XX series tripods; includes
enclosure, internal brackets and solar charger
EPS033 Steel security band for NMS systems
NMS016 Permanent noise monitoring system with
weather proof enclosure and tilt down pole designed
for AC power; includes Model 831, EPS031, 831-INT,
17' pole, 426A12, 9-AH backup battery and fiberglass
enclosure
weather proof enclosure and tilt down pole designed
for solar power.; includes Model 831, EPS032, 831-
INT, 17 pole, 425A12, solar charger and fiberglass
enclosure, with the following optional solar
accessories available:
PSA012-80 80W SOLAR PANEL
PSA012-50 50W SOLAR PANEL
BAT012 100AH BATTERY
NMS018 Portable Noise monitoring system with
weather proof enclosure and tripod designed for AC
power; includes Model 831, EPS031, 831-INT, heavy
duty tripod (10, 15 and 20 configurable heights),
426A12, 9-AH back up battery and fiberglass
enclosure
weather proof enclosure and tripod system designed
for solar power; includes Model 831, EPS032, 831-
INT, heavy duty tripod (10, 15 and 20 configurable
heights), 426A12, solar charger and fiberglass
enclosure, with the following optional solar
accessories available:
PSA012-80 80W Solar Panel
PSA012-50 50W Solar Panel
1-6 Optional Accessories Model 831 Manual

BAT012 100AH Battery
BAT013 2X21AH batteries
Weather Data Acquisition
831-INT 831 Interface Unit for use with 426A12
Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier and weather
sensors
The SEN028, SEN029, and SEN030 SEN028 Wind Monitor; Speed and Direction
are no longer supported. SEN029 Anemometer; Speed and Direction
(Low Cost)
SEN030 Sensor; Temperature and Humidity
SEN031 Sensor; Weather Station
Communication DVX008A
MDMUSB-A Modem V.90 Dial-up with USB
Interface
MDMUSB-E Modem Edge USB Wireless Quad-Band
GSM
DVX008A USB to RS232, 9 Pin Adaptor
CBL117 Serial Null Modem Cable, Connects
DVX008A to PC Serial Port
831-INT-ET 831-INT with integrated Ethernet
capability
GPS
GPS001 GPS Receiver, USB Magnetic Mount
Equivalent Electrical Impedance Adaptor
An equivalent electrical impedance adapter can be used in
place of the microphone when very high impedance
measurements need to be made and the instrument is being
tested electrically. The adapter is simply a series capacitor
with the same capacitance as the microphone it is replacing.
The following adapters will be available for sale. If square
wave pulse measurement is to be performed, then the
adapter must also be used with a 100 kHz, low pass, T filter.
ADP002 6.8pF BNC Input Adaptor for 1/4 in., 7pF
microphone equivalent
ADP090 12pF BNC Input Adaptor for 1/2 in., 12pF
microphone equivalent
ADP092 BNC In-Line Low Pass Filter 75kHz

Cables
Direct Input Cable or Adaptor

Microphone Extension Cable: EXCXXX (shielded),
where XXX is the length in feet (XXX = 010, 020, 050,
100 and 200 available)
CBL138 USB Cable
CBL139 AC/DC Output Cable
Cables for Environmental Monitoring

CBL152 Cable; 426A12 to 831 Signal, 20
CBL153 Cable; 426A12 to 831-INT Control, 20
CBL154 Cable; 426A12 to Model 831 Control, 20
CBL144 Cable; PRM2100 to 831 Signal, 20
CBL145 Cable; PRM2100 to 831 Control, 20
CBL146 Cable; PRM2100 to 831-INT Control, 20
CBL203 Cable; PRM2103 to 831Control, 20
CBL208 Cable; PRM2103 to 831-INT Control, 20
Cable for use with PSA027 Universal Input Power

Supply AC Power Adaptor
CBL140 Cable; 831 Power, 2.5 mm JACK, 1
Power Supply
PSA027 Universal 90-240 AC Power Adaptor
providing power from electrical outlet, used to power
the Model 831 in conjunction with CBL140, CBL145
or CBL154. 1.25 A, 2.5X5.5X14 mm
BAT015 External battery powering device for the
831, holding 4 or 8 D-sized alkaline 1.5 volt batteries
to extend run time

Tripods
TRP001 Instrument/Camera Tripod with ADP032
1/2 in. microphone clip and used with EPS2108-2
TRP002 Microphone Stand with Boom
TRP003 Support Tripod, heavy duty, can be used
with EPS029, EPS030 and EPS2106-2
ADP034 Mounting adapter to attach EPS2106-2 to
TRP003
ADP091 Mounting adapter, 426A12 TO TRP003
TRP019 Permanent 17' tilt down pole. Use with
EPS031 AND EPS032
The TRP020-06 tripod is not for use TRP020-06 Heavy duty 6' tripod. Use with 426A12,
with EPS031 AND EPS032. EPS030-831 AND EPS029-831
TRP020-10 Heavy duty 10' tripod. Use with 426A12,
EPS030-831, EPS029-831, EPS031 and EPS032
Other Hardware
ACC003 Headset with microphone for voice
recording/playback
Calibrators
CAL200 Class 1 Sound Level Calibrator, 94/
114 dB @ 1 kHz
CAL250 Class 1 Sound Level Calibrator,
114 dB @ 250 Hz
Soft Case
CCS032 pouch with belt clip

Software
DNA (Data Navigation and Analysis) software
provides setup and remote operation of the Model
831, providing real-time data displays on a PC.
Powerful graphics routines are provided to create
custom data displays ranging from simple time
histories and frequency spectra to spectrograms (level
vs frequency vs time) and annotated data
presentations. A variety of advanced post-processing
tools can be used to extend measured data to
engineering results such as searching time history
data for user-defined events, masking or modifying
portions of measured data and recalculating Leq and
searching spectra for pure tones. DNA will take you
from measured data to a completed project, including
report generation.

CHAPTER
2 First Use
This chapter outlines the steps to unpack the Model 831 and
prepare it for first use. The following topics are covered:
Unpacking and Inspection
Connecting the microphone and preamplifier
Installing 4 AA batteries
Using USB power
Powering-up the Model 831
You will then be ready to use the Model 831 for actual
measurements.
Unpacking and Inspection

Your Model 831 has been shipped in protective packaging.
Please verify that the package contains the items listed
below. Retain the packaging for safe shipment for
calibration service. Report any damage or shortage
immediately to PCB Piezotronics, Inc. at (888) 258-3222
(toll free) or +1 716- 926-8243.
Model 831
PRM831 Microphone Preamplifier
Microphone
Included with 831-FF and 831-RI. 831-ACC including

Not included when 831 is purchased
831-CCS Hard Shell Case
without preamplifier and
microphone. PSA029 Universal AC Power Adaptor
WS001 3 1/2 Windscreen
Lanyard
4 - AA NiMH batteries
If you have not already done so, please record the purchase
date, the model and serial numbers for your instrument,
preamplifier and microphone in the spaces provided on the
copyright page Record of Serial Number and Purchase
Date on page 1-ii. You will find the instruments Model and
Serial numbers printed on the label on the instruments back
panel. The microphone model and serial numbers are
Model 831 Manual First Use 2-1

engraved on the outside of the microphone as shown in
FIGURE 2-1 "Microphone" . The preamplifier model and
serial numbers are engraved on the outside surface of the
preamplifier. You may be asked to provide this information
during any future communications with PCB Piezotronics,
Inc.
FIGURE 2-1 Microphone
Connecting the Microphone and Preamplifier

The bottom end of the microphone attaches to the top end of
the preamplifier. The top end of the preamplifier has a single
gold pin and threads on the preamplifier body. The model
and serial number of the microphone are engraved on the
side.
FIGURE 2-2 Microphone-Preamplifier
Carefully place the bottom end of the microphone over the

top end of the preamplifier and gently screw the assembly
together. The microphone body will seat smoothly against
the preamplifier body. DO NOT use excessive force.
When removing the microphone, turn while gripping the
microphone body, not the grid cap, to prevent damage to the
microphone diaphragm.
2-2 Connecting the Microphone and Preamplifier Model 831 Manual

Connecting the Preamplifier
Caution: Do not attempt to unscrew The bottom end of the preamplifier has a 5 pin connector
the collar/ring at the top of the that fits snugly into the top of the Model 831. Insert the
Model 831 body. preamplifier into the mating connector on the Model 831.
The connectors are keyed for correct alignment; there is a
laser engraved line on the preamplifier which aligns with the
arrow on the Model 831. Rotate the preamplifier until the
keyways line up. Press the assemblies together until a small
click is heard. The microphone / preamplifier assembly is
now securely attached to the Model 831.
If the Model 831 is ON when the preamplifier is connected
to the Model 831, the Preamp Connected message box will
appear for several seconds.
FIGURE 2-3 Preamplifier Connected
Press 5 to clear the message box.
Model 831 Manual Connecting the Preamplifier 2-3

Disconnecting the Preamplifier
On the front surface of the Model 831, just below the
preamplifier connector, is a small button. Press and hold this
button while pulling the microphone / preamplifier assembly
out of the Model 831.
Preamplifier Release
FIGURE 2-4 Push Button to Release Preamplifier
If the Model 831 is ON when the preamplifier is

disconnected, the Preamp Disconnected message box will
appear for several seconds.
FIGURE 2-5 Disconnect The Preamplifier
Press 5 clear the message box.
Powering the Model 831

The following section provides power information for the
model 831, including the following:
Battery Power
External Power Supply
Power Up Operation
Power Control Page
Hardware Power Switch
2-4 Disconnecting the Preamplifier Model 831 Manual

Battery Power
The Model 831 is compatible with AA nickel metal hydride
(NiMH), Alkaline or 1.5 Volt Lithium batteries. Energizer,
Duracell and other nationally recognized brands are the
preferred suppliers of alkaline batteries. These will provide
the user with the best battery life estimation. Sanyo,
Energizer and Ray-O-Vac, 2500 mAH, Lithium, AA, NiMH
batteries and their respective fast chargers are also
recommended.
WARNING:Do not mix Alkaline and NiMH batteries.
WARNING:Do not mix batteries from different

manufacturers
WARNING:Replace all four batteries when installing

fresh cells
WARNING:The correct battery type must be specified,

as described in "Battery Type" on page 18-5, based on
the battery type installed. Otherwise, serious damage,
injury or fire can occur when the battery type is set to
NiMH but Alkaline or Lithium batteries are installed
because the internal charger will be enabled. Alkaline or
Lithium batteries must not be charged.
Battery Voltage and Estimated Run Time are displayed on

the Power Control screen and the last page of the Live tab.
The battery icon indicates the state of the battery charge by
the width of the interior shaded portion. Figure 2-6 shows a
fully charged battery and a nearly discharged battery.
Full Charge Low Charge
FIGURE 2-6 Battery Status Icons
A battery icon is always available in the status bar at the top

of the screen. The battery voltage and the state of the battery
Model 831 Manual Powering the Model 831 2-5

icon directly reflect the remaining Estimated Run Time as
displayed by the instrument.
Low Battery
As the battery nears end-of-life (1% of capacity), the empty
battery symbol will begin to flash. The unit will shut down
in a short time because the battery voltage is too low.
When the battery is at the end-of-life, the Model 831 will
stop running, save all data and instrument status, then turn
off. When the unit is turned on again, with fresh batteries or
an external power supply, the unit returns to the state it was
in when it shut down.
If external power is supplied through the USB connector, the
battery icon is replaced with the External Power icon, as
shown in Figure 2-7.
FIGURE 2-7 External Power Icon
When external power is connected to the Model 831, the

unit is not dependent on batteries. The Estimated Run Time
calculation is valid only if there is no external power.
Inserting Batteries
There are 2 tabs on the bottom of the The battery compartment of the Model 831 is located on the
battery door that engage the case of back of the unit. There is a clip on the battery door. To
the Model 831. remove the battery door, place a finger on the clip and push
it downward towards the battery door while pulling away
from the body of the instrument. The battery door will pivot
away from the unit.
2-6 Powering the Model 831 Model 831 Manual

Insert 4 fresh AA batteries as shown in FIGURE 2-8. Ensure
correct alignment of the batteries + and - terminals as
indicated by diagrams on the bottom of the battery
compartment.
FIGURE 2-8 Insert Batteries
After the batteries are installed, insert the two tabs on the
bottom edge of the battery door into the mating slots in the
case. Close the battery door, allowing the clip to snap in
place on the case.
Selecting Battery Type
The battery type is selected from the Power tab in System
Properties, as described in the section Battery Type on
page 18-5.
Charging Batteries On-board
When using NiMH batteries and powering the Model 831
from either the computer (via USB port) or from the
PSA029 power supply, or from another external source, the
batteries will be charged inside the instrument. The charge
time to completely recharge the cells is about sixteen hours
when the instrument is powered off. The batteries will be
charged while the instrument is powered on at a reduced rate
as long as the backlight and USB Host features are off.

Charge Status LED
The charge status is indicated by an LED beneath the power
key as follows:
LED continuously lit: Charging
LED not lit: Not charging
LED flashing at 1/sec: Trickle charging. This is
typically done early in the charging cycle when the
battery is cold, or when the battery has been highly
discharged. The charge rate should increase when these
conditions improve.
External Power Supply
The Model 831 can be powered from a variety of sources
including internal batteries, via the USB port from a
computer, via the USB port from the PSA029 power supply,
via the I/O port from the PSA027 power supply (using
CBL140 or CBL154), from an external +10.8 to +30 Volt
battery, or from an external +10.8 to +30 Volt mains power
source.
USB Port Power
When powering the Model 831 by When powered via the USB port by a computer, use of the
external power, Larson Davis computer's USB power is negotiated with the host and
recommends the Model 831-INT cannot be utilized until permission is granted by the host.
System Interface Unit and the This means that the Model 831 must run on batteries until
appropriate Larson-Davis cable for allowed by the host to run on USB or external power. If the
making the connection to the battery batteries cannot provide sufficient power (flat cells) the
or batteries. Model 831 may not power on. Ensure that the Model 831
has good batteries in order to turn on. If there are no
batteries installed in the instrument, it will use USB power
regardless of negotiation.
The PSA029 is supplied with power The Model 831 can be powered via the USB port with the
plug adaptors for most areas of the PSA029 external power supply. The PSA029 has an input
world. operating voltage range of 90 to 274 VAC and a power line
frequency range of 47 to 63 Hz. The output voltage from the
supply is 5 VDC. The PSA029 used a standard USB A to
Mini-B 5-pin cable which connects to the USB connector on
the bottom of the Model 831.
If the Model 831 is operated without With the PSA029 power supply connected and operating at
batteries installed and power is rated conditions, the Model 831 will operate properly with
interrupted, data may be lost. or without batteries installed.

Low Voltage Shutdown
The Model 831 has a special feature to preserve the service
life of an external SLA (Sealed Lead-Acid) battery by
preventing it from being discharged excessively. When the
battery voltage drops below the external shutoff voltage
(default value +10.8 volts), but remains above +10.2 volts
for one minute, the instrument will stop, save data and turn
the Model 831 off.
Power Outage
In the event of power outage, unattended Model 831 meters
with serial numbers greater than 2089 will turn on
automatically in six hours as a recovery mechanism.
Sudden Loss of External Voltage
WARNING! If the external voltage is suddenly lost, for example when

A sudden loss of power while the the external supply is disconnected or when mains power
Model 831 is storing data may lead fails and there is no external battery, the Model 831 will
to hardware damage and should be continue to run on internal batteries if they are present and in
avoided. To avoid this, turn off the good condition. Without internal batteries, the Model 831
Model 831 prior to turning off the will shut-down and un-stored data may be lost.
PC, or before unplugging USB
cables from the PC.
Power-Up Operation
The Model 831 automatically detects its power source while
it is turning on and does not fully start if a problem is found.
Insufficient Battery Voltage
If the internal battery is powering the instrument, i.e. there is
not USB or external power, and is less than ~4.2 Volts, the
display shown in FIGURE 2-9 appears with the gray box
inside
FIGURE 2-9 Insufficient Battery Voltage

Insufficient External Voltage
If the external power source is operating the instrument, i.e.
there is no USB or internal battery power available, and is
less than about 10.8 Volts, the display shown in FIGURE 2-
10 appears with the gray box inside the battery symbol
flashing on and off every second.
FIGURE 2-10 Insufficient External Voltage
If the power fault condition is not alleviated within 2

minutes, the instrument powers off. If a sufficient power
supply is provided for more than 10 seconds, i.e. USB or
Main power is connected, the instrument proceeds to turn
on.

Power Control Page
The estimated battery run time is If the Model 831 is ON, pressing the 0 (ON/OFF) key
only shown after running on displays the Power Control screen.
batteries for more than one minute,
which permits the battery voltage to
stabilize.
FIGURE 2-11 Power Control View
Located on the first section of this screen is the Estimated

Battery Run Time (calculated using the voltage of the
installed batteries), Battery Voltage and the USB Powered
voltage.
For more information on Backlight Next, Backlight and Display Contrast are adjusted using
and Display Contrast, see the the 4, 6, 8 and 2 keys. Backlight provides three
"Backlight" on page 18-9 and options: Off, Dim and Bright, which are adjusted using the
"Display Contrast"on page 18-9. 4 and 6 keys. The Display Contrast has a range of -9 to 9,
which is adjusted using the 8 and 2 keys.
The units of the temperature display The last section displays the Model 831 internal temperature
are user-selectable, as described in that is used to automatically adjust the contrast of the display
Units on page 18-22. to compensate for temperature changes.

Hardware Power Switch
DO NOT use the hardware power The Hardware Power Switch on the bottom of the Model
switch to turn the Model 831 OFF. 831 disconnects the batteries from the Model 831 hardware.
This may cause data to be lost and The real-time clock will maintain its value for six minutes,
permanent damage may occur. Press enough to implement a battery change. This prevents battery
the 0 key for several seconds to drain when the Model 831 is not in use for an extended
turn off the meter. period of time ( weeks)If the Hardware Power Switch is
in the "0" position, the batteries are disconnected.
After installing batteries be sure to move the switch to the "|"
position. This applies power to all of the Model 831
hardware.
The Hardware Power Switch should not be used to turn the
Model 831 ON and OFF. If the Hardware Power Switch is
used to turn the Model 831 OFF, data may be lost.

CHAPTER
3 Overview
This chapter provides an overview of the components,
displays, and functions of the 831 sound level meter.
831 Components
Microphone
Preamplifier
LCD Display
Keypad
Connectors
FIGURE 3-1 The Model 831
The standard Model 831 shown in FIGURE 3-1 includes the

following:
1/2 in. diameter condenser microphone
PRM831 microphone preamplifier
Backlit graphic 160 x 240 pixel LCD display
13-key soft rubber backlit keypad
Model 831 Manual Overview 3-1

AC/DC output, control, USB, and external power
connectors (shown in FIGURE 3-2)
True hand held instrument with sure grip pads
FIGURE 3-2 shows the bottom view of the Model 831.
Hardware Power Switch USB Interface AC/DC Output and Headset
AUX Connector
for USB
I/O Connector for 831-INT, External

Power, Analog and Logic I/O
FIGURE 3-2 Model 831 Bottom View
DO NOT use the hardware power Hardware Power Switch: When set to O, completely
switch to turn the Model 831 ON or powers down the Model 831 for storage. However, the
OFF. This will cause data to be lost. real-time clock will maintain its value for six minutes,
The purpose of this switch is to long enough to complete a battery change. Set to | for
disconnect the batteries for storage instrument operation.
(1 to 2 weeks). It is recommended
USB Interface: USB 2.0 peripheral full-speed port used
that the batteries be removed from
for communication with a PC, control of the Model 831
the instrument if it will not be used
from the PC and downloading of data from the Model
for a month or longer (the batteries
831 to the PC. The PSA029 external power supply may
may self-discharge and leak,
be connected here. The maximum USB cable length is 5
damaging the instrument).
m and the cable is part number CBL138.
AC/DC Output and Headset Jack: used to output
analog AC and DC signals or to connect to a headset for
the recording and playback of voice records.
AUX Connector for USB: intended for use with USB
mass storage, cellular & dial-up modems, GPS and
future devices.
3-2 831 Components Model 831 Manual

I/O Connector for Peripherals and External Power:
typically used with external devices. For more
information, see I/O Connector Specification on
page A-9:
CBL143 and CBL151 cables: these cables permit the
Model 831 to be powered from external 12 V batteries
CBL154 cable: used to obtain power from a battery
when used with the 426A12
831-INT: integrates the Model 831 with outdoor
microphone units (426A12 and PRM2100K) and
weather transducers
426A12 and PRM2101K: Model 831 provides control
signals to these outdoor microphone units when not
used with 831-INT
Microphones and Microphone Preamplifiers
The Model 831 is designed for use with prepolarized

microphones. The following microphone preamplifier is
used:
For information on using the Model PRM831 1/2 Microphone Preamplifier

831 with the PRM2103 preamplifier,
The most commonly used microphones, which can be used
see the PRM2103 Manual.
with either of these preamplifiers are as follows:
1/2 Free Field Microphone with nominal sensitivity of
50 mV/Pa
1/2 Random Incidence Microphone with nominal
sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa
1/4 Free Field Microphone with nominal sensitivity of
3.16 mV/Pa (ADP043 adaptor required)
1/4 Pressure Microphone with nominal sensitivity of 1
mV/Pa (ADP043 adaptor required).
There are two equivalent electrical impedance adaptors
available. These are discussed in Chapter 1 Optional
Accessories on page 1-5.
Display
The Model 831 has a 160 x 240 graphic, liquid crystal

grayscale display. The display is backlit to provide
Model 831 Manual 831 Components 3-3

comfortable viewing in most ambient light situations.
Controls are provided for contrast and backlight
adjustments.
When the Model 831 is first switched ON, the Live tab
appears. When a measurement is in progress, a display
similar to Figure 3-3 is shown.
OBA Overload or Input Overload or

Run Time Under Range Icon Under Range Icon
Power Indicator
Measurement
Name Measurement
Status
Tabs Section
Indicator
Data Graph
Scroll Bar
Stability
Indicator
Left Center Right
Softkeys
FIGURE 3-3 Data Display Screen

Keypad
The 831 meter has a 13 button keypad. This section
describes the buttons on the keypad.
FIGURE 3-4 shows the 831 keys.
SOFTKEYS:
Left Center Right
RUN/PAUSE
STOP/STORE
UP
LEFT RIGHT
DOWN
RESET TOOLS
POWER
FIGURE 3-4 Model 831 Keys
Softkeys
The three push button keys just beneath the display, on the
body of the Model 831, are called Softkeys.
Figure 3-5 shows the softkeys.
.
Model 831 Manual 831 Components 3-5

FIGURE 3-5 Softkeys
The function of each Softkey is indicated by an icon or label
on the bottom of the display. Softkeys are so named because
the function of each key can change depending upon the
screen, the context, or how it is programmed, as indicated by
the label. Pressing any one invokes the action associated
with the text or symbol directly above it on the screen.
Hardkeys
The ten remaining keys below the softkeys are described in
Table 3-1.
The POWER key is used to turn the Model 831 ON and OFF when the
Hardware Power Switch, on the base of the unit is in the | position. To turn the
831 off or on, press and hold the power key for a few seconds.
The Navigation keys; Up, Down, Left and Right are multipurpose keys used to
navigate through the Data Views, highlight icons and defined areas on the
display, make a selection from multiple options, and to input alphanumeric
characters into data fields.
The ENTER key is used to implement data entry associated with selections from
multiple options or the input of alphanumeric characters into data fields.
The RUN/PAUSE key is used to initiate and pause a measurement, and to

continue a paused measurement. This key has a green LED behind it which can
be illuminated to indicate the measurement state of the Model 831.
For more detailed information on the RUN/PAUSE key, see Starting the
Measurement on page 7-5.
The STOP/STORE key is used to stop a measurement and to store a
measurement when the measurement is stopped. This key has a red LED behind
it that can be illuminated to indicate the measurement state of the Model 831.
For more detailed information on the STOP/STORE key, see Starting the
Measurement on page 7-5.
Table 3-1 Keypad Hardkeys

The RESET key is used to reset a measurement. For detailed information on
using the Reset key, see Resetting the Measurement on page 7-13.
The TOOLS key is used to set a number of parameters not associated with a
specific measurement, such as setting date and time, managing power options
and setting personal preferences (i.e. language, decimal and date formats, etc.).
Table 3-1 Keypad Hardkeys
Summary of Displays and Icons

Tabs
Data is presented in tabbed format. Move between tabs by
using the right and left Softkeys.
Page
Tabs are divided into pages that logically group the data
together (i.e., 1/3 Octave data on the Live tab). Tabs may
contain only one page or multiple pages. Navigate up or
down to different pages by using the 8 (UP) or 2
(DOWN) keys. The position of the scroll bar indicates the
sequence of pages on tabs.
Scroll Bar and Section Indicator
The scroll bar represents the complete tab. The section
indicator shows the location of the page you are viewing.
Power Indicator
The following icons indicate the power source driving the
Model 831 and the supply available to operate it.
Battery Power
The battery icon indicates the state of the battery charge by
the width of the interior shaded portion. The two icons in
FIGURE 3-6 indicate a fully charged battery and a nearly
discharged battery.
Full Charge Low Charge
FIGURE 3-6 External Power
Model 831 Manual Summary of Displays and Icons 3-7

The external power connection icon appears when the
Model 831 is powered from an external power supply or via
the USB port.
Measurement Name
This is the file name to be used for the data file.
Stability Indicator
Presented in the form of an analog display, this dynamic icon
indicates the trend in the measured overall Leq, indicating if
the measured signal is rising, decaying or holding stable.
The icon appears in the first section of the Live, Overall and
Current displays, and also in a window that appears during a
sound level calibration.
Run Time
This is the amount of time the measurement has been
running.
Input Overload Icon
When a signal from the preamplifier exceeds the calibrated
input range of the Model 831, the Input Overload Icon will
appear. While the overload is present, the icon will flash.
If a measurement is running and an overload occurs, the icon
shown below will flash during the overload.
When the overload has been removed, the icon will still be
present (not flashing) to indicate that an overload has
occurred during the measurement. A reset will clear the icon
from the display.
3-8 Summary of Displays and Icons Model 831 Manual

When using a microphone having a sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa,
the input overload will occur approximately as shown in
Table 3-4.
Input Gain, dB Overload Level, dB Peak

0 143
20 123
Table 3-4 Input Overload Levels
Under Range Icon
When the signal from the preamplifier drops to the point
where the noise level of the instrument and the preamplifier
influence the measurement, an under range condition exists.
When this happens the Under Range Icon will appear.
As long as the under range condition exists, the icon will

flash. When the measured level no longer produces an under
range condition, the icon will be removed from the display.
At any time when a measured parameter is in an under range
condition, its numeric display will appear in gray rather
than the usual black, as shown FIGURE 3-7.
Normal Range Under Range
FIGURE 3-7 Normal vs Under Range Data Display
OBA Overload Icon

If the input to the Octave Band Analyzer (optional firmware
831-OB3 required) becomes overloaded, the icon shown
will appear to indicate the overload.
This icon operates similar to the Input Overload Icon shown

in the above section "Input Overload Icon".
When the OBA Range property is set to Low, the OBA
Overload Icon will activate at a level 33 dB lower than it
would had the OBA Range been set to Normal.

When using a microphone having a sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa,
the input overload will occur approximately as shown in
Table 3-5.
Input Gain, dB OBA Range Overload Level, dB

0 Normal 143
20 Normal 123
0 Low 110
20 Low 90
Table 3-5 OBA Overload Levels
OBA Under Range Icon
When all filters of the OBA are under range the OBA
Under Range Icon appears.
As long as this under range condition exists, the icon will

flash. When the measured OBA levels no longer produces
an under range condition, the icon will be removed from the
display.
Like the SLM, when a measured OBA parameter is in an
under range condition, it's numeric display will appear in
gray rather than the usual black, as shown Figure 3-8.
FIGURE 3-8 OBA Under Range Display
Measurement Status
Reset Icon
The Reset Icon indicates that a reset has occurred.
3-10 Summary of Displays and Icons Model 831 Manual

Run Pending Icon
The Run Pending icon appears when the 9 (RUN/

PAUSE) key is pressed and the Model 831 is waiting for
filters and detector initialization to complete. The Model
831 will automatically start the run after the wait or warm-
up state is completed (less than 10 seconds)
Run Icon
The Run Icon moves from left to right to indicate that a

measurement is running.
Pause Icon
The Pause Icon indicates that the present run has been
paused.
Stop Icon
A Stop Icon is displayed when a measurement has been

stopped.
Store Icon
When a data file has been stored, the Store Icon is displayed.
USB Copy Indicator
When a data file is being copied to the USB port, the USB
Copy Indicator Icon is displayed in the upper left corner in
place of the PCB Piezotronics logo.
Power Save Icon
When the Model 831 is in the power save mode, the power
save icon
will be displayed in the location where the measurement

status icons usually appear. For more detail on power save,
see Power-Save Time on page 18-7.

Changing Views
In the Data Views, the labels of the Left and Right Softkeys
are left and right arrow symbols, respectively. These indicate
that the Left and Right Softkeys are used to scroll the
selection of the tab being displayed in the corresponding
direction. One press of the Right Softkey will bring up the
Session Log View, and a second press will bring up the
Current tab. Then, sequential presses of the Left Softkey will
bring up the Session Log View, then the Overall tab.
Navigating and Selecting

To navigate between tabs on the display, press the right or
left Softkeys. To navigate within tabs, use the 4 and 6 keys
for moving horizontally on screens. This includes moving
the highlight from one property to the next.
The 8 and 2 keys are used for moving vertically on
screens. This includes moving the highlight from one
property to the next and to move to previous or subsequent
tabs.
These keys are also used for character entry by navigating
through lists of characters in text boxes.
The 5 (ENTER) key is typically used for completing
selections completing actions, or accepting values.
Basic Run Functions

The basic measurement run functions are as follows:
Running
Pausing
Stopping
Storing
The 9 (RUN/PAUSE) key initiates a run. If a
measurement is running, this key pauses the run. It does not
end the run; to end the measurement run, press the 7
(STOP/STORE) key. Pressing the 9 key when the unit is
PAUSED continues the run. This key is only active on a
Data View screen.
3-12 Navigating and Selecting Model 831 Manual

Pressing the 9 (RUN/ PAUSE) key The 7 key ends a run. Pressing the key a second time
when the unit is in STOP mode stores the data in a file. This key is only active on a Data
continues the previous run. View screen.
Tab and Setting Displays

The 831 features and functions are organized into four
different types of displays.
Data Display tabs: used to display measured data.
Measurement Settings tabs: used to set the parameters
for a measurement.
Control Panel (Tools) Properties: used to set user
preferences, to set non-measurement related parameters,
and to implement calibration.
Power Control Page: used to check battery power,
control the contrast and backlight of the display and
other features.
Data Display Tabs
When the 0 (ON/OFF) key is pressed to turn on the 831,
the Data Display tabs appear.
Measurement Settings Tabs
Opening
From the Data Display tabs, pressing the Center Softkey
labeled Menu brings up the menu shown in FIGURE 3-9.
FIGURE 3-9 Menu
Select Settings and press 5 to open the Settings tabs.
Closing
Press the Center Softkey to return the Data Display tabs.
Control Panel (Tools) Properties
The Control Panel is accessed by pressing the 3 (TOOLS)
key at the lower right of the 831 front panel. To exit from the
Model 831 Manual Tab and Setting Displays 3-13

Control Panel and return to the Data Display tabs, press the
Center Softkey labeled Close.
Power Control Page
The Power Control Page is opened by pressing the 0 (ON
/ OFF) key while on Data View tabs. To exit from the Power
Control Page, press the Center Softkey labeled Close.
Data Display Tabs
The Data Display tabs are identified by their titles on each

tab. You can navigate from tab to tab by pressing the left and
right Softkeys.
Live tab: Data is continuously displayed on this tab

whether there is a measurement in progress or not.
Pressing the Pause key does NOT Overall tab: The data displayed on this tab represents
pause the elapsed time indicator. data measured and averaged beginning from the time the
measurement was started by pressing the Run key until
the elapsed time indicated above the display. If the Stop
key is pressed, the elapsed time will be stopped.
However, pressing the Run key again will continue this
overall measurement as shown by the elapsed time
restarting from the time when it had previously been
paused or stopped. As long as there is no reset, the same
measurement is continued.
This description of the Data Display Session Log: The Session Log is a record of data
tabs corresponds to the LD default accumulation actions. Resetting and storing data will
setup used when the Model 831 is clear the session record. A time-stamped record is made
delivered from the factory. These for every Run, Pause, Resume, Stop, Voice Message and
display tabs can be modified, as Sound Recording action. The source responsible for each
described in Displays on page 18- action is also recorded.
23.
For a more detailed description of Current: Unless Measurement History has been enabled
the Data Display tabs and their in the Run Control setup, the Current View display is
associated views, see Chapter 5 similar to the Overall View. The difference is that while
Data Display on page 5-1 the Overall View displays data measured since the last
pressing the Run key following a reset, the Current View
displays data measured since the last press of the key
sequence Stop/Run. For example, suppose a
measurement was begun at a time T1 and then the key
sequence Stop/Run was pressed at a later time T2. The
3-14 Tab and Setting Displays Model 831 Manual

data presented in the Overall View would represent the
measurement since T1 while the Current View would
represent the measurement since T2.
With measurement history enabled, a series of separate
measurements are made based on either manual key
presses or time intervals, depending on the setup used.
The current view will display the data corresponding to
the measurement currently in progress. When that
measurement is complete, the data are transferred to the
measurement view. The current measurement is then
reset and the subsequent measurement begun, at which
time the data for this new measurement is displayed.
Measurement: With Measurement History enabled, the

measurement view can display all the separate
measurements made from the beginning to the end of the
total measurement period.
The 831-ELA firmware option must Events: Basic data associated with measurements
purchased and enabled for this tab initiated by the trigger criteria are displayed in the view.
to appear. When there have been multiple measurements, these data
can be viewed separately.
The 831-LOG firmware option must Time History: This view displays data measured using
be purchased and enabled for this the time history measurement feature.
tab to appear. Additional tabs appear in different instrument modes when
the 831-FFT and 831-RT options are enabled. For more
information, refer to the "FFT and Tonality" and "RT-60"
chapters.
Measurement Settings Tabs
The Measurement Settings tabs allow for specific settings.

From any data tab, press the Menu softkey, select Settings
and press 5 to open the settings tab for the current
measurement. You can navigate from tab to tab by pressing
the left and right Softkeys.
Because the screen is not wide \General: used to create a file name and a measurement
enough to show tall Measurement description
Settings tabs at the same time, use
the Right and Left Softkeys to scroll SLM: used to setup the parameters for the measurement
the view to the right or left of sound levels
respectively.

OBA (optional): used to setup the real-time octave band
frequency analysis
Dosimeter 1 (optional): used to setup the parameters for

the measurement of sound exposure and noise dose
Dosimeter 2 (optional): used to setup the parameters for

the measurement of sound exposure and noise dose
Ln: used to define the parameters for the measurement

of Ln statistics
Control: used to setup the mode of measurement timing

and the storage of measurement history records
For more information on the Time History (optional): used to setup the timing and
Measurement Settings tabs and their select the metrics that are stored in the time history
associated pages, see Chapter 4
Basic Measurement Setup on Triggers: used to setup the triggers which define noise
page 4-1. exceedance events
Event History (optional): used to setup the timing and

options for event details
Markers: used to define the marker names and enable

sound recorder options
Day/Night: used to define the time periods and level

penalties for community noise metrics
Sound (optional): used to set the quality of sound

recording and enable its usage
Weather: used to setup external transducers for the

measurement of wind speed, wind direction, temperature
and humidity

Control Panel (TOOLS) Properties
For a detailed description of the The Control Panel displays icons to represent the different
Tools Screen, see Control Panel - functions available for the Model 831. Pressing the 3
System Properties on page 18-1. (TOOLS) key displays the Control Panel screen, as shown in
FIGURE 3-10. Press 5 to select an icon.
Three more icons, Lock, System

Utilities and Communication do not
appear in FIGURE 3-10. Scroll
down below the System Properties
and About icons to see them.
FIGURE 3-10 Tools Screen
Data Explorer
For a detailed description of the Data Explorer is used to examine stored data. It is also used
Data Explorer, see Chapter 17 to manage stored measurements such as rename or delete
Data Explorer on page 17-1. files.
Setup Manager
For a detailed description of the The Setup Manager permits the user to create and store a
Setup Manager, see Setup number of user-defined measurement setups for easy recall,
Manager on page 4-16. editing and use.
System Properties
For a detailed description of the System Property tabs are used for general instrument
System Properties tabs, see Chapter bookkeeping. Functions such as setting the instrument date
18 System Properties on page 18- and time, display contrast adjustment, date format, etc. are
1. located here. These are single-paged tabs.
The System Property tabs include the following:

Device: Enter instrument identification.
Time: Set date and time.
Power: Set controls affecting power consumption.
Preferences: Set a variety of system parameters such as

Autostore and USB Storage.
Localization: Set the regional characteristics, such as

Language, Decimal Symbol, Date Format and Units.
Displays: Set customization of Displays.
Logic I/O: Configure logic in and logic out options for

the Model 831 control port.
FIGURE 3-11 shows System Properties tabs sequence.
Softkey Selection of Systems Property Pages
Device Time Power Preferences Localization Displays Logic I/O
FIGURE 3-11 System Property Tabs
The Right and Left Softkeys are used to scroll between

System Property tabs.
Lock
For a detailed description of the Lock permits the Model 831 to be configured such that
Lock feature, see Chapter 21 Lock/ certain keys are locked so their functionality cannot be
Unlock the Model 831 on page 21- utilized.
1.
Communication
For a detailed description of the The Communication tabs are used to setup and monitor
Communication tabs, see Chapter 20 communications between the Model 831 and a PC using a
Communication on page 20-1. dial-up modem, wireless EDGE modem or RS-232
interface.

The Communication tabs include the following:
Status: Display status of Analog and Wireless modems,

RS-232 and USB channels.
Modem: Setup a dial-up modem
Wireless: Setup a wireless modem
RS-232: Setup an RS-232 interface

Calibrate
For a detailed description of the Calibrate is used to verify and adjust the calibration of the
calibration procedure, see Chapter 8 Model 831 prior to a measurement.
Calibration on page 8-1.
Voice Recorder
For a detailed description of the A method to allow voice annotation of the data is described
voice recording feature, see Chapter in Chapter 10 Voice Recording on page 10-1.
10 Voice Recording on page 10-1.
About
For a detailed description of the The About tabs provide the user with information specific to
About tabs, see Chapter 22 About this instrument such as serial number, options, etc. These are
on page 22-1. single section tabs.
The About tabs include the following:
About: shows information such as serial number and

firmware revision
Standards: lists the standards that the Model 831 meets
Options: shows the options that are available in this

instrument
User: user entered instrument identification

FIGURE 3-12 shows the About tabs sequence.
Softkey Selection of About Pages
About Standards Options User
FIGURE 3-12 Softkey Selection of About Tabs
The Right and Left Softkeys are used to scroll between the
About tabs.
System Utilities
For a detailed description of the The System Utilities provides routines to work with the
System Utilities, see Chapter 23 internal files systems and the USB. Routines are provided to
System Utilities on page 23-1. implement the following activities:
Check File System
Format
Additional icons may appear in the Format/Restore Defaults

Control Panel, depending on the
firmware options enabled on your Check/Repair USB
Model 831.
Format USB
Parameter Selection
When operating the Model 831, you frequently define
parameters by selecting them from lists that may appear on
the display either as a row with a radio button, or as a
vertical list in a drop down menu.
3-20 Parameter Selection Model 831 Manual

Parameters in a Row
These may appear as a single row or, when there are

numerous parameters to define, as multiple rows as shown
in FIGURE 3-13.
FIGURE 3-13 Parameters with Radio Buttons
Use the 2 and 8 keys to highlight the parameter

(Frequency Weighting, Detector, etc.), then the 6 and 4
keys to highlight the desired selection for that parameter.
Press 5 to make the selection and fill in the radio button
associated with that parameter.
Model 831 Manual Parameter Selection 3-21

Drop Down List
Parameters of this type are associated with a parameter name

followed by a data field indicating the present selection for
that parameter. There may be a single parameter to be
defined, or multiple parameters as shown in FIGURE 3-14.
FIGURE 3-14 Parameter Data Field
Use the 2 and 8 keys to highlight data field of the

parameter to be defined (Battery Type highlighted above)
and press 5 to open the drop down menu listing the
permitted choices as shown in FIGURE 3-15.
FIGURE 3-15 Drop Down Menu
Use the 2 and 8 keys to highlight the desired item in

the list and press 5 to make the selection and close the
menu.

Entering Alphanumeric Strings
It is easier to specify alphanumeric In some instances you will be called upon to enter
strings in SLM Utility-G3 or G4 alphanumeric strings, such as creating a name or entering
software. text information. Parameters of this type are associated with
a parameter name and a data field as shown in FIGURE 3-
16.
.
FIGURE 3-16 Alphanumeric Data Field
The data field may be blank, as in the Measurement

Description above, or it may contain a default name, as in
the Default Data File field. Use the 2 and 8 keys to
highlight the desired data field and press 5 to bring up a
cursor in the data field as shown in FIGURE 3-17.
FIGURE 3-17 Cursor in Data Field
The 6 and 4 keys are used to move the cursor right or left,
respectively. At any cursor position, the 8 and 2 keys
are used to scroll the alphanumeric character appearing in
that position through a defined sequence.
Model 831 Manual Parameter Selection 3-23

Repeated presses of the 8 key will produce the following
sequence of characters:
Capital letters A through Z
Lower case letters a through z
Characters ! @ # $ * ( ) - + = [ ] < > .
Numbers 0 through 9
Space
Repeated presses of the 2 key will produce the same
sequence in reverse order.
When the desired alphanumeric field has been entered, press
5 to accept it and remove the cursor.
Entering Numeric Data
FIGURE 3-18 Entering Numeric Data
When a purely numeric parameter is being entered, as in

FIGURE 3-18, the same procedure is followed as for
alphanumeric parameters. In this case, repeated presses of
the 8 and 2 keys will scroll upward or downward,
respectively, through the numeric sequence.

CHAPTER
4 Basic Measurement Setup

This chapter describes the setup of the Model 831 to
perform basic sound level measurements. These
measurements may include the following:
Leq, Lmax, Lmin corresponding to user-selected
values of frequency weighting and detector
Lpeak and Lpeak(max) corresponding to a user-
selected value of frequency weighting
1/1 and/or 1/3 Octave real-time spectra
(831-OB3 required)
Six values of Ln based on six user-selected values of
the percentage parameter n
Count of the number of times the levels (SPL and
Peak) exceeded user-selected threshold values
Sound exposure and sound exposure level data
Settings Screen
Accessing the Settings Screen
For a more detailed description of The parameters defining a measurement are set from the
the Settings Screen, see Control Settings Screen.
Panel (TOOLS) Properties on This screen can be accessed from any of the Data Views.
page 3-17. Press the Center Softkey labeled Menu, highlight Settings,
and press 5 (ENTER). The Settings Screen is now
displayed with the tab selected that is most appropriate for
the data display from which it was activated.
The settings can also be edited using the Setup Manager,
described in Setup Manager on page 4-16.
Model 831 Manual Basic Measurement Setup 4-1

Settings In Use Message
If the Model 831 is not connected to If the G4 is connected to the Model 831 when attempting to
a computer running G4 LD Utility access the Settings Screen, the display shown in FIGURE 4-
software, ignore this section. 1 will appear.
FIGURE 4-1 Settings In Use By 831 Utility Message
This message warns the user that accessing the Settings

Screen will cause setup changes which had been made using
the 831 Utility during this session to be lost. It also indicates
that changes made in the instrument may be lost when the
settings in use by the PC are uploaded.
To continue and access the Settings Screen, highlight Yes
and press 5.
Setup Tabs
Only a few of these horizontally Depending on the firmware options loaded in the Model
arranged tabs (three in Figure 4-2) 831, there may be as many as fourteen different setup tabs in
can be seen at one time. To see those the Settings Screen, each identified by a title on a tab at the
off-screen to the right use the Right top as shown in Figure 4-2.
Softkey beneath the display. To scroll
back to the left, use the Left Softkey
beneath the display.
FIGURE 4-2 Tabbed Setup Tabs
For basic measurements, we will only be concerned with the

following tabs:
General
SLM
OBA
Ln
4-2 Setup Tabs Model 831 Manual

Control
Triggers
Day/Night
The Right and Left Softkeys are used to scroll through the
available tabs, to the right and left, respectively, in the order
they are listed above.
Each of these is described in detail in the sections which
follow.
General Tab
FIGURE 4-3 General Tab
The 831 Utility Software can be used The General Tab is used to enter a file name and a
to easily enter both the file name and measurement description for the measurement being
the measurement description. defined. Upon opening, the Default File Name 831_Data
may appear in the file name field.
To enter a new file name, highlight the Default File Name
text box and press 5. Enter a new name and press 5.
Model 831 Manual Setup Tabs 4-3

SLM Tab
The default values for these

parameters are as shown in
FIGURE 4-4.
FIGURE 4-4 SLM Tab
Selections of Frequency Weighting, Detector, Peak

Weighting and Integration Method are made one-at-a-time.
Click to highlight the desired section prior to making the
selection.
Use the arrow keys to highlight the appropriate item for the
selected parameter and press 5 to make the selection.
Frequency Weighting
A, C and Z frequency weightings are provided for the SPL
and peak detectors. These are selected separately.
Time Weighting
Available time weightings for the SPL detector are: Slow,
Fast and Impulse.

Integration Method
Note that the Model 831 can be set to Two Integration methods are available: Linear and
run for a preset integration time as Exponential.
described in M " anual Stop, Timed
Stop or Stop When Stable"on page Exponential Integration
6-4 Exponential integration is provided mainly to provide
compatibility with older instruments. Exponential detectors
have a tendency to hide small events in the long decay of a
loud impulsive event.
Note that when performing time history measurements using
time increments 10 ms or less, the integration method must
be linear. If exponential integration has been selected at the
time of setup, this will be changed as described in Linear
Integration Only on page 11-6.
Linear Integration
Linear integration integrates only energy that occurs during
a given time period and therefore does not exhibit the decay
slope of a Fast, Slow or Impulse exponential detector.
The value of the integrated level is displayed immediately
following the end of the integration time.
For long duration measurements both integration methods
report the same value in that they both have equivalent
energy under the curve, although short term metrics may
vary.
20 dB Gain
When measuring low level sounds, when the sound level is

approaching the background noise level of the instrument, it
is recommended to increase the gain by 20 dB. This is done
by using the 2 key to highlight this section and pressing
5 to insert a check. Press 5 again to remove the check
and set the gain back to 0 dB
The effect of the gain on the noise level is shown in
FIGURE A-30 "Noise of Model 831 with 377B02: 0 dB
Gain, Low Range on page A-45, FIGURE A-31 "Noise of
Model 831 with 377B02: 0 dB Gain, Normal Range on
page A-46, FIGURE A-32 "Noise of Model 831 with
377B02: 20 dB Gain, Low Range on page A-47 and
FIGURE A-33 "Noise of Model 831 with 377B02: 20 dB
Gain, Normal Range on page A-48.

The effect on the A-Weighted linearity range is shown in the
section f) Linear Operating Range on page B-9.
Octave Band Analyzer Tab (Optional)
The default values for these This tab will only appear when the Model 831 has the
parameters are as shown in optional 831-OB3 firmware enabled.
FIGURE 4-5.
FIGURE 4-5 OBA Tab
OBA Parameter Selection

The OBA parameters are selected as shown in FIGURE 4-6.
Highlight and Press 5

Key to Select
FIGURE 4-6 OBA Parameter Selection

OBA Range Setting
The user selects normal or low range OBA for the
measurement:
Normal Range, typically 45 to 140 dB
Low Range, typically 19 to 107 dB
For measurement range specifications, refer to the
microphone capabilities. Additionally, see Table A-20 "1/1
Octave Linearity Range" on page A-24 or Table A-21 "1/3
Octave Linearity Range" on page A-27.
OBA Bandwidth Setting

The user can select to utilize a single 1/1 Octave analysis
module, a single 1/3 Octave analysis module or both
simultaneously.
Select Off to have no real-time analysis module active.
OBA Frequency Weighting

The user can select that the 1/1 and/or 1/3 Octave frequency
analysis modules process data from the A, C or Z weighting
filters.
See Spectral Statistics on Spectral Ln Mode

page 24-5 for a more detailed Spectral Ln values can be measured using either 1/1 or 1/3
description of spectral Ln octave bandwidths, depending on the OBA bandwidth
measurements. selected, as shown below.
OBA = 1/1 Octave: Spectral Ln Mode is 1/1 Octave
OBA = 1/3 Octave or 1/1, 1/3 Octave: Spectral Ln
Mode is 1/3 Octave
Setting the spectral mode Off will reduce the memory used
for data storage.
Ln Tab
The Ln value is the measured sound level which was
exceeded n% of the measurement time. For example, a value
of L90 = 35 dB means that the measured sound level was
above 35 dB for 90% of the measurement period. These
statistical values are commonly used to describe the
characteristics of non-steady sound such as environmental
noise.

In order to be able to calculate Ln values, the Model 831
creates an amplitude distribution table over the range 0 to
200 dB, in amplitude increments of 0.1 dB. These data
permit the calculation of Ln values for any value of n in the
range 00.01 to 99.99%.
Selection of Ln Values
The default values for these The Model 831 displays six Ln values at a time, using user-
parameters are as shown in selected values of n. These are set from the Ln Tab, shown
FIGURE 4-7. in FIGURE 4-7.
FIGURE 4-7 Ln Tab
Modifying Ln Values During a Measurement

While a measurement is running, it is possible to return to
the Ln display of the Settings Screen, shown in FIGURE 4-7
and change any or all of the six Ln values. This will change
the display of Ln values, shown in FIGURE 5-18 "Overall
Tab: Ln Percentiles on page 5-19.

Control Tab
FIGURE 4-8 Control Tab
A detailed description of the Run The Control tab is used to set the Run Mode for the
Mode is presented in Chapter 6 R
" un measurement to be performed. There are six modes of
Control on page 6-1. measurement duration available. In this chapter we will
address only the first three.
Manual Stop: The measurement is initiated manually by
pressing the 9 (Run/Pause) key and it stopped upon
pressing the 7 (Stop/Store) key.
Timed Stop: The measurement is initiated manually by
pressing the 9 (Run/Pause) key and will be stopped
automatically after a user-defined time period.
Run Until Level Stable: The measurement is initiated
manually by pressing the 9 (Run/Pause) key. The
measurement will stop when the measured level has
remained within a user-defined range and the
measurement has run for a user-defined time period.
The selection of the Run Mode and the associated
parameters is shown in FIGURE 4-9. The Measurement
History feature is not discussed in this chapter. For further
information on that, see Chapter 12 "Measurement History
on page 12-1.

FIGURE 4-9 Run Mode Parameter Selections
Measurement History
For a detailed description of In FIGURE 4-9, an item entitled Enable Measurement

Measurement History, see Chapter History appears for each Run Mode. Measurement History is
12 M " easurement History on a measurement option provided when the optional firmware
page 12-1. 831-ELA is enabled. Since this chapter is concerned only
with basic measurements, we do not address Measurement
History here. Thus, in the following sections when we refer
to parameters, this does not include Measurement History.
Manual Stop Mode
The Manual Stop Mode has no parameters.
Timed Stop Mode
Timed Stop has two parameters, Time and Enable
Measurement History. It also adds Measurement Counter if
one minute or more.The range of time values which can be
entered is 00:00:01 to 99:59:59 in the format hh:mm:ss.
Stop When Stable Mode
The Stop When Stable Run Mode has two parameters: Delta
and Time.

Delta
The Delta level is the maximum allowed change in Current
average level (i.e. LAeq) permitted during the time interval
defined below. The minimum level that can be set is 0 and
the maximum is 5.0 dB. The default is 0.2 dB.
Time
The Time is the minimum interval that the measurement
must run. The measurement will run for the interval
specified and then continue until the stability condition is
met. The smallest value that can be entered is 20 seconds
and the largest is 99:59:59 (h:m:s), The default is 20
seconds.
Triggers Tab
Note that the default values for these

parameters are as shown in
FIGURE 4-10.
FIGURE 4-10 Triggers Tab
The Triggers tab is used to define trigger levels associated

with exceedance events; instances where the measured
sound level (SPL or Peak) exceeds one of the user-defined
trigger levels. The variation of sound level during a typical

event might look as shown in FIGURE 4-11 "Exceedance
Event Example" .
dB
Event Begins Event Ends
2 dB
Time
FIGURE 4-11 Exceedance Event Example
For exceedance counters a noise event is initiated when the

sound level rises above the event trigger level. A noise event
ends when the sound level drops 2 dB below the trigger
level. This hysteresis is introduced to avoid the creation of
multiple events when the sound level is fluctuating about the
threshold level.
SPL Trigger Levels
There are two threshold levels, SPL Trigger Levels 1 and 2,
which can be set to initiate an exceedance event when the
measured SPL (Slow, Fast or Impulse) exceeds either of
these thresholds.
Peak Trigger Level
Three different Peak Trigger Levels can be set
independently from the SPL trigger levels. Since the peak
detector has a very fast response time compared to the SPL
detectors, exceedance events based on the peak trigger level
can identify impulsive noises produced by blasts and gun
fire which would not ordinarily produce an exceedance of
the SPL trigger levels.

Basic Exceedance Event Data
Note that hysteresis is only utilized The following exceedance event data are provided for each
to define the conclusion of a noise of the five threshold levels:
event for basic event counting as The number of exceedances of each threshold level.
described in this section. It is not
used in conjunction with the The sum total of the time the measured level was
acquisition of noise event history exceeded the threshold level.
data.
Noise Event History Data
When the Model 831 has the optional 831-ELA firmware
loaded, detailed sound level data associated with exceedance
events are measured and stored. For details, see Chapter 13
"Event History on page 13-1
Sound Recording of Exceedances
If the optional 831-SR firmware has been enabled, automatic
sound recordings of each exceedance can be made. See
Event Sound Recording on page 16-14.
Day/Night Tab
Note that the default values for these Among the parameters measured and displayed as part of a
parameters are as shown in basic sound level measurement are the community noise
FIGURE 4-12. descriptors LDN and LDEN. The Day/Night tab is used to
define the times and penalties to be used.
FIGURE 4-12 Day/Evening/Night Definition

LDN
The default day-night level LDN is defined by the following formula:
0700 2200 2400

1

L + 10 10 L 10 L + 10 10
= 10Log -----
-
i i i
L 10 + 10 + 10
dn 10
24
0000 0700 2200
LDEN
The default day-evening-night level LDEN is defined by the
following formula:
1
Lday Levening 5 Lnight 10
L DEN = 10 lg 12 *10 10 4 *10 10 8 * 10 10

24
In the default form, the day has twelve hours, the evening
has four hours and the night has eight hours, as can be seen
in the equation. The default times for these periods are as
follows
Day: 07.00 to 19.00
Evening: 19.00 to 23.00
Night: 23.00 to 07.00
Lday, Levening and Lnight are A-weighted long-term
average sound levels measured during the day, evening and
night, respectively.
To account for the increased impact of environmental noise
during the evening and night, penalties are added to the
measured level; 5 dB for evening and 10 dB for night, as can
be seen in the equation.
The Directive 2002/49/EC of the European Parliament and
of the Council of 25 June 2002, relating to the assessment of
environmental noise permits member states to shorten the
evening period by one or two hours and lengthen the day

and/or the night accordingly and also to choose the time for
the start of the day.
To accommodate these and other possible modifications, the
Day/Night tab permits the user to modify the times for the
beginning of the Day, Evening and Night periods and the
penalties to be utilized when calculating 24-hour integrated
values.
CNEL
In the state of California, a commonly used community
noise descriptor is Community Noise Equivalent Level
(CNEL), defined by the following formula:
0700 1900 2200 24

1

L + 10 10 L 10 L + 5 10
10
------ 10
i
+ 10
i
+ 10
i
+
24 0000 0700 1900 22
This is essentially the same as the LDEN using default

values, with the exception that the evening period begins at
22.00 instead of 23.00. Thus, by making this change in the
LDEN settings, the measured value will represent CNEL.
Exiting Settings Screen

To exit the Settings Screen, press the Center Softkey labeled
Close.
If any setup parameters have been changed, the Apply
Changes message box will be displayed as shown in
FIGURE 4-13.
FIGURE 4-13 Apply Changes
Model 831 Manual Exiting Settings Screen 4-15

At this point the parameter changes made from the Settings
Screen have not yet been implemented in the instrument.
Select either Yes or No, and press 5 to implement the
changes or cancel the changes, respectively. This will return
the Data Display Screen to the display.
Setup Manager
Due to the need to assign names to The Setup Manager permits the user to create and store a
user-defined setups, it is much easier number of user-defined measurement setups for easy recall
to create and save these using G4 or and use.
G3 software. To activate the Setup Managers, press the 3 (TOOLS) key.
to open the Control Panel. Highlight the Setup Manager
icon, as shown in FIGURE 4-14
FIGURE 4-14 Control Panel
4-16 Setup Manager Model 831 Manual

Press 5 to open the Setup Manager, shown in FIGURE 4-
15.
FIGURE 4-15 Setup Manager
If no user-defined setups have been created and saved, the

display will list two setups:
LD Active: the setup presently active in the Model
831
LD default: the factory default setup as originally
shipped from Larson Davis
If we have created a setup using the Setup Screen, as
described earlier in this chapter, the LD Active setup is listed
as just LD Active. If we then highlight it and press 5, it
will be listed as LD Active-default, indicating that it is still
using the default name for it.
Model 831 Manual Setup Manager 4-17

Note: Setup names are limited to When user-defined setups have been added, the Setup
twelve characters. Manager might look like FIGURE 4-16.
FIGURE 4-16 Setup Manager: User-defined Setups

Added
Change to LD Default Setup

If you wish to return all settings in the Model 831 to the
default settings which were active when the instrument was
delivered from the factory, highlight LD default and press
5. If there is an unsaved measurement in the instrument,
the message shown in FIGURE 4-17 will appear.
FIGURE 4-17 Reset Prompt

If you do not wish to save this measurement, select Yes,
which displays the message shown in FIGURE 4-18.
FIGURE 4-18 Apply Changes Prompt
Select Yes to return settings in the Model 831 to the factory

defaults. Otherwise, select No to cancel the settings change.
If you wish to save the measurement prior to returning the
settings to the defaults, highlight No in the Reset Prompt
shown in FIGURE 4-17 and press 5 to cancel the reset
operation. Save the measurement in the usual manner, by
pressing the 7 (Stop/Store key) once (if already stopped)
or twice (if not already stopped) before again initiating the
return
Utilizing a User-Defined Setup
To utilize a user-defined setup, from the display shown in
FIGURE 4-16 highlight the desired user-defined setup and
press 5. The display will then indicate that the LD Active
setup utilizes the parameters of the selected user-defined
setup, in this case EnvMeas, as shown in FIGURE 4-19.
FIGURE 4-19 User-Defined Setup Made Active

Modifying the Active Setup
When working with the Setup Manager, to modify the active
setup, highlight the setup LD Active and press the right
software button labeled Menu to bring up the display shown
in FIGURE 4-20.
FIGURE 4-20 Modify Active Setup Menu
Highlight Edit and press 5 to bring up the Setup Screen,

as shown in FIGURE 4-21
FIGURE 4-21 Setup Screen
Use this setup screen to make all desired modifications to

the Active setup. When done, press the softkey labeled
Close, which will open the menu shown in FIGURE 4-22
FIGURE 4-22 Apply Changes to Active Setup

Note: If the present Active setup has Select Yes to accept the changes, or No to cancel the
been derived from a user-defined operation.
setup, as described in Utilizing a
User-Defined Setup on page -19,
applying changes will implement the
same changes in the original user-
defined setup file.
Save Modified Setup
To save the modified setup, press the right softkey labeled
Menu to obtain the display shown above in FIGURE 4-20.
Define Name
The name must contain no more than Highlight Save As and press 5 to obtain the display shown
eight characters and spaces cannot in FIGURE 4-23.
be used as delimiter.s
FIGURE 4-23 Save File Menu
It is much easier to specify setup Highlight the name field, presently showing Active and
names when using the SLM Utility- press 5 to modify it. This will produce a cursor as shown
G3 or G4 software. in FIGURE 4-24
FIGURE 4-24 Save File Menu: Cursor Active
Enter the name and press 5 to accept the name. Highlight

the Yes box and press 5 to save the setup under that name.
To cancel the save operation, highlight No and press 5.

Overwrite an Existing Setup File
If, rather than use a new name you wish to use the modified
Active setup file to replace an existing setup file, instead of
pressing the Yes box shown in FIGURE 4-24, highlight the
box labeled Browse and press 5. This will open a display
listing all the user-defined files as shown in FIGURE 4-25.
FIGURE 4-25 User-Defined Setup Files
Highlight the name of the setup file to overwrite and press

5. The Save File menu will now appear with the name of
that file in the name field, as shown in FIGURE 4-26
FIGURE 4-26 Overwrite File Menu
To complete the overwrite operation, highlight Yes and press

5. To cancel the overwrite operation, highlight No and
press 5. To select a different file name, highlight the box
labeled ... and press 5 to repeat the file selection process.

User-Defined Setup File Operations
A number of operations can be performed using the user-
defined setup files by highlighting any one and pressing 5
to obtain the display shown in
FIGURE 4-27 User-Defined File Operations
Highlight the desired operation and press 5 to implement

it.
Load Settings
Load Settings loads the settings from the selected file into
the Model 831.
Edit
Edit permits the user to modify the settings in the selected
file, in the same manner as used for modifying the Active
setup, described in Modifying the Active Setup on page 4-
20.
Rename
The name must contain no more than Rename permits the user to define a new name for the
twelve characters and that a space selected file. The menu shown in FIGURE 4-28 will appear
cannot be used as a delimiter. to implement the renaming process.
FIGURE 4-28 Rename Setup File
Work with this menu as you would for the Save File menu,
described in Save Modified Setup on page 4-21.

Delete
Delete permits the deletion of the selected file. A
confirmation display will appear as shown in FIGURE 4-29.
FIGURE 4-29 Delete Setup File

Save As
Note that the name must contain no Save As permits the selected to be saved under a different
more than twelve characters and name, or to overwrite an existing user-defined file. Follow
that a space cannot be used as a the procedure described in Save Modified Setup on
delimiter. page 4-21.
Refresh List
Refresh List updates the setup list in the Setup Manager
display.
Close Setup Manager
Press the center softkey labeled Close to close the Setup
Manager.

CHAPTER
5 Data Display
In the previous chapter, the setup procedure for a basic
sound level measurement was described. This chapter
describes how this data would be displayed during or
following a measurement sequence.
The Model 831 can measure many additional sound
parameters simultaneously with these basic sound
measurements as described in other sections of this
manual. It can also measure a variety of non-acoustical
parameters, as described in Chapter 19 "Non-Acoustical
Inputs on page 19-1 and the section "Non-Acoustical
Metrics" on page 11-3.
Data Labels
The labels for sound metrics in the Model 831 are
designated by international standards. For many displayed
values, the frequency and time weighting are indicated in the
name of the metric. Example: LAS is the A-weighted sound
pressure level measured using the Slow detector. Sound
pressure level is often referred to as SPL.
Tabbed Structure
Only a few of these horizontally Measured data are displayed using a number of tabs
arranged tabs (three in Figure 5-1) arranged horizontally across the screen, as shown in Figure
can be seen at one time. To see those 5-1. Depending on the firmware options loaded in the Model
off-screen to the right use the Right 831, there may be as many as seven different data display
Softkey beneath the display. To scroll tabs each identified by a title at the top. Use the Right and
back to the left, use the Left Softkey Left Softkeys to navigate between tabs.
beneath the display.
FIGURE 5-1 Tabbed Structure
Model 831 Manual Data Display 5-1

Live Tab
The Live tab may not appear as When the Model 831 is turned ON, the user is generally
described here if the displays have presented with the Live tab. The measurements displayed on
been customized. For a detailed the Live tab are always active, real-time measurements. The
description of display customization, displayed values are not controlled by the 9 (RUN/
see the section "Displays" on PAUSE) key. This allows you to view the current SPL
page 18-23 without disrupting any overall data. For example, suppose
you are making a measurement and an unwanted event takes
place, causing you to stop the measurement. With the
measurement stopped, you can monitor the actual level on
the Live tab to be certain that the residue effects of the
unwanted event have died down before beginning a new
measurement.
You can also access the Any Level The Live tab includes multiple pages for displaying data.
Display, from any tab, as described Use the 8 (UP) or 2 (DOWN) keys to navigate up or
in A" ny Level Display" on page 5- down through pages on the tabs.
42.
SLM Display
Leq, 1 second averaging, using

frequency weighting and
detector selected in setup
User-selected SLM parameter

Lpeak using frequency
weighting selected in setup
FIGURE 5-2 Live Tab: Sound Level Profile
The Profile page presents a recent history of Leq calculated

for each second. The graph presents the last 120 seconds of
the measurement.
The first numerical level displayed, LAeq(1s) in this example,
is the most recently graphed 1 second value. The frequency
5-2 Live Tab Model 831 Manual

weighting, and possibly the detector, will correspond to
those selected in setup for the RMS value.
The 2nd numerical level display, LAS in this example,
corresponds to a user-selected parameter. The default value
is LAS. The selection of this value is described in "User-
Selected SLM Parameter" on page 5-3.
The 3rd numerical level displayed, LZpeak in this example, is
the current measurement from the 1 s. peak detector. The
frequency weighting will correspond to that selected in setup
for the peak value.
The time at the bottom of the page is the date and time the
measurement was started.
User-Selected SLM Parameter
To select which sound level parameter is to be utilized for
the 2nd numerical value displayed, press 5 to open the
menu shown in FIGURE 5-3
FIGURE 5-3 Menu for User-Selected SLM

Parameter
Highlight the desired parameter and press 5 to make the

selection.
Model 831 Manual Live Tab 5-3

Large Digit Sound Level
The large digit display is provided to make it easier for the

user to observe both the instantaneous sound level and along
with the value of the user-selected SPL1 Trigger Level.
Current Value of Leq using Frequency

Weighting and Detector from Setup, Updated
Once per Second
SPL1 Trigger Level
Indication of Current Exceedance of SPL1
Trigger Level. When instantaneous level is
under range, the digital display appears
greyed out
Run Time and Pause Time
Record Number with Date

and Time
FIGURE 5-4 Live Tab, Large Digit
In addition to displaying the current value of Leq, this

display uses a check mark to indicate a current exceedance
of the SPL1 trigger level.

1/1 Octave Band Analyzer (Optional)
The 1/1 Octave Band Analyzer

display appears only when the
instrument is loaded with the
optional 831-OB3 firmware.
Frequency Spectrum Bandwidth
Frequency weighting and

Detector for Sound Level
Measurement
Frequency Band Level at Cursor Position

Sound Pressure Level, Frequency Weighting
and Averaging as Indicted by Subscripts
FIGURE 5-5 Live Tab: 1/1 Octave Spectrum
The 1/1 Octave page shows a bar graph of sound level in 1/1
octave frequency bands. The right most bar on the graph is
the LAS.
Note that the spectrum frequency It is indicated beneath the graph that it is in 1/1 octave
weighting is selected independently bands. On the graph, the vertical bar for the selected octave
from that of the sound level band is highlighted. The frequency of the octave band for
measurement, as described in O" BA which data is being displayed, the sound pressure level
Frequency Weighting" on page 4-7. frequency weighting (A weight) and the detector response
The detector is the same as that of (Slow) are also shown.
the sound level measurement.
Note that the graph scaling can be L(1.00kHz)S indicates the sound level in the 1 kHz band with a
modified as described in section Slow detector setting.
"Adjust Graph Scale" on page 5-30 LAS is the A weighted, Slow detector response sound level.
and the display normalized to
another spectrum, as described in
section "View Spectrum Normalized"
on page 5-31.

Cursor
Use the 4 and 6 keys to move the cursor left and right,
respectively.

optional 831-OB3 firmware.
FIGURE 5-6 Live Tab: 1/3 Octave Spectrum
Note that the graph scaling can be The 1/3 Octave page is similar to FIGURE 5-5. The graph
modified as described in section and data are presented for 1/3 octave bands.
"Adjust Graph Scale" on page 5-30
and the display normalized to
on page 5-31.

Triggering
For a detailed description of

triggering, see "Triggers Tab" on
page 4-11.
FIGURE 5-7 Live Tab: Triggering
The Triggering page displays the instantaneous sound level

and instantaneous peak level with their associated trigger
points. Exceedances of these trigger points will be indicated
by a check mark appearing to the right of each. The check
mark will appear only as long as the measured level remains
above the trigger point.

Preamp Display
The purpose of the Preamp Display is to validate proper
operation of the system. It shows information regarding the
preamplifier currently connected; specifically the
preamplifier type, the SPL and DC voltage at the input to the
Model 831 (for diagnostic purposes).
FIGURE 5-8 Live Tab: Preamp
Using 426A12
The information provided by the Preamp Display is
particularly important when used with the 831-INT System
Interface Unit and the 426A12 Outdoor Preamplifier and
Power Supply. It shows information regarding the control
signals of the control port that connects the 831-INT;
specifically the Overload logic input (indicates a hardware
detected overload condition in the 426A12), the logic input
state, the logic output state, the settings regarding the logic
in and out line, and the status of the Mains Power logic input
(indicates the status of mains power to the 831-INT).

FIGURE 5-9 426A12 Preamp, E.A. On
In FIGURE 5-9 we see the display includes the serial

number and the current internal temperature, humidity and
dew point. The temperature, humidity and dew point metrics
permit desiccant maintenance information to be gathered
regularly and stored with the data. This can also be done
remotely without having to perform an in-field service call.
The electrostatic actuator can be activated when stopped by
pressing 5 to toggle the E.A. calibrator On and Off. The
SPL displays the measured E.A. level.

Using ICP Preamplifier
When using an ICP power preamplifier, additional
information can be displayed as shown in FIGURE 5-10
FIGURE 5-10 ICP Preamp Displays
Here we can see how the DC voltage measured at the input

of the Model 831 is useful in diagnosing problems with the
input signal. The Fault:Open indicator is shown if the
voltage is too high (34.3 Vdc) and the Fault:Shorted
indicator is shown if the voltage is too low (0.0 Vdc). The
nominal voltage (10.9 Vdc) when there is no fault is also
helpful in verifying that the unit is biased properly and that
the maximum signal excursion is possible.

Time, Battery Voltage and Memory
FIGURE 5-11 Live Tab: Time, Battery, Memory
This page indicates the current date and time, the run time
for the measurement, battery voltage, calculated run time
and memory usage.
Run Timer
The run timer is the time the current measurement has been
running, or, if Measurement History is enabled, it is a count
down until the next measurement history. However, if the
Auto-Store feature is enabled and greater than the
Measurement History time, then the Run Timer will display
a count down until the next Auto-Store.
If time interval sync is selected, then the first measurement
run timer will be truncated to sync with the clock.
Battery
Note that it takes approximately one When running on battery power, this will indicate the battery
minute to obtain an accurate voltage and remaining time instrument will operate.
measure of battery parameters.
During this time, the display will
indicate - -.

Memory
The Memory section indicates the amount of memory
available as a percentage and in number of kBytes. The
number of stored data files is also indicated.

Overall Tab
The Overall tab includes multiple pages. Use the 8 or
2 keys to navigate up or down through pages on the tabs.
Note that from any of the displays This section addresses only those sections of the Overall tab
described in this section, the user associated with basic sound level measurements. Other tabs
can also access the Any Level associated with data provided by optional firmware may also
Display, described in "Any Level appear. Although the 1/1 and 1/3 octave spectra require
Display"on page 5-42. optional firmware (831-OB3), we do include the display of
this data in this chapter.
Leq
Leq value using frequency

weighting and detector from
setup
User-selected SLM parameter
FIGURE 5-12 Overall Tab: Sound Level Profile
From this display the user can also The graph on this page depicts the profile of sound levels
access the Any Level Display, measured throughout the overall measurement. The left side
described in A
" ny Level Display" on of the graph is the very beginning and the right side is the
page 5-42. very end of the overall measurement. The run time for the
average calculation is shown at the top of the screen. The
graph display is updated approximately four times per
second.
The 1st numerical value displayed, LAeq in this example, is
the equivalent sound level based on the run time of the
measurement. The frequency weighting and detector
correspond to those used in the setup.
Model 831 Manual Overall Tab 5-13

The 2nd numerical value displayed is LApeak in this
example, is a user-selected value. The selection of this value
is described in User-Selected SLM Parameter below.
The time at the bottom of the page is the date and time the
User-Selected SLM Parameter
To select which sound level parameter is to be utilized for
the 2nd numerical value displayed, press 5 to open the
menu shown in FIGURE 5-13
FIGURE 5-13 Menu for User-Selected

SLM Parameter
There are twenty-four possible Highlight the desired parameter and press 5 to make the
selections; scroll down to see more selection.
than shown in FIGURE 5-13.
5-14 Overall Tab Model 831 Manual

Overall Large Digit Sound Level
Leq using Frequency

Weighting and Detector
from Setup Percent Of Measurement
Time Above SPL1 Trigger
SPL1 Trigger Level Level
Maximum Level using
Frequency Weighting and
Detector from Setup
Peak Level using Frequency Run Time
Weighting from Setup Pause Time
FIGURE 5-14 Overall Tab: Large Digit Display
The graph scaling can be modified This page presents a data-compressed profile of the sound
as described in section "Adjust level for the run time of the measurement. The large digit
Graph Scale"on page 5-30. display is updated along with the calculation of the average
sound level approximately four times per second. The
process is continuous throughout the run time. The Pause
Time indicator shows the amount of time the current
measurement was paused.

Overall SLM
FIGURE 5-15 Overall Tab: Overall SLM
LAS represents the live sound LASeq and the LAS are also shown on this page of the
pressure level for the active Overall tab.
frequency and time weightings and The LZpeak (Z frequency weighting) is the live reading of the
the LZpeak represents the live peak detector.
instantaneousness peak level. They
are displayed here to allow the user The LZpeak(max) is the highest level the peak detector has
to see these live metrics and their measured during the run time of the measurement. A date
effect on the overall maximum, and time of occurrence is recorded with this event.
minimum and equivalent levels. The LZpeak(max) is also considered the peak hold. Whenever
data is reset, this parameter is cleared. To reset data, press
the 1 (RESET) key.
The LASmax is the highest level the SPL detector has
measured during the run time of the measurement. A date
and time of occurrence is recorded with this event.
The LASmax is also considered the max hold. Whenever data
is reset, this parameter is cleared. To reset data, press the 1
key.
The LASmin is the lowest level the SPL detector has
measured during the run time of the measurement. A date
and time of occurrence is recorded with this event.


optional firmware 831-OB3 has been
enabled and this measurement mode
has been selected in the setup.
Lmax Values
Leq Values
Lmin Values
Frequency Spectrum Bandwidth
Spectral Measurements: Leq, Lmax and Lmin,

with frequency weighting and averaging
indicated
FIGURE 5-16 Overall Tab: 1/1 Octave Spectrum
Note that the graph scaling can be The data displayed in section four shows Leq, Lmax and
modified as described in section Lmin sound levels in 1/1 octave frequency bands calculated
"Adjust Graph Scale" on page 5-30 for the duration of the measurement. The right most bar on
and the display normalized to the graph is the sum of the Leq values for the total spectrum.
another spectrum, as described in The bar for the displayed frequency band is highlighted. The
section "View Spectrum Normalized" highlight can be moved using the 4 and 6 keys.
on page 5-31.
Leq
Leq is the energy average sound level of the highlighted
frequency band for the duration of the measurement.
Lmin
Lmin is the minimum sound level of the highlighted
frequency band for the duration of the measurement. Since
individual frequency bands may reach their minimum levels
at different times, this spectrum might be one which never
occurred at any instant during the measurement period.

Lmax
Lmax is the maximum sound level of the highlighted
frequency band. The maximum spectrum is determined by
the Max Spec setting.
Bin Max
When set to Bin Max, it is the maximum value which
occurred during the entire measurement for that frequency
band. Since individual frequency bands may reach their
maximum levels at different times, this spectrum might be
one which never occurred at any instant during the
measurement period.
At Max
When set to At Lmax, it is the instantaneous spectrum at the
moment when the broadband maximum occurred (such as
LASmax).

optional 831-OB3 firmware and this
measurement mode has been
selected in the setup.
FIGURE 5-17 Overall Tab: 1/3 Octave Spectrum

Note that the graph scaling can be The data displayed on this page is similar to that displayed
modified as described in section for a 1/1 octave spectrum measurement, described in "1/1
"Adjust Graph Scale" on page 5-30 Octave Band Analyzer (Optional)" on page 5-17, except that
and the display normalized to it represents 1/3 octave data.
on page 5-31.
Ln Percentiles
FIGURE 5-18 Overall Tab: Ln Percentiles
The Ln Percentiles page displays the Ln statistics for the

measurement based on the run time. Also shown are the
maximum and minimum sound levels measured. An Ln is
the level that was exceeded n percent of the time.
The values of Ln are calculated from an amplitude
distribution table, ranging from 0 to 200 dB, in 0.1 dB steps.
As a result, it is possible to calculate Ln values from values
of n ranging from 00.01% to 99.99%. The values shown in
FIGURE 5-18 represent the six values which were selected
for display during setup. At any time during a measurement,
any or all of these Ln values can be changed, as described in
"Modifying Ln Values During a Measurement on page 4-8,
so that Ln values corresponding to different values of n may
be displayed.

NF30-101 Ln (Optional)
The NF30-101 Ln display appears The NF30-101 option computes the broadband Ln table
only when both the 1/3 octave OBA values from an energy sum of the 1/3 octave from 25 Hz to 2
bandwidth and NF30-101 firmware kHz filters. This method of computing Ln values is used
options have been enabled. primarily in France. Figure 5-19 shows the Ln percentiles
with the NF30-101 option enabled.
FIGURE 5-19 Ln with NF30-101

Spectral Ln (Optional)
The Spectral Ln display appears

only when the optional 831-OB3
firmware has been enabled and the
Spectral Ln Mode set for 1/1 or 1/3
octave measurements, as described
in "Spectral Ln Mode"on page 4-7.
Ln as a function of frequency for

six user-selected values of n
Frequency at cursor position
Ln values at cursor position

FIGURE 5-20 Overall Tab: Spectral Ln
The graph shown in FIGURE 5-20 overlays curves of Ln as

a function of frequency for the six values of n defined in the
setup, as described in "Ln Tab" on page 4-7. These are the
same n values used in the display of overall Ln in "Overall
Tab: Ln Percentiles" on page 5-19.
Note that the graph scaling can be Numerical values of Ln for the six user-selected values of n
modified as described in section at the frequency corresponding to the cursor position are
"Adjust Graph Scale"on page 5-30. displayed as indicated in FIGURE 5-20. Use the 4 and 6
keys to move the cursor left and right, respectively, along the
frequency axis.
See "Spectral Statistics" on page 24-5 for a more detailed
description of spectral Ln measurements.

Exceedances
For a detailed description of noise

events based on threshold
exceedances, see T" riggers Tab" on
page 4-11.
FIGURE 5-21 Overall Tab: Exceedances
The Exceedences page shows the number of exceedances

that have occurred during the measurement and the total
duration of exceedances. Exceedances are shown for two
threshold levels of the SPL detector and three for the peak
detector.

Overloads
OBA Overload SLM Overload
FIGURE 5-22 Overall Tab: Overloads
The Overloads page shows the number of times, the percent

of time and the amount of time that the Sound Level Meter
and the OBA have been overloaded.
The Community Noise page is shown in Figure 5-23.
FIGURE 5-23 Overall Tab: Community Noise

Since community noise metrics are The Community Noise page displays the parameters LDN,
based upon full day measurements, LDEN, LCeq and LAeq, commonly used to evaluate
they do not present valid data for community noise, and LCeq-LAeq, used to describe the low
measurements less than 24 hours frequency content of a sound and also as a parameter in the
duration. selection of hearing protection devices. The parameter
LAFTM5 will appear when Takt Maximal Data has been
selected on the Preferences Page as shown in "Takt Maximal
Data" on page 18-14. The definition is shown in
"Taktmaximal-5" on page D-21.
LDEN
Although the standard ISO 1996-2:2007 specifies default
values for the parameters used in the calculation of LDEN, in
practice the time values defining the day, evening and night
periods may be changed, as permitted by Directive 2002/49/
EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25
June 2002 relating to the assessment and management of
environmental noise. It is important to verify prior to
measurement that the parameters have been properly defined
for your purposes. See Chapter 4 "Day/Night Tab on page
4-13 for a detailed description of the setup procedure.
C-A and Impulsivity
FIGURE 5-24 Overall Tab: C-A Level and

Impulsivity
The C minus A metric provides an indication of the low

frequency content of noise measured by subtracting the A-

weighted equivalent level from the C-weighted equivalent
level.
The integrated levels for LAeq are always calculated using

the linear detector, regardless of the value selected in the
SLM Setup. The LAIeq value is from the impulse detector.
Industrial Hygiene
If the optional Industrial Hygiene firmware is enabled, a
display for sound exposure, two displays for noise dose and
a display for SEA will appear between the Community
Noise and the Number of Measurement screens. These are
discussed in Chapter 9 "Industrial Hygiene on page 9-1.
Status Page
FIGURE 5-25 Overall Tab: Number of

Measurements
The Status page on the Overall tab displays the number of

session log entries, the quantity of each type of measurement
which has been made, the number of sound recording made
and also the memory status for the current measurement
session.
The number of sound recordings includes the following:
Manually Initiated Recordings
Marker Initiated Recordings

Event Recordings
Measurement Recordings
Session Log Tab
Calibrate Icon
Run Icon
Voice Message/Sound Recording Icon

Pause Icon
Resume
Stop Icon
FIGURE 5-26 Session Log Tab
The Session Log is a record of data accumulation actions.

Resetting and storing data will clear the session record.
A time-stamped record is made for every Calibrate, Run,
Pause, Resume, Stop, Voice Message and Sound Recording
etc. action. The source responsible for each action is also
recorded which may be any of the following:
Key press
Measurement (Sound Recording)
Event (Sound Recording)
Marker (Sound Recording)
USB command
Run timer complete
Analog Modem (Communication Failure)
831 INT-ET (Communication Failure)
GPS Time Sync
Low battery
Out of memory
Preamplifier disconnect
5-26 Session Log Tab Model 831 Manual

The Measurement Status Icons are The icons in the left column of the display indicate the
described in M" easurement Status" action: Run, Pause, Voice Recording, etc. The date and time
on page 3-10. of the action is displayed next to the icon.
Each measurement segment (from Run to Stop) is
numbered, as is each voice message and sound recording.
The user may scroll the list and expand each item. In the
upper right corner of the expanded item the number
indicates which item is being viewed out of how many total
items are in the list.
GPS Time Sync
The GPS Time Sync icon and the time sync data are shown
in FIGURE 5-27.
Time of day after
correction
GPS Time Sync Correction
FIGURE 5-27 GPS Time Sync
The correction is the number of seconds that the internal

clock was adjusted. A negative number represents the clock
being set backwards in time. For further detail on the setup
of a GPS device, see "Location Measurement Using 831-
INT" on page 19-10.
Model 831 Manual Session Log Tab 5-27

FIGURE 5-28 presents a list of all actions and the valid
causes for each of them.
FIGURE 5-28 Session Log Actions and Causes
Voice Message/Sound Recording Playback
Note that voice messages, which are Voice messages and sound recordings can be played back
recorded using the Voice Recorder from the Session Log tab. Highlight the desired voice
Page of the Control Panel, can also message or sound recording, indicated by the Voice
be played back from there. For more Message/Sound Recording Icon shown in FIGURE 5-
detail, see Chapter 10 V " oice 26 "Session Log Tab on page 5-26. A highlighted voice
Recording on page 10-1. There are
a number of alternative ways to
playback sound recordings. See
"Sound Recording Playback" on
page 16-20 for more detail.
5-28 Session Log Tab Model 831 Manual

message or sound recording will appear as shown in
FIGURE 5-29.
FIGURE 5-29 Highlighted Voice Message, Session

Log
To play back the highlighted voice message, press 5 or

select the Play menu item, shown in FIGURE 5-30.
FIGURE 5-30 Voice Recording Play Menu
Model 831 Manual Session Log Tab 5-29

Adjust Graph Scale
The default amplitude (dB) settings for the graphic display
of sound pressure level versus time and frequency spectra
(1/1 and 1/3 octave) are as indicated below:
Level vs Time Graph: 20 dB to 140 dB
Frequency Spectra Graph, Normal Range: 20 dB to
140 dB
Frequency Spectra Graph, Low Range: -10 dB to 110
dB
To change the scaling of any one of these graphs, press the
Menu softkey to obtain the display shown in FIGURE 5-31.
FIGURE 5-31 Menu
Use the 2 key to highlight Adjust Graph and press 5 to

obtain the Adjust Graph menu shown in FIGURE 5-32
FIGURE 5-32 Adjust Graph Menu
Note that when the OBA Range for Use the 4 and 6 keys to change the baseline level and the
frequency spectra has been set to 8 and 2 keys to adjust the height (range between the
Low, the value actually used for the baseline and the top of the display). Press 5 to implement
baseline of the display will be 30 dB the change.
less than the number indicated for Once one or more graphic displays have had their scaling
Bottom in the Adjust Graph menu. changed, they will remain that way until changed again or
until the defaults settings are restored, as described in
"Format & Restore Defaults" on page 23-3.
5-30 Adjust Graph Scale Model 831 Manual

View Spectrum Normalized
Note that the Live Spectrum will The default 1/1 and 1/3 octave spectrum displays present the
continue to change in time following amplitude versus frequency of the measured spectrum as
the normalization, whereas the shown in FIGURE 5-5 and FIGURE 5-6.
Reference spectrum will remain the The View Normalized function permits the display of the
same. difference between two spectra by subtracting a user-
selected reference spectrum from the measured spectrum.
This function can be used with both 1/1 and 1/3 octave
spectra, although the measured spectrum and the reference
spectrum must have the same bandwidth; 1/1 or 1/3 octave.
A and C frequency weighting curves can also be used for the
reference, as described in "Normalizing using Frequency
Weighting" on page 5-35.
Live Display
A standard spectrum displayed on the Live tab appears as
shown in FIGURE 5-33.
FIGURE 5-33 Standard Live Spectrum Display
To access the View Normalized display, press the center

software Menu to display the menu shown in FIGURE 5-33.
FIGURE 5-34 Menu
Model 831 Manual View Spectrum Normalized 5-31

Highlight View Normalized and press 5 to make the
selection. This will display the spectrum in the normalized
view, as shown in FIGURE 5-35.
Selected Spectrum Type (only SPL

for Live Spectrum)
Selected Reference
FIGURE 5-35 Normalized Live Spectrum Display: No Reference Selected
Since a reference spectrum has not yet been defined, the

spectrum shown will be the same as the Live Spectrum. If it
does not, there has probably been a reference spectrum
defined previously.
Selecting the Spectrum Type
Since only the SPL spectrum is displayed in the Live
Spectrum view, it is not necessary to select a spectrum type
since only SPL will appear if that menu is opened.
Selecting the Reference Spectrum
Highlight the Ref: data field and press 5 to open the
Reference Menu, shown in FIGURE 5-36.
FIGURE 5-36 View Normalized Reference Menu
5-32 View Spectrum Normalized Model 831 Manual

The items listed in this menu are as follows:
1
2
3
4
A
C
-A
-C
The first four items permit the user to define four reference
spectra based on the spectrum being displayed. Since the
Live spectrum only displays SPL, there is little need for
multiple reference spectra.
The last four items permit the user to use positive or
negative A or C frequency weightings as reference spectra.
See "Normalizing using Frequency Weighting" on page 5-
35.
Highlight the desired reference spectrum and press 5 to
make a selection.
Once the reference spectrum has been selected, press the left
softkey SET to display the Live Spectrum in the normalized
view.

Normalized Using The Measured Spectrum
When the displayed spectrum has been normalized using the
measured spectrum, and the sound being measured is not
much different than it was previously, the display will
resemble FIGURE 5-37.
Frequency and Level

at Cursor Position
FIGURE 5-37 Normalized Spectrum Display:

Similar Sound Field
The display scaling can be adjusted We can see that at 1 kHz, the cursor position, the measured
to show lower level and negative level is 1.3 dB above that of the reference spectrum, but this
values as described in A " djusting is not visible on this graph because the bottom of the scale is
Graph Display"on page 5-35. ~ 20 dB.
If the display were more like that shown in FIGURE 5-38,
this would indicate that the levels in the 1 kHz and 2 kHz
bands were approximately 42 dB higher than for the
reference spectrum.
FIGURE 5-38 Normalized Spectrum Display:

Higher Levels at 1 kHz and 2 kHz

Adjusting Graph Display
Because some of the frequency components in the
normalized view may be small or negative, the Adjust Graph
function described in "Adjust Graph Scale" on page 5-30
can be used to obtain a graph having both positive and
negative amplitude values. The Adjust Graph function can
only be implemented from the source graph, so in this case
return to the Live spectrum display, adjust the graph as
desired, then return to the normalized view for which the
same adjustment will be in effect.
Normalizing using Frequency Weighting
When normalizing using positively signed A and C, this
normalization subtracts a spectrum which is the inverse of
the spectrum representing the corrections. Thus, by selecting
A (or C), this will negate the frequency weighting effect on
spectra which had originally been measured using A (or C)
frequency weighting. To obtain an A (or C) weighted
spectrum when the measurement had been made without
frequency weighting, select -A (or -C) for the reference. For
example, when the measured spectrum is similar to FIGURE
5-33, by selecting -A the normalized view displays an A-
weighted version of this spectrum, as shown in FIGURE 5-
39.
FIGURE 5-39 Spectrum From

Note that the scale in FIGURE 5-39 was adjusted as
described in "Adjusting Graph Display" on page 5-35 in
order to display the low level and negative amplitudes.
Normalizing using User-Defined Spectrum
The user can also define their own reference spectrum by
pressing the Edit softkey as shown in FIGURE 5-40.
Edit User-Defined
Reference Spectrum
FIGURE 5-40 Edit Softkey for User-Defined

Reference Spectrum
This will produce the display shown in FIGURE 5-41.
Input Amplitude
Name Reference
Spectrum
FIGURE 5-41 Creating User-Defined Reference

Spectrum
Creating a User-Defined Reference Spectrum

The user-defined spectrum is created one band at a time. Use
the 4 and 6 keys to move the cursor to the frequency band
whose amplitude is to be changed, highlight the input
amplitude field shown FIGURE 5-41. Press 5, use the 4,

6, 8 and 2 keys to input a numerical value and press
5 to complete the process. In this example the cursor is on
the 1 kHz frequency band, so if the amplitude were entered
to be 50 dB, the result would be as shown in FIGURE 5-42
Name Reference
Spectrum
Reference Spectrum
Levels to the 1kHz
level
FIGURE 5-42 Example User-Defined Reference

Spectrum; 50 dB @ 1 kHz
Continue this procedure band-by-band until the desired

reference spectrum has been defined.
Saving a User-Defined Reference Spectrum
When the desired spectrum has been defined, highlight the
Name Reference Spectrum field as shown in FIGURE 5-
42, press 5, use the 4, 6, 8 and 2 keys to input a
name and press 5 again to save this as a user-defined
spectrum under this name.
Offset Reference Spectrum to 1kHz band level

Pressing the Re.1kHz softkey, as shown in FIGURE 5-42,
will change all of the band levels to be offset relative to the
level at 1 kHz (the level at 1 kHz will be subtracted from all
band level values in the reference spectrum and the level in
the 1 kHz band will be 0.0 dB).

Overall Display
In general, obtaining a normalized display of 1/1 and 1/3
octave spectra appearing on the Overall tab is the same as
for Live Displays, described in "Live Display" on page 5-31.
The major difference is that spectra appearing on the
Overall tab display Leq, Lmax and Lmin data
simultaneously, as shown in FIGURE 5-43.
Lmax Spectrum
Leq Spectrum
Lmin Spectrum
FIGURE 5-43 Overall Spectrum
As a result, when setting up for View Normalized, if no

normalization spectrum has been selected, the display will
look as shown in FIGURE 5-44.
Leq Spectrum Displayed
FIGURE 5-44 Normalized Overall Spectrum: No

Reference Selected
The Leq in the data field shown highlighted above indicates

that the spectrum being displayed is Leq. With this data field
highlighted, press 5 to open the menu shown in FIGURE
5-45.

FIGURE 5-45 Spectrum Type Menu
Using this menu, the user can select from the three spectrum
types; Leq, Lmax and Lmin. Highlight the desired parameter
and press 5 to make a selection.
If no reference spectrum has yet been defined, the displayed
spectrum will correspond to the selected parameter.
Normalized using a Previously Measured Spectrum
Provided with a choice of spectrum types, the user can
create a spectrum display where one type of spectrum is
normalized by another. For example, let us use the spectrum
type data field to select Lmin, then as a reference select 1.
Press the left softkey SET to make the Lmin spectrum the
reference spectrum for reference 1. The resulting spectrum
will look like FIGURE 5-46.
Selected Spectrum Type
FIGURE 5-46 Lmin Spectrum Normalized to Lmin

Spectrum
This display now shows the Lmin spectrum presently being

measured, normalized by the Lmin spectrum that existed at
the time the normalization was performed.
If the Model 831 has not been running since the
normalization was performed, and we then change the
selected spectrum type to Lmax, the display will show a
spectrum whose amplitudes represent (Lmax - Lmin) of
original spectrum, as shown in FIGURE 5-47.

FIGURE 5-47 Lmax - Lmin Spectrum
If the Model 831 were still running, the Lmax would

continue changing but the reference spectrum, based on the
Lmin spectrum measured previously, would remain the
same.

Normalizing using Frequency Weighting
When using frequency weighting for normalization, the
display will be similar to that for Live Spectra, described in
"Normalizing using Frequency Weighting" on page 5-35,
except that the use will have the option of displaying any of
the three spectra types, Leq, Lmax and Lmin, normalized by
the frequency weighting used for the normalization, as
FIGURE 5-48 Leq Spectrum Normalized by - A

Normalizing using User-Defined Spectrum
The creation and use of user-defined reference spectra for
the Overall Display are the same as for the Live Display,
described in the section "Normalizing using User-Defined
Spectrum" on page 5-36.
Graph Relative
When the Graph Relative has been enabled by placing a
check in the Graph Relative check box, the graph is
presented using a plus and minus about a vertically centered
zero Y axis, as shown in FIGURE 5-49.
FIGURE 5-49 Normalized Spectrum: Graphed

Relative
Any Level Display

In the displays shown in the above sections, the sound level
values that appear are for user-selected values of frequency
weighting, detector and peak weighting. However, the
Model 831 is simultaneously calculating sound level values
for all possible selections of frequency weighting (A, C and
Z), detector (Slow, Fast and Impulse) and peak weighting
(A, C and Z).
5-42 Any Level Display Model 831 Manual

The Any Level Display can also be To obtain the Any Level Display from either the Live or
accessed from the Current and Overall screen, press Menu to open the menu shown in
Measurement Display tabs, which FIGURE 5-50.
are used to display Measurement
History data; see Chapter 12
"Measurement History on page 12-
1.
FIGURE 5-50 Menu
Highlight ANY LEVEL and press 5 to obtain the Any

Level Display. The data displayed will depend upon whether
the Any Level Display was initiated from the Live or the
Overall screen, as described in the following sections.
Live Screen
When initiated from the Live Screen, the Any Level Display
will appear as shown in FIGURE 5-51
Leq is based on one second

integration time
FIGURE 5-51 Any Level Display, Live Screen
These show the instantaneous sound levels using Slow, Fast

and Impulse detectors and the Peak sound level, all using A,
C and Z weighting. The displayed value of Leq is based on a
one second integration time. Because they are instantaneous
values, their numerical values will change rapidly in
response to a change in sound level at the microphone.
Model 831 Manual Any Level Display 5-43

Close Display
Note that the instrument keypad is To close the Any Level Display, press the Close softkey.
not operational when the Any Level
Display is being displayed. As a
result, the run state cannot be
changed until that display has been
closed.
Overall Screen
When initiated from the Overall Screen, the Any Level
Display will appear as shown in FIGURE 5-52
Leq is based on the run time
FIGURE 5-52 Any Level Display, Overall Screen
These data present an overview of the measurement

performed over the run time, giving Leq, Maximum and
Minimum levels corresponding to Fast, Slow, Impulse and
Peak detection using A, C and Z weighting. .
Close Display
To close the Any Level Display, press the Close softkey.
5-44 Any Level Display Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
6 Run Control
The Model 831 provides a number of run modes to
control the time duration of a measurement. The most
simple are Manual Stop, Timed Stop and Stop when
Stable. More advanced are the Continuous, Single Block
Time and Daily Timer modes. When combined with the
Measurement History feature, these modes produce a
sequence of measurements made and stored at regular
time intervals. In this chapter the setup of run modes
without the Measurement History are discussed in detail.
The description of the setup and use of run modes with
Measurement History enabled is continued in Chapter
12 "Measurement History" on page 12-1.
Run Control Setup

The Run Control is setup from the Control tab of the
Measurement Setting Screen, as shown in Figure 6-1.
FIGURE 6-1 Control Tab
The Control tab is used to set the Run Mode for the
measurement to be performed.
Model 831 Manual Run Control 6-1

There are six modes of measurement duration available.
Manual Stop
Timed Stop
Stop When Stable
Continuous
Single Block Time
Daily Time
A brief description of each is presented in the following
sections.
Manual Stop
The Stop key will stop a When using Manual Stop, the measurement is initiated
measurement while in this run mode. manually by pressing the 9 (RUN/PAUSE) key and is
manually stopped by pressing the 7 (STOP) key. The setup
procedure is described in Manual Stop, Timed Stop or Stop
When Stable on page 6-4.
Timed Stop
The Stop key will stop a When using Time Stop, the measurement is initiated
measurement while in this run mode. manually by pressing the 9 key and is stopped
automatically after a user-defined time period. The setup
procedure is described in Manual Stop, Timed Stop or Stop
When Stable on page 6-4.
Stop When Stable
The Stop key will stop a When using Stop When Stable, the measurement is initiated
measurement while in this run mode. manually by pressing the 9 key. The measurement will
stop when the measured level has remained within a user-
defined range and the measurement has run for a user-
defined time period. The setup procedure is described in
Manual Stop, Timed Stop or Stop When Stable on page 6-
4.
Continuous
When using Continuous, the Model 831 begins running
whenever the Run key is pressed and when the power is
turned on. A session log entry of type Run with a cause of
Power is created at the same time. It is stopped by
pressing the 7 key. Measurements are made continuously
from the time of power-on to stop. The setup procedure is
described in Continuous on page 6-6.
6-2 Run Control Setup Model 831 Manual

The ability to restart when power is If the unit stops due to a power failure, the session log is
restored following a power failure, labeled as a type of Stop with a cause of Power.
with documentation in the session Following a loss of power, if the external power is restored,
log, is a valuable feature for long- then the Model 831 will automatically begin running again.
term remote noise monitoring This is only when using the external power through the I/O
applications. connector, not USB power or internal battery power.
If the unit is paused it will resume automatically after 5
minutes. This prevents loss of data due to an inadvertent
pause, whether done manually or when the preamplifier
cable is removed.
Single Block Timer
Using Single Block Timer, a single measurement is made for
the time interval defined by the single block timer settings.
The measurement may also be started or interrupted
manually by pressing the 9 key or the 7 key. The
Single Block Timer mode is often used to make a
measurement for a period of one week. The setup procedure
is described in Single Block Timer or Daily Timer on
page 6-8.
Daily Timer
Using Daily Timer, the measurement is initiated for one or
more blocks of time every day within the programmed date
range as set by the Daily Timer settings. The measurement
may also be initiated or interrupted manually pressing the
9 key or the 7 key. The Daily Timer mode is often used
to make a work area survey that follows a workers daily
schedule for an entire work week. The setup procedure is
described in Single Block Timer or Daily Timer on
page 6-8.
Run Mode with Measurement History
This chapter does not address Run There are many applications where it is desirable to measure
Modes with Measurement History. and store a sequence of measurements using the same setup,
either manually or automatically. With the Model 831 this is
facilitated using the Measurement History feature, which is
described in detail in Chapter 12 "Measurement History" on
page 12-1.
Model 831 Manual Run Mode with Measurement History 6-3

Run Modes Without Measurement History
All of the six Run Modes have a check box to enable the
Measurement History feature, as is shown in the figures
appearing in the sections which follow. The setup
descriptions presented in the following sections are for
setups without the Measurement History enabled.
When Measurement History is not enabled, at the conclusion
of the measurement there will be a single measurement
which must be manually stored.
Manual Stop, Timed Stop or Stop When Stable

When the run mode used is Manual, Timed Stop or Stop
When Stable, a measurement is started by pressing the 9
key and ends when the 7 key is pressed, when the timer
expires or when the signal is stable within a deviation. The
selection and setting of appropriate parameters for these run
modes is shown in FIGURE 6-2.
FIGURE 6-2 Setup of Manual Stop, Timed Stop, and Stop When Stable Run Modes
Manual Stop
The measurement is manually stopped by pressing the 7

key.
6-4 Run Modes Without Measurement History Model 831 Manual

Timed Stop
The time at which the measurement is to stop is entered
manually into the Time data field.
In the Timed Stop mode, the minimum Time of one second
(00:00:01) will be saved if the time setting is left as
00:00:00 when closing or exiting the Control tab.
Stop When Stable
Suggestion: Press RUN after the The Stop When Stable feature is used to automatically end a
noise source is on and in the desired measurement when the time average level has stabilized. It
condition. Starting a measurement is often used in environments that have a rather continuous
prior to activating the noise source or repetitive noise source such as machinery. The stable
of interest may reduce the level condition is defined as when the Current measurement's
measured and take longer than average level (i.e. LAeq) does not vary from maximum to
normal to stabilize. minimum by more than the entered Delta Level during the
entered Time interval. To be stable, the total of all variations
of the Current average level must also be less than two times
the entered Delta Level; this condition detects amplitude
modulation in the averaged level and prevents a premature
stop. Shorter measurement times, though with less accurate
results, are obtained by increasing the Delta Level or
shortening the Time. Longer measurements, that are more
representative of the true level, will be made with smaller
Delta Levels and a longer Time entries.
Entering Delta Level
The Delta level is the maximum allowed change in Current
average level (i.e. LAeq) permitted during the time interval
defined below. The minimum level that can be set is 0 and
the maximum is 5.0 dB. The default is 0.2 dB.
Entering Time
The Stable Time interval used for The Time is the minimum interval that the measurement
determining the stable condition is must run. The measurement will run for the interval
limited to 100s maximum. If specified and then continue until the stability condition was
time>100s, it will run for the time set met. The smallest value that can be entered is 20 seconds
and then stop when variations in the and the largest is 99:59:59 (h:m:s). The default is 20
Current average level over the last seconds.
100s are less than the Delta Level For each, highlight the desired data field, enter the
appropriate values and press 5 (ENTER).
Model 831 Manual Run Modes Without Measurement History 6-5

Continuous
Daily Auto-Store
Status
FIGURE 6-3 Setup of Continuous Run Mode
When using the Continuous Run mode, the measurement is

initiated manually by pressing the 9 key and is manually
stopped by pressing the 7 key.
With the Enable Measurement History option selected in
this mode, a Time setting left as 00:00 (no time) will be
saved as 00:01 (one minute) upon closing or leaving the
Control tab.
Daily Reports
There are two daily reports available with the Continuous
Run mode.
Daily Auto-Store
Daily Cal-Check

Daily Auto-Store
When Daily Auto-Store is set to Daily Auto-Store permits the automatic storage of daily
Never, as shown in FIGURE 6-3, measurement reports for 24-hour time periods, beginning at
the Continuous Run mode is a user-specified time. Each report can be configured to
essentially the same as the Manual represent the complete 24-hour time period or to include
Run mode, with the exception that in data corresponding to equally-separated time periods within
Continuous it automatically begins the 24-hours.
running, thus measuring Highlight the Daily Auto-Store field and press 5 to obtain
continuously even when interrupted. the menu shown in FIGURE 6-4.
FIGURE 6-4 Daily Auto-Store Menu
When using Continuous run mode, Use the 2 and 8 arrow keys to select the desired
data files are stored in the following number of measurements per day and press 5.
format, regardless of what is When any option other than Never is selected, a Time data
specified in the General setup tab: field will appear as shown in FIGURE 6-5 to define the start
yymmdd00.LD0, where yymmdd is time for the 24-hour time period to be used for the report.
the date the measurement was
started.
FIGURE 6-5 Auto-Store Report Start Time
Highlight each data field, press 5 and use the arrow keys
to set the parameters as desired. Press 5 again to complete
the selection.
Effect of a Noise Event
If a noise event, described in Chapter 13 "Event History" on
page 13-1, occurs during the daily autostore, the storage
operation is delayed. This delay would be implemented
whether the status is Triggered or Valid. The autostore
would be processed one minute past the normal autostore
time or right when the event ends (not including the
continuation process), whichever comes first.
Daily Cal-Check
When the Model 831 is used with one of the Larson Davis
outdoor microphone preamplifiers, 426A12 or PRM2103,

you can program an automatic once per day calibration
check of the system.
During calibration the LDN is Highlight the Cal-Check field and press the 5, which will
paused. The net result has no effect place a check in the Cal-Check check box and open the
on the history data while the menu shown in FIGURE 6-6.
calibration tone is on.
FIGURE 6-6 Cal-Check Menu
Highlight the Time data field, press 5 and use the arrow
keys to set the time at which the calibration check is to take
place. Press 5 again to complete the selection.
The calibration check information will be provided within
the Daily Report.
Single Block Timer or Daily Timer

When the run mode is Single Block Timer or Daily Timer,
each measurement will consist of data measured over
different blocks of time between the start date and time and
the end date and time.

The selection and setting of appropriate parameters for the
Continuous, Single Block Time and Daily Timer run modes
is shown in FIGURE 6-7.
Click to open data

fields for blocks 2
and 3
FIGURE 6-7 Setup of Single Block Timer and Daily Timer Run Modes
Measurements are initiated for one or more time blocks

within the selected Start Date and End Date.
Highlight each data field individually, press 5 and use the
arrow keys to set the parameters as desired. Press 5 again
to complete the selection. The following example illustrates
several important considerations in setting up these Timer
modes.

Example
As an example, suppose we have begun a daily timer setup
as shown in FIGURE 6-8.
FIGURE 6-8 Daily Time Setup Example
The selected blocks should not overlap. For example, if the

End Time 1 is set to 00:00:04, then the Start Time 2 should
be greater than 00:00:05 and it should not be greater than
Start Time 1.
A measurement block can span over midnight. So, in the
example, these measurements would be recorded.
1. 23:59:00 pm 6/23/2008 to 00:00:04 on 06/24/2008
2. 23:59:00 pm 6/24/2008 to 00:00:04 on 06/25/2008
3. 23:59:00 pm 6/25/2008 to 00:00:04 on 06/26/2008
This means that even though our date selected range is
between 23rd and 25th, the stop time can be past the date
range. Hence, the selected date range controls only the time
of initiation of the measurement.
All the measurements made between the date ranges would
be part of a single file unless there has been a manual
intervention. irrespective of the way the auto-store
preference is set. It would behave as if it was set to None.
If a measurement is manually stopped in the middle of a
block, no measurement would be initiated until the next
valid start time.
If a measurement is manually started, the measurement
would stop automatically at the next valid stop time.

With the Enable Measurement History option selected in
these modes, a Time setting left as 00:00 (no time) will be
saved as 00:01 (one minute) upon closing or leaving the
Control tab.

CHAPTER
7 Making a Measurement
In this chapter we describe how to make and store an
accurate sound level measurement. Before doing this,
make sure that the Model 831 has been setup to meet the
requirements for the measurement as described in
Chapter 4 Basic Measurement Setup on page 4-1.
Configuration of the System

The System Model 831 should be configured with the
preamplifier connected to the front of the instrument and the
microphone connected to the end of the preamplifier.
Switching On the Model 831

Do not use the hardware power With fresh batteries installed, press the 0 (ON/OFF) key,
switch to turn the Model 831 OFF. to switch on the Model 831.
This may cause data to be lost. See
External Power Supply on
page 2-8 for additional information
on the use of the hardware power
switch.
Model 831 Manual Making a Measurement 7-1

Start-up Period
With standard memory, the start-up period will be less than
two minutes. With the optional 2 GB memory, the startup
period can be several minutes for the first boot-up. As the
instrument is starting up, the display will show the following
screen.
FIGURE 7-1 Boot Graphic

Disk Check During Boot-up
The Model 831 will check the internal flash memory during
boot-up when any of the following conditions occur:
The Model 831 was improperly shutdown. For example,
a shutdown due to lockup or lack of power
If the Model 831 has been rebooted 29 times since the
last memory check
If the Model 831 has been more than 180 days since the
last memory check
7-2 Switching On the Model 831 Model 831 Manual

Data View and Data Display screen When the Model 831 is fully started, the Data Display
refer to Live, Overall and Session Screen will appear as shown in Figure 7-2.
Log tabs.
Run Time Power Indicator

Measurement
Tabs Status
Section
indicator
Live Page
Scroll Bar
Stability
Indicator
FIGURE 7-2 Data Display Screen

The 7 (STOP/STORE) key will produce a steady red light
to indicate that the Model 831 is in the stopped state with no
data yet measured.
Model 831 Setup

Set the measurement parameters of the Model 831 as
described in Chapter 4 Basic Measurement Setup on
page 4-1.
Calibrating the Model 831

The Model 831 must be calibrated using a sound level
calibrator prior to performing a measurement. The procedure
for calibration is described in Chapter 8 Calibration on
page 8-1.
Positioning the Model 831
Observer Position
The meter will be either mounted upon a tripod or held in the
hand. In order to avoid the effect of sound reflections from
Model 831 Manual Model 831 Setup 7-3

the body of the operator interfering with the measurement,
the meter should be located as far as possible from the body.
Thus, when actually performing the measurement, the
operator should place himself at a distance behind the
tripod-mounted meter, or extend the hand-held meter as far
from the body as is comfortable.
Microphone Extension Cable
Note that the electromagnetic If desired, a shielded microphone extension cable may be
emissions compliance testing was placed between the meter and the preamplifier/microphone.
performed using only a 10 ft. No correction is required when using Larson Davis Model
EXC010 extension cable, as EXCXXX microphone extension cables in combined
described in Declaration of lengths up to 200 feet. XXX is the length in feet (XXX =
Conformity on page A-21 010, 020, 025, 035, 050, 060, 100 and 200 available).
When doing so, take care that the preamplifier/microphone
is held or mounted in such a way to minimize the effect of
reflections on the sound field near the microphone.
Use of a Windscreen
Wind blowing across the microphone generates pressure
fluctuations on the microphone diaphragm which can
produce errors in the measurement. As a result, when
performing measurements in the presence of low level
airflows, it is recommended that a windscreen be placed
over the microphone. Larson Davis provides the WS001
windscreen, a 3 1/2 diameter ball made of open cell foam
which can be placed over the microphone and preamplifier
FIGURE 7-3 Position of Windscreen

To install the windscreen, hold the meter in one hand and the
windscreen in the other. Insert the microphone/preamplifier
assembly into the opening in the windscreen as shown in
FIGURE 7-4 and slide the windscreen completely down
over the preamplifier.
7-4 Positioning the Model 831 Model 831 Manual

FIGURE 7-4 Placement of Windscreen
Prior to beginning the measurement, select the Live View.
You can now see a live display of the instantaneously
measured data.
The position of the vertical scroll bar The data available for display from the Live View is
on the right side of the display distributed over three pages (four or five pages with the
indicates the page being displayed optional OBA feature). Use the 8 and 2 keys to
relative to the available pages; first change pages.
page at the top, last page at the Take a minute or so to examine these different displays
bottom. before continuing with this example.
Use the softkeys to select the Overall View. Note that the
measurement and display of data has not yet begun and that
the measurement run time displayed at the very top of the
screen indicates 00:00:00:0.
Performing the Measurement
Starting the Measurement

The Model 831 uses a single range The Live Display provides a running sound level
for sound level measurements, so measurement whether or not the 831 is actually performing a
there is no need to select a range as measurement while the Overall Display provides the
part of making a measurement. measurement actually being made. Select the Overall
Select the Overall Display in order Display in order to observe the measurement in progress.
to observe the measurement results Press the 9 (RUN/PAUSE) key to start the measurement,
or accumulation in progress. which will start the run clock and initiate the measurement
and display of overall data.
Hardkey LED Colors
Two of the hardkeys have colored LEDs behind them, as
indicated below:
9 key LED is Green
Model 831 Manual Performing the Measurement 7-5

7 key LED is Red
When performing a measurement, the state of the Model 831
is indicated by the illumination of these two keys indicated
in Table 7-7-1.
Measurement State Red Green

Stopped, Reset ON, flashing twice every 3.2 sec Off
Stopped, with unstored data ON Off
Stopped, data stored ON, flashing twice every 3.2 sec Off
Paused ON, flashing Off
Running Off ON
Waiting for valid data to begin ON ON, flashing
1
running
Table 7-1 Measurement State as Indicated by Green/Red LEDs
1
The state of waiting for valid data will occur when the instrument is first switched On, and also following a filter
reset (performed by pressing the 1 (Reset) key when the Model 831 has already been reset).
To conserve power usage, when no key has been pressed for
a period equal to ten times the Backlight Time, the state of
the Model 831 is indicated in Table 7-7-2.
Measurement State Red Green

Stopped, Reset ON, flashing once every 3.2 sec Off
Stopped, with unstored data ON, flashing twice every 3.2 sec Off
Stopped, data stored ON, flashing once every 3.2 sec Off
Paused ON, flashing Off
Running Off ON, flashing twice every
3.2 sec
Waiting for valid data to begin ON ON, flashing rapidly
running
Table 7-2 Measurement State (after period without key presses)
7-6 Performing the Measurement Model 831 Manual

Data Display
See Overall Tab on page 5-13. The measured data are available for display from the Overall
View. These data are distributed over thirteen sections (with
the 831-IH and 831-OB3 options). Use the 8 and 2
keys to change sections. The first two sections from the top
present basic sound level parameters as shown in FIGURE
7-5 and FIGURE 7-6.
Measurement Duration
Date and Time of Initiation

of Measurement
FIGURE 7-5 Leq and Running SPL

The two digital displays present the frequency weighted Leq
value (LAeq = 74.9 dB) and the frequency weighted Lpeak
value (LApeak = 89.9 dB). Both of these were measured
using A-weighting as indicated by the A. The duration of the
measurement is indicated at the top of the display and the
data and time that the measurement was initiated are
indicated at the bottom of the display. The graph represents
the profile of the Leq as a function of time during the entire
measurement period.

Measurement Duration
Leq
Running SPL
Running Lpeak
Maximum Lpeak with data
and time of occurrence
Maximum RMS Value
with date and time of
occurrence
Minimum RMS Value
with date and time of
occurrence
FIGURE 7-6 Multiple Sound Level Parameters
Measurement Range
The measurement ranges over which the Model 831 meets
the standards, which depend upon the selected frequency
weighting, as shown in Performance Specifications on
page A-4. Measurements which include levels outside this
range should not be considered accurate. An overload
indication will appear when levels above the range appear.
However, the user should take care not to rely on
measurements whose levels are below the lower limit of the
specified range.
Overload/Under Range Levels
For further information on As part of the calibration procedure, an overload level (dB
determination of overload level and Peak) and under range sound pressure levels for A, C and Z-
under range levels, see Sensitivity weighting are determined for the instrument setup and
Tab on page 8-13. microphone/preamplifier combination being used. These are
displayed on the Microphone Page as shown in FIGURE 8-
12 Sensitivity Tab on page 8-14.
Overload Indication When a signal from the preamplifier exceeds the calibrated
input range of the Model 831, the Input Overload Icon will
appear at the top of the display.

While the overload is present, the icon will flash on and off.
If an overload occurs while running the overload icon will
latch on and will not be removed from the display. A reset
will clear the icon.
Under Range Indication
When this happens the Under Range Icon will appear.
As long as the under range condition exists, the icon will

flash. When the measured level no longer produces an under
range condition, the icon will be removed from the display.
At any time when a measured parameter is in an under range
condition, its numeric display will appear in gray rather
than the usual black, as shown FIGURE 7-7.
Normal Range Under Range
FIGURE 7-7 Normal vs Under Range Data Display

Pausing the Measurement
At any time the measurement of overall data can be
temporarily suspended by pressing the 9 key. Note that
the run clock will not pause. However, instantaneous data
will continue to be displayed in the Live View.
When paused, the 7 key will produce a flashing red light.
Note that a measurement may be Pressing 9 key one more time will cause the
paused and then run again multiple measurement to begin again. The 9 key will produce a
times. steady green light, and overall data will continue to be
accumulated. The overall data will not be affected by any
acoustic events occurring during the time period that the
Model 831 was paused.

Back Erase
The back erase function permits the user to rapidly delete

from the measurement the effects of acoustical events that
have occurred during the previous five or ten seconds.
Back Erase Disabled
The back erase feature is unavailable when any of the

following have been enabled:
Measurement History, described in Measurement

History on page 12-1.
Event History, described in Event History on page 13-
1.
Spectral Ln, described in Spectral Ln Mode on page 4-
7.
Event Sound Recording, Noise Event Sound
Recording on page 16-21
Back Erase Implementation
The back erase is implemented when the measurement is

paused, as described in the preceding section. When the
measurement is paused, the center softkey will be labeled
Back-5s, as shown in FIGURE 7-8.
5 Second Back Erase Label
FIGURE 7-8 Five Second Back Erase Label

The Back-5s label does not appear Press the center softkey to implement the five second back
until the measurement duration is of erase. The center softkey then shows an undo option (unless
least 5 seconds or more since the last it has been more than 10 seconds, in which case it shows a
Stop or Pause. longer back erase option, as described below).
Back Erase Undo Indication
FIGURE 7-9 Back Erase Undo Indication

The user can take one of the following actions:
Press the 9 key to continue the measurement with the

five second segment removed.
Press the center softkey to implement the Undo action
and then press the 9 key to resume the measurement
without removing the previous five second time
segment.

> Ten Seconds Since Last Stop or Pause
After pressing the center softkey to implement a five second

back erase, if the measurement duration since the last Stop
or Pause has been more then ten seconds, the center softkey
will then be labeled Back-10s, as shown in FIGURE 7-9.
Ten Second Back Erase Label
FIGURE 7-10 Ten Second Back Erase Label
The Back-5s label does not appear Now the user can take one of the following actions:
until the measurement duration is of
least 5 seconds or more since the last Press the 9 key to accept the five second back erase
Stop or Pause. and continue the measurement.
Press the center softkey to extend the back erase to ten
seconds. The center softkey will then be labeled Undo as
The user can then take one of the following actions:
Press the 9 key to accept the ten second back erase

and continue the measurement.
Press the center softkey to implement the undo action
and the press the 9 key to continue the measurement
without removing the previous ten second time segment.

Modified Profile Graph
After a back erase operation has been performed, the sound
level profile graph will be modified to indicate the erase
operation as shown in FIGURE 7-11.
Erased Portion
of Profile
FIGURE 7-11 Modified Profile Graph
Time History Records
The time history records from the point data were restored
from to the last record will be marked as back erase records.
Resetting the Measurement

A measurement is most often reset To reset a measurement in progress, press the 1 (RESET)
when a noise event which is not key. This will erase all data previously measured and reset
typical of the measurement desired the run time clock to zero. A reset will not reset stored data
takes place. For example, an aircraft files. A reset can be initiated when the Model 831 is running,
passing overhead when attempting paused or stopped. However, it must be stopped for the reset
to measure the background noise in operation to be performed.
a normally quiet area.
Resetting When Running or Paused
If it is running or paused when the 1 key is pressed, a Stop
Required Menu will be displayed as shown in FIGURE 7-
12.
FIGURE 7-12 Stop Required Prompt

The OK response will already be highlighted, so simply
press the 5 (ENTER) key to continue.
Otherwise, highlight Cancel and then the 5 to cancel both
the Stop and the Reset operations.
After selecting to Stop the measurement, the Save File
Menu, shown in FIGURE 7-13, will appear to provide a
choice of saving the measured data prior to the reset or not
as described in Storing the Measurement on page 7-15.
Resetting When Stopped
If the Model 831 is stopped when the 1 key is pressed, the
Stop Required Menu will not appear, but the Save File Menu
will appear to provide a choice of saving the measured data
prior to the reset or not.
After the reset has been performed, the 7 key will
produce a steady red light to indicate the measurement state
as Stopped, Reset.
Starting a New Measurement
The 9 key (RUN/PAUSE) key must be pressed to start a
new measurement.
Stopping the Measurement
Note that the Model 831 can be Press the 7 key to suspend the overall measurement,
stopped when either running or which will also stop the run clock. Stopping the
paused. measurement with data not yet stored will cause the 7 key
to flash red every 3.2 seconds.
Pressing the 9 key afterwards will continue the overall
measurement which had been stopped. The run clock will
also begin again from the time indicated when the stop had
occurred. This will also cause the 9 to produce a steady
green light.

Storing the Measurement
A measurement can only be stored To store the measurement, press the 7 key one more time
when the measurement has been while stopped. The Save File menu will then be displayed,
stopped. as shown in FIGURE 7-13.
FIGURE 7-13 Save File Menu

When the Spectral Ln Mode is On, as The data file name will be set to the name defined in the
described in Spectral Ln Mode section General Tab on page 4-3 (831_Data.003 in
on page 4-7, the entire Ln FIGURE 7-13) along with a file number. The file number
distribution table is stored. This may automatically begins at 001 for the first measurement stored
take several seconds. During this and will index so that whenever a measurement is stored the
time a run cannot be initiated, but file number assigned will be the next in sequence.
data can be viewed. The data file name can be changed by highlighting it with
the up arrow key, press 5, make changes as desired, and
press 5 to save the changes.
After a file has been successfully To continue with the save operation, highlight Yes and press
stored, the Model 831 will the 5 key. The 7 key will produce a steady red light to
automatically reset when the 9 indicate the measurement state as Stopped, Stored.
(RUN/PAUSE) key is pressed to To abort the save operation, highlight No and press 5.
begin another measurement.
Overwriting a Saved File
If you wish to use this data to replace a data file already
saved in the Model 831, instead of highlighting Yes or No,
highlight the box with the title ... and press the 5. This
will open a window listing all the data files already saved in
the Model 831, as shown in FIGURE 7-14.
FIGURE 7-14 Saved Data Files
Model 831 Manual Storing the Measurement 7-15

Highlight the file which is to be overwritten and press 5.
This will replace the file name and number which previously
appeared with this one, as shown in FIGURE 7-15.
FIGURE 7-15 Overwriting a Saved File

To continue with the overwrite operation, highlight Yes and
press 5.
To abort the overwrite operation, highlight No and press 5.
To select a different previously saved file to overwrite,
highlight the box with the title ... and press 5 to repeat
the overwrite procedure.
Low Level Sound Fields

As long as the sound level being measured is within the
measurement range shown in Performance Specifications
on page A-4, inherent (self-generated) noise and linearity
problems can be ignored.
It is possible to manually correct the measured RMS sound
pressure levels for the typical inherent noise levels (see the
noise floor specifications in Performance Specifications
on page A-4) as long as the difference between the measured
sound level and the inherent noise level is greater than 3 dB.
This is done by subtracting the inherent sound level from the
total sound level using the following formula.
Lmeas 10 Linh 10
Lcorr = 10 log 10 10
where
7-16 Storing the Measurement Model 831 Manual

Lcorr = corrected sound level
Lmeas = measured sound level
Linh = inherent noise level
Model 831 Manual Storing the Measurement 7-17

Recovery After Improper Shutdown
NOTE: There is a risk of file-system When the Model 831 has been shutdown improperly, for
corruption when power to the system example a loss of power during a measurement, the
is unexpectedly shut off. To minimize procedure for handling data depends upon the setup being
this risk, always follow proper shut- used at the time.
down procedures.
Case 1
If the Run Mode is:
Continuous
or
Single Block Timer
or
Daily
and
Daily Autostore is enabled
Normal Operation
Under normal operation the data files are stored with the
following name format:
yymmdd00.LD0
where yymmdd is the date the measurement was started.
Improper Shutdown
When the instrument is powered up following an improper
shutdown, the data is automatically stored in the following
name format:
yymmddxx.RC0
where yymmdd is the date the measurement was started and
xx is a sequence number that will prevent the new filename
from conflicting with a previously stored file.
Case 2
This case covers all setups other than those described in
Case 1.
Improper Shutdown
Following an improper shutdown, when the instrument is
next turned On:
Step 1 The user is prompted to save the data.
If the user responds by selecting to store the data, the
data is stored and the instrument is reset
7-18 Recovery After Improper Shutdown Model 831 Manual

If the user responds by selecting not to store the data, the
sequence moves to Step 2.
Step 2 The user is prompted to reset the instrument
If the user responds by selecting to reset the instrument,
the instrument is reset.
If there is no user response to the prompt within ten
seconds, the instrument is reset.
When the user is present, he/she If the user responds by selecting not to reset the
must eventually select to store the instrument, the sequence moves back to Step 1.
data, reset the instrument, or take no This sequence is diagrammed below
action, in which case the instrument
will be automatically reset.
Yes
Save Data prompt Data Saved
No
Yes
Reset Instrument prompt
No No Response for 10 seconds
Instrument Reset
FIGURE 7-16 Improper Shutdown Sequence, Case 2
Model 831 Manual Recovery After Improper Shutdown 7-19

7-20 Recovery After Improper Shutdown Model 831 Manual
CHAPTER
8 Calibration
This chapter describes both the purposes and steps for
calibrating the Model 831.
Calibration Overview
Sensitivity Determination
The primary role of sound level meter calibration is to
establish a numerical relationship between the sound level at
the diaphragm of the microphone and the voltage measured
by the meter so that the sound pressure level can be read
directly from the display of the meter in units of dB. The
result of a calibration is the determination of the sensitivity
of the meter, including microphone and preamplifier,
typically in units of dB re 1V/Pa or mV/Pa.
Overload/Under Range Conditions
A secondary role of calibration is to determine the sound
level which would overload the instrument and the
minimum sound level which can be accurately measured,
referred to as the under range level. This requires a
knowledge of the electrical noise levels of the microphone,
preamplifier and the instrument circuitry.
Calibration Stability
The Model 831 should maintain a stable value of sensitivity
over long periods of time. Significant changes in sensitivity,
or a pattern of small but regular sensitivity changes, are
indicative of problems with the measurement system calling
for laboratory calibration and possibly service. To assist the
user in identifying these situations, the Model 831 provides
two notifications:
Calibration History
Data and date/time of the most recent ten calibrations.
Large Change Notification
During calibration, an automatic comparison is made
between the sensitivity determined by the calibration and a
published value of sensitivity. An on-screen window will
Model 831 Manual Calibration 8-1

appear to warn the user when the difference between these
two values exceed 3 dB.
Control Panel - Calibrate

To activate the Calibration function, press the 3 (TOOLS)
key and highlight the Calibrate icon as shown below.
Press the 5 (ENTER) key to open the Calibrate tabs.
With the PRM2103 preamplifier, the FIGURE 8-2 shows the calibration tabs that appear with the
E.A. Check, E.A. History, and E.A. PRM831 preamplifier for the Model 831.
Check Spectrum tabs do not appear.
For more information, see the
PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone
Preamplifier Manual.
8-2 Control Panel - Calibrate Model 831 Manual

Calibrate Tab History Tab Calibration Spectrum
Sensitivity Tab Certification Tab E.A. Check Tab
E.A. History Tab E.A. Check Spectrum Tab
FIGURE 8-2 Calibration Tabs
Model 831 Manual Control Panel - Calibrate 8-3

Calibrate Tab
The Calibrate tab is used when performing an acoustic
calibration, including the selection of the sound level
calibrator to be used and the implementation of the
calibration procedure.
History Tab
The History tab lists the results, along with the date and
time, of the ten most recent calibrations performed using the
same type of preamplifier as presently connected to the
Model 831, whose name appears at the top of the tab
(PRM831 in this example). The preamplifier type is read
automatically when the instrument is booted up, or
following a change in preamplifier. The value of sensitivity
in dB re. 1 V/Pa and the variation of the sensitivity
determined from that calibration relative to the calibration
prior to that, dB, are presented for each calibration.
Sensitivity Tab
When performing an acoustic calibration, the Sensitivity tab
is used to select the microphone being used.
Certification Tab
The Certification tab shows the date of the last certification
and the due date for the next certification. Information about
the calibration facility. Typically Larson Davis, Inc. is
displayed in the middle of the tab. The user can enter their
own certification interval and certification reminder from
this tab.
Exiting from the Calibration Function
Press the Close Softkey to exit from any of the Calibrate
tabs to the Control Panel.
8-4 Control Panel - Calibrate Model 831 Manual

Acoustic Calibration
When using a 426A12 Outdoor This is the most commonly used calibration method, and the
Microphone and Power Supply or a one required by most national and international standards
Model 2100 Outdoor Preamplifier, a prior to performing a measurement. A sound level calibrator
calibration check can be performed is used to apply an acoustical signal of a known amplitude
remotely using an electrostatic and frequency to the microphone. From the voltage level
actuator (E.A.) as described in "E.A. measured by the meter the sensitivity can be determined. In
Check"on page 8-18. this technique one is obviously assuming that the calibrator
is functioning correctly; any variation in level from that
expected will result in an improper calibration and an
erroneous value of sensitivity. For this reason, the user is
advised to compare the newly determined sensitivity with
the previous sensitivity to ensure that significant variations
have not occurred.
Frequency Weighting
The Model 831 automatically switches to C frequency
weighting and Fast detector response for calibration. This
permits 250 Hz and 1000 Hz calibrators to be used. The Fast
detector response reduces the stabilization time required
before calibration. If the OBA is enabled and the OBA range
is set to Low, an OBA overload will occur due to the
amplitude of the calibrator output signal. Therefore, the
OBA range is automatically switched to high for the
calibration.
After calibration, the Model 831 returns to the original
frequency and time weighting set by the user. If the OBA is
enabled, the OBA range is also restored to that set by the
user.
Calibrator
The calibrator section of the Calibrate tabs, shown in
FIGURE 8-2, includes an area to enter information about a
calibrator and a list of calibrators. The user may select a
calibrator from the list or enter new information about a
calibrator.
Recommended Calibrator
Larson Davis recommends the following calibrator:
If using a 1/4 microphone, the Larson Davis Model CAL200: 94/114 dB @ 1 kHz
adaptor ADP024 is required.
Model 831 Manual Acoustic Calibration 8-5

Model 831 with 1/2 Free-Field Microphone
The CAL200 provides a nominal pressure level of 94 dB or
114 dB. The exact levels are printed on the Larson Davis
calibration sheet that came with the calibrator. When using a
free-field microphone, the pressure level at the microphone
diaphragm will be slightly different. Thus, a free field
correction of -0.12 dB should be applied to either of these
levels. Pressure and random incidence microphone do not
require a correction of this type. If the calibrator and
instrument are near room temperature (23 C) and near sea
level (101.3 kPa) then no other corrections need to be made.
If the calibration sheet for the CAL200 indicates 113.98 dB
for it's level when set to 114 dB then set the Cal Level in the
Model 831 to 113.86 dB and 1kHz.
When the microphone and instrument are at a temperature
other than near room temperature or static pressures not near
sea level, then corrections will need to be added for the
ambient temperature and the prevailing static pressure.
Check the calibration data shipped from Larson Davis with
the CAL200 to get these corrections. The corrections can be
added to the level obtained in the previous paragraph to get
the actual level of the CAL200.
The microphone's sensitivity varies with static pressure. If
the instrument is calibrated in one environment and moved
to another, then the sensitivity will change (after
stabilization) depending on the change of temperature and
pressure. The coefficient of static pressure is -0.01 dB/kPa.
If the system is calibrated at 85 kPa for instance then it will
be 0.16 dB less sensitive at sea level. The sensitivity of the
microphone and Model 831 varies slightly with temperature
also. The coefficient of temperature is -0.009 dB/C. If the
system is calibrated at 18 C then it will be 0.05 dB less
sensitive at 23 C.
The Larson Davis 3" Wind Screen has less than 0.05dB
effect on the system response at 1 kHz.
8-6 Acoustic Calibration Model 831 Manual

Environmental Parameter Ranges
For proper calibration of a Class 1 sound level meter such as
the Model 831, the calibration procedure and the correction
values apply over the ranges presented in Table 8-8-1.
Parameter Range
Static Pressure 65 kPa to 108 kPa (9.4 psi to 15.7 psi)
Temperature - 10 C to + 50C (14 F to + 122F)
Humidity 25 % to 90%, without condensation from - 10 C to + 39
(14 F to + 102.2F)
Table 8-1 Environmental Parameter Ranges for Calibration
Set the CAL200 level switch to 114 dB.
Adding a Calibrator
Refer to the calibrator certification When adding a calibrator to the list, the following
sheet for the calibration level information may be entered:
Calibration Level
Calibration Frequency
Calibrator Description
The calibration level and frequency values are as specified
in section Model 831 with 1/2 Free-Field Microphone on
page 8-6.
Looking at FIGURE 8-2, highlight each text box in the
Calibrator section of the Calibrate tab and enter the correct
information about a calibrator, enter the information and
press 5 to complete the entry.
When the calibration level, calibration frequency and
calibrator description have been entered, highlight the Save
button and press 5 to save the information to the list of
calibrators.

FIGURE 8-3 New Calibrator
If the desired calibrator is already in the list, select the

calibrator and press 5. The calibration information will
appear above.
Microphone Selection
Select the microphone to be used from the Sensitivity tab, as

FIGURE 8-4 Sensitivity Tab

Larson Davis Microphone
The left side of the Type field is a text In the Type field, highlight the down arrow and press 5. If
box, where manual text entries can using one of the Larson Davis microphones most frequently
be entered when it is selected (as used with the Model 831, highlight the microphone listed
shown in Figure 8-4). and press 5, as shown in FIGURE 8-5
FIGURE 8-5 Microphone Selection List
The nominal value of sensitivity for that type of microphone

will now appear in the Published data field. The Self Noise
for that microphone and preamplifier combination will also
appear in the Self Noise data field.
Other Microphone
In order for the Noise Floor and If using a microphone from another manufacturer, or if the
Under Range Levels to be Larson Davis microphone type being used does not appear
determined when the microphone is in this list, highlight the left portion of the Type field and
not selected from the drop down list press 5 to bring up the cursor. Enter descriptive text to
as described in Direct Data Input define the microphone and press 5 to accept the input.
on page 8-14, the user must
manually enter a value into the Self
Noise data field.
Performing the Calibration
Refer to the calibrators operating Carefully insert the microphone into the microphone
instruction for more information. opening in the top of the calibrator. Turn on the calibrator.

Highlight the Calibrate button on the Model 831 and press
5, opening the calibrating display shown in FIGURE 8-6.
FIGURE 8-6 Calibrating
The present sound level (94.56 dB), the difference between

the calibration level and the present sound level ( and an
indication of stability are displayed in this message box.
When the pointer in the stability indicator is vertical, the
sound level is stable.
The Cancel button is highlighted. Pressing 5 will abort the
calibration.
FIGURE 8-7 Save Calibration
Calibrations must be saved if you When the calibration is completed, a message box appears.
plan to export post-calibration data Selecting Yes will save the results of the calibration and No
or store them in history records. will cancel the results of the calibration. Highlight the
Alternatively, you can simply verify desired button and press 5.
the calibration by selecting No.
Warning Messages
After selecting Yes to save the results of the calibration,

there are two warning messages which may appear.

Outside Range of Normal Sensitivity
When the results of the calibration correspond to a

sensitivity greater than 3 dB outside the range of the nominal
sensitivity for that microphone, the message shown in
FIGURE 8-8 appears.
FIGURE 8-8 Outside Normal Sensitivity Range

When this message is received, it is advisable to scrutinize
the current calibration sensitivity and overload level. Ensure
that the calibration was performed properly and that all of
the equipment is functioning correctly.
> 0.5 dB From Previous Calibration Result
When the results of the calibration indicate a change in

sensitivity greater than 0.5 dB from the previous calibration
results, the message shown in FIGURE 8-9 appears.
FIGURE 8-9 0.5 dB From Previous Calibration

Result

Calibration History
The results of the last ten calibrations are displayed on the
History tab, shown in FIGURE 8-10.
FIGURE 8-10 Calibration History Tab
Here we see the date and time of each calibration, along with
the sensitivity in dB re. 1 V/Pa and the difference between
the level measured during the calibration and the level of the
previous calibration.

Calibration Spectrum
The 831-OB3 option and 1/3 octave Press 5 to display the spectrum of the highlighted
setting are automatically enabled calibration, as shown in FIGURE 8-11
(whether purchased or not) for
acoustic calibrations and calibration
checks so that spectra can be stored
in history records and data files.
FIGURE 8-11 Calibration Spectrum Display
Sensitivity Tab
The Sensitivity tab, shown in FIGURE 8-12, is used
primarily to establish the noise floor of the instrument with
the preamplifier and microphone presently being used and,
from that, determine the under range levels for A, C and Z-
weighting sound level measurements. The overload level is
also determined.
Preamplifier Presently
Connected
Peak Overload Level
Selected Microphone
Under Range Levels

Self Noise of Selected Microphone,
Unless Value Entered Manually
Noise Floor
Levels
Model 831 Manual Sensitivity Tab 8-13

FIGURE 8-12 Sensitivity Tab
Noise Floor
The noise floor is calculated as the energy sum of the
microphone self noise, preamplifier self noise and
instrument self noise.
The appropriate noise floor, as well as the nominal
sensitivity, is computed automatically in the Model 831 with
the following preamplifiers and their commonly paired
microphones:
PRM 831
PRM2103
426A12
ICP with ADP074
When a calibration has been performed using any of the
preamplifiers listed above, that calibration information is
saved for that preamplifier. If the preamplifier is switched
from one of these types to another, then the calibration
information already saved for that new preamplifier type is
recalled. As long as the same microphone is being used with
that preamplifier, the calibration should be correct.
Direct Data Input
Self-noise values can also be entered manually when using
preamplifiers and/or microphones not included in the Model
831 data base.
Overload Level
The overload level is the highest peak level which can be
measured without overloading the input of the Model 831.
Under Range Level
The Under Range Level is the higher of the following:
(1) Noise Floor plus 9.14 dB (under range shown when self
noise contributes 0.5 dB to the readings).
(2) Actual point where the log-linearity exceeds maximum
permitted value
Except for very low noise level microphones, the under
range level is usually determined by (1).
8-14 Sensitivity Tab Model 831 Manual

Calibration Without Preamplifier
There may be situations where the microphone preamplifier
provided with the Model 831 is not being used. For example
when a hydrophone is being used, no level calibrator is
available so the sensitivity must be input directly by the user.
When the preamplifier has been disconnected, the
Sensitivity tab will appear as shown in FIGURE 8-13.
FIGURE 8-13 Sensitivity Tab Without

Preamplifier
In this situation, the sensitivity of the transducer and the self
noise, if known, can be input directly.
Model 831 Manual Calibration Without Preamplifier 8-15

Certification
FIGURE 8-14 Certification Tab
A certification interval of one year is The user has the opportunity to set the calibration interval
recommended but this can be and a calibration reminder.
lengthened or disabled depending on
applicable requirements.
Certification Tab Parameter Selection
The Certification tab parameters are selected as shown in
FIGURE 8-15.
FIGURE 8-15 Certification Tab Parameter Selection
8-16 Certification Model 831 Manual

Available values of Certification Interval are as follows:
1 Year
2 Years
3 Years
4 Years
Never
The default value is Never
Available values of Certification Reminder are as follows:
15 Days
30 Days
45 Days
60 Days
Never
The default value is Never
Notification
When appropriate, the message Certification will expire in
xx days or Certification has expired will be displayed as
follows:
When the instrument powers up
When the Calibrate Tool is selected, as shown in
FIGURE 8-1.
These messages will appear as shown in FIGURE 8-16 and
FIGURE 8-17.
FIGURE 8-16 Message: Calibration will expire
FIGURE 8-17 Message: Calibration has expired
Model 831 Manual Certification 8-17

E.A. Check
When using a Larson Davis Model 426A12 Outdoor
Preamplifier and Power Supply or Model 2100 Outdoor
Preamplifier, this menu is used to perform a remote
calibration check by switching on the electrostatic actuator
(E.A.) contained within rain hat of the Model 426A12.
FIGURE 8-18 E.A. Check Menu
Initial Calibration
The sound pressure level produced by the E.A., typically in
the range 94 to 96 dB, will depend upon the manner in
which the rain hat is mounted upon the microphone, so it
may change whenever removed and then replaced. However,
once in place, it does generate a precision level that can be
used to determine changes in the system calibration, whether
in the microphone, instrumentation, cabling or in the
Electrostatic Actuator itself. As a result, after installation of
the rain hat, an initial calibration must be performed to
establish the standard E.A. level. To do this, highlight E.A
8-18 E.A. Check Model 831 Manual

Check and press 5 to initiate a calibration. which will
produce the display shown in FIGURE 8-19.
FIGURE 8-19 Calibrating In Progress Display
This display will indicate the difference between the present

level and the previously measured level. When the
measurement is complete, the display will be as shown in
FIGURE 8-20
FIGURE 8-20 Save as Standard E.A. Display
For an initial calibration after replacing the rain hat,

highlight Yes and pres 5, which will establish the level
produced by this measurement as the Standard E.A. Level.
This level will then appear in the E.A. Level box in the
lower portion of the screen.
Calibration
Once the Standard E.A. Level has been established, as long
as no changes have been made to the rain hat, follow the
same procedure as for initial calibration. As long as the
difference between the measured level and the Standard E.A.
Level is acceptably small, this indicates the system is
performing well. However, following a satisfactory
calibration check, it is up to the individual user whether to
select Yes or No to the Save as Standard E.A. Level inquiry.
By selecting Yes, the Standard E.A. Level will change to
follow the most recent calibration whereas selecting No will
maintain the original Standard E.A. Level as the standard for
comparison. All manual E.A.Checks that do not time-out
will be stored in the calibration history, meaning that even if
Model 831 Manual E.A. Check 8-19

No had been selected for the Save as Standard E.A. Level
inquiry it will be saved.
Background Noise
If the measured level during calibration is not stable, the
Model 831 will assume that there is contamination due to
background noise and abort the calibration. Also, the E.A.
calibration spectrum can be viewed to see if there was any
significant out-of-band energy.
E.A. History
The last ten calibration E.A.calibration check levels are
saved in a Check History. These are displayed on the E.A
History tab, shown in FIGURE 8-21,
During EA calibration the LDN is .

paused. The net result has no effect
on the history data while the
calibration tone is on. Preamplifier Type
FIGURE 8-21 E.A. History Tab
Note that E.A. History is only The parameters for the most recent calibration appear at the
available when using either the top of the list. Both the absolute level measured and the
426A12 or PRM2100 Outdoor difference from the Standard E.A. Level setting appear for
Preamplifier, as indicated in the each calibration, as well as the data and time of the
upper section of the display. calibration.
8-20 E.A. History Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
9 Industrial Hygiene
This chapter describes the measurement features
associated with the Industrial Hygiene optional firmware
831-IH.
Measurement Setup
The Industrial Hygiene measurement features are setup from
the Settings Screen, in the same manner as the basic
measurement parameters are setup as described in Chapter 4
Basic Measurement Setup on page 4-1.
When this firmware is loaded, the Dosimeter 1 and

Dosimeter 2 tabs appear, which are provided to permit the
evaluation of two independent noise dose data sets. Other
than being on separate pages, they are identical. The default
values for Dosimeter 1 tab parameters are shown in
FIGURE 9-1.
FIGURE 9-1 Dosimeter 1
Model 831 Manual Industrial Hygiene 9-1

Predefined Setups
In most cases, measurements of this type are setup to

conform to a specific standard. The Model 831 permits the
user to create such a setup in a single step by simply
selecting the applicable standard. The standards addressed
by the Model 831 and the corresponding parameters are as
shown in Table 9-1 'Predefined Noise Dosimeter Setups'.
Exchange
Standard Threshold Criterion
Rate
Level Hours
OSHA-1 5 90 90 8
OSHA-2 5 80 90 8
ACGIH 3 80 85 8
NIOSH 3 80 85 8
IEC 3 Not Enabled 85 8
Table 9-1 Predefined Noise Dosimeter Setups
The Name field will already be The names of the predefined setups can be accessed from the
highlighted when the Dosimeter 1 or Name field at the top of the display. Press the 5 (ENTER)
Dosimeter 2 sections are opened. If key to drop down a list of predefined setups by name as
this has been changed, use the 8 key shown in FIGURE 9-2.
to move the highlight back to the
Name field.
FIGURE 9-2 Predefined Dose Setups
Highlight the name of the desired setup and press 5 to

make the selection. The name of this setup will now appear
in the Name field.
9-2 Measurement Setup Model 831 Manual

All parameters will be set according to the setup selected, as
FIGURE 9-3 IEC Setup
Parameters Individually Defined
On the Dosimeter tabs, there are two fields (Name and

Exchange Rate) and two sections (Threshold and Criterion).
Name Field
If a predefined setup has been The Name field is optional, although many users will enter
selected and any of the preset text associated with the measurement to be performed such
parameters are modified, the user as a specific company Dose standard (My Dose) or the
should consider changing the name name of a standard not in the list. To enter a name, use the
of the setup. 8 and 2 keys to highlight the Name field. Use the 4
key to highlight the name portion of the highlighted box;
then press the 5 key. Use the 4 6 8 and 2 keys to
enter the desired characters. Press 5 to complete your
entry.
Parameter Fields
The titles of the second field (Exchange Rate) and the two
sections at the lower portion of the display (Threshold and
Criterion) correspond to the three parameters we wish to set.
Within each is a numeric field into which the user can enter
Model 831 Manual Measurement Setup 9-3

the value desired. Highlight the desired section and proceed
as described below.
Exchange Rate
To set the exchange rate, highlight the data field and press
5 to open a drop down list of values, as shown in
FIGURE 9-4 "Exchange Rate List" .
FIGURE 9-4 Exchange Rate List
Highlight the desired value and press 5 to make the

selection.
Threshold and Criterion
Note that when setting the Threshold To set these parameters, highlight the appropriate section,
value, the Enabled check box must press 5, enter the numeric value desired, then press 5
be checked before data can be again.
entered into the numeric field. Use
the Left Softkey to highlight the box
and press 5.
Auto-Calculate
As described above, the Criterion Level and Time are set

independently. However, in the standards there is a linear
relationship between the Criterion Level and the Time.
When Auto-Calculate is activated, by checking the check
box to the left, then only one of these need be entered and
the other will be automatically set to follow the standard.
9-4 Measurement Setup Model 831 Manual

Data Display
The Industrial Hygiene measurement data are displayed on

the Overall tab of the Data Display View, as are the results
of the basic sound level measurements as described in
Chapter 5 Data Display on page 5-1.
Four sections will appear: Sound Exposure, Dosimeter 1,

Dosimeter 2 and SEA. The two dosimeter displays will be
identical except for the measurement values (if they had
been setup with different measurement parameters). These
four sections will be found just before the last section of the
Overall tab.
Sound Exposure
FIGURE 9-5 Overall Tab, Sound Exposure
The Sound Exposure page on the Overall tab shows sound

exposure metrics (in this instance for A-weighted). LAE is
the sound exposure level (previously known as SEL). The
Sound Exposure metrics indicate the actual and extrapolated
(8 and 40 hours) exposure accumulated in terms of hours
and seconds. These are discussed in "Sound Exposure (SE)"
on page D-16 and "Sound Exposure Level (SEL, LE)" on
page D-17.

Dosimeter 1 and 2
FIGURE 9-6 Dosimeter 1 Display
In this example, we can see that the measurement parameters

correspond to the setup named OSHA-1.
TWA(8.0)
The value of TWA(8.0) (Time Weighted Average for 8

hours) is based on data measured during the run time and
calculated for the user-defined Criterion Time, in this case 8
hours. The value of Criterion Time is set by selecting a
predefined setup as described in "Predefined Setups" on
page 9-2 or by entering a numerical value as described in
"Threshold and Criterion" on page 9-4.
As an example, suppose a measurement was performed over

a time period of ten minutes. The value of TWA(8.0) would
be the same as the TWA measured over an eight hour period
if there had been no sound exposure other than that which
occurred during that ten minute period.
ProjTWA
The ProjTWA (Projected Time Weighted Average) is

calculated from data measured during the measurement run
9-6 Data Display Model 831 Manual

time and calculated without regard to the criterion time.
Continuing with the example in the above paragraph, the
ProjTWA for that ten minute measurement represents the
value of TWA which would be measured if the noise
measured during the ten minute period had continued for
eight hours.
Lep,d
The Daily Personal Noise Exposure, Lep,d is calculated from

data measured during the run time of the measurement.
DOSE
Dose is based on data measured during the run time

calculated for the user-defined Criterion Time and Criterion
Level (100% definition). As an example, suppose a
measurement was performed over a time period of ten
minutes. The value of Dose would be the same as the Dose
measured over an eight hour period if there had been no
other sound exposure other than that which occurred during
that ten minute period.
ProjDOSE
Projected Dose is based on data measured during the run

time and calculated without regard to the criterion time.
Continuing with the example in the above paragraph, the
Projected Dose for that ten minute measurement represents
the value of Dose which would be measured if the noise
measured during the ten minute period had continued for
eight hours.
The remainder of the display shows the parameters used for

the measurement: Frequency Weighting, Exchange Rate,
Threshold and Criterion (time and level).

SEA
The SEA parameter is used primarily

in the Canadian province of Quebec.
FIGURE 9-7 SEA Display
SEA is an integration of 1 second peaks that exceeded 120

dB. Both the SEA value and the frequency weighting used
for the measurement are displayed.
9-8 Data Display Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
10 Voice Recording
Control Panel - Voice Recording

Voice recordings are recorded using a sample rate of 8 kHz.
To activate the Voice Recorder Page, press the 3 (TOOLS)
key and highlight the Voice Recorder icon as shown below.
Press the 5 (ENTER) key to open the Voice Recorder

Page.
Press the Close Softkey to exit.
With Headset
When using a headset, the Jack By connecting a headset to the headset jack on the bottom of
Function must to set to Headset as the Model 831, voice records may be recorded using the
described in the section Jack headset microphone. Voice records may be played back
Function on page 18-13. through the headset speaker.
Model 831 Manual Voice Recording 10-1

Without Headset
With no headset plugged in, a record may be made of the
sound arriving at the measurement microphone.
Voice Recorder
FIGURE 10-2 Voice Recorder Page
The 5 key can also be used to play The Voice Recorder page will present a list of existing voice
the highlighted voice record. records. Highlight a specific voice record and press the
Right Softkey to play it back through a headset speaker.
When measurement data are stored, all voice records that are
shown on the list will be stored in the data file. The voice
records list will then be empty.
Record
To begin a recording from the Voice Recorder Page, press

the Left Softkey, just beneath the Record Icon.
Record Icon
10-2 Voice Recorder Model 831 Manual

The microphone level can be The Recording message box will appear. The meter indicates
adjusted with the three position the relative signal level from the recording microphone and
microphone switch found on the the progress bar shows the elapsed time of the measurement.
headset (ACC003). The progress bar length represents 25.6 seconds, which is
the maximum time for a voice recording.
FIGURE 10-3 Recording
Press 5 to stop recording if 25.6 seconds has not elapsed.

At the end of 25.6 seconds, recording will stop
automatically.
Save Prompt
When the recording has been stopped, the Save Prompt
shown in FIGURE 10-4 will appear.
FIGURE 10-4 Save Recording Prompt
Select Yes to save the recording or No to close the recording

session without saving the recording.
Playback
The 5 key can also be used to play To playback a highlighted voice record, press the Right
the highlighted voice record. Softkey beneath the Playback Icon.
Playback Icon
Model 831 Manual Voice Recorder 10-3

Use the volume control on the With a headset attached to the headset jack on the bottom of
headset (ACC003) to adjust the the case, you will hear the voice recording in the headset
playback level. speaker.
FIGURE 10-5 Playback
The meter indicates the relative amplitude of the recorded

sound.
The progress bar indicates the elapsed time of the playback
of the recording. The progress bar length represents the
actual recording time.
Press 5 to stop the playback.
At the end of the voice record, the playback will stop
automatically.
Session Log Page
Voice recordings can also be played back from the Session
Log Page, as described in Voice Message/Sound Recording
Playback on page 5-28.
10-4 Voice Recorder Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
11 Time History
associated with the optional data logging firmware 831-
LOG and 831-FST.
Metrics Logged
Using the Time History mode, the Model 831 can
automatically log a large number of metrics, or parameters,
both acoustic and non-acoustic, at equal time intervals.
Available Time Intervals
831-LOG
When the Model 831 has the optional firmware 831-LOG
enabled, the available range of intervals is from 20
milliseconds to 24 hours.
831-LOG and 831-FST
When the Model 831 has both the optional firmware 831-
LOG and 831-FST enabled, the available range of intervals
is from 2.5 milliseconds to 24 hours. For more detailed
information, see "Increased Time Resolution on page 11-2.
Available Metrics
Interval
When the user-selected time interval is 00 milliseconds,
any or all of the metrics listed in the following sections will
be measured and stored for each time increment.
When the user-selected time interval is 50 milliseconds,
the only metrics which can be measured and stored are those
shown in bold in the following sections.
Model 831 Manual Time History 11-1

Acoustical Metrics
Time Interval Values

These are integrated (Leq), maximum (Lpeak, LSmax, LFmax,
LImax) and minimum (LSmin, LFmin, LImin) values evaluated
for the time interval since the preceding sample. Separate
values are determined for A, C and Z frequency weightings.
LAeq, LApeak, LASmax, LAFmax, LAImax, LASmin, LAFmin,
LAImin
LCeq, LCpeak, LCSmax, LCFmax, LCImax, LCSmin, LCFmin,
LCImin
LZeq, LZpeak, LZSmax, LZFmax, LZImax, LZSmin, LZFmin,
LZImin
Instantaneous Values
These are continuously varying sound levels, based on Slow
(S), Fast (F) and Impulse (I) detectors and A, C and Z
frequency weighting, measured at the each time interval.
LAS, LAF, LAI
LCS, LCF, LCI
LZS, LZF, LZI
Specialized Acoustic Metrics
LAFTtm5: Taktmaximal 5 (utilized in Germany) using A-
weighting and Fast detector. This also requires selection
from the Preferences page, "Takt Maximal Data on
page 18-14. The definition is shown in "Taktmaximal-5" on
page D-21.
C-A weighted average level (LCeq-LAeq) and
Impulsivity (LAIeq-LAeq).
The optional firmware 831-IH is Ltwa1 and Ltwa2: time-weighted averages associated with
required for these metrics to be Dose 1 and Dose 2 exchange rates and thresholds. See
measured. "Dosimeter 1 and 2 on page 9-6.
Increased Time Resolution
Tms Resolution
When the time history interval has been selected to be 500
ms or less, the user has the option of implementing increased
time resolution, which will cause the time value to be
11-2 Metrics Logged Model 831 Manual

measured and saved with millisecond resolution. This is
described in more detail in the section "Select Time History
Metrics" on page 11-6.
1/1 and 1/3 Octave Spectra
The optional firmware 831-OB3 is When 1/1 and/or 1/3 octave analysis has been enabled in the
required for these metrics to be setup, Instantaneous Level, Leq, Lmax and Lmin for 1/1
measured. and 1/3 octave frequency bands will also be measured.
The time history Lmax will be a Bin Max when the time
history period is less than 1 minute regardless of the Max
Spectrum setting being set for At Max.
Non-Acoustical Metrics
From Model 831

Battery Level
External Power
Internal Temperature
From 426A12 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier System
426A12 Outdoor Microphone System Internal Temperature

required.
Internal Humidity
From PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier System
PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Internal Temperature

Preamplifier System required.
Internal Humidity
From External Transducers via the 831-INT Interface Unit

Wind Speed
Wind Gust Speed
Wind Direction
Temperature: Average, Max and Min Levels
Humidity: Average, Max and Min Levels
From SEN031 Weather Station
Wind Speed
Model 831 Manual Metrics Logged 11-3

Wind Gust Speed
Wind Gust Direction
Temperature: Average, Max and Min Levels
Humidity: Average, Max and Min Levels
Time History Setup

Setup time history on the Time History tab on the
Measurement Setup View, as shown in.Figure 11-1
FIGURE 11-1 Time History Setup Menu
Press 5 (ENTER) to enable the Time History functionality

and to place a check in the Enable Time History check box.
This will add additional items to the Time History setup
11-4 Time History Setup Model 831 Manual

menu, as shown in FIGURE 11-2. Note that the default
values for these parameters are as shown in FIGURE 11-2.
FIGURE 11-2 Time History Setup Menu: Enabled
Set Time History Period
To set the Time History Period, use the 2 key to highlight

the Period data field and press 5 to list all the available
values of time, as shown (partially) in Figure 11-3.
FIGURE 11-3 Time History Period Menu
The following values are available for selection as time

increment for the Time History:
Model 831 Manual Time History Setup 11-5

Note that the values 2.5 ms, 5 ms and Milliseconds
10 ms will only appear when the
2.5, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500
optional firmware 831-FST has been
enabled. As you scroll downwards, Seconds
when the highlight reaches the
1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30
bottom of the window, the list will
scroll upwards to reveal additional Minutes
values.
1, 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30
Hours
1, 24
Highlight the desired increment of time and press 5 to
make the selection.
Interval Time Sync
The setup to implement Interval Time The interval time sync feature ensures that all measurement
Sync for both Time History and records, except the first, will begin at a time of day equal to a
Measurement History is described in multiple of the measurement time selected. For example, if
the section "Interval Time Sync on the measurement time is five minutes, and the measurement
page 12-2. begins at 08:14:00 (h:m:s format), the first measurement
will be cut short such that the subsequent measurements will
begin at 08:15, 08:20, 08:25, etc.
Linear Integration Only

When the time history interval has been selected to be 10 ms
or less, the integration method must be linear. If it is set to
exponential when the time interval is set to one of these
lower values, the message Settings Conflict. Fix
Automatically? will appear. Reply Yes to change to linear
and continue the setup process.
Select Time History Metrics
The metrics available for selection The Time History Options Menu is used to select, one-by-
are described in M
" etrics Logged one, the metrics to be measured for each time increment.
on page 11-1. Highlight the Time History Options window and press 5.

Time History Increment > 10 ms
When the time increment selected is > 10 ms, the list of
available metrics will appear as shown in Figure 11-4, with
the first item in the options list highlighted.
FIGURE 11-4 Time History Options Window: Time

Increment > 10 ms
Tms Resolution
When 20 ms Time Increment 500 ms has been selected,
the parameter Tms used to implement increased time
resolution will appear at the bottom of the options list shown
in FIGURE 11-4.
Note that spectrum metrics will only Highlight down or up, respectively, and use the 4 or 6 key
appear in the list when 1/1 octave to select an option and place a check in the check box. Use
and/or 1/3 octave have been the same keys to deselect a box already checked.
selected. See "OBA Bandwidth
Exiting Time History Options
Setting on page 4-7 for details.
When the options have been designated as desired, press 5
to exit from the Time History Options Menu. You will then
be able to display other tabs of the Measurement Setup
Menu or exit from the Measurement Setup Menu by
pressing the center softkey labeled Close.
Model 831 Manual Time History Setup 11-7

Time History Increment 10 ms
When the selected time increment is 10 ms, the time
history options window will appear as shown in FIGURE
11-5 .
FIGURE 11-5 Time History Options Window: Time

Increment 10 ms
When using such short time increments, the only parameters

which can be stored are time history and Leq spectra.
However, with this we can implement millisecond display
action, Tms, which will time stamp the data with
millisecond resolution.
To enable this feature, highlight the Time History Options
section, press the 5 key, highlight the Tms box and press 4
or 6 key to place a check mark and press 5 once more.
When data is exported, the Tms data will appear in another
column, separate from the normal time stamp data, allowing
the use of Excel time and date formatting.

Time History Display
Single Value Metrics
When the Model 831 is not equipped In this section we discuss the time history graph which
with the optional firmware 831-OB3, appears for single value metrics such as sound levels and
or if it is equipped with this option non-acoustic parameters.
but the measurement of 1/1 and 1/3
Time History data is displayed on the Time History tab of
octave spectra has been set to Off in
the Data Display View as shown in Figure 11-6.
the measurement setup, all measured
parameters will be single value
parameters.
Time History Graph
Date and time of

keypress beginning the
measurement
FIGURE 11-6 Time History Display: First Point; Keypress
Note that the graph scaling can be The initial graph on the Time History tab shows only 120
modified as described in section items from the time history at one time. There is no zoom in
"Adjust Graph Scale on page 5-30. or out feature. Note that the cursor is located to the left of the
graph and that there is no data digitally displayed. The label
Run indicates that the cursor is not yet on a time point of the
data set.
Model 831 Manual Time History Display 11-9

Data Display at Cursor Position
Holding down the left or right arrow The 6 and 4 keys are used to move the cursor right or left,
keys will move the cursor faster as respectively, in increments equal to the time history period.
the key is held down longer. Holding Press the 6 key once to move the cursor to the location of
the key accelerates movement the first time interval of the time history.
through the time history.
Time History Graph:

Leq(x) where x is the time
history interval
Leq(x), calculated using

Cursor position, in
the selected time
multiples of time history
interval, at cursor
period
position
1st Time History

Parameter at cursor Total number of data
position (LApeak in points measured
this instance)
Date and time at

cursor position
FIGURE 11-7 Measured Data at Cursor Position, First Parameter
Left/Right Arrow Keys

For the display shown in FIGURE 11-7, the 4 and 6 keys
have dual roles as listed below. Press 5 to toggle between
them:
Change Record
Change Metrics (Measurement Parameters)
11-10 Time History Display Model 831 Manual

At any time, the role of the left and right arrow keys, as well
as the means to change it, are indicated in the lower portion
of the display, as shown in FIGURE 11-8.
Left and Right Arrow keys Left and Right Arrow keys
Change Records Change Metrics
5
5
Switch role of left/right arrow keys Switch role of left/right arrow keys
from Change Records to from Change Metrics to Change
Change Metrics Records
FIGURE 11-8 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: Time History Display
Locate Record Number

To jump to a specific record number, rather than step
through the range of record numbers using the cursor, utilize
the Locate Record Number feature, described in "Locate
Record Number" on page 11-16
The time history graphs for Leq(x) and the selected time
history parameter are overlaid on the display.
Change Metrics
As explained in section "Metrics Logged on page 11-1, the
user can select to log up to sixteen different parameters, or
metrics, as a function of time, setup as described in section
"Select Time History Metrics on page 11-6. The default
value is the first parameter selected during the setup
procedure.
When repeatedly pressing the 6 key, the logged metric
values will be displayed in the same sequence as they

appeared in the list when selected, as described in "Select
Time History Metrics on page 11-6.
By pressing the 6 and 4 keys, the value displayed can be
shifted to represent a metric one later or earlier, respectively,
in sequence in the user-created list of metrics to log.
For example, in FIGURE 11-9 we have pressed the 6 key to
select LASmax, the next metric in the selection sequence, at
the same cursor position used to graph and display Leq in
FIGURE 11-7.
Selected Parameter
Display, LApeak
Time History Graph:

Leq(x) where x is the time
history interval
Selected Metric
FIGURE 11-9 Time History Graph and Value of LASmax at Same Time
Frequency Spectra
When the Model 831 is equipped When frequency spectra have been included in the list of
with the optional firmware 831-OB3 metrics to be measured in the setup, as described in "1/1 and
and either the 1/1 octave spectra or 1/3 Octave Spectra on page 11-3, there will be additional
the 1/3 octave spectra, or both, have displays as follows:
been selected for the measurement,
One additional display if all frequency spectra
then frequency spectra will appear
metrics are either 1/1 or 1/3 octave spectra. Press the
in the list of metrics which can be
2 key to show the spectrum display as shown in
logged.
FIGURE 11-10.
Two additional displays if frequency spectra metrics
include both 1/1 and 1/3 octave spectra. Press the 2
key once to display metrics having the 1/1 octave
format and press it a second time to display metrics
having the 1/3 octave format

Except for the bandwidth, these displays are identical, so we
will use a 1/1octave spectrum as an example.
Cursor Position
Frequency at
Cursor Position
Leq, Lmax and Lmin
Values at Cursor Position
Data and time at
cursor position Total Number of Records
Measured
Record Number at
Cursor Position
FIGURE 11-10 Time History Display: Spectra Metrics, Section 2 and 3

have dual roles as listed below. Press 5 to toggle between
them:
Change Record:
Change Frequency
as the means to change it, are indicated by the icon
in the lower portion of the display, as shown in FIGURE 11-

11.

Change Record Change Frequency
5
5
from Change Record to Change from Change Frequency to
Frequency Change Record
FIGURE 11-11 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: Frequency Spectra Display
Frequency Band Time History
From the frequency spectra display, press the 2 key to

obtain the Frequency Band Time History display shown in
FIGURE 11-12
FIGURE 11-12 Frequency Band Time History

Display

In this display, the time history of the LZeq level is shown at
1.00 kHz, the frequency of the cursor position used in
frequency spectrum display shown in FIGURE 11-10 when
changing to this display. Use the 4 and 6 keys to change the
record number (time value).
can have several roles as listed below. Use 5 to toggle
between them:
Change Record
Change Frequency
Change Metrics (Measurement Parameters)
as the means to change it, are indicated in the lower portion
of the display, as shown in.FIGURE 11-13.
Left and Right Arrow keys Left and Right Arrow keys Left and Right Arrow keys
Change Record Change Frequency Change Metrics
5 5
5
Switch role of left/right Switch role of left/right arrow keys Switch role of left/right
arrow keys from from Change Frequency to arrow keys from Change
Change Record to Change Metrics Metrics to Change
Change Frequency Record
FIGURE 11-13 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: Frequency Band Time History

Locate Record Number
To rapidly change the record number, rather than use the
cursor to step through the range of records, press the Menu
softkey which will produce the display shown in FIGURE
11-17.
FIGURE 11-14 Locate Record Number
Highlight Locate and press 5 to open the Locate Record

Menu, shown in FIGURE 11-15.
Jump Back Ten Records Jump Ahead Ten Records
FIGURE 11-15 Locate Record Menu
Jump to First or Last Record

To jump to the first or last of the record numbers, highlight
First or Last, respectively, and press 5.
Jump 10 Records Back or Ahead
To jump back or ahead ten records, highlight Record
Number and press the left or right softkey, respectively, as
indicated in FIGURE 11-15.
11-16 Locate Record Number Model 831 Manual

Locate a Specific Record
To locate a specific record, highlight the Record Number
field and press 5 to add a cursor to the Record Number
field, as shown in FIGURE 11-16.
FIGURE 11-16 Record Number Cursor
Enter the desired record number using the 4 and 6 keys to

move the cursor and the 8 and 2 keys to change the
digits, then press 5 to change the display to that record
number.
Link to Measurement History Display

The major purpose of the Link to Measurement History is to
locate the Measurement History record that applies to the
same point in time as the current time history record. The
inverse is also true; from the Measurement history you can
Link to Time history, which will locate the Time History
record with the time nearest the Measurement Time History.
To rapidly switch from a Time History display to a
Measurement History display, press the Menu softkey which
will produce the display shown in FIGURE 11-17.
FIGURE 11-17 Link to Measurement History
Highlight Link-Measurement History and press 5.
Model 831 Manual Link to Measurement History Display 11-17

Markers
Markers are used to annotate portions of the time history,
especially for the purpose of identifying sound sources as
they become dominant in the measurement. The Model 831
offers ten separate user-definable markers.
Markers Setup
Note that the default values for these Markers are setup on the Markers tab in the Measurement
parameters are as shown in Setup View, as shown in Figure 11-18.
FIGURE 11-18.
FIGURE 11-18 Markers Setup 1-5
There are five markers with names predefined for

convenience shown in this figure. Any of these names can
be changed by the user. To view markers 6 -10, highlight the
6 - 10 text line and radio buttons and press 5 to obtain the
display shown in Figure 11-19.
11-18 Markers Model 831 Manual

Naming a Marker
The process of naming markers is Highlight the field of the marker to be named and press 5.
simplified by using the 831 Utility This will produce a cursor which can be moved left and right
software. to different digit positions in the data field using the 4 and 6
keys, as shown in Figure 11-20.
FIGURE 11-20 Marker Name Field
Enter a marker name and press the 5 key to conclude the

process.
Record with a Marker
The Record check box is available when the optional
firmware 831-SR has been enabled. This will permit a sound
recording snapshot to be made whenever the associated
marker is activated. See "Marker Initiated Recording on
page 16-9 for more details.
Model 831 Manual Markers 11-19

Using Markers
The Time History tab of the Data Display View is used to

display the data, as shown in FIGURE 11-6 Time History
Display: First Point; Keypress" .
After the measurement is begun, press the Menu key to
bring up the display shown in Figure 11-21.
FIGURE 11-21 Menu Options
Mark Sound Type is also available Highlight Mark Sound Type and press 5, which will
from the Live Profile and the bring up the Mark Sound Type dialog box as shown in
Session Log display menus Figure 11-22.
FIGURE 11-22 Time History Display with Markers
Setting Markers On/Off

At any time during a measurement, any of the markers can
be set On or Off. The best way to enable or disable a marker
is to press 5. The 4 and 6 keys will turn the marker On/
Off as well.

Setting All Markers Off
To set all markers to Off, press the right softkey labeled
None.
Close Marker Control Window
Press the center softkey labeled Close to close the marker
control window and return the display to the standard Time
History display.
Markers on Time History Display
When any type of marker has been active during a time

history measurement, this will be indicated by a solid
horizontal line at the top of the screen as shown in "Marker
Indication on Time History Display" on page 11-21.
Marker Indicator
FIGURE 11-23 Marker Indication on Time History

Display
The 831 Utility software provided with the Model 831 will
show the names of the markers along with the time history
data when the data is exported. See the 831 Utility User
Manual for details.
Model 831 Manual Markers 11-21

CHAPTER
12 Measurement History
Measurement History is used to perform a sequence of
measurements using the same setup, either manually or
automatically, which provide the same data as is obtained
from the basic measurement, described in Chapter 5 Data
Display on page 5-1. The optional firmware 831-ELA must
be enabled to obtain the measurement history capability.
This chapter presents a detailed description of the setup and
use of the Measurement History feature and the data
displays which it provides.
Run Control with Measurement History
Before working with Measurement Measurement History is implemented from the Control tab
History, review the setup of Run of the Measurement Settings Screen by placing a check in
Modes, as described in Chapter 6, the Enable Measurement History check box. When the
Run Mode has been set to Continuous, this will produce a
display as shown in FIGURE 12-1.
Please note, in the Continuous,

Single Block Timer, and Daily .
Timer modes, setting a Measurement
Time value of 00:00 (no time) will be
saved as 00:01 (one minute) upon
closing or exiting the Control tab.
FIGURE 12-1 Measurement History Setup
Model 831 Manual Measurement History 12-1

Continuous and Timer Modes
For these run modes, when the Measurement History is
enabled, a series of measurements will be performed and
stored automatically, each running for a user-defined time
interval. At the time the check mark is placed in the
Measurement History check box to enable it, a window such
as shown in Figure 12-2, will appear to define a time
duration for each measurement.
FIGURE 12-2 Measurement Time Menu
Note that the actual measurement Highlight the Time data field and press the 5 (ENTER)
duration may be shorter due to a key. Enter the desired value of time and press 5 to
manual stop, a timer stop or an conclude the process.The minimum permitted Interval Time
autostore action. is one minute; if a zero value is entered, the following
message will appear.
FIGURE 12-3 Invalid Time Warning
Interval Time Sync
The interval time sync feature ensures that all measurement

records, except the first, will begin at a time of day equal to a
multiple of the measurement time selected. For example, if
the measurement time is five minutes, and the measurement
begins at 08:14:00 (h:m:s format), the first measurement
will be cut short such that the subsequent measurements will
begin at 08:15, 08:20, 08:25, etc.
12-2 Continuous and Timer Modes Model 831 Manual

Valid Measurement Times
When other values are selected, the The interval time sync function is intended to be used with
interval time sync will still function, the following measurement time values:
but the time for which the first
measurement is cut short will be 1, 5, 10, 20 or 30 minutes
different. See Other Measurement
Times below for further detail. 1 hour
When the interval time sync function is used, each hour is
divided into a number of equal time segments, based on the
number of time intervals contained within one hour. For
example, when the time interval is five minutes, there will
be twelve segments within any one hour period beginning at
xx:00:00, xx:05:00, xx:10:00, etc.
The instrument will begin the first measurement when the
9 (RUN/PAUSE) key is pressed. Regardless of the start
time, when the clock of each instrument reaches the time
corresponding to the beginning of the next segment, the
measurement in progress will be stopped and stored, and a
new measurement will be started.
Other Measurement Times
When values of measurement other than those listed above
are used, the clock time at which the first measurement is cut
short is based solely on the units of the measurement time;
seconds, minutes or hours. For example, suppose the
measurement time is set to three minutes. Based on the unit
of minutes, the time intervals per hour are xx:00:00,
xx:01:00, xx:02:00, etc. If the measurement were begun at
08:14:23, the first measurement would be cut short at the
next measurement interval, so subsequent measurements
would be started at 08:15:00, 08:18:00, 08:21:00, etc.
Timed Stop Mode

The Time Stop Mode with Measurement History has a
feature not included for the other run modes; the ability to
automatically measure and store a user-defined number of
records, then stop. Subsequent runs, each manually initiated,
will produce the same number of stored measurements.
Model 831 Manual Timed Stop Mode 12-3

Measurement Counter
When the Time is set to one minute or more for the Time
Stop Mode, the Measurement Counter field will appear as
shown in Figure 12-4.
FIGURE 12-4 Measurement Counter
Measurement Counter is used to set the number of

measurements to be made during each manually initiated
measurement sequence.
Note that the measurement counter To enter the a value into the Measurement Counter field,
will be set to one and the selection time, highlight the Measurement Counter data field and
field disabled when the measurement press 5. Enter the desired value and press 5 to conclude
time has been set to less than one the process.
minute.
Example
The Continuous Mode, described in An example of the use of this would be when the user wishes
Continuous and Timer Modes on to make a fixed number of separate measurements, each for
page 12-2, can be used to make an the same run time, then stop. By setting the measurement
automatic Time History counter to 4, for example, pressing the 9 key would
Measurement of a number of initiate a measurement sequence which would conclude
records, but the measurement when four measurements have been completed, each using
process would need to be stopped the value of Run Time set as described in Manual Stop,
manually when the desired number Timed Stop or Stop When Stable on page 6-4.
of records have been measured. This data is displayed on the Measurement History tab, as
described in Measurement Tab on page 12-7, and can be
saved by pressing the 7 (STOP) key.
12-4 Timed Stop Mode Model 831 Manual

Manual and Stop When Stable Modes
For these run modes, the For these run modes, at the conclusion of a measurement,
Measurement History does not the data must be manually saved. Checking the Enable
automate the measurement and Measurement History checkbox does not add additional
storage of data as it does for the parameter fields to the display as it does with Continuous,
Continuous, Single Block Timer and Single Block Timer and Daily Timer modes.
Daily Timer modes. However, it does With the Measurement History enabled, sequentially
simplify the number of key presses pressing the 7 and 9 keys will store the measurement
required when making multiple and initiate another measurement, eliminating the need to
measurements. perform a separate data store operation.
Display of Measurement History Data
Note that the ANY LEVEL display of Measurement History data is displayed on the Current tab
sound levels measured using all and the Measurement tab. These tabs are located to the
combinations of frequency weighting right of the Session Log tab.
and time averaging can also be
accessed from both the Current and
the Measurement tabs. See Any
Level Display on page 5-42.
Model 831 Manual Manual and Stop When Stable Modes 12-5
Current Tab
When the first measurement is in progress, the data will

appear on the Current tab, the first section of which is
.
Leq using Frequency Weighting

and Detector from Setup
User-selected Sound
Level Parameter
FIGURE 12-5 Time History Display: Current Tab
When that measurement is complete, its data will then be

available for display on the Measurement tab. The Current
tab is then reset and begins displaying data for the next
measurement in progress. As a result, at any time the
Current tab displays the measurement in progress.
The Current tab also includes a The Current tab can display as many as fourteen different
page indicating the Remaining Leq. data pages, depending on the firmware options enabled and
the setup used. Press the 8 and 2 keys to navigate
through these different pages. With the exception of the first
page, these pages are similar to those displayed on the
Measurement tab, as described in the next section. The
main difference is that there is no reference to a record
number.
On the first page, shown in FIGURE 12-5, the 1st numerical
value displayed is Leq using the frequency weighting and
detector from the setup. The 2nd numerical value displayed,
LAF in this example, is a user-selected parameter. This
parameter is selected the same as for the Live SLM Display,
described in User-Selected SLM Parameter on page 5-3.
12-6 Display of Measurement History Data Model 831 Manual

Measurement Tab
The Measurement tab can display data for any one of the
previously completed measurements. These measurement
records are numbered in sequence from the first to the last.
The data displayed in the first section of the Measurement
tab is shown in Figure 12-6.
Selected Measurement History

Record Number (Cursor Position)
Number of Records
Measured
Measurement
Duration
Date and Time
of Measurement
Graph of Leq Values for each
Record, in sequence by time
Leq and Max Values at

Cursor Position
FIGURE 12-6 Measurement Record Display: Measurement Tab
During the first measurement, the Figure 12-6 shows the first page appearing on the
same data will appear on the Overall Measurement tab. Figure 12-7 shows the pages that may
and Current tabs. After that, the appear on this tab, depending on the firmware options
overall measurement will continue enabled and the setup used. Use the 8 and 2 keys to
while new current measurements will page sequentially through these different data displays.
be made as the measurement Table 3-1 lists these displays by name and indicates the
sequence proceeds. position of that display in FIGURE 12-7.
Location in
Section Display Type Comments
FIGURE 12-7
1 Measurement Record Display Row 1 See Figure 12-6 for detailed view.
Column 1
2 Large Digit Display Row 1
Column 2
Table 3-1 Examples of Displays on Measurement Tabs
Model 831 Manual Display of Measurement History Data 12-7

Location in
Section Display Type Comments
FIGURE 12-7
3 Records Profile Display with Row 1 See Figure 12-8 for detailed view
Leq, LSmax and LSmin Column 3
4 Max, Min and Peak Levels Row 1
Column 4
5 1/1 Octave Spectrum Row 1 Option 831-OB3 Required
Column 4
6 1/3 Octave Spectrum Row 2 Option 831-OB3 Required
Column 1
7 Ln Percentiles Row 2 If the user were to manually change
Column 2 the Ln values to be displayed during a
measurement, as described in
Modifying Ln Values During a Mea-
surement on page 4-8, it should be
noted that the Ln data presented for
each record will correspond to the val-
ues selected at the time that record
ends.
8 Spectral Ln Row 2 Option 831-OB3 Required
Column 3
9 Exceedances Row 2 Option 831-ELA Required
Column 4
10
11
12
13 Overloads
14 Dose 2 Row 3 Equivalent Levels
Column 4
15 GPS Row 3 Sound Exposure
Column 5
16 Weather Row 4 Dose 1
Column 1
Table 3-1 Examples of Displays on Measurement Tabs

FIGURE 12-7 Measurement History Displays
Model 831 Manual Display of Measurement History Data 12-9

Record Profile Display
There is no cursor on this graph nor The third section on the Measurement tab presents a Profile
a numerical display of amplitude or (Level versus Time) for the selected measurement record, as
time. shown in FIGURE 12-8
Level versus Time Graph

for the Selected Record
Leq and Maximum and

Minimum Levels for the Selected
Measurement Record
Selected Record Number
FIGURE 12-8 Profile Display: Measurement Tab
Equivalent Level Display

The Equivalent Level Display, shown in Figure 12-9, is a
condensed version of the Community Noise display shown
in Figure 5-23; the Lden and Ldn data do not appear in this
display.
FIGURE 12-9 Equivalent Levels: Measurement Tab
Changing Displayed Record

For the Measurement Record Display, shown in Figure 12-6
on page 12-7, the selected record number for which data is
being displayed in indicated at the upper right. For all other
displays, the selected record number is indicated below the
graph as shown in Figure 12-8 on page 12-10.

Non-Spectra Displays
With the exception of frequency spectra displays, the 6 and
4 keys are used to step the selected measurement record
number up or down, respectively.
Frequency Spectra Displays
When a frequency spectrum is displayed, the 6 and 4 keys
are used to move the cursor to the right and left, respectively,
so that the levels can be displayed for different frequency
bands. To change the displayed record, shift to a non-
spectrum display to make the change then return to the
frequency spectrum display.
Storing a Measurement History

Although the measurement history data can be displayed
during a measurement and after it has been stopped, the data
has not been stored to memory. To store the data, press the
7 (Stop/Store) key.
Link to Time History

When Time History has also been enabled, a link is provided
to make a rapid transition from any of the Measurement
History displays to the same point in time of the Time
History display. To implement this link, press the Menu
softkey which will produce the display shown in FIGURE
12-10.
FIGURE 12-10 Link to Time History Display
Highlight Link-Time History and press 5 to obtain the

display shown in FIGURE 12-11.
Model 831 Manual Storing a Measurement History 12-11

FIGURE 12-11 Time History Display
12-12 Link to Time History Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
13 Event History
The optional firmware module 831-ELA is required in
order to measure and store the metrics associated with
exceedance events.
Level Based Events
Read Triggers Tab on page 4-11 Event History provides enhanced information on measured
prior to working with the Event events defined by the user. Events are initiated and stored
History module. when the measured sound level exceeds the trigger levels
SPL1 and Peak 1 for the specified minimum duration.
SPL1 and Peak 1 are specified on the Triggers tab and the
minimum duration is specified on the Event History tab.
Basic Measurement Data
When the basic measurement capability of the Model 831 is
utilized, as described in the section Triggering on page 5-
7, only a very limited set of data are saved for each threshold
associated with the five trigger levels:
The number of exceedances for each threshold level.
The sum total of the time the measured level was above
each threshold.
Event History Data
Event History provides a detailed record for each noise
event including metrics such as:
Date and time
Duration
Equivalent level (Leq)
Maximum RMS and Peak levels
1/1 or 1/3 Octave Leq and max spectra (optional 831-
OB3 firmware required)
Model 831 Manual Event History 13-1

Event History Setup
The Event History is setup on the Event History tab in the
Measurement Settings Screen. If this is not already enabled,
there will be nothing except an unchecked Event History
check box.
The default values for these Press the 5 (ENTER) key to place a check mark in the
parameters are shown in FIGURE Event History check box and to enable the Event History.
13-1. This will change the display to that shown in Figure 13-1.
FIGURE 13-1 Event History Setup
Minimum Duration
Shorter duration noise events will In situations where only noise events lasting longer than a
still be counted as part of the basic certain time interval are of interest, the user can select a
measurement described in Triggers minimum duration requirement for the storage of noise
Tab on page 4-11, even though events data. To set the minimum duration, highlight the
Event History data are not stored for Minimum Duration data field and press 5. Enter the
them. desired values and press 5.
Note that the maximum permitted value of Minimum
Duration is 9.9 seconds.
Continuation Period
Since each noise event is initiated when the sound level
(SPL or Peak) exceeds a threshold level, one might define
the end of the sound event at the instant both the SLM and
13-2 Event History Setup Model 831 Manual

Peak levels drop below their threshold values. However,
there may be situations where the sound level drops below
the threshold for a short period of time before rising above it
again, in which case the user may prefer to consider this a
continuation of the event rather than the conclusion of the
event and the beginning of another. This possibility is
included by providing a user-defined Continuation Period.
Beginning when the levels both drop below their thresholds,
if neither level rises above its respective threshold over a
time interval equal to the continuation period, the noise
event is considered complete. If, however, there is an
exceedance of a threshold during the continuation period,
the event is considered to be continued as if there had been
no level drop below a threshold.
To set the Continuation Period, highlight the Continuation
Period data field and press 5. Enter the desired value and
press 5.
Trigger Method
There are two Trigger Methods provided.
Level: in which an event is triggered when the measured
sound level exceeds user-defined trigger levels.
Dynamic: in which a single trigger level is utilized
which tracks the background noise level.
Model 831 Manual Trigger Method 13-3

Level Trigger Method
In the section Triggers Tab on page 4-11, it is explained

how the Triggers Menu, shown in Figure 13-2, is used to set
the parameters defining exceedance events.
FIGURE 13-2 Triggers Menu
An exceedance event for which Event History data is

measured and stored is initiated when either of the following
occur:
The SPL level (Fast, Slow or Impulse detector) exceeds
the user-defined SPL 1 level
The Peak level (Peak detector) exceeds the user-defined
Peak 1 level
When the SPL level also exceeds the SPL 2 level, this is
noted in the Events display of the Overall tab, as shown in
FIGURE 5-21 "Overall Tab: Exceedances on page 5-22.
When the Peak level also exceeds the Peak 2 level or the
Peak 3 level (which should be higher than the Peak 2 level),
this is noted on the Exceedances page of the Overall tab.
13-4 Trigger Method Model 831 Manual

To select the Level Trigger Method, highlight the Trigger
Method field and press 5 to open the Trigger Method
menu, shown inFIGURE 13-3.
FIGURE 13-3 Trigger Method Menu
Highlight Level and press 5 to implement the selection.

Dynamic Trigger Method
Dynamic triggering is a technique in which event triggering

tracks the background level. This is implemented by making
the event trigger levels equal to the background level plus an
offset. The following example illustrates the value of this
feature.
Barking Dog Example
During the day the sound of a barking dog may be masked
by background noises such as passing cars, lawn mowers,
etc. whereas during the night, when the background noise is
lower, this would more likely be perceived as an annoyance.
Fixed Level Trigger
When performing unattended noise monitoring on a 24-hour
basis using a fixed trigger level which is appropriate for
capturing the higher level events, the dog barks would be
missed since they are below the trigger level, as shown in
FIGURE 13-4.

Noise Events Captured
Fixed Trigger Level
Dog Bark Events Not

Captured
FIGURE 13-4 Fixed Level Trigger; Lower Level Events Missed
Dynamic Trigger
Using the dynamic trigger method, you can select to track
the L90 level (background noise) and trigger a noise event
when the measured level exceeds the L90 level plus an
offset, which in this example we set to 15 dB. This permits
the capture of lower level noise events which occur during
periods of low background noise, as shown in FIGURE 13-
5.

Dynamic Trigger Level:
L90 + 15 dB
FIGURE 13-5 Dynamic Trigger: Lower Level Events Captured During Low Background
Noise Periods
To select the Dynamic Trigger Method, highlight the Trigger

Method field and press 5 to open the Trigger Method
menu, shown in FIGURE 13-6
FIGURE 13-6 Trigger Method Menu
Highlight Dynamic and press 5 to implement the

selection.

Dynamic Trigger Parameters
After selecting the Dynamic Trigger Method, it is necessary
to return to the Triggers tab, shown in FIGURE 13-7, by
pressing the left softkey
Dynamic Trigger
Parameters
FIGURE 13-7 Triggers Menu: Dynamic Triggering
The Triggers tab now includes the dynamic triggering

parameter fields Dynamic Trigger and Dynamic Response,
which did not appear when Level Triggering had been
selected, as seen in FIGURE 13-2.
When dynamic triggering is used, an event will be initiated
when the measured sound level exceeds the Dynamic
Trigger Offset plus the background level and it will conclude
when the level drops below the Dynamic Trigger Offset plus
the background level.
Dynamic Trigger Offset
To set the Dynamic Trigger Offset, highlight the Dynamic
Trigger Offset data field and press 5.
Enter the desired values and press 5.
Dynamic Response
The background sound level used with dynamic triggering is
a user-selected Ln level, calculated using an algorithm
which includes the rise rate in dB per minute. There are five

options available, having the characteristics presented in
TABLE 13-1.
Setting Tracking Ln Rise Rate, dB/

Description
Number Percentile minute
1 95% 0.5 Lower Tracking Level
2 90% 1/3 Slower
3 90% 0.5 Default, Normal Operation
4 90% 1 Faster
5 80% 1 Faster and Higher Tracking Level
TABLE 13-1 Dynamic Response: Dynamic Triggering
To set the Dynamic Response, highlight the Dynamic
Response data field and press 5. Set the digit to a value
between 1 and 5 and press 5.
Dynamic Trigger Example
Suppose the dynamic trigger was set with the following

parameters:
SPL1: 65 dB
Dynamic Trigger Offset: 20 dB
Dynamic Response: 3 (Tracking Ln Percentile = 90% and
Rise Rate = 0.5 dB/minute)
The initial background tracking level When the measurement is first begun, the background
is set at SPL Trigger Level 1 minus tracking level is set to Trigger Level SPL1 minus the offset
the offset setting. setting. In this situation, the tracking level would then be 65-
20 = 45 dB. The initial event trigger level would then be 45
+ 20 = 65 dB.
As the measured sound increases The limitation to this increase in the event trigger level
above the tracking level, the tracking would be that the rate of increase in the value of Ln used to
level will increase at the rise rate. determine the event trigger level would be limited to a
Conversely as the measured sound maximum of 0.5 dB/minutes. Thus, a rapid change in the
decreases below the current tracking value of calculated Ln of say several dB would not produce
level, the tracking level will decrease an immediate change in the event trigger level.
at the rate determined by the
tracking Ln percentile and its
corresponding rate.

Event Time History Setup
When Event Time History has been enabled, time history
data will be measured as a part of each event history.
Note that the default values for these Highlight the Event Time History check box and press 5 to
parameters are as shown in enable it and place a check in the check box. This will
FIGURE 13-8. produce the Event Time History Setup menu shown in
FIGURE 13-8.
FIGURE 13-8 Event Time History Setup Menu
Period
Period defines the time period of each time history sample,

which is the inverse of the sample rate. Highlight the Period
data field and press 5 to obtain the Period menu, shown in
FIGURE 13-9.
FIGURE 13-9 Event Time History Period Menu
The available choices are as follows:
13-10 Event Time History Setup Model 831 Manual

Milliseconds
20, 50, 100, 200, 500
Seconds
1, 2, 5, 10
Highlight the desired Period value and press 5 to make a
selection.
Spectral Mode
A Spectral Time History can be measured for each event by

setting Spectral Mode to On. The bandwidth of the Spectral
Time History is either 1/1 or 1/3 octave, depending on the
OBA bandwidth selected, as shown below.
1/1 Octave: Spectral Mode is 1/1 Octave
1/3 Octave or 1/1, 1/3 Octave: Spectral Mode is 1/3
Octave
Highlight the Spectral Mode data field and press 5 to
obtain the Spectral Mode menu, shown in FIGURE 13-10.
FIGURE 13-10 Event Time History Spectral Mode

Menu
Highlight On or Off and press 5 to make a selection.

Setting the spectral mode Off will reduce the memory used
for data storage.
Pre/Post Trigger
Pre-trigger is used when it is desired that the event time

history include samples which occurred prior to the event
threshold exceedance triggering the event and post-trigger is
used when it is desired that the event time history include
samples which occurred after the end of the event. Both can
be enabled at the same time.
Pre-trigger
To set the number of pre-trigger samples, highlight the Pre-
trigger data field and press 5. Enter the desired value and
press 5.
Model 831 Manual Event Time History Setup 13-11

Post-trigger
To set the number of post-trigger samples, highlight the
Post-trigger data field and press 5. Enter the desired value
and press 5.
Maximum Number of Samples
To limit the amount of memory used by event time histories,

the user can specify the maximum number of samples to be
measured for each event. The permitted range for this
parameter is 10 to 9,999, with the default value being 1,000.
This does not include pre-trigger samples, so the actual
number of samples stored will equal the maximum number
of samples plus the number of pre-trigger samples.
Event History Display

Event History data are displayed on the Events tab. There
can be as many as six different sections to the Event History
Display, depending upon the instrument setup. Use the 2 and
8 keys to navigate downwards or upwards, respectively,
through these displays. The first section is the Event Trigger
Status Display, shown in FIGURE 13-11.
Gray Bar Indicates Triggered

< Minimum Duration
Sound Recording in
Black Bar Indicates Valid
Progress Icon
Event
Level for Current
Live Event Level
Frequency Weighting
and Detector used for Trigger Level; Fixed
Triggering or Dynamic
Trigger Status Icon Indicates Triggered
FIGURE 13-11 Event Trigger Status Display
13-12 Event History Display Model 831 Manual

Trigger Status Icons
The Model 831 begins sampling data as soon as the 9

(Run/Pause) key is pressed. The trigger status is indicated by
one of five Trigger Status icons as described below.
Pre-Trigger
Pre-trigger is being collected but there are fewer samples

than the pre-trigger samples setting. When enough samples
have been collected the Ready state is activated. It is
possible to transition to the Triggered state before the pre-
trigger buffer is full.
Ready
The Ready state has all the pre-trigger samples needed and is
waiting for an event to occur.
Triggered
When the level exceeds the trigger level the triggered state is
entered.
Valid
When the level has exceeded the trigger level for longer than
the minimum duration the Valid state is entered. At this
point we have a valid event record.
Model 831 Manual Event History Display 13-13

Continuation
When the level no longer exceeds the trigger level we enter

the Con? state where we wait for the continuation time in
preparation to end the event. We continue processing event
data and transition back to the Valid state if the level exceeds
the trigger level during the continuation time.
Typical Icon Sequence
In a typical measurement, these icons will appear
sequentially in the order presented above as the event
measurement proceeds from the period prior to an event to
the conclusion of the event.
dB
Pre-Trigger Minimum
Time Duration
TIME
Run Threshold Exceedance Drops Below Threshold
FIGURE 13-12 Typical Icon Sequence
Sound Recording in Progress
When automatic event sound recording has been enabled, as

described in "Event Sound Recording" on page 16-14, the
Sound Recording in Progress icon will be illuminated
whenever a sound recording is being made. This icon is
grayed out when no recording is taking place.

Levels Display
The second section is the Levels Display, which is shown in

Figure 13-13.
Record Being Displayed Number of Records Stored

Use Left and Right Arrow
Keys to Change Event
Record
Duration of Displayed
Leq of Displayed Event Event
Peak and Maximum Date and Time of

Levels for Displayed Displayed Event
Record
Sound Exposure Level and Sound

Exposure for Displayed Record
FIGURE 13-13 Event History: Levels Display, Section 2
Changing the Displayed Event Record

Event history records are stored sequentially in time,
beginning with record 1. The Levels Display shown above
presents data for the 1st of 4 events. Use the 4 and 6 keys to
navigate backward or forward, respectively, through the
stored records.

1/1 Octave Spectrum Display
With all possibilities included, the 3rd display would be a

1/1 octave spectrum for the displayed event, as shown in
FIGURE 13-14
Frequency and Levels (Leq

and Lmax) at Cursor
Position
Cursor Position
1/1 Octave Spectrum Graph

Event Being Displayed
Number of Events
Measured
FIGURE 13-14 Event History: 1/1 Octave Display, Section 3

For the display shown in FIGURE 13-14, the 4 and 6 arrow
keys can serve three different purposes as listed below. Use
5 to toggle between them:
Change Frequency
Toggle between display of LZSmax and LAE
Change Event
At any time, the role of the left and right arrow keys is
indicated by the left/right arrow icon.
Press 5 to change the role, as indicated in the lower

portions of the display, and as shown in FIGURE 13-15.

Change Frequency Toggle Between Display of Change Event
LZSmax and LAE
5 5
5
Switch role of left/right Switch role of left/right arrow keys Switch role of left/right
arrow keys from from Toggling Between Display of arrow keys from Change
Change Frequency to LZSmax and LAE to Change Event to Change
Change Metrics Event Frequency
FIGURE 13-15 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: 1/1 Octave Spectrum
1/3 Octave Spectrum Display
With all possibilities included, the fourth display would

be a 1/3 octave spectrum for the displayed event, as
FIGURE 13-16 Event History: 1/3 Octave

Display, Section 4

Except for the difference in frequency resolution, the data
displayed and the use of the left and right arrow keys to
control the cursor position and to step through the events are
the same as for the 1/1 Octave display described in 1/1
Octave Spectrum Display on page 13-16
Event Time History Display
With all possibilities included, the fifth display would be a

Time History for the displayed event, as shown in FIGURE
13-17.
Cursor Position
Time History Record
Being Displayed
Number of Time History

Records Measured
Leq at Cursor Position,

Integration Time Equal to User- Number of Events
Selected Period in Setup Measured
FIGURE 13-17 Event Time History Display, Section 5

keys have dual roles as listed below. Use 5 to toggle
between them:
Change Record
Change Event
indicated by the left/right arrow icon
and the action of 5 to change their role is indicated in the

lower portions of the display, as shown in FIGURE 13-15.

Change Record Change Event
5
5
from Change Record to Change from Change Event to Change
Event Record
FIGURE 13-18 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: Event Time History
Event Spectra Time History Display
With all possibilities included, the sixth display would be a

Spectra Time History for the displayed event, as shown in
FIGURE 13-19.
Frequency Spectrum for

Selected Record and Event
Frequency and Level at

Cursor Position

Records Measured
Time History Record Number of Events
Whose Spectrum is Being Measured
Displayed
FIGURE 13-19 Event Spectra Time History Display, Section 6

keys have three roles as listed below. Use 5 to step
through them:
Change Frequency
Change Record
Change Event
and the action of 5 to change their role is indicated in the

lower portions of the display, as shown in FIGURE 13-15.
Change Frequency Change Record Change Event
5 5
5
Switch role of left/right
arrow keys from Switch role of left/right arrow keys Switch role of left/right
Change Frequency to from Change Record to Change arrow keys from Change
Change Record Event Event to Change
Frequency
FIGURE 13-20 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: Event Spectra Time History

By-Time Event Spectral Time History
With all possibilities included, the seventh display would be

a By-Time Event Spectral Time History for the displayed
event, as shown in FIGURE 13-19.
Time History Graph of Frequency of Time History

Selected Frequency Band Graph being Displayed and
Leq value for that Time
History.

Records Measured
Record Being Displayed
Number of Events
Event Being Displayed Measured
FIGURE 13-21 By-Time Event Spectral Time History Display, Section 7

keys have three roles as listed below. Use the 5 key to step
through them:
Change Frequency
Change Record
Change Event
and the action of the 5 key to change their role is indicated

in the lower portions of the display, as shown in FIGURE
13-15.

Change Frequency Change Record Change Event
5 5
5
Switch role of left/right Switch role of left/right
arrow keys from Switch role of left/right arrow keys arrow keys from Change
Change Frequency to from Change Record to Change Event to Change
Change Record Event Frequency
FIGURE 13-22 Role of Left/Right Arrow Keys: By-Time Event Spectral Time History
Link to Time History and Measurement History

When Time History and/or Measurement History have also
been enabled, a link is provided to make a rapid transition
from any of the Event History displays to the same point in
time of the Time History and/or Measurement History
display.
13-22 Link to Time History and Measurement History Model 831 Manual
Suppose, for example, we are displaying the Time History of
the 1 kHz frequency band associated with the 15th record of
the 2nd event, as shown in
FIGURE 13-23 By-Time Event Spectral Time

History
To implement a link, press the Menu softkey which will

produce the display shown in FIGURE 13-24.
FIGURE 13-24 Link to Time History and

Measurement History Displays
Model 831 Manual Link to Time History and Measurement History13-23

Highlight the desired display and press the 5 key to switch
to that display, as shown in the following figures.
FIGURE 13-25 Time History Display
FIGURE 13-26 Measurement History Display
13-24 Link to Time History and Measurement History Model 831 Manual
CHAPTER
14 FFT and Tonality
NOTE: FFT and Tonality The optional FFT mode (831-FFT) is used for signal
functionality is only available on analysis and tonality measurement using the Fast
DSP Rev 0.5 or higher. DSP Rev is Fourier Transform (FFT). The FFT provides an
shown on the About display amplitude spectrum with linear frequency resolution and
described in Chapter 20. is used to determine the frequency content and tonality
of sound.
Accessing FFT Mode
To quickly access FFT mode, press There are two ways to activate the FFT instrument mode on
the 3 (TOOLS) key and then the Model 831. One way is to select the FFT icon on the
navigate up to select the FFT icon. Control Panel and the other is to recall an FFT setup using
Setup Manager as described in Chapter 4.
For tonality assessment, the Model To access FFT mode, press the 3 (TOOLS) key to open the
831 must be in FFT mode and the Control Panel, select the FFT icon as shown in FIGURE 14-1.
ISO 1996-2 Tonality option must be Changing modes from the control panel loads the settings that
enabled on the Tonality tab under were previously in use for the mode.
Settings. See Viewing Tonality
Results on page 14-18 in this
chapter for more information.
FIGURE 14-1 FFT Icon
Model 831 Manual FFT and Tonality 14-1

Press 5 (ENTER) to open the FFT mode tabs as shown in
FIGURE 14-2.
FIGURE 14-2 FFT Pages
The Setup Manager is described in In the Setup Manager, the instrument mode associated with
Chapter 4. each setup file is indicated in the right-hand column as
shown in FIGURE 14-3. It is possible to load any setup file
without regard to the current instrument mode.
FIGURE 14-3 FFT Setup Manager
14-2 Accessing FFT Mode Model 831 Manual

Configuring a Measurement
To access the measurement settings, press the Softkey labeled
Menu, highlight Settings, and press 5 to display the
settings tabs shown in the following section. The active
parameter values shown in this section represent the default
values.
General Tab
The General setting tab, shown in FIGURE 14-4, provides a
default filename and measurement description text field to
annotate the measurement. These are similar to those of
other instrument modes. Use the Setup Manager and these
fields to organize and document your measurement projects.
FIGURE 14-4 General Tab
Default Data File

The Default Data File text field is used to customize the file
name for FFT data files. This file name can be used to
indicate the type of data that was taken or the project the
data is from. This name can be up to 8 characters long and
contain letters, numbers, and certain symbols.
Model 831 Manual Configuring a Measurement 14-3

Measurement Description
The Measurement Description is used to annotate a
measurement and can be up to 63 characters in length.
FFT Tab
The FFT tab is used to specify settings for FFT
measurements, as shown in Figure 14-5.
FIGURE 14-5 FFT Tab
Frequency Span
Use the Frequency Span setting to specify the upper end of
frequency response. The choices are:
20 kHz
10 kHz
5 kHz
2 kHz
1 kHz
500 Hz
200 Hz
100 Hz
14-4 Configuring a Measurement Model 831 Manual

Lines
The Lines setting selects the number of discrete frequency
bands or bins.
The choices are:
6400
3200
1600
800
400
The frequency resolution is rounded The frequency resolution and bandwidth of each bin is
to at most 2 decimal places on the determined by the Frequency Span and the number of lines
Model 831. as shown in Table 14-1.
Frequency Span (Hz)

100 200 500 1000 2000 5000 10000 20000
Number of Lines
400 0.25 0.5 1.25 2.5 5 12.5 25 50

800 0.125 0.25 0.625 1.25 2.5 6.25 12.5 25
1600 0.0625 0.125 0.3125 0.625 1.25 3.125 6.25 12.5
3200 0.03125 0.0625 0.15625 0.3125 0.625 1.5625 3.125 6.25
6400 0.015625 0.03125 0.078125 0.15625 0.3125 0.78125 1.5625 3.125
Table 14-1 Frequency Resolution (Hz)
Window
Three Window options are available in the Model 831 to
provide emphasis or balance between frequency selectivity
and amplitude ripple as the signal frequency varies from one
bin to another. The choices are:
Rectangular
Hanning
Flat Top
Frequency Weighting
The Frequency Weighting setting selects a broadband A, C
or Z-weighted pre-filter. A broadband Leq and peak level is
measured using this weighting in addition to the weighting
being applied to the FFT spectrum.

Control Tab
FIGURE 14-6 shows the options for the Control tab.
FIGURE 14-6 Control Tab Options
Run Mode
The Run Mode setting controls how a measurement is
terminated and how history records are accumulated. The
three run modes are described in Table 14-2 below.
Manual Stop A Manual Stop measurement begins with a press of the 9 (RUN/PAUSE) key
and ends with a press of the 7 (STOP/STORE) key. If measurement history is
enabled, a history record will be created with each stop. As many runs as desired
can be made and the overall data includes all samples from each FFT record.
Count Stop A Count Stop measurement begins with a press of the 9 key and ends when
the number of discrete FFT records equals the Count setting value. If measure-
ment history is enabled, a history record is created. A measurement may be ter-
minated early by pressing 7.
Timed Stop A Timed Stop measurement begins with a press of the 9 key and ends when
the run time for this measurement equals the Time setting value. If measure-
ment history is enabled, a history record will be created when the number of
FFT records equals the Count setting value. A measurement may be terminated
early by pressing 7.
Table 14-2 FFT Run Modes

Time
The Time setting is used to determine the run time for the
Timed Stop mode as described in Table 14-2.
Enable Measurement History

A history record is an average of The Enable Measurement History setting enables the
FFT records. The number of FFT storing of history records. The measurement history is
records in each history record is helpful as an automatic notebook to save each manual
controlled by the Count and/or Run measurement for tonal or THD analysis, or it can store a
Mode as described in Table 14-2. time history for a waterfall graph or to illustrate a machine
run-up or run-down cycle to evaluate modes.
Range
The Range setting, in conjunction with the Gain setting,
determines the amplitude measurement range of the FFT as
illustrated in the Table 14-3.
+20 dB Gain
The +20 dB Gain setting, in conjunction with the Range
setting, determines the amplitude measurement range of the
FFT as illustrated in Table 14-3.
The maximum input levels shown are
for a typical microphone sensitivity
of 50mV/Pa +20 dB Gain Off +20 dB Gain On
Normal 143 dB peak maximum 123 dB peak maximum
Low 110 dB peak maximum 90 dB peak maximum
Table 14-3 Maximum Input for Range and Gain
Count
The Count setting is used with the Count Stop and the
Timed Stop modes to generate a count average measurement
as described in Table 14-2.

The minimum required count value is determined by the
Frequency Span settings as illustrated in Table 14-4. The
minimum count prevents data being gathered faster than it
can be stored into flash memory.
Frequency Minimum
Span Count
20 kHz 20
10 kHz 10
5 kHz 5
2 kHz 2
1 kHz 1
500 Hz 1
200 Hz 1
100 Hz 1
Table 14-4 Minimum Count
Resolution = Span / Lines
FFT Time = 1 / Resolution Narrow frequency resolutions take longer to gather, so the
response is slower. For example, when configured for 100
Hz span and 6400 lines, each FFT record is 64 seconds long.
Using 67% overlap allows the subsequent frequency
spectrum updates to occur at approximately 1/3 the time of
the initial update. These nominal times are given in Table
14-5.
Frequency Span (Hz)

100 200 500 1000 2000 5000 10000 20000
400 1.32 0.66 0.264 0.132 0.066 0.0264 0.0132 0.0066
800 2.64 1.32 0.528 0.264 0.132 0.0528 0.0264 0.0132
Lines
1600 5.28 2.64 1.06 0.528 0.264 0.1056 0.0528 0.0264

3200 10.56 5.28 2.11 1.06 0.528 0.2112 0.1056 0.0528
6400 21.12 10.56 4.22 2.11 1.06 0.4224 0.2112 0.1056
Table 14-5 Nominal Calculation Time (seconds) with 67% Overlap

The actual amount of overlap can vary based on processor
load. Varying the amount of overlap allows the Model-831
to process all incoming sound samples even when the
processor is busy (i.e., storing a file). Variations in the

amount of overlap also appear as variations in the duration
of individual FFT records for a given history record.
For example, if you generate or export FFT data files from
SLM Utility-G3 or G4, you may see that start times of some
measurements begin before previous measurement durations
are completed. This disparity reflects the overlapping
method used by the meter for capturing and processing all
sound samples.
Tonality Tab
The Tonality tab, as shown in Figure 14-7, provides settings
for ISO 1996-2 Annex C Tonality Assessment.
When enabling the Tonality feature,

the Model 831 presents a prompt if
any settings are not in agreement
with the ISO 1996-2 Standard. The
prompt also includes the option to
automatically change settings to
values in accordance with the
standard.
FIGURE 14-7 Tonality Tab
ISO 1996-2 Tonality
To measure and assess tonality in The ISO 1996-2 Tonality setting enables tonality
accordance with the ISO 1996-2 measurements while in FFT mode.
standard, the measurement must be Press 5 to enable tonality assessment.
A-weighted, averaged for at least
one minute, and use a Hanning Tone Seek Delta
window type. Specify the Tone Seek Delta to determine noise pauses in
your measurement, as described in ISO 1996-2 C.4.2. The
default is 1 dB.

For normal and smooth spectra, consider specifying a tone
seek delta of 1 dB. For irregular spectra, or spectra with
short averaging times (as mentioned in C.2.2), specifying
values of 3 dB or 4 dB may provide better results.
If Tonality is enabled but Regression Range

Measurement History disabled, Specify the Regression Range to determine masking noise,
calculations are made using Overall as described in ISO 1996-2 C.4.4.
data.
For more information on selecting a The percentage selected reflects the + and - range of the
regression range, see ISO 1996-2 critical bandwidth to the right and left of the center
section C.4. frequency. For example, selecting 75% results in a range
that is 75% to both the left and right of the central frequency.
Viewing and Analyzing Results

The Model 831 can measure FFT spectra with up to 6400
lines of resolution. Because of the limited resolution of the
display, every line displayed on the graph may contain more
than one measured value. The amplitude and frequency
displayed for the cursor position is determined by the
maximum value of the underlying FFT lines.
Figure 14-8 shows data on the FFT Live tab.
Frequency range shown

Live Data on the display
Zoom level and relative

Indicates the 82 keys position indicator
control zooming
Frequency range at
cursor
Indicates the 46
keys control the
cursor Maximum value at cursor
Indicates the level given is
the maximum of the lines at Frequency of the max
the cursor value at the cursor
FIGURE 14-8 FFT Live
14-10 Viewing and Analyzing Results Model 831 Manual

Figure 14-9 shows FFT data on the Overall tab.
Maximum value of the

Indicates the level given is the data in the average
maximum level at the cursor
position in the average data Average Data
Indicates the level given is

the maximum level at the
Total number of FFT
cursor position in the max
records
data
FIGURE 14-9 FFT Overall
Figure 14-10 shows FFT History data on the History tab.
Indicates pressing ENTER

changes the functionality of
the 82 keys (zooming Indicates the current record
to changing records and number and the total number
back) of records
FIGURE 14-10 FFT History
Model 831 Manual Viewing and Analyzing Results 14-11

Zooming In/out
The Model 831 provides a graphical zoom function that
displays a narrower frequency range and the spectrum on the
graph is displayed at a higher frequency resolution. This is
useful if you want to take a closer look at an area of interest.
The Model 831 allows zooming from To zoom in, press the 8 key and press the 2 key to
the configured number of lines up to zoom out. Notice that the bar underneath the graph indicates
a one-to-one correspondence the zoom level and relative position of the displayed data
between displayed lines and FFT within the overall dataset. Additionally, the frequency range
lines. When zoomed in one-to one, currently displayed on the graph is shown in the top-right
the level indicator changes to corner.
indicate that the displayed level is no
longer the max of lines, but rather
the value of the line at the cursor
(see FIGURE 14-11).
FIGURE 14-11 FFT Live Tab

Changing the Cursor Type
The Model 831 provides both manual cursor control and a
max-tracking cursor, both of which can be displayed with or
without harmonic cursors. To change the cursor type press
the Menu soft-key, highlight Cursor Type as shown in
FIGURE 14-12 and press 5.
FIGURE 14-12 Cursor Menu
The cursor control dialog shown in FIGURE 14-13 will

appear at the bottom of the display.
FIGURE 14-13 Cursors Type
Cursor Type
Select either Manual or Max-Tracking cursor with the 6
and 4 keys.
With the cursor type set to Manual the frequency cursor is
controlled manually using the 6 and 4 keys.
With the cursor type set to Max-Tracking the cursor will be
set automatically to the frequency band that has the highest
amplitude.

Harmonic Cursors
The number of harmonic cursors can be set from zero to

twenty-four in increments of four using the 8 and 2
keys. Depending on the frequency of the primary cursor, all
of the harmonic cursors may not be shown. For example,
with a frequency span of 20 kHz and a fundamental
frequency of 5 kHz only three harmonic cursors are within
the frequency range and shown. FIGURE 14-14 illustrates
this example.
FIGURE 14-14 Harmonic Cursors

Max-Tracking Cursor
With the cursor type set to Max-Tracking, the cursor will be
set automatically to the frequency band that has the highest
amplitude. When zoomed in, if the maximum is not in the
display window, the window moves to center over the max.
The max-tracking state and the relative position of the
display window are indicated on the display as shown in
FIGURE 14-15.
FIGURE 14-15 Max-Tracking Cursors

Additional Information
When the cursor is on a line less than 3 Hz, (-3 dB), the
displayed values are gray as shown in FIGURE 14-16.
FIGURE 14-16 Below 3Hz
The scaling of the y-axis can be adjusted as described in the

Adjust Graph Scale section of Chapter 5.

The FFT graphs on the FFT Live, Overall, and History tabs
can be adjusted independently of the sound pressure level
graph on the Live tab as shown in FIGURE 14-6.
FIGURE 14-17 Dual Range Displays

Viewing Tonality Results
To view tonality data, navigate to the Tonality tab in FFT
mode. The Tonality tab is shown in Figure 14-18.
Critical Bandwidth of
the Selected Tone
Cursor Critical Bandwidth Indicator
Tone Markers
Tone Level
Noise Level Tone Frequency
Tone Audibility Level

Adjustment
Quality
Indicator
FIGURE 14-18 Tonality Data
For more information on Lpt, Lpn, The Tonality graph displays critical bandwidth, tone
Lta, Kt, and Critical Bandwitdth, see indicators, and noise regression.
the ISO 1996-2 Standard, Annex C.
You cannot navigate through tones To view Tonality results, you can navigate the same as you
while simultaneously performing a would on other tabs in FFT mode. You can also view
measurement. specific data for each tone by navigating from tone to tone
on the graph by using the 6 and 4 keys. If a measurement is
complete, the cursor starts on the first valid tone (or the tone
corresponding to the lowest frequency). If no valid tones
exist in the measurement, you can also navigate to the
unqualified tones that do not meet bandwidth regression
criteria. You can also zoom in and out of the Tonality graph
the same as you would on other FFT graphs.
With Measurement History enabled, Additionally, you can specify the cursor type appearing on
you can navigate through Tonality the Tonality graph to be Manual or Max-Tracking in the
measurement records, just as you same way as other FFT results. You can also specify the
can with other FFT measurements. number of harmonic cursors appearing on the Tonality

graph, similar to other FFT results. For more information,
see the "Changing the Cursor Type" section in this chapter.
Tonality Measurement Deficiencies
When the % indicator is displayed, The Tonality tab displays quality indicators when
the graph will show narrow bands of deficiencies, in relation to the ISO 1996-2 Standard, are
noise that do not meet the bandwidth detected in measurements.
requirements in the Tonality Figure 14-19 shows an example of the Tonality tab with
Standard. You can navigate and view quality indicators appearing.
information on these bands the same
as if they were valid tones according
to the Tonality Standard.
Quality Indicators for

Tonality Measurement
FIGURE 14-19 Quality Indicators on Tonality Tab
Table 14-6 describes each quality indicator, the

corresponding deficiency for each indicator, and the remedy
for each deficiency.

Quality Indi- Deficiency Remedy
cator Icon
The measurement has not been averaged for Run the measurement for at
at least one minute (see ISO 1996-2 section least one minute.
C.2.2)
The weighting is set to C (see ISO 1996-2 Change the setting to A

section C.2.2). weighting to perform a stan-
dard measurement.
The weighting is set to Z (see ISO 1996-2 Change the setting to A

section C.2.2). weighting to perform a stan-
dard measurement.
The window type is not Hanning (see ISO Change the setting to Han-
1996-2 Note 1). ning window to perform a
standard measurement.
The tone bandwidth is not less than 10% of Increase the resolution of the
the critical bandwidth (see ISO 1996-2 sec- measurement by increasing
tion C.2.2). the number of Lines, or by
decreasing the Frequency
Span in the FFT settings.
The appearance of the icon
even after the Hanning win-
dow is selected indicates that
the bands of noise do not
qualify as tones as specified
in the ISO 1996-2 standard.
The effective bandwidth is not less than 5% Change the window type.
of the critical bandwidth.
The sound measurement does not contain suf- Increase the Regression
ficient regression data and therefore cannot Range on the Tonality tab.
display a standard linear regression line.
Table 14-6 Quality Indicators for Tonality Deficiencies

Storing Data
Tonality data can be stored in the Press the 7 key to store data. As shown in FIGURE 14-20,
same method as described for other the suggested filename is what was configured on the
FFT data in this section. General settings tab.
FIGURE 14-20 Saving Files
Viewing Stored Data
Data Explorer only shows files for Use the Data Explorer utility to view stored measurements on
the current instrument mode. the Model 831. Data Explorer is opened by pressing the 3 key
and then selecting the icon labeled Data Explorer. When this
utility opens, it displays saved files. To open a files, select it
and press 5. The data can now be viewed as outlined in the
"Viewing and Analyzing Results" section with the exception
that the Cursor Type and Adjust Graph controls are not
available. These settings follow the configuration used when
viewing live data.
Model 831 Manual Storing Data 14-21

Return to Sound Level Meter Mode
When the FFT mode is active, the SLM icon is available in
the Control Panel as shown in FIGURE 14-21. To return to
the Sound Level Meter mode, press the 3 key to open the
Control Panel, select the SLM icon and press 5.
Changing modes using the icon on
the control panel loads the setup that
was previously in use for that mode.
FIGURE 14-21 SLM Icon
14-22 Return to Sound Level Meter Mode Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
15 RT-60
associated with the RT-60 optional firmware 831-RT.
Accessing RT-60 Mode

There are two ways to activate RT-60 measurement mode.
One way is to select the RT-60 icon on the Control Panel and
the other is to recall an RT-60 setup using Setup Manager.
Using the RT-60 Icon

A shortcut is to press the 3 To access the RT-60 mode, press the 3 (TOOLS) key to
(TOOLS) key and then the Up Arrow open the Control Panel, select the RT-60 icon as shown in
key twice to highlight the RT-60 icon. FIGURE 15-1.
Changing modes using the icon on the control panel loads
the setup that was previously in use for that mode.
The RT-60 icon is replaced by the
Room Acoustics icon if the 831-RA
option is installed.
FIGURE 15-1 RT-60 Icon
Model 831 Manual RT-60 15-1

Press the 5 (ENTER) key to open the RT-60 mode tabs as
FIGURE 15-2 RT-60 Tabs

Using the Setup Manager
To load a setup file via the Setup Manager, press the 3 key
to open the Control Panel. Select the Setup Manager icon as
FIGURE 15-3 Setup Manager Icon
15-2 Accessing RT-60 Mode Model 831 Manual

Open the Setup Manager to display the available setups as
shown in FIGURE 15-4. Note that the instrument mode
associated with each setup file is indicated in the right-hand
column. RA indicates RT-60 (Room Acoustics) mode.
FIGURE 15-4 RT60 Setups in Setup Manager
If you have created and saved your As a quick start, several predefined RT-60 setups are
own RT-60 setups, these will also provided (see the Making a Measurement on page 15-3):
appear in the list and can be RT60impl -Impulse method
similarly selected. RT60pink - Interrupted Noise method using pink noise
via the internal noise source
ASTM2235 - Specific to ASTM E2235 using the
internal noise source
Any setting changes made while one of these setups is active
will become permanent. Refer to the Setup Manager section
in Chapter 4 for information on creating custom setup files.
Making a Measurement
Selecting the Method
There are two methods available for measuring
reverberation time:
Impulse Method (using Schroeder reverse integration)
Interrupted Noise Method
In many instances, RT60 measurements can be made using
the predefined setup files provided.
Impulse Method
Step 1 Recall RT60impl from the Setup Manager.

Step 2 Make a measurement using a starter pistol or
balloon burst (operator is in room).
Step 3 Move microphone or source position and repeat as

desired.
Step 1 Recall RT60pink from the Setup Manager.
Step 2 If using the internal noise generator, connect the

AC output of the Model 831 to an amplifier/speaker system.
If using an external generator, set the RT-60 noise type to
OFF (see the Customizing Measurements on page 15-
20) and generate noise externally.
Step 3 Make a measurement (operator exits room until

the desired number of decays is obtained). A trial
measurement may be needed to ensure the noise source is
sufficiently loud and the trigger level is exceeded.
Step 4 Move microphone or source position and repeat

the number of times needed for desired accuracy grade (see
Accuracy Grade on page 15-28).
15-4 Making a Measurement Model 831 Manual

Measurement State Sequence
This section presents the sequence of Model 831 screen
displays and actions taking place during an a measurement.
Trigger Level
Trigger Level - 45 dB
FIGURE 15-5 RT-60 Status Screen

Initiate Measurement
Initiate a measurement by pressing the 9 (RUN/PAUSE)
key, at which time the icon shown in FIGURE 15-6 will
appear in the lower left corner of the screen. This lasts as
long as the configured Exit Time. No data is taken while this
icon is shown.
FIGURE 15-6 Exit Prompt
Background Noise Measurement

After the Exit Time has passed, the background noise is
measured, as indicated by the icon shown in FIGURE 15-7.
The background noise level is measured for 5 seconds and is
then used for determining signal-to-noise ratio on successive
decays. The background noise level is measured for every
position, i.e., every time Run is pressed.

T20 uses data from -5 dB to -25 dB and requires a signal to
noise ratio of at least 35 dB. T30 uses data from -5 dB to -35
dB and requires a signal to noise ratio of at least 45 dB.
FIGURE 15-7 Background Measurement Display

Filling Pre-trigger Buffer
When the background measurement has completed, the pre-
trigger buffer fills as indicated by the icon shown in
FIGURE 15-8.
FIGURE 15-8 Pre-Trigger Buffer Display
Ready For Excitation Signal

When the pre-trigger buffer is full, the Ready icon shown
in FIGURE 15-9 will appear in the lower left corner of the
screen, and the 7 (STOP/STORE) key will flash red to
indicate that the source within the room should be activated.
If using the internal noise source, it will start automatically.
FIGURE 15-9 Ready Display

Valid (Interrupted Method Only)
The Valid display will not appear When using the Interrupted Noise method, the Valid icon
when using the Impulse Method. shown in FIGURE 15-10 indicates that the room has been
successfully energized. This occurs when the trigger level is
exceeded for at least as long as the configured Build Time. If
using an external noise source, do not stop the noise output
until this icon is displayed. The 7 key will stop flashing to
indicate that an external noise source should be turned off. If
using the internal noise source, it will stop automatically.
FIGURE 15-10 Valid Display
15-6 Making a Measurement Model 831 Manual

Triggered
When the measurement has been triggered, the Triggered
icon shown in FIGURE 15-11 will appear in the lower left
corner of the screen.
FIGURE 15-11 Triggered Display

Measurement Complete
When the measurement has completed, the display shown in
FIGURE 15-12 will appear. The icon in the lower left of the
screen indicates a successful measurement, and the position
count has been incremented.The spectrum graph displayed is
for the last excitation.
FIGURE 15-12 Measurement Completed

Repeat Measurement
The operator can now move the microphone and/or noise
source and press the 9 key to initiate another
measurement sequence.

Viewing and Analyzing Results
The data displays are the same regardless of the method used
for the measurement.
Following a measurement, the data can be viewed on the
RT-60 tab as follows:
RT-60 Status
RT-60 Spectra
RT-60 Decay Curve
Excitation Levels
Quality Summary (two pages for 1/3 octave data)
Quality Detail
Accuracy Grade
RT-60 Status
The RT-60 Status display shows the previously described
measurement states. After the measurement is complete, it
also shows the Lmax, Leq, and background level for each
frequency, as well as the Z-weighted Leq value.
FIGURE 15-13 RT-60 Status

RT-60 Spectra
The RT-60 Spectra display shows a graph of the
reverberation times for each frequency of the ensemble
average or an individual decay. Both T30 (black line) and
T20 (gray line) data are displayed.
FIGURE 15-14 RT-60 Spectra
The navigation described here When viewing information for the ensemble average,
applies to most of the pages on the pressing 5 toggles the role of the left/right arrow keys
RT-60 tab. between changing ensemble/decay and changing frequency.
A prompt near the bottom of the When viewing information for an individual decay, pressing
display (Enter -> Change data in 5 toggles the role of the left/right arrow keys between
Figure 15-14) indicated where the changing ensemble/decay, frequency, and decay number.
focus of the left/right arrows will go See FIGURE 15-5.
when 5 is pressed.

5 (ENTER)
(RIGHT)
5 (ENTER)
FIGURE 15-15 Navigation

RT-60 Decay Curve
The RT-60 Decay Curve display shows the time domain
ensemble or individual decay curve.
In the upper right corner of the
display is a t=1.98s. This value
represents the time duration of the Reverse Integration Linear Regression
data being displayed
Time shown
Background
on x-axis
Level
FIGURE 15-16 RT-60 Decay Curve
The linear regression line on the graph is usually associated

with the T30. However, if the T30 decay time was
undetermined, the T20 data is used. When the Impulse
method is used, the reverse integration curve is also shown
on the graph.

Excitation Levels
The Excitation Levels display shows the equivalent,
maximum, and background levels for all frequency bands of
the ensemble average or for an individual decay. From this it
can be determined which frequencies were sufficiently
energized for a desired decay range.
FIGURE 15-17 Excitation Levels
LZeq is computed as the Leq between the initial exceedance

of the trigger level to when the signal falls below the trigger
level minus 5 dB.
LZmax is the maximum value of the time history.
LZbk is the background level measured for this frequency at
this position.

Quality Summary
The left/right arrows keys will toggle This display provides a summary of the quality indicators
between T20 and T30. for all frequencies between the configured highest and
lowest filters. For 1/3 octave measurements, this display
may span two pages. For more information about the quality
indicators, see the Quality Indicators on page 15-27.
=Good =Fair =Poor

If a decay time could not be
determined, the quality indicator
icon will not be present.
FIGURE 15-18 Quality Summary

Quality Detail
The left/right arrow keys will scroll This display provides details about the quality indicators for
through the frequencies. the selected frequency. If a metric is determined to be Fair
or Poor, the criteria that failed is shown in the right-hand
column as shown in FIGURE 15-19.
FIGURE 15-19 Quality Detail

Accuracy Grade
For more information on accuracy The Accuracy Grade page shows values according to the
grade, including Estimated Grade, criteria described in ISO 3382-2:2008 (E).
Frequency Range, Positions, and
Decays, see ISO 3382-2:2008 (E)
and the G4 LD Utility manual.
FIGURE 15-20 Accuracy Grade Page

Excluding Samples from the Ensemble
Excluding a decay will exclude all When the display is showing data for an individual decay,
frequencies for the selected decay. the operator has the option of excluding the current decay
from the ensemble average. Excluding decays from the
ensemble is useful when one or more are corrupt, as is
evident in FIGURE 15-21. In this case, the operator coughed
during a measurement.
Once the data has been stored, it
cannot be edited in the Model 831;
therefore individual decays cannot
be included or excluded from the
ensemble.
FIGURE 15-21 Ensemble Before and After

Excluding a Corrupt Decay

To exclude a decay, press the Center Softkey labeled Menu,
highlight Exclude, press 5. An X will appear next to the
sample number to indicate it is excluded.
FIGURE 15-22 Steps to Exclude a Measurement
To re-include a decay that has been excluded, follow the

same steps except highlight Include on the menu.
Manually Controlling the Internal Noise Source

When operating in the Room Acoustics instrument mode,
the Model 831 provides an internal noise generator capable
of outputting white or pink noise via the AC output jack.
The noise source is controllable from the Source display as
follows:
The 4 and 6 keys control the noise type.
The 8 and 2 keys control the attenuation, which
adjusts in 3dB steps.
The 5 key toggles the mute on and off.
15-16 Manually Controlling the Internal Noise Source Model 831 Manual
Trigger Source
Trigger Level
Trigger Level - 45 dB
Indicates changes here
affect RT-60 Noise Settings
Noise Type
(46 to change).
Noise Source Attenuation
(82 to change).
Mute State?
(5 to change).
FIGURE 15-23 Source Display Summary

When the measurement method is set to Impulse or the Link
to Source Display control is unchecked, the source is
controllable independent of the RT-60 measurement.
FIGURE 15-24 No Link to Source Display
Model 831 Manual Manually Controlling the Internal Noise Source 15-17
FIGURE 15-25 Independent Controls
When the measurement method is set to Interrupted Noise
and the Link to Source Display control is checked,
adjustments made on the display are reflected in the RT-60
Noise controls. In this case there is a notification under the
graph and the trigger level and trigger source are shown.
FIGURE 15-26 Link to Source Display
15-18 Manually Controlling the Internal Noise Source Model 831 Manual
If the trigger source is set to Z or
Mid Band, a cursor will not be
shown.
FIGURE 15-27 Linked Controls

Hints on Making a Good RT-60 Measurement
Make sure the exit time is long enough to allow egress
and any residual noise to die down
Turn off your cell phone and remove other possible
sources of sound contamination.
Be quiet during the background level measurement
(between the exit period and filling the pre-trigger buffer.
See the Measurement State Sequence on page 15-5.
Minimize the ambient noise in the room by turning off
the mechanical equipment (i.e., HVAC units).
Close doors, windows, and partitions to reduce
reverberant energy from adjoining areas.
Use a sound source with repeatable amplitude and
spectral content.
Use the exclude feature when something goes wrong. It
is a good idea to configure the instrument to take a few
more decays than what is required just in case.
Trigger near the maximum level. For interrupted noise
method measurements, a few trial runs may be required
to determine a good trigger point due to the requirement
that the noise source level be above the trigger level for a
specific duration (Build Time).
Model 831 Manual Manually Controlling the Internal Noise Source 15-19
Energize the room sufficiently. It may take multiple
sound sources and measurements to characterize the
decay times over the full desired spectrum.
Make measurements at many different source-
microphone combinations to improve the ensemble
uncertainty. See the Accuracy Grade section on page
13-28 for more information.
Minimize what is in the room (see ISO 3382-2:2008(E)
Section 4.1).
ASTM E2235 requires working with a diffuse field
(random incidence) microphone. You can select the
correction FF->RI to adapt your microphone
characteristics if needed.
FIGURE 15-28 Microphone Correction
Customizing Measurements
From any of the pages on the RT-60 tab, press the Center
Softkey labeled Menu, highlight Settings, press 5 to
display the settings tabs shown below. These pages are used
to modify the measurement parameters. The active
parameter values shown represent the default values.
15-20 Customizing Measurements Model 831 Manual

General Settings
Impulse and Interrupted Methods
Character Entry
FIGURE 15-29 General Settings
Lowest and Highest Filters define the frequency range over

which the measurement will be made.
The Exit Time is set to give the operator enough time to exit
the room and to allow any residual noise to decay before
starting a measurement and can range from 0 to 99 seconds.
Model 831 Manual Customizing Measurements 15-21

RT-60 Settings
Select Bandwidth
Select Impulse or
Interrupted Noise
See RT-60 Advanced

Menu on page 13-20
FIGURE 15-30 RT-60 Settings: Impulse Method
Method can be either Impulse or Interrupted Noise.

Trigger Source allows the user to select which filter output
to use as the trigger source to when making a measurement
and can be:
The Trigger Source will also be Z-weighted
limited to be between the Lowest and Mid-Band: using the energy from the filters between 500
Highest filters (inclusive) as set on Hz and 2 kHz
the General Tab shown in FIGURE
15-29. 1/1 or 1/3 octave filters, based on the bandwidth selected
Trigger Level is the signal level at which a reverberation
time measurement is triggered. When using the Impulse
method, data acquisition is triggered when the rising sound
level exceeds the configured Trigger Level. When using the
Interrupted Noise method, data acquisition is triggered when
the decaying sound level drops to 5 dB below the configured
Trigger Level.
Decays indicates the number of successive reverberation
time measurements to take at a location. Once the
measurement is started by pressing 9, the Model 831 will

begin making the measurement and automatically stop when
the configured decay count has been reached.
RT-60 Advanced Menu

The advanced menu provides additional options that can be
used to fine tune a measurement.
Enter to Select
Return to RT-60 Menu
FIGURE 15-31 RT-60 Advanced Settings: Impulse

Method
Sample Period sets the time interval between samples of the
sound decay curves.
Max Run Time is used to set the post trigger run time. The
maximum value is dependent upon the Sample Period as
indicated by Max Run Time vs Sample Period on page 15-
23.
Sample Period (ms) Max Run Time (s)

20 19
10 18
5 9
2.5 4
Table 15 - 1 Max Run Time vs Sample Period

Care must be taken to ensure the decays are sampled
adequately and this can be evaluated using some simple
math. Consider that we have a reverberation time of 420 ms
for a 60 dB decay. 20 dB is 1/3 of 60 dB, so for T20, we
have 420 / 3 = 140 ms. Sampling at 5 ms gives us 140 / 5 =
28 data points. For T30 we have 210 ms or 42 data points.
Build Time is available when the method is set to
Interrupted Noise. The Build Time is the time the noise level
must be above the configured Trigger Level to sufficiently
energize the room. For example, if the Build Time is set to
five seconds, the sound source will be on for five seconds
plus the time it takes for the sound level to reach the trigger
level.
Use +20 dB gain only for Interrupted Noise since impulses
quickly exceed 120 dBZ.
Source Menu
Impulse Method
The RT-60 noise controls are

unavailable when using the Impulse
method.
FIGURE 15-32 Source Setting: Impulse Method
The impulse signal is generated externally, i.e., with a starter

pistol, a balloon, etc.; there is nothing to configure on this
page.

Whether using an external source or the internal source, the
Model 831 is designed to automate and simplify the process
by making measurements based upon triggers.
Select White or Pink
Enter to Select
FIGURE 15-33 Source Settings: Interrupted Noise

Method
The signal used to energize the room can be generated by an

external sound source or using the internal noise source of
the Model 831. If using an external source, select Off. If
using the internal noise source, select White or Pink
noise.
WARNING!
Making interrupted noise RT-60 The Model 831 outputs the noise signal via the AC output
measurements using an internal connector. An external amplifier and speaker system is
noise source involves connecting an needed to sufficiently energize a room.
amplifier or speaker system to the Attenuation is used to reduce the output signal from the
AC output. Make sure to disable the Model 831 in instances where the level might overload the
AC/DC Out preference, or turn off amplifier input.
your amplifier or speaker system,
before switching to the SLM mode. The Link to Source Display check box, when checked, will
Otherwise, you may damage your allow the user to control these settings in real-time from the
amplifier or speaker system, as well source display.
as your hearing, from the resulting
feedback.

Storing Data
Press the 7 key to store data.
FIGURE 15-34 File Save Dialog
Viewing Stored Data

The stored data displays are the Following a measurement, the stored data can be viewed on
same regardless of the method used the RT-60 tab pages as follows:
for the measurement.
RT-60 Spectra
RT-60 Decay Curve
Excitation Levels
Quality Summary (two pages for 1/3 octave data)
Quality Detail
Accuracy Grade
Note: The Data Explorer only shows Use the Data Explorer utility to view stored measurements
files from the current instrument on the 831. Data Explorer is opened by pressing the 3 key
mode. and then selecting the icon labeled Data Explorer. When
this utility opens, it will display the saved files. To open one
of the files, highlight the file and press 5. The data can
now be viewed just as was outlined in the Viewing and
Analyzing Results section. One exception is that the data
15-26 Storing Data Model 831 Manual

cannot be edited, therefore individual decays cannot be
included or excluded from the ensemble.
Quality Indicators
The Model 831 provides a variety of measurement quality
indicators using criteria described in ISO 3382-2:2008(E).
For more information, including the equations used to
calculate each metric, please refer to ISO 3382-2:2008(E).
Each quality indicator is described below, and Table 3-2
shows the criteria for being considered Good, Fair, or
Poor.
=Good =Fair =Poor
BT >16 NA 16
BK 35 dB (T20) NA < 35 dB (T20)
45 dB (T30) < 45 dB (T30)
NL 5 5 < NL 10 > 10
Cu 0% Cu 5% 5% < Cu 10% > 10%
-5% < Cu < 0% -5%
SD 5% 5% < SD 10% > 10%
NA = Not Applicable
Table 15 - 2 Quality Indicator Criteria
BT BT is the product of the filter bandwidth and the T20

or T30 decay time for that frequency. BT is used to
determine if the measured reverberation time may have been
influenced by the filter response time. See ISO 3382-
2:2008(E) Section 7.3 equation 4.
BK BK is a measure of the dynamic range between the
excitation signal and the background noise level. BK is
calculated from LZmax when using the Impulse method, and
from LZeq when using the Interrupted Noise method. See
ISO 3382-2:2008(E), Sections 5.2.1 and 5.3.2.
NL NL is the degree of non-linearity of the T20 or T30
portion of the decay curve, and is reported as per mill
(parts per thousand) deviation from perfect linearity. See
ISO 3382-2:2008(E), Annex B.2.
Model 831 Manual Quality Indicators 15-27

Cu Cu is the degree of curvature, and is a comparison of
the T20 and T30. Cu is expressed as the percentage
deviation from being perfectly in-line. See ISO 3382-
2:2008(E), Annex B.3.
SD SD is the standard deviation of the measurement
results for the T30 or the T20 decay times. See equations 2
and 3 in ISO 3382-2:2008(E), Sections 7.1. For impulsive
excitation, n = 10 is used as defined in section 7.2
Accuracy Grade
ISO 3382-2:2008(E) describes three methods of differing
measurement uncertainty as follows:
Survey Method
The survey method is appropriate for the assessment of the
amount of sound absorption for noise control purposes, and
survey measurements of the airborne and impact sound
insulation. It should be used for measurements in ISO
10052. Survey measurements are made in octave bands only.
The nominal accuracy is assumed to be better than 10% for
octave bands.
Make measurements of the reverberation time for at least
one source position. Find the average of results from at least
two source-microphone combinations, see Table 15 - 3.
Engineering Method
The engineering method is appropriate for verification of
building performance for comparison with specification of
reverberation time or room absorption. It should be used for
measurements in ISO 140 (all parts) with remarks to
reverberation time measurements. The nominal accuracy is
assumed to be better than 5% in octave bands and better than
10% in one-third octave bands. See Table 15 - 3.
Measure reverberation time two or more times for each
source-microphone combination. At least six independent
source-microphone combinations are required, see Table 15
- 3 'Minimum Number of Positions and Measurements'.
Precision Method
The precision method is appropriate where high
measurement accuracy is required. The nominal accuracy is
assumed to be better than 2.5% in octave bands and better
than 5% in one-third-octave bands.
15-28 Accuracy Grade Model 831 Manual

Measure reverberation time three or more times for each
source-microphone combination. At least twelve
independent source-microphone combinations are required,
see Table 15 - 3 'Minimum Number of Positions and
Measurements'.
Survey Engineering Precision

Source-microphone combinations 2 6 12
Source-positions 1 2
Microphone-positions 2 2 3
No. decays in each position 1 2 3
(interrupted noise method)
Impulse or Interrupted Interrupted
Method
Interrupted
Filter bandwidth 1/1 1/1 or 1/3 1/1 or 1/3
Frequency Range (minimum) 250 Hz to 2 kHz 125 Hz to 4 kHz (1/1)

100 Hz to 5 kHz (1/3)
Standards ISO 10052 ISO 140
Table 15 - 3 Minimum Number of Positions and Measurements
Return to Sound Level Meter Mode

A shortcut is to press the 3 key and When the RT-60 mode is active, select the SLM icon in the
then the 8 key to select the SLM Control Panel to return to Sound Level Meter mode, as
icon. shown in Figure 15-35.
Model 831 Manual Return to Sound Level Meter Mode 15-29

Changing modes using the icon on
the control panel loads the setup that
was previously in use for that mode.
FIGURE 15-35 SLM Icon
15-30 Return to Sound Level Meter Mode Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
16 Sound Recording
This chapter describes the digital sound recording
features associated with the optional firmware 831-SR.
This feature is not intended for recordings over extended
time periods, such as all day recordings. We
recommend the use of an external recorder connected to
the Model 831 AC output for these types of applications.
Sound Recording Types

There are four types of sound recordings described in this
chapter:
Manual Sound Recording: described in Manual Sound

Recording on page 16-7
Marker Initiated Sound Recordings: described in

Marker Initiated Recording on page 16-9
Event Sound Recordings (Option 831-ELA required):

described in Event Sound Recording on page 16-14
Measurement Sound Recordings (Option 831-ELA

required): described in Measurement History Sound
Recording on page 16-18:
The main difference between them is how the recordings are
initiated. With manual and marker initiated recordings, the
user must initiate each recording. With event recording, the
exceedance of a threshold sound level automatically initiates
the recording. With measurement recording, a segment at the
beginning of each measurement history record is
automatically recorded. Note that both event and
measurement sound recordings can be enabled at the same
time.
Model 831 Manual Sound Recording 16-1

Sound Recording Setup
The Sound Recording feature of the Model 831 implements
the digital recording of the sound signal output from the
measurement microphone. Regardless of the sound
recording type(s) to be utilized, the basic recording
parameters are set as described in this section.
Note that the default values for these Sound Recording is setup using the Sound tab of the
parameters are as shown in Measurement Setup View, as shown in Figure 16-1.
FIGURE 16-1.
FIGURE 16-1 Sound Recording Setup Menu
Sample Rate
The Sound Recorder feature of the Model 831 is a powerful

tool for source identification and for advanced analysis. The
sample rates used for source identification are 8k, and 16k
sps (samples per second) and the sample rates used for
advanced analysis are 24k and 48k sps.
16-2 Sound Recording Setup Model 831 Manual

Sample Rate Selection
The Sample Rate data field is used to select the sample rate
for the digital data recording. Highlight this field and press
5 to open the Sample Rate Menu shown in Figure 16-2
FIGURE 16-2 Sample Rate Menu
Highlight the desired sample rate and press 5 to make a

selection.
Source Identification Setup
Sample rates above 16k sps are not The 8k sps setting is generally sufficient for a quality sound
available for source identification recording that can be used for source identification and
recording (see Restrictions below) provides the lowest memory consumption. The sound
recording can be recorded automatically by enabling the
Event Recorder (see Event Sound Recording on page -14),
Measurement History (see Measurement History Sound
Recording on page -18) or manually by enabling Markers
sound recording and then activating a marker (see Manual
Sound Recording on page -7).
Advanced Analysis
Be sure to disable the Time History, To record sound information for advanced analysis, enable
Event History and Marker Sound the Measurement History and the Measurement Sound
Record options in order to use the Recorder settings (see Measurement History Sound
sound recorder at 24k and 48k sps Recording on page -18). The sample rate can be 8k, 16k,
(see restrictions below). 24k or 48k sps, with 48k sps offering the highest frequency
bandwidth.
When a measurement is performed by pressing the Run key
(or at a programmed interval), a sound recording file will be
created for the duration specified (unless stopped manually
prior to a complete duration). The resulting sound recording
file can then be downloaded and exported with G4 LD
Utility. The exported wave file can be analyzed with a
software package such as Mat Lab.
Restrictions
It is not possible to use the sound recorder at 24k and 48k at
the same time as the Time History, Event History or Marker
Model 831 Manual Sound Recording Setup 16-3

Sound Recording options. When any of these features are
activated while the sample rate is set to 24k or 48k, the
Setting Conflict message shown in FIGURE 16-3 will
appear.
FIGURE 16-3 Setting Conflict Message
The Sound Recorder Sample Rate will be automatically set

to 8k sps if Yes is chosen, or, the feature will not be enabled
if No is chosen.
If any of the History, Event History or Marker Sound Record
options are enabled, the list of sound recorder Sample Rate
options will be 8k and 16k sps, as shown in the next image,
and sound record is enable for source identification.
Effect of Sample Rate
A formula for calculating the A general rule of thumb is that the playback of a digital
memory size of sound recordings is sound recording will provide accurate reproduction of
given in the section Sound frequency content up to 0.48 times the recording sample
Recording on page 25-3. rate. Thus, a 48 kHz sample rate would provide a recording
having good fidelity over the complete human hearing
range. The drawback is that the size of the recording data
block is proportional to the sample rate. If the upper
frequency content of the signal is known, the sample rate
can be reduced to match it. For example, in terms of
comprehension, human speech would be satisfactorily
reproduced using a sample rate of 8 kHz.
Range
There are two amplitude ranges used for sound recording:
Low (default value)
High
The following section provides These have a 33 dB gain difference between them. They are
guidance in the selection of range similar to the two ranges available for use with the 1/1 and 1/
setting. 3 octave band filters, described in OBA Range Setting on

page 4-7. To select the range, highlight the Range field and
press 5 to open the Range Menu shown in Figure 16-4.
FIGURE 16-4 Range Menu
Highlight the desired sample rate and press 5 to make a

selection.
Sound Recording Range
A/D Convertor
The 16-bit A/D convertor used for sound recording provides
a measurement range of approximately 90 dB. This means
that it is capable of recording sound signals whose
amplitudes are no more than 90 dB below the level at which
the instrument will overload. When the overload level is
expressed in terms of peak level and the signal level as root-
mean-square (rms), this range is actually 93 dB. Note,
however, that in practice this lower limit can be limited by
the internal noise floor of the instrument.
Peak Overload/Noise Level
The Sensitivity tab, as described in the section Sensitivity
Tab on page 8-13, can be used to determine the peak
overload level and Z-weighted noise level on of the Model
831. Levels are indicated for specific instrument setups
using microphones having given sensitivities. Since the
Model 831 can be setup to have a gain of either 0 or 20 dB,
as described in 20 dB Gain on page 4-5, there are two
possible values of peak overload level and noise level for a
given microphone.
Sound Recording Range Calculation
When the peak sound level and noise level values have been
determined for the Model 831 using a specific microphone,
the useful sound recording range can now be determined as
shown in TABLE 16-1. In this example, the peak sound
levels and noise levels correspond to a microphone having a
nominal sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa.
Model 831 Manual Sound Recording Setup 16-5

Step 1 For each combination of Instrument Gain (0 or 20
dB) and (Low or High), enter the peak overload level values
in the 3rd row. For the High range use the values determined
as described in Peak Overload/Noise Level on page 16-5.
For the Low Range, subtract 33 dB from the High range
value.
Step 2 For each column, subtract 93 dB from each peak

overload level to obtain the lower level of A/D range and
enter this in the 4th row.
Step 3 For each column, enter the value of noise floor in

the 5th row.
Step 4 For each column, determine the sound recording

range. The lower limit will be the larger of the lower level of
A/D range and the instrument noise floor. The upper limit
will be the peak overload level
Instrument Gain 0 dB 0 dB 20 dB 20 dB
Range High Low High Low
Peak Overload Level 143 dB 110 dB 123 dB 90 dB
Lower Level of A/D 50 dB 17 dB 30 dB -7 dB

Range
Instrument Noise 23 dB 23 dB 21 dB 21 dB
Floor
Sound Recording 50 - 143 dB 23 - 110 30 - 123 21 - 90 dB

Range dB dB
TABLE 16-1 Sound Recording Range Calculation: Microphone Sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa
The quality of a sound recording will depend upon the levels

of sound being recorded and the choice of instrument gain
and range used in the instrument setup. Should the sound
level exceed the peak overload level, there will be clipping
of the signal which will introduce distortion into the
playback. If the sound level drops below the lower limit of
the sound recording range, its signal will be lost in noise
during playback. Thus, the selection of instrument gain and

recording range should be made to meet the characteristics
of the sounds being recorded.
When measuring very loud noise levels (gun blasts, sonic
booms, space shuttle lift off) use the High range. When
trying to identify quiet noise sources (crickets, airplanes
flying at 30000', national park soundscape studies, people
talking in the vicinity of the microphone) and don't mind the
very loud noises being clipped (distorted), use the Low
range. The low range is like turning up the volume on a tape
recorder input; if the sound gets too loud it will clip and
distort the recording but you will be able to hear the quiet
noises more clearly. Turning the volume control down may
drop the quiet sounds below the background noise and make
them inaudible, but the louder sounds will be heard with
greater fidelity.
Manual Sound Recording
Sound recordings can only be made A manually initiated sound recording can be made from any
when the instrument is running. If of the following screens, as illustrated in
the unit is stopped, the Rec softkey
will not appear. Profile Page of the Live tab
Session Log tab (while running)
Time History tab (while running)
FIGURE 16-5 Screens for Initiating a Manual Sound Recording
Model 831 Manual Manual Sound Recording 16-7

Highlight Mark Sound Type and press 5 to obtain the
Markers Setup Menu shown in FIGURE 16-6.
Sound Recording
Status Icon
FIGURE 16-6 Markers Setup Menu
Initiate a Manual Sound Recording
When a recording is in progress, the Press the Rec softkey to initiate a sound recording. The
Recording Status Icon, shown grayed recording will continue until the recording is manually
out in Figure 16-6, will become stopped.
active, as shown in Figure 16-7. When the recording has begun, the Rec softkey will be
replaced by a Stop softkey, as shown in FIGURE 16-7
FIGURE 16-7 Markers Setup Menu, Sound

Recording in Progress
16-8 Manual Sound Recording Model 831 Manual

Stop a Manual Recording
Pressing any of the following keys will stop the sound
recording:
The sound recording will also stop Stop softkey

when the memory is full. Note that if
left recording, the memory will fill None softkey
and create very large files that will
be time consuming to download and Close softkey
playback.
7 (STOP/STORE) key
Marker Initiated Recording
Markers are also with Time History In order to identify the source or some other characteristic of
measurements, described in Chapter a sound being recorded, the user can define up to ten
11 Time History on page 11-1, markers and attach one or more marker(s) to a sound
which requires the optional firmware recording. These markers can then be used to initiate sound
831-LOG. recordings from the markers setup menu.
Markers Setup
Note that the default values for these Markers are setup using the Markers tab of the
parameters are as shown in Measurement Setup View, as shown in Figure 16-8.
FIGURE 16-8.
Model 831 Manual Marker Initiated Recording 16-9

There are five markers with names predefined for
convenience shown in this figure. Any of these names can
be changed by the user. To view markers 6 -10, highlight the
6 - 10 text line and radio buttons and press 5 to obtain the
display shown in Figure 16-9.
Naming a Marker
Note that the process of naming Highlight the field of the marker to be named and press 5.
markers is simplified by using the This will produce a cursor which can be moved left and right
831 Utility software. to different digit positions in the data field using the 4 and 6
keys, as shown in Figure 16-10.
FIGURE 16-10 Marker Name Field
Enter a marker name and press 5 to conclude the process.

Setting a Marker to Record
In order to utilize one or more markers to initiate a sound
recording, we set each of the markers we would like to use
to initiate a recording to Record. This is done by
highlighting the marker and pressing 5. In FIGURE 16-11,
16-10 Marker Initiated Recording Model 831 Manual

we have created a setup whereby a recording can be initiated
by either the Truck marker or the Motorcycle marker
FIGURE 16-11 Two Markers Set To Record
Recording Time Setup
Sound recordings initiated by markers will record for a user-

defined recording time following the initiation of the
recording. In addition, the user can select to have each
recording also include the sound signal which existed for a
user-defined time period prior to the initiation of the
recording, called the pre-trigger time.
Pre-trigger Time
The range of the manual recording If it is desired that the recorded signal include a segment of
pre-trigger time is 0 to 9 seconds. sound which occurred prior to the initiation of the recording,
set the Pre-trigger to the length of that time segment.
To enter the Pre-trigger Time, highlight the Pre-trigger data
field and press 5 to open the Pre-trigger Time data field
and cursor shown in Figure 16-12.
FIGURE 16-12 Entering Pre-trigger Time for Event

Sound Recording

Enter the desired value and press 5 to conclude the
process.
Recording Time
Note that the maximum value of The Recording Time is the duration of each recording. To
Recording Time which can be enter the Recording Time, highlight the Recording Time
entered is 9,999 seconds. However, data field and press 5 to open the Recording Time data
the maximum time of an actual field and cursor shown in FIGURE 16-13.
recording may be limited by the
sample rate and the memory size.
FIGURE 16-13 Entering Recording Time for Sound
Recording

process.
Initiating a Recording
A marker initiated sound recording is started using the same

menu used to initiate a manual recording. Follow the same
procedure described in Manual Sound Recording on page
16-7 to open the menu shown in FIGURE 16-14.
FIGURE 16-14 Markers Setup Menu
Set Marker to On
To initiate a sound recording, set On any marker which had
been designated Record, as described in Setting a Marker
to Record on page 16-10. To do this, highlight the name of
16-12 Marker Initiated Recording Model 831 Manual

the desired marker and press 5 to place a check in the
check box to the left of the name, as shown in FIGURE 16-
15.
FIGURE 16-15 Marker Set to On
Press the Close softkey, shown in FIGURE 16-14, to

complete the process of setting the Marker to On and to exit
from the Mark Sound Type Menu. This will initiate the
recording.
When a recording is in progress, the The recording will continue for the programmed Recording
Recording Status Icon, shown grayed Time, even if the maker is set Off before that amount of time
out in Figure 16-6, will become has passed.
active. Once one or more markers have been set to On and the
recording initiated, they should all then be set to Off so that
a subsequent recording may be initiated at a later time.
Set Markers to Off
To set all markers to Off, repeat the steps used to open the
Mark Sound Type Menu, shown in FIGURE 16-14. Press
the None softkey to set all Markers to Off and press the
Close softkey.
All markers will also be set to Off if the measurement is
stopped by pressing the 7 key.

Event Sound Recording
Sound recordings can be made Event Sound Recording is used to automatically make a
automatically upon exceedance of sound recording for each exceedance-based event. Highlight
the event threshold levels (see the Save Snapshot text field in the Event Sound Recording
Triggers Tab on page 4-11) section of the display (Figure 16-1 on page 16-2) and press
without the optional 831-ELA the 5 key to place a check in the check box. This will
firmware enabled. However, to have modify the Event Sound Recording section of the Sound
data stored for these exceedance Recording Setup Menu as shown in Figure 16-16
events (see Chapter 13 Event
History on page 13-1) the 831-ELA
firmware must be enabled.
FIGURE 16-16 Event Sound Recording Menu
Snapshot Time
The maximum value of Snapshot The Snapshot Time is the duration of each Event Sound
Time which can be entered is 999 Recording. To enter the Snapshot Time, highlight the
seconds. However, the maximum Snapshot data field and press 5 to open the Snapshot Time
time of an actual recording may be data field and cursor shown in Figure 16-17.
limited by the sample rate and the
memory size.
FIGURE 16-17 Entering Snapshot Time for Event
Sound Recording
The snapshot time must be greater Enter the desired value and press the 5 key to conclude the
than the event minimum duration, as process.
set in Minimum Duration on
page 13-2, in order for a recording
to be made.
Pre-trigger Time
If it is desired that the recorded signal include a segment of
time which occurred prior to the exceedance-based trigger,
set the Pre-trigger Time to that value. Highlight the Pre-
trigger data field and press 5 to open the Pre-trigger Time
data field and cursor shown in Figure 16-18.
FIGURE 16-18 Entering Pre-trigger Time for Event

Sound Recording
16-14 Event Sound Recording Model 831 Manual

process.
Note that the maximum value of Pre-trigger Time is 9
seconds.
Additional Considerations
The implementation of event sound recordings involves the
interaction of parameters from both the Event History and
Sound tabs as follows:
Event Time History Setup
Minimum Duration
Continuation Period
Sound Setup
Snapshot Time
Pre-Trigger Time
Several examples of how these parameters effect the length
of the sound recording are presented in the following
diagrams.
Snapshot Time
Pre-Trigger Minimum
Time Duration
Threshold No Recording: Level Drops

Exceedance Below Threshold Before
Minimum Duration
FIGURE 16-19 Less Than Minimum Duration: No Event/No Recording
Model 831 Manual Event Sound Recording 16-15

Recording Time
Snapshot Time
Pre-Trigger Minimum
Time Duration
Threshold Exceedance Drops Below Threshold
FIGURE 16-20 Stops When Level Drops Below Threshold: Valid Event/Recording
Recording Time
Snapshot Time
Pre-Trigger Minimum
Time Duration
Threshold Exceedance Drops Below Threshold
Below Threshold Less Than Continuation

Period; Event Continues
FIGURE 16-21 Stops When Level Drops Below Threshold After Continuation: Valid
Event/Recording
16-16 Event Sound Recording Model 831 Manual

Recording Time
Snapsot Time
Pre-Trigger Minimum
Time Duration
Stops Recording When

Threshold Exceedance Snapshot Time is Reached
FIGURE 16-22 Stops When Reaches Snapshot Time: Valid Event/Recording
Recording Time
Snapshot Time
Pre-Trigger Minimum
Time Duration
Stops Recording When

Snapshot Time is
Threshold Exceedance Reached
Below Threshold Less Than

Continuation Period; Event
Continues
FIGURE 16-23 Stops When Reaches Snapshot Time After Continuation: Valid Event/
Recording
Model 831 Manual Event Sound Recording 16-17

Pre-trigger Time/Minimum Duration Criterion
Due to the manner in which the data are stored, the event
pre-trigger time plus the minimum event duration must be
less than the criterion time shown in TABLE 16-2, which is
a function of the selected sample rate.
Sample Rate, kHz Criterion Time, s
48 10
24 18.9
16 18.9
8 18.9
TABLE 16-2 Pre-Trigger Time/Min Duration Criterion

Recording Status Icon
When a recording is in progress, the Recording Status Icon,

shown grayed out in Figure 16-6, will become active. The
icon does not show when the pre-trigger buffer is being
filled, only when the level is over the defined exceedance
trigger level,
Measurement History Sound Recording
Measurement History must be Scroll to the Measurement Sound Rec. area, select Save
enabled on the Settings > Control Snapshot, and press 5, as shown in Figure 16-24.
tab to activate Measurement Sound
Recording.
FIGURE 16-24 Measurement Sound Recording
16-18 Measurement History Sound Recording Model 831 Manual

Snapshot Time
Note that the maximum value of The Snapshot Time is the duration of each Measurement
Snapshot Time that can be entered is Sound Recording. To enter the Snapshot Time, highlight the
9,999 seconds. However, the Snapshot data field and press 5. This will produce a cursor
maximum time of an actual which can be moved left and right to different digit positions
recording may be limited by the in the data field using the 4 and 6 keys.
sample rate and the memory size.
FIGURE 16-25 Entering Snapshot Time for

Measurement Sound Recording
Enter the desired value and press the Close softkey. Press
5 on the Yes button to apply the changes.
Recording Status Icon
When a recording is in progress, the Recording Status Icon,

shown grayed out in Figure 16-6, will become active.
Combined Sound Recordings

Only one sound recording can be made at a time. As a result,
should a sound recording be initiated, manually or
automatically, while a sound recording is already in
progress, the original sound recording will continue.
However, should the parameters for the second recording
call for that recording to be concluded at a time later than
that defined by the parameters of the first recording, the
original recording would continue until the parameters of the
second recording are satisfied.
More generally, when a sound recording is initiated, a
counter is begun to define when that recording should stop.
If during that recording one or more additional recordings
are initiated, a counter will be begun for each, even though
the same recording is continued rather than a series of
separate recordings. The original recording will then stop
when the counters of all recordings have counted down to
zero, indicating that the time interval of that recording
encompasses all the data which would have been recorded
by those separate recordings.
Model 831 Manual Combined Sound Recordings 16-19

Sound Recording Playback
When using the SLM Utility-G3 and In this section we present several methods for playing back
G4 software, sound recordings can sound recordings from the Model 831 and listening to them
be played back through the computer using headphones connected to the AC/DC Output and
speakers and saved as Windows .wav Headset Jack.
files.
Playback from Session Log
All sound and voice recordings are listed in order of

recording time on the Session Log tab, as shown in FIGURE
16-13.
FIGURE 16-26 Sound Recordings on Session Log
Any of these recordings can be played back by using the

2 and 8 keys to highlight the desired recording and
pressing 5.
Recording Type Indication
The type of each recording can be identified by highlighting
the specific recording file as indicated below.
16-20 Sound Recording Playback Model 831 Manual

Manual Sound Recording
Sound recordings which have been recorded manually using
the Marker function will be indicated by the text Markers
Record as shown in FIGURE 16-27.
FIGURE 16-27 Manual Sound Record
Measurement Sound Recording

Sound recordings implemented automatically at the
beginning of Measurement History periods are identified by
the text Measurement Record as shown in FIGURE 16-28.
FIGURE 16-28 Measurement Sound Record
Noise Event Sound Recording

Sound recordings implemented automatically as a result of
noise events are identified by the text Event Record as
FIGURE 16-29 Noise Event Sound Record
Combined Recording
A combined sound recording, described in Combined
Sound Recordings on page 16-19, is identified by the
recording type of the first recording which initiated the
recording process.
Model 831 Manual Sound Recording Playback 16-21

Voice Recording
Voice recording, discussed in Chapter 10 Voice Recording
on page 10-1, will also appear with a speaker logo in the
Session Log. When highlighted, these can be differentiated
from sound recordings by the heading Voice instead of
Sound, as shown in FIGURE 16-30.
FIGURE 16-30 Voice Annotation Record
Playback from Data Display Screen
This is an alternative playback In addition to playback from the Session Log tab, both
method to using the Session Log. Event Sound Recordings and Measurement Recordings can
Note that this playback method can also be played back from their first data display screens as
only be used prior to saving the described below.
measurement.
Event Sound Recordings
When Event Sound Recording had been enabled during the
measurement period, a sound recording icon will appear
along with the Leq data for each event record, as shown in
FIGURE 16-31.
Sound Recording Icon
FIGURE 16-31 Sound Recording Playback; Event

Recordings
To play back the recording for this record, press the Menu
key to obtain the menu shown in FIGURE 16-32
FIGURE 16-32 Menu

The Model 831 must be stopped in Highlight Playback and press 5 to playback this sound
order to perform a playback in this recording.
manner. If the instrument is running
when the playback is attempted, a
screen will be displayed to permit
the user to stop the instrument.
Select Yes and the playback will
begin immediately.
When Measurement Sound Recording had been enabled

during the measurement period, a sound recording icon will
appear along with the Leq data for each measurement
history event record, as shown in FIGURE 16-33.
FIGURE 16-33 Sound Recording Playback;

To play back the recording for the displayed record, press

the Menu key to obtain the menu shown in FIGURE 16-34
FIGURE 16-34 Menu
The Model 831 must be stopped in Highlight Playback and press 5 to play back this sound
order to perform a playback in this recording.
manner. If the instrument is running
when the playback is attempted, a
screen will be displayed to permit
the user to stop the instrument.
Select Yes and the playback will
begin immediately.
Model 831 Manual Sound Recording Playback 16-23

CHAPTER
17 Data Explorer
This chapter describes how to view data and files in the
Data Explorer of the Model 831 Sound Level Meter.
Control Panel - Data Explorer

To activate the Data Explorer Page, press the 3 (TOOLS)
key. Highlight the Data Explorer icon as shown in FIGURE
17-1.
Press 5 (ENTER) to open the Data Explorer tabs.

Press the Close Softkey to exit.
Model 831 Manual Data Explorer 17-1

Data Explorer
Data Explorer shows a directory of all saved data files. Data
files saved to internal memory are listed first, followed by
data files saved on the USB memory device. The files saved
to the USB device are denoted by a small flash memory icon
as shown in FIGURE 17-2. The scroll bar indicates the
relative position in the list of data files. There may be more
data files in the directory than are displayed on this page. All
files may be viewed by scrolling through the list.
USB Memory
File Icon
FIGURE 17-2 Data Explorer
Note that the USB Host Port must be Using the 8 and 2 keys you can scroll through the list
set to On, as described in USB Host of data files. As each file is selected you get an expanded
Port on page 18-14, in order for view of the directory entry showing:
the Data Explorer to access data
File name
saved on a USB memory device.
Start date and time of measurement
End date and time of measurement
Run time of measurement
Size of Measurement File
Scrolling
There are two modes of scrolling available:
17-2 Data Explorer Model 831 Manual

By item
By page
Pressing the left softkey will toggle between these two
modes.
By item
By item, shown in FIGURE 17-2, is the default scrolling
mode. Using this mode, the window presenting information
for the selected file moves down or up one file at a time
when pressing the 2 or 8 keys, respectively.
By page
When working with a large number of files, the By page
scrolling mode will shift the listing of files down or up one
page at a time, when pressing the 2 or 8 keys,
respectively. When the desired file appear, shift to the By
item mode to select a particular file.
Menu Softkey
Press 5 to view the data file or press the Right Softkey

labeled Menu for more options.
FIGURE 17-3 Data Explorer Menu
Highlight the desired function and press 5. To leave this

menu without taking any action press the Close Softkey.

View
The View function opens a data view of the selected data
file.
FIGURE 17-4 Data View
The information displayed is similar to the data described in

the section Overall Tab on page 5-13.
The file name of the data file being displayed is found in the
title bar near the top of the screen.
For information on the Session Log tab see Session Log
Tab on page 5-26.
Press the Center Softkey labeled Close to return to the Data
Explorer view.
Delete
The Delete menu item deletes the highlighted stored data
file. The prompt shown in FIGURE 17-5 will be displayed.
FIGURE 17-5 Delete File
Highlight the appropriate response and press 5.

Delete All Internal
Note that the file number used for the The Delete All Internal menu item will delete all files saved
file names will be reset to 001 when to the internal memory of the Model 831. The prompt shown
the Delete All Internal is performed. in FIGURE 17-6 will be displayed.
FIGURE 17-6 Delete All Files Prompt
Highlight the appropriate response and press 5.

Delete All USB
The Delete All USB menu item will delete all files saved on
the USB device. The prompt shown in FIGURE 17-6 will be
displayed; respond as appropriate.
Rename
The Rename menu item enables you to change the name of
the selected data file. Pressing 5 brings up a message box
for editing the file name.
FIGURE 17-7 Rename File
Highlight the text box with the file name, press 5, modify
the name as desired and press 5 to complete the changes.
Highlight the Yes button to accept the changes or the No
button to discard the changes and press 5.
If your new file name is the same as a file already in the
directory, an Overwrite message box will appear. See

FIGURE 17-9. If you select Yes, then the old file will be
over written with the newly named file. A response of No
will return the Rename message box.
Another method of renaming a file is to Overwrite an old
file. Highlight the ... button and press 5 to display a list
of file names. This feature will allow you to select the name
of an existing file and replace that file with the file you are
renaming. See FIGURE 17-8.
FIGURE 17-8 File Name List
Highlight a name from the list and press the 5 key.
FIGURE 17-9 Overwrite Confirmation
A message box will appear requesting confirmation of the

desired action. Select the desired response and press 5. If
you select Yes, then the old file will be over written with the
selected file. A response of No will return to the Rename
message box.

Move to USB
The Move to USB menu item transfers a selected internal
memory data file to a USB memory device. While the data is
transferred, the following icon is displayed:
Note: The Move to USB feature does When the data has been completely transferred, the message
not copy the data file to a USB shown in FIGURE 17-10 is displayed.
memory device--it moves it. Once the
.
file is moved to the memory device,
the data is not preserved on the 831.
FIGURE 17-10 USB Move Complete Message
If a file with the same name already exists on the USB

memory device when the move is initiated, the filename of
the data being transferred is altered by pre-pending it with
the letter a. The message shown in FIGURE 17-11 is then
displayed.

.
FIGURE 17-11 Duplicate Filename Altered
If the file size is larger than the available free space on the
USB drive, the file is not moved and the message shown in
Figure 17-12 appears.
FIGURE 17-12 Insufficient Space on USB Drive

Message
Move All to USB

The Move All to USB menu item transfers all files on the
internal flash memory to the USB memory device. The
procedure is similar to that described in "Move to USB" on
page 17-7.
If the attached USB Flash Drive (or mass storage device)
already has a file named the same as one being moved from
internal memory, the instrument automatically alters the
name so that it will be unique.

For standard files that are named with the user selected
default filename and a three digit sequential number
extension (831_Data.001), the first number in the extension
will be changed to a letter, from "A" through "Z", that offers
a unique filename and will then be saved to the USB Flash
Drive. The filename on the internal drive will not be altered.
For auto-store files (one whose name is made from the date
of measurement, i.e. 08010700.LD0) the digit of the
extension will be incremented from 0 through 9 (i.e. LD0,
LD1, and so on to LD9). If this method does not succeed in
creating a unique filename then the extension will be
changed to "A00" and the "A" will be changed, if needed, up
through "Z" until a unique filename is found.
If a unique filename cannot be determined by these methods
then the file will not be copied to the USB Flash Drive, but
will remain on the internal drive:
Example 1
The USB Flash Drive has been used as a transport for data
and currently contains files named 831_Data.001,
831_Data.002 and 831_Data.003. Perhaps I forgot to erase
the drive, but more likely I just like to keep an extra copy of
the data as a backup. The data inside the instrument was
reset and deleted with the Delete All Internal command from
Data Explorer so that new data files were named the same as
previously (starting the sequence number over at 001). More
data has been taken and the internal drive has two files
named 831_Data.001 and 831_Data.002. When you perform
a Move all to USB from the Data Explorer memory the
filename conflict will be detected and the names of the files
that will actually be stored to the USB Flash Drive will be
named 831_Data.A01 and 831_Data.A02. If I did this again
the new files would be named 831_Data.B01 and
831_Data.B02.
Example 2
The USB Flash Drive is being used to transport data from
three instruments used as remote noise monitors that
automatically do daily auto-stores. There are data for one
week on each instrument for a total of seven files each. All
seven files are moved to the USB Flash Drive from the first
instrument, 08010700.LD0 through 08011300.LD0. At the
second instrument, that has seven files with the exact names,

a Move All to USB is performed. This time the files stored
to the USB Flash Drive have a name conflict and will
actually be stored as 08010700.LD1 through
08011300.LD1. At the third location we do the same thing
and now the USB Flash Drive has 08010700.LD2 through
08011300.LD2 added to it.
Refresh List
The Refresh List menu item will refresh the file list on the
Data Explorer Page.
Load Settings
Using the Load Settings Menu item, a new measurement
may be run with the exact same parameters as the selected
measurement. When 5 is pressed, the parameters from the
selected measurement are loaded so a new measurement
may be made. This is a convenient method to duplicate a
previous measurement.
Jump to Beginning
The Jump to Beginning menu item will select the first data
file listed.
Jump to End
The Jump to End menu item will select the last data file
listed.

CHAPTER
18 System Properties
The System Properties tabs are used to identify and / or
control functions of the Model 831 that are not related to
sound measurement or calculations.
Control Panel - System Properties

To activate the System Properties tabs, press the 3
(TOOLS) key. Highlight the System Properties icon as
shown in FIGURE 18-1 "Control Panel" .
Press the 5 (ENTER) key to open the System

Properties tabs.
You can scroll through System Properties tabs by using the
Right and Left Softkeys. All System Properties tabs have
only one page.
Model 831 Manual System Properties 18-1

Device
The Device tab has three fields in that the user may enter
information about the instrument. This can identify the
owners company name and address. Information may be
easily placed in these fields using G4 LD Utility.
FIGURE 18-2 Device Tab
Highlight one of the three fields to edit. Enter the desired

text and press 5 to accept the information and move the
highlight out of the field. At this point another field can be
selected and the above process repeated.
18-2 Device Model 831 Manual

Time
The time and date for the Model 831 may be adjusted on the
Time tab.
FIGURE 18-3 Time Tab
Setting Day and Year

Highlight the data field for the day or year and press 8 or
2 to specify the numeric value. Press 5 to select the
value.
Selecting the Month
Highlight the Month data field and press 5 to drop down a
list of months, as shown in FIGURE 18-4.
FIGURE 18-4 Month List
Model 831 Manual Time 18-3

Highlight the desired month and press 5 to accept the
selection and exit the field.
Setting the Time
Highlight the System Time data field and press 8 or 2
to specify the desired time.
Sync Date/Time with PC
Selecting the Sync Date/Time with PC check box enables
the Model 831 time to be set to the PC time when the unit is
connected to G4 LD Utility. Highlight the box and press 5
to either enable or disable this option.
Setting the Clock
Note: When setting the date and Highlight the Set Time button and press 5 to activate the
time, allow a two second pause System Date and System Time. The new settings for the
before beginning a measurement. Model 831 clock take effect immediately upon pressing 5.
This allows the Model 831 clocks to Figure 18-18-5 shows the message confirming the activation
synchronize. of the new settings.
FIGURE 18-5 Confirmation of New Settings
18-4 Time Model 831 Manual

Power
The default values for these

parameters are shown in FIGURE
18-6.
FIGURE 18-6 Power Tab
There are five drop down list fields and one scrollable value
field on the Power tab. These fields are selected and
modified as discussed in the previous sections.
Battery Type
This parameters identifies the type of battery installed in the

Model 831. This information is used for the calculation of
battery life.
To set the battery type, highlight the Battery Type data field
and press 5 to open the Battery Type Menu, shown in
FIGURE 18-8.
FIGURE 18-7 Battery Type Menu
Highlight the desired time and press 5 to make a selection.

Battery type must be set to NiMH to charge.
Model 831 Manual Power 18-5

The default value is Alkaline.
WARNING:Do not mix Alkaline and NiMH batteries.
WARNING:Do not mix batteries from different

manufacturers
WARNING:Replace all four batteries when installing

fresh cells
WARNING:The correct battery type must be specified,

as described in "Battery Type" on page 18-5, based on
the battery type installed. Otherwise, serious damage,
injury or fire can occur when the battery type is set to
NiMH but Alkaline or Lithium batteries are installed
because the internal charger will be enabled. Alkaline or
Lithium batteries must not be charged.
Auto-Off Time
Auto-Off time is the duration of time the instrument will

stay on when no activity is occurring: button presses,
running a measurement, USB communications, etc.
Pressing the 0 (ON / OFF) key will return the instrument
and the display to the state it was in when the Auto-Off time
expired.
The auto-off feature is ignored when connected to external
power (assumed to mean when not on internal batteries
which includes USB and External Power). When the unit is
connected to USB power, the feature is ignored but when it
is connect to external power (12 Vdc) it is not ignored.
To set the Auto-off Time, highlight the Auto-Off Time data
field and press 5 to open the Auto-Off Time Menu, shown
in FIGURE 18-8.
FIGURE 18-8 Auto-Off Time Menu

The default value is Never.
18-6 Power Model 831 Manual

Power-Save Time
In the power save mode, battery power is significantly

reduced by shutting down the display and analog circuitry
and ceasing signal processing activities.
There are two power saving features controlled by the
Power-Save Time setting. Power can be shut off to the
display and to the analog circuitry to save power when the
Power-Save Time is set to a value other than Never.
The display will be powered down when no keys on the
instrument have been pressed for the time set. Pressing any
key will reactivate the display.
The analog circuitry, including power to the preamplifier.
will be shut down when the instrument has been stopped for
the time set. Pressing the 9 (RUN / PAUSE) key will
restore power to the analog circuitry and the instrument can
take data in a number of seconds.
To set the Power-Save Time, highlight the Power-Save Time
data field on the Power tab and press 5 to open the Power-
Save Time Menu, shown in FIGURE 18-9.
FIGURE 18-9 Power-Save Time Menu

The default value is Never.
Power Save Icon
When the Model 831 is in the power save mode, the power
save icon
will be displayed in the location where the measurement

status icons, described in "Measurement Status" on page 3-
10, usually appear.

Exit from Power Save Mode
Press any of the following keys to exit from the power save
mode:
7 (STOP/STORE)
1 (RESET)
9 (RUN/PAUSE): There will be a few seconds delay
before the instrument starts recording data.
The following actions will also cause an exit from the power
save mode:
Calibrate
Record (voice or sound recording)
Play (voice or sound recording)
Backlight Time
This sets the duration of time the backlight remains on after

the last key press.
To set the Backlight Time, highlight the Backlight Time data
field and press 5 to open the Backlight Time Menu, shown
in FIGURE 18-10.
FIGURE 18-10 Backlight Time Menu

The default is 10 sec.
18-8 Power Model 831 Manual

Backlight
Using the backlight on bright setting This field sets the intensity of the backlight. To set
will significantly increase power Backlight, highlight the Backlight data field and press 5 to
consumption and decrease battery open the Backlight Menu, shown in FIGURE 18-10.
life
FIGURE 18-11 Backlight Menu

The default is Off.
Exceptions
There are several situations which will affect the backlight
and its intensity as follows:
When the USB Host port is turned On, the backlight will
be turned Off for five seconds
When the USB Host port is On, the backlight will not go
into the Bright intensity (if set to Bright, it will switch to
the Dim intensity)
When running on battery power, if the batteries are less
than 10% the backlight will not go into the Bright
intensity (if set to Bright, it will switch to the Dim
intensity)
When running on battery power, if the batteries are less
than 3%. the backlight will not be permitted to turn on.
Display Contrast
You can adjust the contrast of the display to accommodate

varying viewing angles, temperature and lighting condition.
Adjustment ranges from - 9 to +9. The default is 0.
To set the Display Contrast, press the 0 key from any data
viewing tab. Highlight the Display Contrast data field and
press 5. This will open a single digit data field as shown in
Figure 18-18-12.

FIGURE 18-12 Entering Display Contrast
Enter a value in the range 0 to 9 and press 5 to apply the

setting.
External Shutoff Voltage
To avoid damaging the internal batteries when the voltage of

an external battery drops too low, the user can set an external
shutoff voltage. The instrument will shut off automatically
when the external voltage drops below this level.
The default level is 10.8 volts, but the user can select a value
in the range 10 to 25 volts by entering the value directly into
the Ext Shutoff Voltage field shown in FIGURE 18-13.
FIGURE 18-13 External Shutoff Voltage Menu
Preferences
FIGURE 18-14 shows the default The Preferences tab is used to configure various instrument
values for the parameters on the functions.
Preferences tab.
FIGURE 18-14 Preferences Tab
Select the desired preference and press 5 to view a list of

options.
18-10 Preferences Model 831 Manual

Microphone Correction
When using a free-field microphone, a correction can be

applied to provide a random incidence response or, when
using a random incidence microphone, a correction can be
applied to provide a free-field response. Highlight the Mic
Corr. field and press 5 to open the Microphone Correction
menu shown in FIGURE 18-15.
FIGURE 18-15 Microphone Correction Menu
To correct a random incidence microphone to obtain a free-

field response, highlight RI -> FF and press 5.
To correct a free-field microphone to obtain a random
incidence response, highlight FF -> RI and press 5.
The default mode is Off.
Auto-Store
The Model 831 provides three Auto-Store options to

enhance your data gathering activities:
When using Auto-Store, data files None

are stored in the following format,
Prompt
regardless of what is specified in the
General setup tab: yymmdd00.LD0, Store
where yymmdd is the date the
Select the Auto-Store field and press 5 to obtain a listing
of the choices, as shown in FIGURE 18-16.
FIGURE 18-16 Auto-Store Preferences
Model 831 Manual Preferences 18-11

Select the desired Auto-Store option and press 5 to make
the selection.
None
The user must press the 7 key to Stop the measurement.
Press it again to store the data and also assign a filename.
See Storing the Measurement on page 7-15.
Prompt
If the Prompt preference is selected When the stop time has elapsed, the user will be prompted to
and the run mode is set to Timed save the data file. See Storing the Measurement on page 7-
Stop or Daily Timer, pressing the 15. If the user responds Yes, then a data file is saved. If No is
7 key before the stop time has selected, a data file is not saved. If data was stored when the
elapsed will not result in a prompt to 9 key is pressed, the instrument is automatically reset so a
save, nor will the data automatically new measurement may begin.
be saved.
Store
If the Store preference is selected When the stop time has elapsed, the data file is
and the run mode is set to Timed automatically saved. The default file name is assigned to the
Stop or Daily Timer, pressing the file. There is no user interaction in this process.
7 key before the stop time has
By pressing the 9 key, the instrument will automatically
elapsed will not result in the data
reset so a new measurement may begin.
being automatically stored.
The following table shows how manual or timer-based stops
affect Auto-Store preferences in various run modes.

Run Mode Type of Stop Auto-Store Preference
Prompt Store
Timer-activated final Prompts when timer

File automatically stored
stop is complete
Timed Stop
Manually-activated
No action performed No action performed
(stop key)
Timer-activated stop Prompts when stable File automatically stored

Stop When
Stable Manually-activated Prompts when
(stop key) stopped
Prompts when timer

Timer-activated stop File automatically stored
complete
Single Block
Timer Manually-activated Prompts when
(stop key) stopped
Timer-activated final No prompt; file auto-

stop matically stored
Daily Timer
Manually-activated
No action performed No action performed
(stop key)
Table 18 - 1 Run Mode Behavior

Jack Function
The AC/DC Out/Headset Jack on the bottom of the

instrument can be configured to provide one of the
following:
As an AC/DC output of the signal from the detector. Use
with the optional AC/DC Output Cable (CBL139). The
AC output is typically directed to a frequency analyzer or
oscilloscope and the DC output is typically directed to a
strip chart recorder.
As a microphone and speaker connection when used with
the optional headset for voice recording/playback
(ACC003)
It can also be set to Off.

The jack function setting becomes Use the 8 and 2 keys to highlight the Jack Function
active as soon as it is selected. field and press 5 to obtain a listing of the choices as shown
in FIGURE 18-17.
FIGURE 18-17 Jack Function Preferences
Highlight the desired Jack Function press 5 to make the

selection.
Reset Prompting
If the Reset Prompting check box is checked, the user will

be prompted with an Are You Sure message box whenever
the 1 (RESET) key is pressed. If it is not checked, this
prompt will not appear prior to the reset action taking place.
Highlight the Reset Prompting check box. Pressing 5
toggles the state of the check box.
Takt Maximal Data
The definition of LAFTM5 is shown When this is checked, the parameter LAFTM5 is also
in T
" aktmaximal-5"on page D-21. measured and displayed on the Overall and Current tabs
and as a parameter of a Time History measurement.
USB Host Port
Note that this must be On in order to This function controls the power to the USB Port, so it must
utilize the USB Port with peripheral be set to On in order to utilize it with peripheral devices.
devices. Highlight the USB Host Port field and press 5 to obtain a
listing of the choices as shown in FIGURE 18-17.
FIGURE 18-18 USB Host Port On/Off Menu
Highlight the desired USB Host Port Status and press 5 to

make the selection. When the USB Host Port is set On,

additional data fields associated with the use of the USB
Host port will appear as shown in
FIGURE 18-19 USB Host Port Parameters
USB Storage
Data might not be copied correctly if Data can be stored to internal memory or to an external
the USB drive has not been properly memory device connected to the USB Port. The options are:
formatted. As a result, it is
No: Store only to internal memory
recommended that the drive be
formatted before using it. Auto: Store data to USB memory if available; otherwise,
store to internal memory.
Highlight the USB Storage field and press 5 to obtain a
FIGURE 18-20 USB Storage Preferences
Highlight the desired USB Storage and press 5 to make the

selection.
When data is stored to USB memory, it is first stored to
internal flash memory, a process which is much more rapid
than storing directly to USB memory. Following that, the
data is then copied to USB memory without interfering with
the operation of the instrument. When the data file has been
successfully copied, the original data file in internal memory
is deleted.
USB Serial Printer (PRN003)
It is possible to print an Overall Summary and a screenshot
of the Model 831 screen using a USB Serial Printer
(MCP8770). To do this, plug the USB printer into the USB
port and turn it on. Then, turn on the USB Port as described
in USB Host Port on page 18-14. This will add two items
to the Menu display, as shown in FIGURE 18-21 and
FIGURE 18-22.

FIGURE 18-21 Print Summary Menu Item
FIGURE 18-22 Print Screen Menu Item
Highlighting either one and pressing 5 will initiate the

corresponding print. When the print has been successfully
completed, the message shown in FIGURE 18-23 will
appear to confirm this.

FIGURE 18-23 Print Complete Message
Print Error Messages

If the user tries to print without connecting the printer or
with printer powered off, the message shown in FIGURE
18-24 will appear informing the user that the printer is not
present.
FIGURE 18-24 Printer Not Present Message
If the printer is disconnected during the printing process, the

message shown in FIGURE 18-25 will appear.
FIGURE 18-25 Printer Disconnected Message

GPS Mode
The USB Host Port must be set to On Highlight the GPS Mode field and press 5 to obtain a
for the GPS Mode field to appear. listing of the choices as shown in FIGURE 18-26.
Note that the daylight saving time is
not supported.
FIGURE 18-26 GPS Mode On/Off Menu
Highlight On and press 5 to make the selection.

When using the SLM Utility-G3 software to control the
Model 831, there are two operational modes for the GPS:
GPS On
In this mode, the GPS is always on and consuming power,
but the GPS tab is also always being updated. This can be
useful for real-time tracking of location or time.
GPS Auto
In this mode, the GPS will turn on at two different time:
At the beginning of an interval, the GPS will turn on to
record the location
During a daily autostore, the GPS will turn on to check
the time and update the internal clock if needed
Time Zone
Setting the GPS to On will open the menus to select the time
zone in which the GPS is located, as shown in FIGURE 18-
27
FIGURE 18-27 GPS Time Zone Menu
The time zone is selected by both hours (1st data field) and
minutes (2nd data field), referenced to Greenwich Mean
Time. Highlight the desired data field, and press 5 to list
the options, as shown below. Highlight the desired value and
press 5 to make a selection.

Hours
FIGURE 18-28 Time Zone: Hours
The Time Zone Hours range from -12 to +13, in integer

steps.
Minutes
FIGURE 18-29 Time Zone: Minutes
The available values range from 0 to 45, in 15 minute steps.

Localization
Note that the default values for these The Localization tab, shown in is used to select formats for
parameters are as shown in parameters which may vary from one country or region to
FIGURE 18-30. another. FIGURE 18-30.
FIGURE 18-30 Localization Tab
Highlight the parameter to be set and press 5 to view a list

of options.
Languages
The Model 831 supports the following languages:

English
Czech
French
German
Italian
Portuguese(pt)
Spanish
Swedish
Norwegian
18-20 Localization Model 831 Manual

Portuguese(br)
English is the default language.
Highlight the Language field and press 5 to obtain a
listing of the language choices as shown in FIGURE 18-31.
FIGURE 18-31 Language Preferences
Highlight the desired language and press 5 to make a

selection.
Decimal Symbol
The Model 831 supports two formats for the decimal symbol
Period (.)
Comma (,)
Highlight the Decimal Symbol field and press 5 to obtain
a listing of the choices as shown FIGURE 18-32.
FIGURE 18-32 Decimal Symbol Preferences
Highlight the desired symbol and press 5 to make the

selection.
Date Format
The Model 831 supports two formats for expressing dates

day-month-year
year-month-day
Model 831 Manual Localization 18-21

Highlight the Date Format field and press 5 to obtain a
FIGURE 18-33 Date Format Preferences
Highlight the desired Date Format and press 5 to make the

selection.
Units
The Model 831 supports both English and SI units.

Highlight the Units field and press 5 to display the Units
Menu as shown in FIGURE 18-33.
FIGURE 18-34 Units Menu
Highlight the desired Units and press 5 to make the

selection.
18-22 Localization Model 831 Manual

Displays
Note that the default values for these The Displays tab, shown in FIGURE 18-35., permits some
parameters are as shown in customization of the displays
FIGURE 18-35.
FIGURE 18-35 Displays Tab
Start
The user can select to have one of the following displays

appear when the Model 831 is switched On.
With the Start data field highlighted, press 5 to obtain a
list of options, as shown in FIGURE 18-36.
Note that this list will present only

those measurements which have
been enabled in the setup.
FIGURE 18-36 Display Start Options
Model 831 Manual Displays 18-23

Highlight the Display Start option and press 5 to make the
selection.
Selecting Displays to Appear
When there are measurement functions not being used or

data displays which are not of interest for a measurement,
the instrument operation can be streamlined by hiding
selected displays. As a default, all available displays are set
to appear.
Tab Selection
The displays to be used are selected one tab at a time.
Highlight the tabs field to list the tabs for which displays can
be set to appear or be hidden, as shown in FIGURE 18-37.
FIGURE 18-37 Displays Tab Options
Highlight the desired tab and press 5 to make the

selection.
Display Selection
The displays that can be set to appear or to be hidden are
shown below for each of the possible tab selections.
18-24 Displays Model 831 Manual

FIGURE 18-38 Live Tab Displays
FIGURE 18-39 Overall Tab Displays

Session Log Display
FIGURE 18-40 Session Log Displays
FIGURE 18-41 Current Displays

FIGURE 18-42 Measurement Displays
FIGURE 18-43 Events Displays

FIGURE 18-44 Time History Displays
All displays which have a check in their check box will

appear on the Model 831.
To modify any of the displays associated with one of the
tabs, highlight the field listing those displays and press 5
to obtain a display similar to FIGURE 18-45, where the first
item is highlighted.
FIGURE 18-45 Display; Set to Appear or Hide

Pressing the 4 key will toggle the state of the highlighted
display between Appear (checked) and Hide (unchecked).
Highlight different displays and set them as desired. When
finished setting the display types for this tab, press 5.
When all desired modifications have been made to the
displays for all tabs, press the center softkey Close to return
to the Control Panel.
Options
Note that default options, The Options tab permits the user to enable/disable installed
Community Noise for example, will options on the Model 831.
not appear in the list as they cannot
be masked. Also, RT-60,
Exceedances, 1/1 Octave, and 1/3
Octave cannot be masked while in
RT-60 mode.
FIGURE 18-46 Options Tab
Note that this is temporary and does When the option is checked in mask, it is enabled in the
not result in permanent loss of a instrument. Unchecking removes the option. To mask or
purchased option. The user is able to unmask any option(s), press 5 to enter the dialog mode.
re-enable a purchased option at any Use the 2 and 8 arrow keys to highlight each option
time and a restore/format defaults and use the 4 and 5 arrow keys to toggle the state of the
will also enable all purchased option between masked (unchecked) and unmasked
options.
Model 831 Manual Options 18-29

(checked). In Figure 18-18-47,we see that the Sound
Recorder option has been masked.
FIGURE 18-47 Sound Recorder Masked
When all selections have been made, press 5 to exit the

dialog mode and press Close, which will produce the
message shown in FIGURE 18-48
Highlight Yes and press 5, which will produce the

message shown in FIGURE 18-49 indicating that the
instrument must be rebooted for the masking/unmasking
changes to take effect.
FIGURE 18-49 Reminder to Reboot Instrument
18-30 Options Model 831 Manual

Press the 5 key to return to the System Properties Menu
and reboot the instrument.
Logic I/O
The Model 831 has one logic in line and one logic out line.
The role of these lines is defined in the Logic I/O menu,
FIGURE 18-50 Logic I/O Menu
The Logic In line receives a signal from an external device

such as the 831-INT, permitting it to initiate one of the
actions listed in FIGURE 18-51.
FIGURE 18-51 Logic In Menu
Model 831 Manual Logic I/O 18-31

Logic Out
The Logic Out line transmits a signal to an external device

such as the 831-INT, defining one of the states listed in
FIGURE 18-52.
FIGURE 18-52 Logic Out Menu
Run State
When the Logic Out is set to Run State, then the output will
be driven high when the Model 831 is running and will be
driven low when the Model 831 is stopped.
Event
When the Logic Out is set to Event, then the output is
dependent upon the event trigger settings as follows:
Level Triggering
If the event mode is set to Level Triggering, then this output
will be driven high whenever the current RMS level exceeds
the SPL1 trigger level or the current Peak level exceeds the
Peak1 trigger level. If the current RMS level is below SPL1
and the current peak level is below Peak1, then the output
will be driven low.
Dynamic
If the event trigger is set to Dynamic, then the output will be
driven high when the current SPL level exceeds the dynamic
trigger level plus the dynamic trigger offset and will be
driven low when the current SPL level is below the dynamic
trigger level plus the dynamic trigger offset.
18-32 Logic I/O Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
19 Non-Acoustical Inputs
This chapter discusses the use of external transducers and
devices to provide non-acoustical data to the Model 831.
Included are the following:
831-INT Interface Unit
Weather (Wind, Temperature and Humidity)
Location using GPS device
831-INT
For a detailed description of the

design and use of the 831-INT, see
the Larson Davis manual 831-
INT.01.
FIGURE 19-1 831-INT with Model 831 Mounted
The 831-INT is a device that connects to the Model 831

through the 831s I/O connector and enhances the
capabilities of the 831 to include interfaces for all necessary
components of a permanent noise monitoring system. These
components include the following:
Metrological Sensors: Wind Speed, Wind Direction,
Temperature, Humidity
Backup Battery Management and Charging Control
Power Management: including switch over to battery
power when mains power fails and support for solar
panels
Model 831 Manual Non-Acoustical Inputs 19-1

4-port Powered USB Hub
2 Digital I/O lines: 1 in, 1 out
Weather Measurement Using 831-INT

Note that the optional firmware 831-WTHR must be enabled
in order to measure weather parameters with the Model 831.
Larson Davis Sensors
The following devices are available from Larson Davis for

the measurement of weather data:
The SEN028, SEN029, and SEN030 SEN028 Wind Monitor: Wind Speed and Direction
products are no longer supported.
SEN029 Anemometer (Low Cost): Wind Speed and
Direction
SEN030 Sensor: Temperature and Humidity
These sensors connect to the Model 831 via the 831-INT.
Setup
The parameters controlling the measurement of weather data
are setup from the Weather tab shown in.FIGURE 19-2.
FIGURE 19-2 Weather-INT Setup
19-2 Weather Measurement Using 831-INT Model 831 Manual

The settings menu, shown in FIGURE 19-2, is used to select
which weather parameters are to be setup.
FIGURE 19-3 Weather Settings Menu
Wind Setup
The Wind Setup menu is shown in FIGURE 19-2. Most of
the parameters call for direct input of numeric values based
on the design parameters of the wind transducer or text
based on the preference of the user.
The scale setting allows the use of any pulse type of
anemometer and permits the scaling to any wind speed
metric. The Model 831 measures the frequency of the wind
speed (or tachometer) signal. The displayed value is the
measured frequency (Hz) multiplied by the calculated scale
factor of the sensor. Below is a table showing the scale
values to enter into the Model 831 for the SEN028 and
SEN029 for various units of measure. The Units is the text
label to enter into the Units field of the Model 831.
SEN028 Scale
Units of Measure SEN029 Scale
RM Young Wind Units label
(abbreviation) Davis Anemometer
Monitor
Meters per second 0.0980 1.0064 m/s

(m/s)
Kilometers per hour 0.3528 3.6230 km/h

(km/h)
Miles per hour 0.2191 2.2500 mi/h

(mi/h)
Table 19-1 Wind Sensor Scale Factor
Model 831 Manual Weather Measurement Using 831-INT 19-3

Knots 0.1904 1.9553 knots
(kn)
Feet per second 0.3216 3.3026 fps

(fps)
Table 19-1 Wind Sensor Scale Factor
Compass
The compass menu, shown in FIGURE 19-4, provides a list
of permitted formats.
FIGURE 19-4 Weather Compass Menu
Temperature Setup
FIGURE 19-5 Weather Temperature Menu
Humidity Setup
FIGURE 19-6 Weather Humidity Menu

Vaisala Weather Station
Units
Units are not configurable using the Vaisala Weather Station
(SEN-031). However, they will follow English or SI units as
configured in the System Properties dialog described in
Chapter 18.
English SI
Wind mi/h m/s
Temperature F C
Relative Humidity % RH % RH
Table 19-2 Vaisala Units

Wind Setup
The Wind Setup menu is shown in FIGURE 19-7.
FIGURE 19-7 Weather Wind Menu
Wind Dir: Choose Compass or Degrees for the display (i.e.,

ENE vs. 70.0)
Threshold: If the wind speed is above this threshold, it is
considered windy.

Excd. Pause: If set to "Yes" and wind speed exceeds Excd.
Level, sound exceedance are held off.
Excd. Level: if Excd. Pause is set to "Yes" and wind speed
exceeds this level, sound exceedance are held off.
Hysteresis: If sound exceedance are paused due to a wind
exceedance, wind speed must drop below (Excd. Level -
Hysteresis) before sound exceedance are resumed.
Temperature Setup
Note: This menu is informational

only.
FIGURE 19-8 Weather Temperature Menu

Heater Setup
The Vaisala Heater setup is shown in FIGURE 19-9.
FIGURE 19-9 Heater Setup
For more information on Vaisala The Control settings are as follows:

Heater settings, see the Vaisala
Enabled (shown above): the heater turns on or off
Heater manual.
automatically depending on the ambient
temperature.The Start Time and End Time are
dimmed.
Timer: Makes the Start Time and End Time available

for turning the heater on or off, respectively. Times are
shown in 24-hour notation.
Off: Keeps the heater always off. The Start Time and
End Time are dimmed.

Humidity Setup
Note: This menu is informational

only.
FIGURE 19-10 Weather Humidity Menu
When used with a Model 831, with the exception of

precipitation data, the Vaisala weather station is configured
to report measurements once per second. The reported
values are the average over that one second interval. Wind
Gust is the max speed detected over that interval.
The Vaisala will send precipitation information every 10
seconds if precipitation has been detected.
If the Model 831 is configured to include Vaisala weather
data in the Time History, it will be this one-second data,
even if the Time History period is set to something other
than one second. This means that if the TH interval is less
than one second, you will see a repetition of values until it is
updated by the Vaisala. Conversely, if the TH interval is
greater than one second, the reported value will be the
average over the last second only.
Precipitation data is not available in the Time History.

Display
When weather has been enabled, the measured data will

appear on both the Live and the Overall tabs.
Live Display
Instantaneous weather data appears on the Live tab shown in
FIGURE 19-11.
FIGURE 19-11 Live Weather Display

Average Weather
Average weather data appears on the Overall tab shown in
FIGURE 19-12.
.
FIGURE 19-12 Overall Weather Display
Location Measurement Using 831-INT
The optional firmware 831-GPS To provide global positioning information to the Model 831,
must be enabled in order to utilize a Larson Davis offers the GPS001 USB GPS Receiver with a
GPS with the Model 831. Note that magnetic mount. This device is connected directly to the
daylight savings time is not USB port of the Model 831,
supported.
Setup
The GPS Mode field will only appear The setup parameters for the GPS are entered using the
when the USB Host Port is set to On. Preferences tab of System Properties, shown in FIGURE
19-13.
19-10 Location Measurement Using 831-INT Model 831 Manual

FIGURE 19-13 Preferences Tab
For a detailed description of the GPS setup procedure, see

"GPS Mode" on page 18-18.
GPS Data Display
When the GPS feature is enabled by the user, the display
shown in FIGURE 19-14 will appear on the Live tab, just
above the Time, Battery Voltage and Memory display
shown in Figure 5-11 on page -5-11.
FIGURE 19-14 GPS Display
Model 831 Manual Location Measurement Using 831-INT 19-11

The GPS will turn on automatically at the beginning of
every measurement run to acquire the current position
information. The Live GPS display will show the data from
previous acquisitions instead of clearing the data when the
GPS is off. They will be cleared on if there is a GPS connect/
disconnect error.
GPS Time-Sync
The time-sync is made from the average of thirty readings
from the satellite (thirty second average) as long as there are
four or more satellites detected. The time-sync can be
performed manually or automatically when the Daily
Autostore mode is active.
Manual
Note that the manual time sync can A time-sync can be triggered manually by pressing the 5
only be performed while the (ENTER) key from the GPS display, shown in FIGURE 19-
instrument is stopped. 14.
Daily Autostore
A time-sync will be performed along with a Daily Autostore
if the time is found to be more than one second off. In this
case, the GPS is turned on two minutes prior to the autostore
time in order to gather the time and create the time
correction value that will be utilized.
Datum
The GPS uses WGS 84 as its default datum. The user can
change the datum as described in the Ho lux manual.
19-12 Location Measurement Using 831-INT Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
20 Communication
The Communication tabs are used to setup
communications between the Model 831 and a PC using
dial-up modems, GSM cellular telephones and RS-232
devices.
Control Panel - Communication
Most of the communication settings Communications between the Model 831 and a PC are
in the Model 831 can be configured implemented using G4 LD Utility. This chapter explains
using the G4 LD Utility. how to set the Model 831 for these communications.
To activate the Communication tabs, press the 3 (TOOLS)
key. Use the 8, 2, 4 or 6 keys to highlight the
Communication icon as shown in FIGURE 20-1. Navigate
down the Control Panel display to see the Communication
Icon.
Model 831 Manual Communication 20-1

Press 5 (ENTER) to open the Communication tabs, as
FIGURE 20-2 Communications Tabs
There are four possible tabs, as follows:
Status
Mode
Wireless
RS-232
The Status tab is used to monitor the status of the USB and
RS-232 ports. The next three are used to setup the three
different modes of communication available with the Model
831.
20-2 Control Panel - Communication Model 831 Manual

Modem Tab
In order to setup to use an analog The Modem tab, shown in FIGURE 20-3, is used to
USB modem, the USB Host Port implement communication using a MultiModem USB
must be set to On, as described in Analog modem and either telephone lines or dedicated lines.
USB Host Port on page 18-14.
FIGURE 20-3 Communication: Modem Tab
Most of the data fields call for direct entry of parameters.

The Modem and Dialout Settings utilize drop-down menus
as follows.
If you attempt to enable more than one device, the warning
message shown in Figure 20-4 appears.
FIGURE 20-4 Multiple Communication Device

Warning
Model 831 Manual Modem Tab 20-3

Modem
The Modem field turns On or Off the modem. Use the 2
and 8 keys to highlight the Modem field and pres 5 to
open the Modem Menu, shown in FIGURE 20-5.
FIGURE 20-5 Modem Menu
Use the 2 or 8 key to highlight On or Off and press the

5 key to make the selection.
Dialout Settings
The Dialout Settings defines when the modem is to dial up
the computer. Use the 2 and 8 keys to highlight the
Dialout Settings field and press 5 to open the Dialout
Settings Menu, shown in FIGURE 20-6.
FIGURE 20-6 Dialout Settings Menu
None
The Model 831 will not dial the designated phone number
for any reason
Event
The Model 831 will dial the designated phone number when
a valid occurs and the max of the event is greater than SPL 2
or the peak of the event is greater than Peak 3 as defined in
the trigger setting described in Level Trigger Method on
page 13-4. This feature provides the user with the ability to
log many events but only receive a call for the worst event.
However, should the user desire to receive a call for all
events, then SPL 2 can be set equal to SPL 1 and Peak 3 can
be set equal to Peak 1.
Use the 2 and 8 keys to highlight the desired setting
and press 5 to make the selection.
20-4 Modem Tab Model 831 Manual

Monitor #
Monitor number is used when there are multiple noise
monitoring sites which can communicate with the computer.
Assign these as desired.
Phone Number
This is the telephone number that the 831 will dial when
configured to dial on exceedance or alarm.
Password
The SLM Utility-G3 will not connect unless the password
sent by SLM Utility-G3 matches the password stored within
the Model 831. This is a security feature to prevent
unwanted access by someone who has the telephone number.
Init String
This is a string sent to the modem to initialize it. The string
shown in FIGURE 20-3 is the default. For PCB provided
modems, this does not need to be changed and the default
will work correctly. This parameter is made available for the
situation where a user wishes to use some other modem.
Setup
Step 1 Use the System Properties Preferences tab to set

the USB Host Port On.
Step 2 From the Communications tabs, use the Modem

tab to set the modem On.
Step 3 Connect the modem to the USB Hub. When you

connect the modem the following events should happen.
The 'TR' LED would turn on
The DATA LED would glow and turn off immediately
The 'TR' LED would stay turned on.
Step 4 Connect a powered USB hub onto the 831.
Step 5 Now the 831 is ready for incoming

connections.The status and state of the USB modem can be
checked on he Status tab discussed in on page 20-27.
Model 831 Manual Modem Tab 20-5

Common Pitfalls in Analog Modem Communication:
Ensure that the analog modem (MDMUSB-A) is

connected to the 831-INT or a powered USB Hub. It will
not work if connected directly to the Model 831 as it
cannot supply sufficient power.
Check if the modem is connected to a standard analog

phone line (sometimes called POT line)
For remote communication problems, refer the section

"Communications Watchdog" on page 20-13 in this
chapter.
Wireless Tab
In order to setup to use a wireless The Wireless tab, shown in FIGURE 20-7, is used to
modem, the USB Host Port must be implement wireless communication using GSM networks.
set to On, as described in USB Host
Port on page 18-14.
FIGURE 20-7 Communication: Wireless Tab
The Wireless field turns On or Off the wireless modem. Use

the 2 and 8 keys to highlight the Wireless Modem field
20-6 Wireless Tab Model 831 Manual

and press 5 to open the Modem Menu, shown in FIGURE
20-8.
FIGURE 20-8 Modem Menu
Use the 2 or 8 key to highlight On or Off and press

5 to make the selection.
APN
Each cellular provider has a unique APN (Access Point
Name) which is to be entered into this field.
APN Username/APN Password
Some cellular providers will also supply a specific APN
Username and Password which must be entered into these
fields.
Password
The password field is for a user-defined password that will
be used to authenticate with an application, such as SLM
Utility-G3.
Setup
Step 1 Use the System Properties Preferences tab to set

the USB Host Port On.
Step 2 From the Communications tabs use the Wireless

tab to set the wireless modem On.
In addition to a Model 831 with firmware version V1.5 or
higher, the following devices are required:
Model 831 Option file with the Advanced

Communication option.
MultiModem EDGE wireless modem with firmware 2.0

or higher
SIM Card (with a data plan)
Powered USB Hub
Model 831 Manual Wireless Tab 20-7

Step 3 Insert the SIM card and write down the telephone
number.
Step 4 Connect a Powered hub onto the 831.
Step 5 Connect the MultiModem EDGE to the USB Hub.

Boot sequence for the Modem runs as follows:
The 'PWR' LED would turn on.
The 'TR' LED would turn on.
The 'TR' LED should stay turned on.
Step 6 Wait for 3 minutes. Model 831 is ready for

incoming connections. The status of the modem can be
verified on the Communication ->Status screen, described
in on page 20-27.
FIGURE 20-9 Status Tab
RS-232 Tab
Note: Connections via the RS-232 The RS-232 option is an alternative direct connection
are slow compared to direct USB method for communicating with the Model 831. There are
connections. two basic scenarios in which the RS-232 connection may be
superior to a USB connection:
20-8 RS-232 Tab Model 831 Manual

The computer being utilized does not have a USB port.
The length of the connecting cable exceeds sixteen feet

(USB cables have a maximum usable length of 5 m or
16.5 feet while RS-232 cables can be up to 15.24 m or 50
feet long. However, both cable types can be extended by
using power hubs).
Required Components
The following are required to connect via the RS-232

interface:
WARNING: There can only be one A USB-to-RS-232 adaptor (DVX008A)

DVX008A connected to a Model 831
system at a time. Connecting more
than one will result in undesirable
behavior.
FIGURE 20-10 DVX008A
An RS-232 null modem connection (either a null modem

cable (CBL117) or a null modem adaptor)
FIGURE 20-11 Null Modem Cable
A computer with a serial port connector and an available

COM port
A Model 831 with the 831-MDM option installed and

enabled.
Setup
Step 1 From the Communications tabs use the RS-232

tab to set the RS-232 to On.
Model 831 Manual RS-232 Tab 20-9

Step 2 Connect one end of the null modem connector to
the serial port of the computer.
Step 3 Connect the other end of the null modem cable to

the USB-to-RS-232 adaptor (DVX008A).
Step 4 Connect the DVX008A to the USB port on the

Model 831.
The status and state of the wireless Step 5 Ensure that the USB port has been enabled as
modem can be checked on the Status described in USB Host Port on page -18-14.
tab.
Step 6 Use the Communication RS-232 tab, shown in
FIGURE 20-12, to set the RS-232 option to On, as shown in
FIGURE 20-13.
FIGURE 20-12 Communication: RS-232 Tab
20-10 RS-232 Tab Model 831 Manual

FIGURE 20-13 RS-232 Menu
Step 7 Set the desired Baud rate as shown in FIGURE 20-

14.
FIGURE 20-14 Baud Rate Menu
Model 831 Manual RS-232 Tab 20-11

Troubleshooting Tips
If the connection is not using the If the connection does not establish itself after a few
Larson Davis SLM Utility-G3 moments, verify the following settings on the COM port
software on the PC, it is required configuration on the PC side:
that the slmserver portion of the
SLM-Utility-G3 software be installed Baud Rate: User selectable metric; must match the
to communicate with the Model 831 connection rate on the instrument end.
since there is not currently an ASCII
character-based command set for Flow Control: None
RS-232 communication.
Data Bits: 8
Stop Bits: 1
Parity: None
SMS Out
The SMS Out tab provides options for receiving text
message alerts for events or conditions as they happen on the
meter. You can send up to three different alerts for specified
conditions.
Specify condition for text

message to be sent.
Specify phone number to
receive text message.
For SMS event detection, SPL2, not

SPL1, is used as a trigger for
sending alerts.
FIGURE 20-15 SMS Out Tab
20-12 SMS Out Model 831 Manual

Network Tab
The password on the Network tab is used to secure the
Model 831 remotely over a network. If the password is
forgotten, the Model 831 can be accessed by unlocking the
meter itself in person.
The Network tab also displays 831-INT-ET and
Communications Watchdog information.
Communications Watchdog
The Communications Watchdog reboots the Model 831
system in the events of a communication failure with either
the 831-INT-ET or the analog modem.
831-INT-ET
The only time this control needs to The Communications Watchdog is automatically enabled
be changed by a user is if the Model when the Model 831 is connected to the 831-INT-ET
831 is used with an 831-INT-ET and Docking Station. The option can be disabled on the
subsequently moved to an 831-INT. Network tab, as shown in FIGURE 20-16.
For more information, see the 831-
INT Manual.
FIGURE 20-16 Network Tab
Model 831 Manual Network Tab 20-13

A Model 831 in an 831-INT with the If the Communications Watchdog is enabled, the watchdog
watchdog enabled will reboot each count will be displayed on the Preamp page of the Live tab.
time the watchdog count expires. To The count tells how many seconds remain until the system
prevent this, disable the watchdog on will reboot. The watchdog timeout starts after 300 seconds,
the Communication Network tab. or 5 minutes, on the countdown, as shown in Figure 20-17.
On some older Model 831 meters,

the timeout limit may be increased.
FIGURE 20-17 Communications Watchdog

Countdown
When the Communications Watchdog timer expires, a

record is created in the Session Log, as described in "Session
Log Tab" in the "Data Display" chapter.
Analog Modem Connection
If an analog modem that is connected to a remote Model 831
does not respond to initialization commands after a period of
10 minutes, the Model 831 will reset the analog modem by
power cycling the USB host port.
If a USB flash memory drive is connected and copying data,
the Model 831 will wait until the data has been copied
completely before performing the USB host port power
cycle.
After the USB host port power cycle is complete, you can
then re-establish remote connection to Model 831 through
20-14 Network Tab Model 831 Manual

the analog modem. The event is indicated in the Session
Log, as shown in Figure 20-18.
FIGURE 20-18 Analog Modem Reset
Status Tab
This tab allows tracking of the status and state of attached
communication devices.
There are four separate channels that can be monitored.
Analog, Wireless, RS-232 and USB depending on which
type of device you have connected.
Model 831 Manual Status Tab 20-15

Analog
FIGURE 20-19 Status: Analog Modem
State
Note: A list of the most common Displays the current state that the device is in along with a
State values is presented in the time stamp signifying when the device entered that state. A
section States on page 20-19. Ready state signifies that the device has been initialized and
is ready for use.
Previous
Shows the previous most recent state the device was in along
with the time stamp that the state was entered. This is useful
as it enable the use to more easily follow the progress of the
device as it moves through all possible states.
In
A representation of the last data packet received on this data
channel
Out
A representation of the last data packet sent on this data
channel
Time
Displays the current date and time of the unit
20-16 Status Tab Model 831 Manual

Wireless
FIGURE 20-20 Status: Wireless Channel
State
Note: A list of the most common Displays the current state that the device is in along with a
State values is presented in the time stamp signifying when the device entered that state. An
section States on page 20-19. SMS Wait state signifies that the device has been initialized
and is waiting for a connection request.

RS-232
FIGURE 20-21 Status:RS-232
USB
FIGURE 20-22 Status: USB Channel
20-18 Status Tab Model 831 Manual

States
There are many possible states that each device can be in.
This section lists the most common ones.
Connect Wait
The wireless modem has successfully registered and
communicated with an application. This state will persist for
2 minutes before moving on to the next state.
Connected
The device is connected to and is being remotely controlled
by an application (G3-utility)
Device Found
A device has been found on one of the communication
channels and is being identified.
Disconnected
The device has been disconnected from the remote
application.
Initializing
The connected device is currently being initialized.
Internet
The wireless modem is connected to an IP address.
Sleep
It is only possible to have one device communicating at a
time. If you attempt to enable or use more than one device
the currently active device will enter a sleep state.

FIGURE 20-23 shows the wireless channel in a sleep state
as a result of a USB device also being connected to the
model 831 at the same time.
FIGURE 20-23 Sleep State Menu
SMS Init
The wireless modem has registered on the network
SMS Merge
When an SMS message has been sent via email and is too
large (>160 bytes) it is broken up and reassembled. This
state signifies that multiple SMS messages are being
reassembled.
SMS Received
An SMS message has been received by the device
SMS Wait
The wireless modem is ready to receive an SMS message
requesting connection.
Troubleshooting
When a connection to the Model 831 cannot be made via the
wireless modem, the following procedure is recommended.
Verify that the modem is enabled on the communications tab
and that the USB host port is on. A few minutes after
connecting, the PWR and TR lights should be illuminated on
20-20 Troubleshooting Model 831 Manual

the modem and the modem Status tab should show the state
as SMS wait.
FIGURE 20-24 Status SMS Wait
If the connection has not been made, verify that the default
baud rate for the wireless modem is set to 115.2k, verify that
the wireless signal strength is adequate and verify that the
modem firmware version is 2.00 or greater. This can be done
by connecting to the wireless modem using a hyper terminal
program.
Installing the Wireless Modem USB Driver
Step 1 Connect one end of the USB cable to the modem

and the other end to the PC.
Step 2 Place the wireless modem CD into the PC's CD-

ROM drive and plug the USB cable into the PC. The Add
New Hardware Wizard will display. Please follow the
installation prompts.
Model 831 Manual Troubleshooting 20-21

Wireless Modem USB Baud Rate Setup
Step 1 After installation go to the Control Panel >

Systems > Device Manager. Right-click the installed
modem and select Properties, as shown in Figure 20-25.
FIGURE 20-25 View Modem Properties

Step 2 From the Edge Modem tab, note the COM Port
displayed. Use this information in the EDGE Setup
Document.
FIGURE 20-26 COM Port Information
Step 3 Open your Windows HyperTerminal program.

This will launch the Connection Description dialog box. In
this dialog box, enter a name and click OK, as shown in
Figure 20-27.
FIGURE 20-27 Connection Description

Step 4 In the Connect Using drop down menu, select the
COM port to which the Modem is connected (This can be
found from the device manager settings. Click OK.
FIGURE 20-28 COM PORT Selection
Step 5 In Properties specify the following settings.

Bits per second: 230400
Data bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop bits: 1
Flow control: Hardware.
FIGURE 20-29 Port Settings
Step 6 From the Modem Properties dialog box click the

ASCII Setup button and specify the following:

Enable Send line ends with line feeds.
Select Echo typed characters locally (if the

characters you type in the next step are duplicated,
return to this step and uncheck this box.
FIGURE 20-30 ASCII Setup
Step 7 Go to the AT window and type OK. If the

response is correct, go to Step 9. Otherwise, proceed with
Step 8.
Step 8 Go to Modem Properties and change the bits per

second to 115200 rate and retry step 9.

Step 9 Type AT+IPR? The response should be
230400.Type AT+IPR=115200.
FIGURE 20-31 AT Window
Step 10 This change will cause communication with the

modem to cease. Return to the Modem Properties dialog box
and set the baud rate to 115200. Reconnect to the modem
Step 11 Type in the AT Window. Verify that it responds

with OK.
Step 12 Type AT+IPR? The response should be 115200.

Verify Signal Strength and Error Rate
Step 1 Type AT+CREG=1.

Step 2 Type AT+CSQ. This will return a value pair.
FIGURE 20-32 Verifying Signal Strength and Error

Rate
The first number (possible values 0-30) is the signal

strength. Any number less than 10 may mean the signal is
too weak for reliable communication. The second number
(possible values 0-7) is the error rate. For more specific
details, refer to the Multi Modem manual.
If the modem will not connect after all of these steps, the
firmware version should be verified.
Verify Firmware Version
In the HyperTerminal window type ATI. The firmware
version number will be displayed. Revision numver 2.00 or
higher should be displayed for the modem to work properly,
If it displays a lower version number, you will need to return
the modem to MultiTech or to the place of purchase for a
firmware upgrade.

CHAPTER
21 Lock/Unlock the Model 831

To prevent unauthorized use or tampering with
measurements and data, the Model 831 has a lock
feature. When this is enabled, the Model 831 is tamper
proof to a level selected by the user. There are 4 levels of
security provided by this feature.
Control Panel - Lock

To activate the Lock page, press the 3 (TOOLS) key and
highlight the Lock icon as shown in FIGURE 21-1.
Press the 5 (ENTER) key to open the Lock page.

There is one Lock page. There are three items on this page
the user may configure.
Model 831 Manual Lock/Unlock the Model 831 21-1

FIGURE 21-2 Lock Page
Highlight the Lock Mode list box. Press 5 to drop down

the list.
FIGURE 21-3 Lock Mode List
Highlight the desired lock mode. Press 5 to accept the

selection.
Lock Modes
Unlocked
The user has complete access to the features of the
instrument.
Lock w/Auto-Store
The user cannot change the data view in this mode. Only the
status line at the top of the screen is updated. A
measurement may be running when this mode is enabled or
pressing the 9 (RUN/PAUSE) key will begin a
measurement. A measurement cannot be paused. Pressing
21-2 Control Panel - Lock Model 831 Manual

the 7 (STOP/STORE) key stops the run and stores the
data but does not reset the measurement. See Chapter 21
"Locked With Auto-Store" on page 21-6.
Lock w/Manual Store
In this mode, the Auto-Store The user cannot change the data view in this mode. Only the
preference is disabled, see Chapter status line at the top of the screen is updated. Measurements
18 "Preferences"on page 18-10. may be run, paused and stopped. See Chapter 21 "Locked
With Manual-Store" on page 21-7.
Fully Locked
The user has no access to the instrument, except to start a
run. Auto-Store preferences are enabled in this mode. See
Chapter 21 "Fully Locked" on page 21-5.
A measurement cannot be reset when the Model 831 is
locked in any mode.
Unlock Code
Move the highlight to the Unlock Code Field.
FIGURE 21-4 Unlock Code
Press the 5 key. The 1st character in the field will be

highlighted. Enter the desired lock code and press the 5
key to accept the new unlock code .
Press the Close soft key to exit the Lock page.
Model 831 Manual Control Panel - Lock 21-3

Highlight Yes or No and press the 5 key to complete the
process.
Allow Cal When Locked
Move the highlight to Allow Cal. When Locked. Pressing

the 5 key will toggle the state of the check boxes shown in
FIGURE 21-6. If the box is checked, calibration will be
allowed while the unit is locked, but not running a
measurement.
FIGURE 21-6 Allow Cal Check Box
21-4 Control Panel - Lock Model 831 Manual

Fully Locked
FIGURE 21-7 Fully Locked
If you have selected Fully Locked for the Lock Mode, upon
accepting the changes, FIGURE 21-7 represents the view
you will have. At this point, the instrument is not running a
measurement. It is possible to select the Fully Locked mode
while a measurement is in progress.
Pressing the 9 key will start a measurement by bring up
the following message box.
FIGURE 21-8 Are You Sure
Highlight Yes and press the 5 key to begin the

measurement. A measurement cannot be Paused, Stopped or
Stored in the Fully Locked mode.
Model 831 Manual Fully Locked 21-5

To unlock the Model 831, press the 3 (TOOLS) key.
FIGURE 21-9 Unlock
The 5 key or the Right or Left Softkey may also be used.

Enter a 4 digit code, then press 5.
The Model 831 is unlocked and all functions are available to
the user.
Locked With Auto-Store

If the Locked w/Auto-Store mode has been selected, upon
accepting the changes on the Lock page, the view would
look as shown in FIGURE 21-10.
FIGURE 21-10 Locked with Auto Store or

Manual Store
21-6 Locked With Auto-Store Model 831 Manual

In this mode, measurements may be started by pressing the
9 key. A measurement may not be Paused or Stopped.
Pressing the 7 key will initiate storing the data file.
FIGURE 21-11 Auto-Store-Stop
Highlight the desired response and press 5. If Yes is

selected, the data file will be saved. The unit is still locked
and a new measurement may be started by pressing the 9
key. If No is selected, the data is reset and a new
measurement may be made.
Unlock
To unlock the model 831, press the 3 key, 5 or the right
or left softkey. Enter your 4 digit code, then press 5.
FIGURE 21-12 Auto-Store Unlock
The Model 831 is unlocked and all the functions are

available to the user.
Locked With Manual-Store

If the Locked w/Manual-Store mode has been selected, upon
accepting the changes on the Lock page, the view would be
In this mode, a measurement is started by pressing the 9
key. Pressing the 9 key a second time will pause the
measurement and pressing it again will continue the
measurement.
Model 831 Manual Locked With Manual-Store 21-7

The 7 key will stop a measurement Pressing it a second
time will initiate the storage process by displaying the Save
File prompt as shown in FIGURE 21-13.
FIGURE 21-13 Manual Store When Locked
Press Yes to store into the file number indicated, No to abort

the storage operation or... to overwrite a file into which data
has already been stored.
Unlock
To unlock the Model 831, press the 3 key, the 5 key or
the Right or Left Softkey. Enter your 4 digit code, then press
5.
Calibration When The Model 831 Is Locked

When the Model 831 is in any of the lock modes, and is
stopped, the unit may be calibrated. This is only possible if
the Allow Cal. When Locked check box, on the Lock
page, has been checked previous to entering Lock mode.
If the Center Softkey indicating CAL is active, as shown in
FIGURE 21-14, press this key. This will bring up the
21-8 Calibration When The Model 831 Is Locked Model 831 Manual
calibration screen. See Chapter 8 "Calibration" on page 8-1
for complete details on calibrating the Model 831.
FIGURE 21-14 Locked with Calibration Permitted
Model 831 Manual Calibration When The Model 831 Is Locked 21-9
21-10 Calibration When The Model 831 Is Locked Model 831 Manual
CHAPTER
22 About
The About tabs give summary information concerning
the instrument, available options, and instrument
identification.
Control Panel - About
To activate the About tabs, press the 3 (TOOLS) key and

highlight the About icon as shown in FIGURE 22-1.
Press the 5 (ENTER) key to open the About tabs.
There are three About tabs that may be selected using the
Right and Left Softkeys. All About tabs have one page. No
user input is required on these pages.
About
This tab gives you important information, such as Serial

Number and Firmware Revision. See FIGURE 22-2.
Model 831 Manual About 22-1

FIGURE 22-2 About Tab
Standards
The Standards tab lists the standards that the 831 meets.
See FIGURE 22-3.
FIGURE 22-3 Standards Tab
22-2 Standards Model 831 Manual

Options
The Options tab lists available options for the Model 831. A
check mark next to an option indicates that the option is
enabled. See FIGURE 22-4.
FIGURE 22-4 Options Tab
Scroll down to see more options than shown in this graphic.
Options may be added at any time, even when you are in the
field. For more information, call one of the telephone
numbers listed on the back cover or contact your local
representative, listed under Sales on the Larson Davis web
site www.LarsonDavis.com.
Model 831 Manual Options 22-3

User
This tab displays any identifying information the user may

have entered on the System Properties Device tab or when
using SLM Utility-G3 software.
FIGURE 22-5 User Tab
22-4 User Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
23 System Utilities
The System Utilities displays the File System tab, which
can be used to repair or recover from file system
problems.
Control Panel - System Utilities
Press the 2 key one time in order To activate the System Utilities, press the 3 (TOOLS) key
to see the System Utilities icon on the and highlight the System Utilities icon as shown in FIGURE
Control Panel. 23-1.
Press the 5 (ENTER) key to display the File System tab.
Model 831 Manual System Utilities 23-1

File System
The File System tab is used to repair or recover from file
system problems. The functions available on this tab are
similar to function that would be used to manage a hard
drive. See FIGURE 23-2.
FIGURE 23-2 File System
The five functions on the File System tab are

Check File System
Format
Format & Restore Defaults
Highlight the desired function and press 5 to initiate this
operation.
Warning!
Using these functions may cause a The user should only activate these functions if there
loss of data return the Model 831 to appears to be a problem.
default conditions upon restoration.
Check File System
These utilities will detect and repair file system problems.
23-2 File System Model 831 Manual

When the Check File System button is selected, the Model
831 will check the file system in the Model 831, similar to
Check Disk on a PC. If a problem is detected, an attempt
will be made to repair the problem.
Format
Selecting this function will format the internal data storage

area in the memory of the Model 831. This operates similar
to the Format function on a PC. System preferences and
settings are preserved.
Format & Restore Defaults
WARNING!
User calibrations and calibration Selecting this function formats the internal data storage area
history data are erased when this in the memory of the Model 831. The Model 831 is then
function is implemented. restored to factory settings.
The Format and Format & Restore Defaults function will
erase all internal data files, but it will not affect data stored
in USB memory.
Model 831 Manual File System 23-3

23-4 File System Model 831 Manual
CHAPTER
24 Parameters Measured
This chapter describes the different acoustic parameters

which can be measured, displayed and stored using the
Model 831.
Basic Sound Level Measurements

Frequency Weighting
See SLM Tab on page 4-4 Each of the sound level parameters measured at one time
will be frequency weighted as set by the user from the
Settings tab. The frequency weighting for RMS and Impulse
averaged sound levels will be the same, selected
independent from the frequency weighting for peak
detection.
RMS and Impulse Weighting
The Model 831 measures RMS and Impulse averaged sound
level values using one of the following user-selected
frequency weightings:
A-Weighting
C-Weighting
Z-Weighting
Peak Weighting
The Model 831 measures peak sound level values using one
of the following user-selected frequency weightings:
A-Weighting
C-Weighting
Z-Weighting
Model 831 Manual Parameters Measured 24-1

RMS Averaging
The exponential averaging time for RMS sound levels is set

to one of the following:
Slow
Fast
An impulse detector is also available.
Sound Level Metrics Measured
In Table 24-1 "Sound Level Metrics Measured" the symbol

X is used to represent the user-selected RMS and Impulse
frequency weighting (A, C or Z) and the symbol Y is used to
represent the user-selected peak frequency weighting (A, C
or Z).
Selected RMS
Averaging
Metric Fast Slow Impulse Peak Integrated
Instantaneous Sound Level LXF LXS LXI LYpeak
Maximum Sound Level LXFmax LXSmax LXImax LYpeak(max)
Minimum Sound Level LXFmin LXSmin LXImin
Equivalent Level LXIeq LXeq
Table 24-1 Sound Level Metrics Measured
1/1 and/or 1/3 Octave Frequency Spectra
The Model 831 can perform just 1/1 or 1/3 octave real-time
frequency spectra measurements or they can both be
measured simultaneously. These spectra will be made using
a user-selected frequency weighting (A, C or Z). The
averaging time is the same as that selected for the sound
level measurements (Fast, Slow or Impulse).
Spectral data is displayed on both the Live and Overall tabs,
but only the Overall Data can be stored.
24-2 Basic Sound Level Measurements Model 831 Manual

Live Tab
From the Live tab, the graphic shows the instantaneous SPL
value for all frequencies and the bar to the far right shows
the summation value for the entire frequency band. The
value corresponding to the cursor position is displayed
numerically beneath the graph.
Overall Tab
From the Overall tab, the graphic shows the energy
equivalent level calculated over the measurement time
period at each frequency band and, at the far right, for the
summation of all frequency bands. The values displayed
digitally beneath the graph represent the following data for
the frequency band at the cursor position.
Leq
Lmax
Lmin
Sound Exposure Metrics Measured
See Chapter 9 Industrial Hygiene The Model 831 measures two separate and independent sets
on page 9-1 of sound exposure metrics.
The following parameters are user-selectable:
Exchange Rate: 3, 4, 5 or 6 dB
Threshold Enable: Yes or No
Threshold Level: Numeric entry
Criterion, Level and Hours: Numeric entries
In Table 24-2: "Sound Exposure Metrics Measured" the
symbol X is used to represent the user-selected RMS and
Impulse frequency weighting (A, C or Z) and the symbol Y
is used to represent the user-selected peak frequency
weighting (A, C or Z).
Model 831 Manual Sound Exposure Metrics Measured 24-3

The symbol V is used to represent the user selected time
weighting (F, S or I)
Metric Symbol
Sound Exposure Level, SEL LXVE
Average Sound Level, Lavg LXavg
Time Weighted Average Level, TWA(x) TWA(8)
Noise Dose DOSE
Projected Noise Dose ProjDose
Daily Personal Noise Exposure, Lep,d LXep,8
Sound Exposure, E EXV
Projected 8 Hour Sound Exposure EXV8
Projected 40 Hour Sound Exposure EXV40
SEA SEA
Table 24-2:Sound Exposure Metrics Measured
Statistical Metrics Measured

Broadband Statistics
For setup of Ln Statistics, see Ln Statistical sound level parameters are very useful for
Tab on page 4-7 characterizing time-varying sounds such as environmental
noise. A widely used parameter is Ln, which represents a
sound level which is exceeded n% of the measurement time.
For example, L90 is often used as a measure of the
background noise since it is exceeded 90% of the time.
The Model 831 can calculate and display six different Ln
statistical parameters using the frequency weighting (A, C or
Z) and exponential averaging (Slow or Fast) selected when
setting it up for a sound level measurement. These six values
are user-selected over the range L0.01 to L99.99.
The SLM Utility-G3 software permits To determine broadband statistics, the sound level is
the distribution table from a saved sampled every 10 ms. into 0.1 dB wide amplitude classes
measurement to be exported to a over a 199 dB span. The resulting table, from which all
spreadsheet which could then be values of Ln between L0.01 to L99.99 can be calculated, is
utilized to calculate any possible referred to as the distribution table. This distribution table is
value of Ln over the range L0.01 to saved whenever an overall measurement is saved.
L99.99.
24-4 Statistical Metrics Measured Model 831 Manual

Although the six percentage values are user-defined as part
of the setup, these can be changed without resetting or
stopping a measurement, in order to display different values
of Ln.
Measurement History
When making automatic sequential measurements using the
measurement history feature, a distribution table is saved for
each measurement interval.
Spectral Statistics
When the spectral Ln mode has been enabled in the

frequency spectrum setup, the Model 831 will measure and
store spectral statistical data in addition to broadband
statistical data.
Spectral statistics are similar to broadband statistics except
that values of Ln are determined for every frequency band in
the measured spectrum. To determine spectral statistics, the
sound level in every frequency band is sampled every 100
ms. into 0.1 dB wide amplitude classes over a 199 dB span.
The resulting table, from which all values of Ln between
L0.01 to L99.99 can be calculated for each frequency band, is
referred to as the spectral distribution table. Both the
broadband and the spectral distribution tables are saved
whenever an overall measurement is saved. As with the
broadband distribution table, the SLM Utility-G3 software
can export the spectral distribution table from a saved
measurement to a spreadsheet which could then be utilized
to calculate any possible value of Ln for the range L0.01 to
L99.99 for all frequency bands.
Measurement History
When making automatic sequential measurements using the
measurement history feature, and the spectral Ln mode has
been enabled in the frequency spectrum setup, both the
broadband and spectral distribution tables are saved for each
measurement interval.
Model 831 Manual Statistical Metrics Measured 24-5

Exceedance Counters
See Triggers Tab on page 4-11 The Model 831 has three exceedance event counters: two
RMS event counters and three peak event counters. For each
exceedance there is a threshold level, event counter and
duration.
The thresholds LXV or LYpeak are the levels that the
parameter must exceed to increment the counter and
duration. X is RMS frequency weighting, Y is peak
frequency weighting and V is time weighting.
The Count is the number of times each parameter has exceed
the preset level.
The duration is the total accumulated duration of all
exceedances for a specific parameter.
Miscellaneous Parameters
S.E.A.
SEA is a time integration of peak levels that exceed 120 dB.
Time History (831-LOG Required)

See Chapter 11 Time History on page 11-1.
Measurement History (831-ELA Required)

See Chapter 12 Measurement History on page 12-1.
Event History (831-ELA Required)

See Chapter 13 Event History on page 13-1.
24-6 Exceedance Counters Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
25 Memory Utilization
This chapter presents formulas to calculate the amount
of memory used by the parameters which can be stored
to internal or USB memory.
Out Of Memory Stop

In order to ensure that all measured data can be stored, the
Model 831 will be stopped automatically when the amount
of available memory drops to 1 MB.
Overall Data
Each overall data block stored when performing a Save
File operation will utilize memory as follows:
Without Spectral Ln enabled: 27 kB
With Spectral Ln enabled: 307 kB
Session Log
The amount of memory utilized, in bytes, when storing a
session log is calculated as follows:
52 + 12 *(Number of records)
where Number of records includes the following:
Run
Pause
Stop
Voice Message
Markers
Sound Recording.
Model 831 Manual Memory Utilization 25-1

Measurement History
The amount of memory utilized, in bytes, when storing each
measurement history block is calculated as follows:
Base Size: 4948
Additional Noise Dose Data: 68
Additional Weather Data: 128
Additional Spectral Ln Data: 288000
Additional GPS Data: 32
Additional Takt Maximal: 4
Time History
The amount of memory utilized, in bytes, when storing a
time history block is calculated as follows:
52 + (Number of records)*[16+4*(Number of parameters enabled)]
where Number of Records = Number of Samples + Number
of Run, Pause and Stop events
Events
noise event block without event time history data is
calculated as follows:
Basic Event Data
Base Size: 90
With 1/1 Octave Spectra Data : 186
With 1/3 Octave Spectra Data: 378
With 1/1 and 1/3 Octave Spectra Data: 474
25-2 Measurement History Model 831 Manual

Event Time History Data
The 1/3 octave spectra are When event time history data are being saved, this will
measured when the spectral mode increase the amount of memory utilized as follows:
has been selected to be either 1/3
octave or 1/1,1/3 octave.
Without Spectral Data: 4*(Number of Samples)+20
With 1/1 Octave Spectra: 13*4*(Number of Samples)+20
With 1/1 Octave Spectra: 37*4*(Number of Samples)+20
Voice Messages
voice message is calculated as follows:
24+16000*(Record Length)
where Record Length is in seconds.
Sound Recording
sound recording is calculated as follows:
72+2*(Sampling Rate)*(Record Length)
where:
Sampling Rate is in Hz
Record Length is in seconds.
Model 831 Manual Voice Messages 25-3

Bad Flash Blocks
The Flash memory device used by the Model 831 contains a
controller that performs dynamic bad block mapping. In the
event that a Flash block fails after it has been written, that
bad block may be detected by the Model 831 firmware. If a
bad block is detected, the message shown in FIGURE 25-1
will be displayed.
FIGURE 25-1 Bad Flash Blocks Detected
Data in a bad Flash block is usually In this case data should be retrieved from the Model 831 and
unrecoverable. Files should be a file system format performed. Performing a file-system
checked for errors if this message is format forces the controller to re-map all bad blocks.
displayed.
25-4 Bad Flash Blocks Model 831 Manual

CHAPTER
26 Upgrade Firmware and

Options
This chapter describes the procedure for upgrading the
Model 831 firmware and/or options.
G4 LD Utility
In addition to G4 software, SLM G4 LD Utility (G4) is used to install firmware and option
Utility-G3 software can be used to upgrades, as well as providing remote control of the Model
install firmware and option 831 and downloading data to the PC.
upgrades. Refer to the SLM Utility- Access the Larson Davis website to see if you are using the
G3 Software manual for more most recent version. If not, download the latest version from
information. the website or call technical support.
The firmware will be in a zip format. Unzip the file and copy
the folder CD to the desktop and run setup.exe in the CD
folder. Follow the instructions to install the upgrade.
Insert G4 LD Utility software CD and download on to your
machine. Once download is complete, launch G4. The
shortcut will be on the desktop. Double click this shortcut to
launch the software.
Model 831 Manual Upgrade Firmware and Options 26-1

Upgrading Model 831 Firmware
G4 is used to implement the firmware upgrade and perform
the following steps:
Step 1 Connect the Model 831 to the PC or laptop via the

USB cable CBL138, which is part of the PSA029 power
supply, and launch G4.
Step 2 Before securing connection, navigate File >

Upgrade Firmware or Options.
Step 3 Select your meter, click Connect.
Step 4 After communication has been established, the

Instrument Manager, shown in FIGURE 26-1. will appear.
FIGURE 26-1 G4 Connect to Upgrade Firmware
FIGURE 26-2 Manual Control Tab
26-2 Upgrading Model 831 Firmware Model 831 Manual

Step 5 Select I have downloaded my data files.
FIGURE 26-3 SLMFirmwareProgrammer
Step 6 Click Next to proceed with the upgrade, which

will display the Select File menu shown in FIGURE 26-4.
FIGURE 26-4 Select File Menu
Model 831 Manual Upgrading Model 831 Firmware 26-3

Note that upgrades of both firmware Step 7 Click the check box Upgrade the firmware using
and options can be performed a .ROM file.
simultaneously by checking the
check boxes for both and defining
the paths to the files accordingly. See
section Upgrading Options on
page 26-5 for details on upgrading
options.
Define Path to Firmware Upgrade File
Step 8 Click Browse and use the browser to define the

path to the 831-v.rom file which was installed when you
upgraded the G4 as described in G4 LD Utility on
page 26-1. Unless you saved it to a different location, this
file will be located in the default location C:\Program
Files\PCB Piezotronics\G4.
Step 9 Click Next to display the Confirm Choices Menu,

.
FIGURE 26-5 Confirm Choices Menu
Step 10 If the choice is correct, click Finish to initiate the

firmware upgrade. Otherwise, press Back to modify the
choices or Cancel to abort the procedure.
26-4 Upgrading Model 831 Firmware Model 831 Manual

When the firmware upgrade is in progress, the status of the
upgrade process will be indicated dynamically on the screen
which, when complete, will look as shown in FIGURE 26-6.
FIGURE 26-6 Loading Firmware Screen for

Firmware Upgrade
Upgrading Options
Saving an Option Upgrade File
Before modifying the options, you will need to contact
Larson Davis and arrange to have an option upgrade file sent
to you via E-mail. This will be a .opt file. Save this file on
your PC and make note of the location.
Implementing the Option Upgrade
The procedure for changing the options to the Model 831 is
very similar to upgrading the firmware, as described in
Upgrading Model 831 Firmware on page 26-2. Follow the
instructions up until the Select File Menu shown in FIGURE
26-4 Select File Menu" appears.
Model 831 Manual Upgrading Options 26-5

Upgrades of both options and Step 1 Click the check box corresponding to the text
firmware can be performed Changing installed options using a .OPT file.
simultaneously by checking the
check boxes for both and defining
the paths to the files accordingly.
Define Path to Option Upgrade File
Step 2 Click Browse and use the browser to define the

path to the .opt file you downloaded as described in Saving
an Option Upgrade File on page 26-5.
Step 3 Click Next to display the Confirm Choices Menu.

If the choice is correct, click Finish to initiate the firmware
upgrade. Otherwise, press Back to modify the choices or
Cancel to abort the procedure.
When option upgrade is in progress, the status of the
upgrade process will be indicated dynamically on the screen.
26-6 Upgrading Options Model 831 Manual

APPENDIX
A Technical Specifications
The specifications contained in this chapter are subject to change without notice. Please refer to
calibration and measurement results for data on a specific unit.
Standards Met by Model 831

Sound Level Meter Standards
IEC61672-1 Ed. 2.0 (2013-09) Class 1, Group X
IEC60651 Ed 1.2 (2001) plus Amendment 1 (1993-02) and Amendment 2 (2000-10) Type 1,
Group X
IEC60804 (2000-10) Type 1, Group X
ANSI S1.4-2014 Class 1
ANSI S1.4-1983 (R2006) plus Amendment ANSI S1.4A-1985 (R2006) Type 1
ANSI S1.43-1997 (R2007) Type 1
DIN 45657
Octave Filter Standards (Option 831- OB3)
IEC61260 Ed. 1.0 (1995-08) plus Amendment 1 (2001-09), 1/1 and 1/3-octave Bands, Class 1,
Group X, all filters
ANSI S1.11-2004 (R2009) Class 1
Personal Noise Dosimeter Standards (Option 831-IH)
IEC61252 Ed. 1.1 (2002-03)
ANSI S1.25-1991(R2007)
Room Acoustics Standards (Option 831-RT)
ISO 3382-1:2009 Measurement of Room Acoustic Parameters Part 1: Performance Rooms
ISO 3382-2:2008 Measurement of Room Acoustic Parameters Part 2: Reverberation Time in
Ordinary Rooms
ASTM E2235 (2004) Standard Test Method for Determination of Decay Rates for Use in Sound
Insulation Test Methods.
Model 831 Manual Technical Specifications A-1

Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use
IEC61010-1 Ed. 2.0 (2001-02)
Model 831 Specifications

Features
Class 1 Precision Integrating Sound Level Meter with real-time 1/1 and 1/3 Octave Filters.
2 GB standard data memory
High contrast 1/8th VGA LCD display with white LED backlight; sunlight readable
Icon-driven graphic user interface
Soft rubber backlit keys
Large dynamic range
Time weightings: Slow, Fast, Impulse, Integration and Peak simultaneously
Integration Method: Linear or Exponential (Slow, Fast or Impulse)
Frequency weightings: A, C, Z simultaneously
1/1 and 1/3 octave frequency analysis available
Voice message annotation and sound recording available
Ln Statistics (L0.01 through L99.9 available)
1/1 or 1/3 Octave Spectral Ln Statistics available
831 Utility software available for setup, control and high speed data download with export to MS
ExcelTM
Multi-tasking processor allows measuring while viewing data or transferring data
Data Secure Feature saves data to permanent memory every minute
Communication Options: RS-232, modem with Dial-up mode, or Ethernet with 831-INT-ET
AC/DC outputs
Long battery life; > 8 hours continuous measurement
Table A-1 Model 831 Features
A-2 Model 831 Specifications Model 831 Manual

Multiple Language Support
Field-upgradeable firmware: keeps instrument current with the latest measurement features
Two-year limited warranty
Table A-1 Model 831 Features
Sound Level Meter Specifications
RMS Time weighting: Slow, Fast or Impulse

Frequency Weightings A, C or Z
Peak detector Frequency weighting A, C or Z
Reference range: 0 dB Gain and Octave Band
Analysis Normal Range
Exchange rates: 3, 4, 5, or 6 dB with optional 831-IH
Sample rate: 51,200 Hz
Peak rise time s
Integration Method Linear or Exponential
Table A-2 Sound Level Meter Specifications
FFT Specifications
Frequency Span 100 Hz - 20 kHz in a 1-2-5 sequence

FFT Lines 400, 800, 1600, 3200, or 6400
Windowing Functions Hanning, Flat-Top, or Rectangular
Frequency Weighting A, C, or Z
Zoom Graphical
Units dB re 20 Pa
Output Magnitude
Table A-3 FFT Specifications
Model 831 Manual Model 831 Specifications A-3

Performance Specifications
For performance specifications of the Model 831 with the PRM2103 preamplifier, see the Larson
Davis PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier Manual.
PRM831 with 377B02

Direct Input
Microphone
Gain 0 dB 20 dB 0 dB 20 dB
Measurement A 28 - 140 dB 24.9 - 120 dB N/A N/A
Range1 C 29 - 140 dB 27 - 120 dB N/A N/A
Z 35 - 140 dB 34 - 120 dB N/A N/A
Noise Floor1 A 18 dB 17 dB 11.3 dBV - 2.1 dBV
C 18 dB 17 dB 12.5 dBV - 2.4 dBV
Z 23 dB 21 dB 18.9 dBV - 3.1 dBV
Linearity Range2 A 115 dB 101 dB 116 dBV 112dBV
24 to 140 dB 19 - 120 dB 24 - 140 dBV 9 - 121 dBV
C 114 dB 96 dB 118 dBV 113dBV
25 - 140 dB 23 - 120 dB 22 - 140 dBV 8 - 121 dBV
Z 106 dB 86 dB 113 dBV 107dBV
32 - 140 dB 32 - 120 dB 27 - 140 dBV 14 - 121 dBV
Peak Range2 A 66 - 143 dB 46 - 123dB 76 - 143 dBV 56 - 124 dBV
C 66 - 143 dB 46 - 123 73 - 143 dBV 53 - 124 dBV
Z 77 - 143 dB 59 - 123 dB 78 - 143 dBV 58 - 124 dBV
SPL Max Level2 140 dB 120 dB 140 dBV 121 dBV
Peak Max Level2 143 dB 123 dB 143 dBV 124 dBV
Max Level 140 dB 120 dB 140 dBV 120 dBV
Normal Octave
Band Analysis
(OBA) Range2
Max Level 107 dB 87 dB 107 dBV 87 dBV
Low OBA Range2
1
Microphone and electrical self-noise included
2
Electrical Measurements
Table A-4 Model 831 Performance Specifications

The Octave Band Analysis specifications in the following tables were determined with an ADP090
equivalent microphone.
Nominal PRM 831 Direct Input2

Frequency (Hz) 0 dB Gain +20 dB Gain 0 dB Gain (dB) +20 db Gain (dB)
(dB) (dB)
8.0 78 83 78 83
62 to 140 37 to 120 62 to 140 dBV 37 to 120 dBV
16.0 85 88 85 88
55 to 140 32 to 120 55 to 140 dBV 32 to 120 dBV
31.5 87 89 87 89
53 to 140 31 to 120 53 to 140 dBV 31 to 120 dBV
63.0 92 90 92 90
48 to 140 30 to 120 48 to 140 dBV 30 to 120 dBV
125.0 95 89 95 89
45 to 140 31 to 120 45 to 140 dBV 31 to 120 dBV
250.0 94 92 94 92
Normal OBA Range Linearity Range1
46 to 140 28 to 120 46 to 140 dBV 28 to 120 dBV

500.0 90 91 90 91
50 to 140 29 to 120 50 to 140 dBV 29 to 120 dBV
1000.0 95 95 95 95
45 to 140 25 to 120 45 to 140 dBV 25 to 120 dBV
2000.0 92 95 92 95
25 to 120 48 to 140 dBV 25 to 120 dBV
4000.0 90 92 90 92
50 to 140 28 to 120 50 to 140 dBV 28 to 120 dBV
8000.0 88 87 88 87
52 to 140 33 to 120 50 to 140 dBV 33 to 120 dBV
16000.0 85 85 85 85
55 to 140 35 to 120 55 to 140 dBV 35 to 120 dBV

8.0 93 73 93 73
14 to 107 14 to 87 14 to 107 dBV 14 to 87 dBV
16.0 94 73 93 77
13 to 107 14 to 87 14 to 107 dBV 10 to 87 dBV
31.5 98 78 98 78
9 to 107 9 to 87 9 to 107 dBV 9 to 87 dBV
63.0 101 81 101 81
Low OBA Range, Linearity Range1
6 to 107 6 to 87 6 to 107 dBV 6 to 87 dBV

125.0 103 83 103 83
4 to 107 4 to 87 4 to 107 dBV 4 to 87 dBV
250.0 105 84 105 84
2 to 107 3 to 87 2 to 107 dBV 3 to 87 dBV
500.0 105 85 105 85
2 to 107 2 to 87 2 to 107 dBV 2 to 87 dBV
1000.0 105 87 105 87
2 to 107 0 to 87 2 to 107 dBV 0 to 87 dBV
2000.0 105 90 105 90
3 to 107 -3 to 87 3 to 107 dBV -3 to 87 dBV
4000.0 102 90 105 90
5 to 107 -3 to 87 3 to 107 dBV -3 to 87 dBV
8000.0 99 87 99 87
8 to 107 0 to 87 8 to 107 dBV 0 to 87 dBV
16000.0 96 85 96 85
12 to 107 2 to 87 12 to 107 dBV 2 to 87 dBV
1
Electrical measurements, microphone noise not included.
2
Typical preamplifier noise included, direct-in electrical performance using CBL093 may
be better than indicated at low frequencies
Table A-5 Octave Band Analysis Performance Specifications

Gain (0 dB) Gain (20 dB)
SPL Max Level 135 dBV 116 dBV
Peak Max Level 138 dBV 119 dBV
Octave Band Analysis (OBA) 135 dBV 116 dBV

Max Level,
Normal range
OBA Max Level, 102 dBV 83 dBV

Low Range
ICP Constant Current 2.2 0.2 mA
ICP Open Circuit Voltage 32 to 36 VDC
Table A-6 ADP074 ICP Adapter Performance Specifications
Length with microphone and preamplifier 11.35 inches 29.0 cm
Length, instrument body only 8.80 inches 22.4 cm
Width 2.80 inches 7.10 cm
Depth 1.60 inches 4.10 cm
Weight with batteries; no preamplifier or 13.6 oz 390 g

microphone
Weight with batteries, preamplifier and 1.2 lb 550 g

microphone
Table A-7 Physical Characteristics

General Specifications
Reference level 114.0 dB SPL
Reference level range Single large Range for SLM

Normal for Octave Band Analysis option
Reference frequency 1000 Hz
Reference direction 0 is perpendicular to the microphone

diaphragm
Influence of Temperature 0.5 dB error between

-10 C and 50 C
Operating Temperature -25 C to +50 C (-13 F to +122 F)
Storage temperature -25 C to +70 C (-13 F to +158 F)
Influence of Humidity 0.5 dB error from 30% and 90%

relative humidity at 40 C
Equivalent microphone 12 pF for Larson Davis 1/2 microphone

impedance
Range level error (OBA option) 0.1 dB relative to the reference range
Digital Display Update Rate Once per second. First display indication
is available 0.25 seconds after initiation of
a measurement
Filename Requirements Up to 12 characters long using letters A

to Z and a to z; numbers 0 to 9;
symbols . period, - dash and _
underscore.
Effect of an extension cable None (up to 200 feet)

(EXCXXX) on calibration
Electrostatic Discharges The instrument is not adversely affected

by electrostatic discharges
Table A-8 General Specifications

I/O Connector Specification
The 831 meter includes an I/O connector for peripherals and external power, or other external devices.
For example:
CBL143 and CBL151 cables: these cables permit the Model 831 to be powered from external
12 V batteries.
CBL154 cable: used to obtain power from a battery when used with the 426A12
831-INT: integrates the Model 831 with outdoor microphone units (426A12 and PRM2100K)
and weather transducers
PRM2103, 426A12 and 2101K: Model 831 provides control signals to these outdoor
microphone units when not used with 831-INT
I/O Connector Pinouts
The pinouts for the I/O Connector are as shown in Table A-9 " Model 831 I/O Pinouts".
Pin # Description Signal Type

1 Ground, Digital and Power Supply Ground
2 Logic Out 1, Logic Control Output Output, 0 to +2.7 V
3 831 Activity Output, 0 to +2.7 V
4 Logic In, Logic Control Input Input, 0 to +5 V
5 Ground, Digital and Power Supply Ground
6, 7 Vext, External Power Input Input, +10.8 to +30 V, 0.5 A
auto-resetting PTC fuse
8 SensorClk_L, LD 426A12 digital sensor clock Output, open drain, +20 V max. open
and 50 mA max. closed
9 SensorDIO, LD 426A12 digital sensor data Bi-directional, +2.7 to +5 V logic,
open drain
10 CalOn_H, LD 426A12 calibration signal on Output, 0 to +2.7 V
11 Ovld, LD 426A12 overload detection signal Input, 0 to +5 V
12 Mains Power Status; OK when +2.7 V Input, 0 to +2.7 V
13 +2.7 V to supply logic switches Output, +2.7 V through 220
14 WindSpeedIn, Pulse input for wind speed Input, +5 Vpp max.
sensors
Table A-9 Model 831 I/O Pinouts

Pin # Description Signal Type
15 Vwthr1, Analog to Digital Converter Input,
Wind Direction
16 Vwthr2, Analog to Digital Converter Input, Input, 0 to +2.048 V, 100k load,
Temperature scale with series resistor
17 Vwthr3, Analog to Digital Converter Input,

Humidity
18 Analog Ground, Signal ground for pins 15 Ground
through 17
Table A-9 Model 831 I/O Pinouts
1. To enable the Logic In, Logic Control Input feature, when making your own cable, pin 12 (Mains
Power Status) must be driven by a resistance lower than about 20k. This may be done by connecting
a 10k resistor from pin 12 to either pin 13 (+2.5V, to simulate running on Mains power) or to pin 1 or
5 (Ground, to indicate running on external battery power). Pin 4 needs to be driven high to assert the
Logic In and pulled low to de-assert the input. It should not be left floating. This can be done with a
momentary push-button switch from pin 4 to pin 13 with a 10k pull down resistor to ground (10k
from pin 4 to pin 1 or 5).

Resolution Specifications
Levels 0.1dB
Dose 0.01%
Elapsed time 0.1 second
Real time clock 1 second
Calendar 01 Jan 2005 - 31 Dec 2038
Table A-10 Resolution Specifications
Frequency Weightings
Z- A C Electrical Microphone
Nominal Exact
Weight Weight Weight Limits: Limits:
Frequency Frequency
(Ideal) (Ideal) (Ideal) Class 1 Class 1
6.3 6.31 0.0 -85.3 -21.3
8.0 7.94 0.0 -77.8 -17.7
10 10.00 0.0 -70.4 -14.3 + 1.4, - 0.7 1.5
12.5 12.59 0.0 -63.4 -11.2 + 0.5, - 0.6 1.3
16 15.85 0.0 -56.7 -8.5 + 0.4, -0.5 1.0
20 19.95 0.0 -50.5 -6.2 + 0.3, -0.4 0.5
25 25.12 0.0 -44.7 -4.4 0.2 0.5
31.5 31.62 0.0 -39.4 -3.0 0.2 0.5
40 39.81 0.0 -34.6 -2.0 0.2 0.5
50 50.12 0.0 -30.2 -1.3 0.5 0.5
63 63.10 0.0 -26.2 -0.8 0.5 0.5
80 79.43 0.0 -22.5 -0.5 0.5 0.5
100 100.00 0.0 -19.1 -0.3 0.5 0.5
Table A-11 Frequency Weightings

Z- A C Electrical Microphone
Nominal Exact
Weight Weight Weight Limits: Limits:
Frequency Frequency
(Ideal) (Ideal) (Ideal) Class 1 Class 1
125 125.00 0.0 -16.1 -0.2 0.5 0.5
160 158.50 0.0 -13.4 -0.1 0.2 0.5
200 199.50 0.0 -10.9 0.0 0.2 0.5
250 251.20 0.0 -8.6 0.0 0.2 0.5
315 316.20 0.0 -6.6 0.0 0.2 0.5
400 398.10 0.0 -4.8 0.0 0.2 0.5
500 501.20 0.0 -3.2 0.0 0.2 0.5
630 631.00 0.0 -1.9 0.0 0.2 0.5
800 794.30 0.0 -0.8 0.0 0.2 0.5
1000 1000.00 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.5
1250 1259.00 0.0 0.6 0.0 0.2 0.5
1600 1585.00 0.0 1.0 -0.1 0.2 0.5
2000 1995.00 0.0 1.2 -0.2 0.2 0.5
2500 2512.00 0.0 1.3 -0.3 0.2 0.5
3150 3162.00 0.0 1.2 -0.5 0.2 0.5
4000 3981.00 0.0 1.0 -0.8 0.2 0.5
5000 5012.00 0.0 0.5 -1.3 0.2 0.75
6300 6310.00 0.0 -0.1 -2.0 0.2 1.0
8000 7943.00 0.0 -1.1 -3.0 0.2 1.0
10000 10000.00 0.0 -2.5 -4.4 0.2 1.0
12500 12590.00 0.0 -4.3 -6.2 0.2 1.5
16000 15850.00 0.0 -6.6 -8.5 0.3 2.0
20000 19950.00 0.0 -9.3 -11.2 0.5 2.0
Table A-11 Frequency Weightings

Typical Z-Weight Frequency Response
For frequency responses of the Model 831 with the PRM2103 preamplifier, see the Larson Davis
PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier Manual.
831 with PRM831 Typical Z wt Frequency Response

0 dB Gain
Frequency Level
Hz dBV 831 Z wt High Pass Frequency Response
0.10 57
0.13 56.99
0.16 57.21 130
0.20 57.14
0.25 63.93
0.32 72.46 120
0.40 78.44
0.50 76.13
0.63 82.74 110
0.79 88.16
1.00 96.03
1.26 103.36 100
1.59 110.93
2.00 118.3
dBV
2.51 125.06 90
3.16 128.69
3.98 129.48
5.01 129.57 80
6.31 129.61
7.94 129.71
10.00 129.79 70
12.59 129.84
15.85 129.88
19.95 129.92 60
25.12 129.94
31.62 129.95
39.81 129.96 50
50.12 129.96 0.1 1.0 10.0 100.0
63.10 129.97
79.43 129.97 Hz
100.00 129.98
Amplitude Units: dBV
FIGURE A-1 High Pass Frequency Response

831 with PRM831 Typical Z wt Frequency Response
0 dB Gain
Frequency Level
Hz dBV
831 Z wt Low Pass Frequency Response
1000 129.99
1259 130.00
1585 130.00
130
1995 130.01
2512 130.01
3162 130.02
3981 130.02 120
5012 130.02
6310 130.03
7943 130.03 110
10000 130.03
12589 130.01
15849 129.93
19953 129.67 100
21544 129.51
23263 128.63
dBV
25119 124.77 90
27123 113.81
29286 83.73
31623 63.62
80
34145 70.14
36869 71.18
39811 73.65
42987 73.30 70
46416 66.57
50119 67.04
54117 72.08 60
58434 73.93
63096 59.09
68129 74.58
73564 75.80 50
79433 76.23 1000 10000 100000
85770 73.94
92612 72.14 Hz
100000 76.57
Amplitude Units: dBV
FIGURE A-2 Low Pass Frequency Response

AC/DC Output
The purpose of the AC output is to drive a headset to listen to live and recorded sounds. It may be used
for other purposes, but may not function as expected as a source for additional analysis equipment.
The output is amplified for listening purposes and therefore is limited in its maximum output to be less
than the instruments maximum input level. For connection to external analysis equipment use the
adapter ADP015 and cable EXC006 to extract the signal directly from the preamplifier output. When
using the PRM831 preamplifier, there will be a DC bias on the output of the BNC connector of the
ADP015 of approximately + 17 Volts.
AC/DC Output Connector 2.5 mm Sub-Miniature Phone Jack

Tip: DC Output
Ring: AC Output
Sleeve: Ground
AC Output Voltage Range Vpeak maximum output

0.5 mV to 1.6 Vrms sine wave
~70 dB dynamic range
AC Output Gain + 19.2 dB

(relative to instrument input)
AC Output Frequency Weighting Signal is unweighted with frequency limitations imposed by

hardware design (see below)
AC Output Frequency Response 20 Hz to 23.6 kHz (-3 dB), RL= 10 k

21 Hz to 23.6 kHz (-3 dB), RL= 600
95 Hz to 23.6 kHz (-3 dB), RL= 16
AC Output Recommended Loads Headset with 16 or greaterspeaker impedance

Resistive loads greater than 600 for maximum frequency
response range.
AC Output Impedance Low impedance headset speaker driver with 100 F coupling
capacitor. Z = 1.5 + 1592/f, where Z is output impedance in
(Ohms) and f is frequency in Hz.
Instrument readings are not affected by AC output loading
although a short circuit when there is a large signal output
may draw excessive power such that the instrument could
power off.
AC Output Phase and Delay - 180relative to input, 128 s digital delay
DC Output Frequency Weighting Follows the SLM Frequency Weighting: A, C or Z
Table A-12 AC/DC Output

DC Output Time Weighting Follows the SLM Detector: F, S or I
DC Output Voltage Range 0 to +3 Volt (0 to 300 dB)

V0 = SPL/100
SPL = 100*V0
or
Sensitivity = 0.01 V/dB with resolution of 0.001 V
DC Output Impedance 3650
DC Output Recommended Loads for less than 0.4% error

A 10 DC Voltmeter represents negligible error (-0.036%).
The output resistance can be accounted for in the interface
design. For example, if a chart recorder has an input load of
10 kthe gain can be set to 1.365 to correct for the loading.
Table A-12 AC/DC Output
Min/Max Integration Time
Minimum and maximum integration time for measurement of time-average levels and sound exposure
levels.
Time Average Levels and Sound Exposure Levels, (s)
Minimum 0.1
Maximum Unlimited
(daily autostore enabled)
Maximum > 23 days

(daily autostore disabled, errors less
than 0.5 dB)
Dosimeter Metrics: TWA, Dose (s)
Minimum 0.1
Maximum Unlimited
Table A-13 Min/Max Integration Time

Time of Day Drift
The Model 831 displays the time of day and also time-stamps various single events (i.e. maximum
level) and records.
Time-of-day clock accuracy is shown in Table A-14 (applies only to instruments serial number 2089
and above with firmware version 1.600 or above).
Drift per
Drift per Day Drift per Year
Temperature Month ppm
(seconds) (minutes)
(seconds)
25C 1 2 2.0
-10 to +50C 2 2.8
-40 to +70C 2 3.5
Table A-14 Time of Day Drift
Time Variations Between Session Log and Overall Start Time
The Session Log and the Run/Stop record in the Time History contain the time when the 9?RUN/
PAUSE button was pressed. The Overall display shows the time when logging begins. Since it takes
some time before data is available to be logged after starting to run, there can be a small difference
between these times.
This discrepancy can show up on the Model 831 where time resolution is in seconds. An example of
would be when the 9 (RUN/PAUSE) button is pressed a moment before the seconds digit
transitions. Data to be logged is available a moment later but the Seconds digit has changed. In this
situation the difference will appear to be a full second. In actuality the difference is closer to 1/10 of a
second.

Power Supply
Batteries 2
4-AA (LR6) NiMH, Alkaline or Energizer L91 e Lithium
cells (supplied with 2500 mAH NiMH cells).
Warning: Use of battery cells with greater than 1.5 Volt
specified rating can damage the instrument and void the
warranty.
External Power Powered through USB interface from computer or from

PSA029 AC to DC Power Adapter: 5 Volt 5% required.
Applying a voltage greater than specified can damage the
instrument and void the warranty.
External Power Power through I/O connector: 10 to 15.5 Vdc. Use cable
CBL154 for 426A12, CBL140 for PSA027, or Model 831-
INT Interface Unit
Table A-15 Power Supply Specifications
Battery Operating Lifetime
Battery Operating Life, Hours
4-AA (LR6) NiMH Cells >8
Table A-16 Battery Operating Lifetime
Power Consumption
Model 831 Operating State Watts mA @ 12 Volts mA @ 15 Volts
Running, Backlight Off, USB not connected 1.1 95 76
Running, Backlight Off, USB connected to PC 1.7 142 114
Running, Backlight Bright, USB connected to PC 2.9 238 190
Table A-17 Power Consumption

Memory Retention
Data Memory Permanently stored in non-volatile flash mem-

ory every one minute. If power failure, maxi-
mum data loss will be less than one minute
Real-time Clock 10 minutes
Table A-18 Memory Retention Without Batteries or External Power
PSA029 AC to DC USB Power Adapter Specifications
DC Output Voltage 5 Volts
DC Output Regulation Line: 5%

Load:
DC Output Load Minimum: 0 A

Maximum: 0.5 A
DC Output Connector USB Type A Jack

(USB Cable, type A to mini-B supplied)
AC Input Voltage 90 to 264 Vac
AC Input Frequency 47 to 63 Hz
AC Input Current 0.15 Arms, 120 Vac at maximum load

0.08 Arms, 230 Vac at maximum load
Ac Inrush Current 30 A for 120 Vac at maximum load

60 A for 240 Vac at maximum load
Efficiency 55% typical
Power Saving 0.3 W maximum, no load, 230 Vac, 50 Hz
Temperature Operation: -25 to +50C (-13F to +122F)

Storage: - 40C to + 85C
Humidity Operation: 10% to 90%

Storage: 5% to 85%
Safety Approvals cUL/UL, CE, TEV, C-Tick and SAA
Emissions FCC Part 15 Class B

EN55022 Class B
Table A-19 PSA029 AC to DC USB Power Adapter Specifications

Immunity EN61000-4-2, Level 4
EN61000-4-3, Level 2
EN61000-4-4, Level 2
EN61000-4-5, Level 3
EN61000-4-6, Level 3
EN61000-4-11
Harmonic EN6100-3-2 (A1 +A2 + A14)
Flicker EN6100-3-3
Leakage Current 0.20 A maximum 254 Vac, 54 Hz
Dielectric Withstand (Hipot) 3,000 Vac, 1 minute, 10 mA
MTBF (Full Load, 25C) kHrs
AC Input Plugs (supplied) USA: RPA

Europe: RPE
UK: RPK
Australia: RPS
Dimensions/Weight Length: 75.32 mm (2.97 in)

Height: 31.67 mm (1.25 in)
Width: 45.96 mm (1.81 in)
Weight: 61.1 g (2.16 oz)
Table A-19 PSA029 AC to DC USB Power Adapter Specifications

Declaration of Conformity
FIGURE A-3 Declaration of Conformity

1/1 and 1/3 Octave Filters
The 1/1 and 1/3 octave filters (Option 831-OB3) comply with all requirements of IEC 61260 Ed 1.0
(1995-08) including amendment 1 (2001-09) for Class 1 and all requirements of ANSI S1.11-2004 and
ANSI S1.11-1 for Class 1. These digital filters are sampled at a rate of 51,200 samples per second,
with base X10 center frequencies and having real-time performance for all filters. The 0 dB gain
setting is the reference range and the reference input signal is 1 Volt rms at 1 kHz.
When testing filters, an ADP092 adaptor should be used. If this is not available, a 2-pole filter with
cutoff frequency of 75 kHz can be used as an alternative.
Frequency Range
1/1 Octave Filters: 8 Hz to 16 kHz
1/3 Octave Filters: 6.3 Hz to 20 kHz

Filter Shape
The following figure represents the filter shape for the 1/3 octave band centered at 1 kHz. Overlaid
with this curve is the limit curves associated with IEC 61260 Ed 1.0 (1995-08) Class 1.
A-22 1/1 and 1/3 Octave Filters Model 831 Manual

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FIGURE A-4 Passband of 1kHz 1/3 Octave Filter
Model 831 Manual 1/1 and 1/3 Octave Filters A-23

1/1 Octave Filter Linearity
The filter linearity range depends upon both the Input Gain, which is set as described in the section "20
dB Gain" on page 4-5, and the Filter Range, which is set as described in the section "OBA Range
Setting" on page 4-7.The data, which were measured using an electrical input, are in dB re. 1 V,
which is equivalent to dBSPL when a 50 mV/Pa microphone is used
Range Normal Low Normal Low
Lower Lower Lower Lower
Linearity Linearity Noise Linearity Linearity Noise Linearity Linearity Noise Linearity Linearity Noise
Frequency Overload Range Limit Floor Overload Range Limit Floor Overload Range Limit Floor Overload Range Limit Floor
8.0 140.8 78.9 61.9 31.9 107.5 75.5 32.0 14.1 120.7 83.7 37.0 16.2 87.4 52.4 35.0 13.7
16.0 140.8 85.8 55.0 31.9 107.5 78.7 28.8 12.8 120.7 88.7 32.0 14.7 87.4 59.4 28.0 10.0
31.5 140.8 87.8 53.0 30.4 107.5 80.5 27.0 8.8 120.7 89.7 31.0 14.3 87.4 58.4 29.0 9.0
63.0 140.8 92.8 48.0 29.5 107.5 81.5 26.0 6.2 120.7 90.7 30.0 12.9 87.4 60.4 27.0 5.8
125.0 140.8 95.8 45.0 31.1 107.5 84.5 23.0 4.4 120.7 89.7 31.0 12.6 87.4 65.4 22.0 4.1
250.0 140.8 94.8 46.0 31.1 107.5 90.5 17.0 2.2 120.7 92.7 28.0 11.2 87.4 70.4 17.0 2.8
500.0 140.8 90.8 50.0 33.5 107.5 92.5 15.0 2.1 120.7 91.7 29.0 12.1 87.4 69.4 18.0 2.0
1000.0 140.8 95.7 45.1 31.7 107.5 88.5 19.0 2.0 120.7 95.7 25.0 12.0 87.4 70.4 17.0 0.2
2000.0 140.8 92.7 48.1 33.6 107.5 92.5 15.0 2.5 120.7 95.6 25.1 13.8 87.4 75.4 12.0 -2.9
4000.0 140.8 90.8 50.0 36.7 107.5 90.5 17.0 5.1 120.7 92.6 28.1 16.7 87.4 77.4 10.0 -2.3
8000.0 140.8 88.8 52.0 40.3 107.5 87.5 20.0 8.3 120.7 87.7 33.0 20.2 87.4 75.4 12.0 -0.4
16000.0 140.8 85.8 55.0 43.6 107.5 84.5 23.0 11.5 120.7 85.7 35.0 23.5 87.4 73.4 14.0 2.0
Table A-20 1/1 Octave Linearity Range

1/1 Octave Filter Summation Error
The Octave Filter Summation Error shown in the following graphs is defined by IEC61260 4.9.
1/1 Octave Sum m ation(UURU

Summation(UURU (dB)
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
-0.5
-1
-1.5
-2
8.058 18.84 44.03 102.9 240.6 562.3 1314 3073 7182
Frequency
FIGURE A-5 Gain = 0 dB, Filter Range = Normal

Summation(UURU (dB)
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
-0.5
-1
-1.5
-2
8.058 18.57 42.78 98.57 227.1 523.3 1206 2778 6401 14749
Frequency
FIGURE A-6 Gain = 0 dB, Filter Range = Low

Summation(UURU (dB)
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
-0.5
-1
-1.5
-2
8.058 21.13 55.43 145.4 381.3 1000 2623 6879
Frequency

Summation(UURU (dB) 2
1.5
1
0.5
0
-0.5
-1
-1.5
-2
8.058 18.84 44.03 102.9 240.6 562.3 1314 3073 7182
Frequency

1/3 Octave Filter Linearity
The filter linearity range depends upon both the Input Gain, which is set as described in the section "20
dB Gain" on page 4-5, and the Filter Range, which is set as described in the section "OBA Range
Setting" on page 4-7.The data, which were measured using an electrical input, are in dB re. 1 V,
which is equivalent to dBSPL when a 50 mV/Pa microphone is use.
Range Normal Low Normal Low
Lower Lower Lower Lower
Linearity Linearity Linearity Linearity Linearity Linearity Linearity Linearity
Frequency Overload Range Limit Noise Floor Overload Range Limit Noise Floor Overload Range Limit Noise Floor Overload Range Limit Noise Floor
6.3 140.8 88.1 52.0 27.6 107.5 71.5 36.0 12.3 120.7 81.7 39.0 13.5 87.0 53.0 34.0 9.9
8 140.8 91.8 49.0 26.7 107.5 74.5 33.0 9.6 120.7 87.7 33.0 12.7 87.0 47.0 40.0 9.6
10 140.8 92.8 48.0 28.4 107.5 78.5 29.0 8.3 120.7 87.7 33.0 11.3 87.0 58.0 29.0 9.3
12.5 140.8 91.8 49.0 28.2 107.5 75.9 31.6 8.8 120.7 89.7 31.0 9.1 87.0 59.0 28.0 7.9
16 140.8 91.8 49.0 25.5 107.5 76.7 30.8 6.9 120.7 88.7 32.0 10.6 87.0 60.0 27.0 6.8
20 140.8 92.8 48.0 27.7 107.5 78.7 28.8 6.0 120.7 90.7 30.0 9.8 87.0 59.0 28.0 5.6
25 140.8 94.8 46.0 25.7 107.5 81.5 26.0 5.5 120.7 87.7 33.0 8.8 87.0 60.0 27.0 5.9
31.5 140.8 93.8 47.0 26.5 107.5 85.5 22.0 5.3 120.7 90.7 30.0 8.4 87.0 64.0 23.0 4.1
40 140.8 93.8 47.0 25.7 107.5 85.5 22.0 3.6 120.7 92.7 28.0 8.1 87.0 63.0 24.0 2.6
50 140.8 95.8 45.0 25.2 107.5 86.5 21.0 1.5 120.7 92.7 28.0 7.7 87.0 66.0 21.0 2.5
63 140.8 97.8 43.0 25.7 107.5 87.5 20.0 1.5 120.7 95.7 25.0 8.4 87.0 67.0 20.0 2.9
80 140.8 98.8 42.0 25.8 107.5 83.5 24.0 1.2 120.7 93.7 27.0 7.5 87.0 71.0 16.0 2.7
100 140.8 97.8 43.0 25.0 107.5 84.5 23.0 0.5 120.7 96.7 24.0 7.6 87.0 69.0 18.0 2.3
125 140.8 96.8 44.0 24.6 107.5 87.5 20.0 -1.4 120.7 94.7 26.0 6.2 87.0 71.0 16.0 -0.3
160 140.8 100.8 40.0 25.2 107.5 88.5 19.0 -1.8 120.7 95.7 25.0 4.4 87.0 73.0 14.0 -2.4
200 140.8 99.8 41.0 25.6 107.5 87.5 20.0 -1.8 120.7 99.7 21.0 5.8 87.0 71.0 16.0 -1.5
250 140.8 99.8 41.0 27.7 107.5 93.5 14.0 -3.0 120.7 98.7 22.0 4.8 87.0 75.0 12.0 -3.0
315 140.8 101.8 39.0 26.5 107.5 96.5 11.0 -2.5 120.7 99.7 21.0 5.6 87.0 74.0 13.0 -3.1
400 140.8 97.8 43.0 26.0 107.5 95.5 12.0 -2.0 120.7 96.7 24.0 8.1 87.0 75.0 12.0 -3.6
500 140.8 98.8 42.0 25.9 107.5 89.5 18.0 -2.1 120.7 92.7 28.0 5.6 87.0 79.0 8.0 -3.1
630 140.8 101.7 39.1 25.8 107.5 96.5 11.0 -2.3 120.7 100.7 20.0 6.0 87.0 80.0 7.0 -4.2
800 140.8 100.7 40.1 26.5 107.5 94.5 13.0 -3.0 120.7 99.7 21.0 6.1 87.0 81.0 6.0 -4.1
1000 140.8 97.8 43.0 26.9 107.5 95.5 12.0 -3.1 120.7 100.7 20.0 6.4 87.0 81.0 6.0 -4.9
1250 140.8 99.8 41.0 27.8 107.5 97.5 10.0 -2.9 120.7 100.7 20.0 7.6 87.0 79.0 8.0 -6.6
1600 140.8 100.8 40.0 28.3 107.5 96.5 11.0 -2.6 120.7 100.7 20.0 8.0 87.0 82.0 5.0 -7.4
2000 140.8 100.8 40.0 28.8 107.5 97.5 10.0 -2.1 120.7 100.7 20.0 8.7 87.0 82.0 5.0 -7.7
2500 140.8 99.8 41.0 29.8 107.5 96.5 11.0 -1.5 120.7 99.7 21.0 9.6 87.0 81.0 6.0 -7.6
3150 140.8 96.8 44.0 30.9 107.5 94.5 13.0 -0.4 120.7 98.7 22.0 10.6 87.0 81.0 6.0 -7.6
4000 140.8 97.7 43.1 31.9 107.5 94.5 13.0 0.4 120.7 97.7 23.0 11.6 87.0 82.0 5.0 -7.0
5000 140.8 95.7 45.1 33.1 107.5 92.5 15.0 1.4 120.7 96.7 24.0 13.0 87.0 82.0 5.0 -6.5
6300 140.8 93.8 47.0 33.9 107.5 93.5 14.0 2.4 120.7 94.7 26.0 14.1 87.0 81.0 6.0 -6.1
8000 140.8 91.8 49.0 35.5 107.5 91.5 16.0 3.5 120.7 92.7 28.0 15.0 87.0 80.0 7.0 -5.2
10000 140.8 92.7 48.1 36.6 107.5 90.5 17.0 4.5 120.7 93.7 27.0 16.4 87.0 79.0 8.0 -4.5
12500 140.8 91.7 49.1 37.6 107.5 89.5 18.0 5.8 120.7 91.7 29.0 17.5 87.0 79.0 8.0 -3.6
16000 140.8 90.8 50.0 38.6 107.5 89.5 18.0 6.5 120.7 91.7 29.0 18.5 87.0 78.0 9.0 -2.9
20000 140.8 88.8 52.0 40.2 107.5 87.7 19.8 8.2 120.7 89.7 31.0 20.2 87.0 77.0 10.0 -1.6
Table A-21 1/3 Octave Linearity Range

1/3 Octave Filter Summation Error
The Octave Filter Summation Error shown in the following graphs is defined by IEC61260 4.9.
1/3 Octave Filter Sum m ation
2
1.5
1
Error (dB)
0.5
0
-0.56.31 15.25 36.87 89.13 215.4 520.8 1259 3043 7356 17783
-1
-1.5
-2
Frequency
2
1.5
1
Error (dB)
0.5
0
-0.5
-1
-1.5
-2
6.31 15.11 36.17 86.6 207.3 496.4 1189 2846 6813 16312
Frequency

2
1.5
1
Error (dB)
0.5
0
-0.56.31 15.25 36.87 89.13 215.4 520.8 1259 3043 7356 17783
-1
-1.5
-2
Frequency
Gain = 20 dB, Filter Range = Normal
2
1.5
1
Error (dB)
0.5
0
-0.5
-1
-1.5
-2
6.31 15.11 36.17 86.6 207.3 496.4 1189 2846 6813 16312
Frequency

Minimum Residual Filter Decay Time for RT 60 (option 831-RT)
Table A-21 on page A-27 shows the residual decay time (TR) and the bandwidth-time product (BT)
for each of the filters on the Model 831. This data was taken by feeding the output of the internal pink
noise source into the input of the Model 831 using a CBL09x. The residual decay time for each
frequency is the T30 of the ensemble average of 50 decays.
Frequency 1/3 Octave 1/1 Octave

TR (ms) BT TR (ms) BT
50.0 Hz 378 4.37
63.0 Hz 301 4.38 160 7.12
80.0 Hz 216 3.96
100 Hz 181 4.18
125 Hz 153 4.43 86 7.63
160 Hz 119 4.34
200 Hz 94 4.32
250 Hz 75 4.36 40 7.10
315 Hz 55 4.04
400 Hz 43 3.93
500 Hz 37 4.26 16 5.62
630 Hz 29 4.18
800 Hz 24 4.44
1000 Hz 13 3.11 8 5.56
1250 Hz 17 4.97
1600 Hz 16 5.85
2000 Hz 12 5.38 6 8.87
2500 Hz 11 6.30
3150 Hz 11 6.30
4000 Hz 10 9.45 5 13.63
5000 Hz 8 9.42
6300 Hz 5 7.27
800 Hz 10 18.69 5 28.50
10000 Hz 7 17.05
Table A-22 Residual Decay Times
Pink Noise Generator Levels
Pink Noise Generator Levels are pseudo-random, uncorrelated, and produced by digital algorithm.

Position of Instrument and Operator
When making a measurement, it is recommended that the observer be positioned as far behind and to
the right of the instrument as possible to minimize interference of the sound field at the microphone
resulting from body reflections. When using the Model 831, the meter is held in one hand with the arm
extended away from the body. Better results can be obtained by using a tripod.
Effect of Windscreen
The corrections which should be subtracted from the measured data when using the Larson-Davis
Model WS001 3 inch diameter windscreen with a inch Larson-Davis microphone are as indicated
in the following table.
Directional Response Effect of 3 Inch Wind Screen on 377B02 Microphone Attached to Model 831
Frequency Angle from Reference direction (degrees)
(Hz) 0 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120 135 150 165 180
251.19 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
266.07 0.00 0.00 0.03 -0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 -0.03 0.03 0.00 -0.03 -0.03 0.00
281.84 0.00 0.10 0.07 -0.03 -0.07 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.07 0.00 -0.03 0.03 0.00
298.54 0.07 0.07 0.00 0.00 -0.03 0.00 0.03 -0.03 -0.03 0.03 -0.10 0.03 0.00
316.23 0.00 0.03 0.07 0.00 -0.07 -0.03 0.00 -0.03 0.03 -0.03 -0.10 0.07 0.00
334.97 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 -0.07 -0.03 0.07 -0.13 0.00 0.00 -0.07 0.07 0.00
354.81 0.03 0.07 0.10 -0.03 -0.07 0.00 0.00 -0.03 0.03 0.03 -0.03 0.03 0.00
375.84 0.03 0.07 0.03 0.00 -0.03 -0.03 0.00 -0.03 0.03 0.00 -0.10 0.00 0.00
398.11 0.00 0.00 0.10 -0.03 -0.03 0.00 0.00 -0.03 0.07 -0.03 -0.07 0.07 0.07
421.70 0.00 0.00 0.07 0.03 -0.07 -0.03 0.00 -0.03 0.03 0.00 -0.07 0.00 0.00
446.68 0.00 0.03 0.03 -0.03 0.00 -0.03 0.10 0.03 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
473.15 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.00 0.03 -0.03 0.07 0.00 0.03 0.00 -0.07 0.03 0.00
501.19 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.07 -0.03 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.13 0.10 -0.07 0.03 0.00
530.88 0.03 0.10 0.13 0.07 -0.07 0.07 0.03 0.03 0.07 0.00 -0.03 0.03 0.00
562.34 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.07 0.00 -0.03 0.13 0.10 -0.03 0.00 0.07
595.66 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.07 -0.03 0.03 0.00 0.00 0.10 0.07 -0.03 0.07 0.00
630.96 0.03 0.00 0.07 -0.03 0.00 0.07 0.10 0.07 0.13 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10
668.34 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.00 0.03 0.03 0.07 0.00 0.03 0.10 0.00
707.95 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.07 0.10 0.07 0.03 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.00
749.89 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.00 -0.03 0.10 0.07 0.13 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10
794.33 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.13 0.10 0.07 0.13 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10
841.40 0.03 0.07 0.10 0.07 0.03 0.07 0.10 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10
891.25 0.10 0.07 0.10 0.00 0.03 0.07 0.03 0.07 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.10 0.10
944.06 0.13 0.17 0.20 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.13 0.17 0.20 0.17 0.03 0.17 0.13
1000.00 0.20 0.10 0.13 0.07 0.03 0.17 0.10 0.17 0.23 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10
1059.25 0.10 0.10 0.23 0.17 0.13 0.07 0.10 0.07 0.13 0.10 0.03 0.10 0.10
1122.02 0.20 0.23 0.23 0.13 0.13 0.17 0.10 0.17 0.23 0.20 0.13 0.13 0.10
1188.50 0.20 0.10 0.23 0.07 0.13 0.17 0.10 0.17 0.13 0.20 0.13 0.17 0.10
1258.93 0.13 0.17 0.23 0.17 0.13 0.17 0.23 0.13 0.23 0.17 0.13 0.10 0.20
1333.52 0.20 0.20 0.33 0.27 0.13 0.17 0.20 0.23 0.23 0.20 0.13 0.20 0.10
1412.54 0.20 0.20 0.23 0.17 0.23 0.17 0.20 0.27 0.23 0.20 0.13 0.17 0.20
1496.24 0.23 0.20 0.23 0.17 0.23 0.17 0.20 0.27 0.23 0.27 0.13 0.10 0.20
1584.89 0.33 0.30 0.37 0.30 0.27 0.27 0.33 0.27 0.30 0.27 0.20 0.27 0.30
1678.80 0.30 0.30 0.40 0.37 0.33 0.27 0.30 0.27 0.33 0.20 0.17 0.20 0.27
1778.28 0.40 0.40 0.43 0.37 0.33 0.33 0.40 0.37 0.33 0.40 0.13 0.30 0.30
1883.65 0.40 0.40 0.43 0.37 0.33 0.37 0.40 0.37 0.33 0.30 0.23 0.30 0.30
1995.26 0.40 0.50 0.43 0.47 0.43 0.47 0.40 0.37 0.37 0.40 0.23 0.33 0.30
2113.49 0.50 0.50 0.53 0.47 0.43 0.47 0.40 0.47 0.43 0.37 0.33 0.33 0.40
2238.72 0.50 0.50 0.53 0.47 0.43 0.47 0.50 0.47 0.47 0.40 0.30 0.40 0.40
2371.37 0.50 0.50 0.53 0.47 0.43 0.47 0.50 0.47 0.53 0.50 0.33 0.50 0.40
2511.89 0.50 0.57 0.53 0.57 0.50 0.57 0.53 0.53 0.53 0.50 0.37 0.47 0.47
2660.73 0.53 0.53 0.57 0.57 0.50 0.50 0.60 0.50 0.53 0.50 0.43 0.50 0.43
2818 38 0 57 0 53 0 57 0 60 0 50 0 50 0 53 0 53 0 57 0 57 0 43 0 57 0 50
Continued on next page
Model 831 Manual Position of Instrument and OperatorA-31

Frequency Angle from Reference direction (degrees)
(Hz) 0 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120 135 150 165 180
2818.38 0.57 0.53 0.57 0.60 0.50 0.50 0.53 0.53 0.57 0.57 0.43 0.57 0.50
2985.38 0.40 0.50 0.43 0.57 0.43 0.50 0.57 0.53 0.57 0.57 0.37 0.50 0.50
3162.28 0.40 0.40 0.53 0.50 0.33 0.57 0.50 0.47 0.53 0.50 0.43 0.50 0.50
3349.65 0.30 0.40 0.37 0.37 0.37 0.43 0.40 0.40 0.43 0.43 0.40 0.50 0.50
3548.13 0.23 0.27 0.33 0.30 0.23 0.37 0.33 0.33 0.37 0.40 0.33 0.40 0.40
3758.37 0.20 0.23 0.13 0.17 0.23 0.27 0.20 0.23 0.33 0.37 0.27 0.40 0.30
3981.07 0.10 0.10 0.13 0.13 0.00 0.13 0.10 0.10 0.23 0.20 0.13 0.27 0.23
4216.97 0.03 0.00 0.10 0.03 -0.10 0.07 0.00 -0.03 0.07 0.03 0.03 0.10 0.13
4466.84 0.00 -0.07 -0.07 -0.07 -0.17 -0.07 -0.10 -0.10 -0.07 0.00 -0.07 0.00 0.00
4731.51 -0.30 -0.20 -0.17 -0.23 -0.27 -0.30 -0.30 -0.43 -0.27 -0.20 -0.37 -0.20 -0.20
5011.87 -0.17 -0.20 -0.17 -0.30 -0.27 -0.23 -0.40 -0.33 -0.37 -0.40 -0.37 -0.30 -0.30
5308.84 0.00 -0.10 -0.07 -0.23 -0.30 -0.33 -0.40 -0.43 -0.47 -0.50 -0.60 -0.43 -0.43
5623.41 0.00 -0.07 -0.03 -0.17 -0.20 -0.33 -0.37 -0.43 -0.47 -0.50 -0.53 -0.43 -0.43
5956.62 0.17 0.07 0.10 -0.13 -0.17 -0.23 -0.33 -0.37 -0.43 -0.50 -0.57 -0.50 -0.40
6309.57 0.10 0.20 0.23 -0.03 -0.07 -0.03 -0.10 -0.33 -0.37 -0.40 -0.47 -0.40 -0.30
6683.44 0.13 0.10 0.20 0.07 -0.03 -0.03 -0.13 -0.17 -0.27 -0.33 -0.40 -0.40 -0.20
7079.46 0.03 0.07 0.07 0.07 0.03 0.00 -0.10 -0.13 -0.17 -0.27 -0.27 -0.23 -0.13
7498.94 -0.10 -0.10 -0.07 -0.03 -0.07 -0.03 -0.20 -0.23 -0.27 -0.20 -0.27 -0.10 -0.10
7943.28 -0.30 -0.37 -0.30 -0.23 -0.33 -0.23 -0.33 -0.40 -0.37 -0.33 -0.33 -0.20 -0.17
8413.95 -0.40 -0.37 -0.37 -0.43 -0.53 -0.43 -0.57 -0.57 -0.57 -0.50 -0.43 -0.23 -0.37
8912.51 -0.40 -0.50 -0.37 -0.53 -0.67 -0.63 -0.70 -0.73 -0.73 -0.80 -0.73 -0.50 -0.50
9440.61 -0.37 -0.40 -0.37 -0.50 -0.67 -0.70 -0.70 -0.83 -0.77 -0.90 -0.93 -0.77 -0.60
10000.00 -0.13 -0.20 -0.27 -0.43 -0.57 -0.57 -0.77 -0.83 -0.77 -0.90 -0.97 -0.90 -0.70
10592.54 -0.20 -0.20 -0.17 -0.40 -0.47 -0.47 -0.70 -0.83 -0.83 -0.83 -0.97 -0.87 -0.70
11220.18 -0.47 -0.43 -0.37 -0.43 -0.53 -0.47 -0.70 -0.90 -0.77 -0.80 -0.77 -0.90 -0.67
11885.02 -0.67 -0.73 -0.63 -0.60 -0.73 -0.57 -0.83 -0.90 -0.83 -0.87 -0.73 -0.70 -0.70
12589.25 -0.57 -0.73 -0.83 -0.87 -0.97 -0.97 -1.00 -1.00 -1.00 -1.17 -1.07 -0.90 -0.90
13335.21 -0.70 -0.67 -0.63 -0.83 -1.00 -1.17 -1.10 -1.07 -1.07 -1.37 -1.53 -1.20 -1.13
14125.38 -0.40 -0.50 -0.57 -0.60 -0.90 -1.00 -1.00 -1.20 -1.17 -1.37 -1.63 -1.47 -1.20
14962.36 -0.70 -0.73 -0.53 -0.73 -0.97 -0.90 -1.10 -1.33 -1.23 -1.50 -1.53 -1.43 -1.13
15848.93 -0.90 -0.90 -0.97 -1.03 -1.27 -1.13 -1.30 -1.60 -1.37 -1.57 -1.37 -1.40 -1.17
16788.04 -0.90 -1.07 -1.00 -1.30 -1.33 -1.47 -1.50 -1.53 -1.40 -1.70 -1.77 -1.43 -1.43
17782.79 -0.87 -0.93 -0.93 -1.10 -1.33 -1.53 -1.70 -1.57 -1.67 -1.73 -2.30 -2.00 -1.70
18836.49 -0.90 -1.10 -0.90 -1.10 -1.43 -1.43 -1.70 -1.83 -1.80 -1.83 -2.13 -2.27 -1.77
19952.62 -1.27 -1.30 -1.13 -1.47 -1.73 -1.67 -2.07 -2.30 -1.97 -2.23 -2.13 -1.97 -1.67
Table A-23 Directional Response of 3 1/2" Windscreen
A-32 Position of Instrument and Operator Model 831 Manual

Frequency Response
For frequency response information with PRM2103 preamplifiers and EPS2116 environmental shells, see the
respective manuals for these products.
Plane Parallel to Display Screen
Model 831 Manual Frequency Response A-33

0
-1
-2
-3
-4
Decibels (dB re 1000 Hz @ 0)
Mic at n
-5
20
-6
60
-7
100
-8
140
-9
180
-10
-11
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)
FIGURE A-12 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone
-1
-2
-3
-4
-5
Mic at n
-6 40
-7 80
-8 120
-9 160
-10
-11
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)
A-34 Frequency Response Model 831 Manual

0
-1
-2
-3
-4
Mic at n
-5
10
-6
50
-7
90
-8
130
-9
170
-10
-11
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)
-1
-2
-3
-4
-5
Mic at n
0
-6
30
-7
70
-8
110
-9
150
-10
-11
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)

Directional Characteristics
0
350 10
340 2 20
330 30
-2
320 40
310 -6 50
300 60
-10
290 70
-14
280 -18 80
270 -22 90 1000 Hz
260 100
250 110
240 120
230 130
220 140
210 150
200 160
190 170
180
FIGURE A-16 Model 831 with 377B02: 1000 Hz

0
350 10
340 2 20 Frequency (Hz)
330 30 281.84
-2
320 40
354.81
310 -6 50 446.68
300 60
562.34
-10
707.95
290 70
-14 891.25
280 80
1122.02
-18
1412.54
270 -22 90 1778.28
2238.72
260 100
2818.38
250 110 3548.13
4466.84
240 120
5623.41
230 130 7079.46
220 140 8912.51
210 150 11220.18
200 160
190 170
180
FIGURE A-17 Model 831 with 377B02
0
350 10
2
340 20 Frequency (Hz)
330 30
-2
266.07
320 40
334.97
310 -6 50
421.7
300
-10
60 530.88
668.34
290 70
-14
841.4
280 -18 80 1059.25
1333.52
270 -22 90
1678.8
260 100
2113.49
2660.73
250 110 3349.65
4216.97
240 120
5308.84
230 130
6683.44
220 140 8413.95
210 150
10592.54
200 160
190 170
180

0
350 10
340 2 20 Frequency (Hz)
330 30 298.54
-2
320 40
375.84
310 -6 50 473.15
300 60
595.66
-10
749.89
290 70
-14 944.06
280 80
1188.5
-18
1496.24
270 -22 90 1883.65
2371.37
260 100
2985.38
250 110 3758.37
4731.51
240 120
5956.62
230 130 7498.94
220 140 9440.61
210 150 11885.02
200 160
190 170
180
0
350 10
2
330 30
-2
251.19
320 40
316.23
310 -6 50
398.11
300
-10
60 501.19
630.96
290 70
-14
794.33
280 -18 80 1000
1258.93
270 -22 90
1584.89
260 100
1995.26
2511.89
250 110 3162.28
3981.07
240 120
5011.87
230 130
6309.57
220 140 7943.28
210 150
10000
200 160
190 170
180

Plane Perpendicular to Display Screen

0
-1
-2
-3 Mic at n
-4
20
-5
340
60
-6
300
-7
100
-8
260
-9
140
-10
220
-11
180
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)
-1
-2
-3
Mic at n
-4
40
-5
320
-6 80
-7 280
-8 120
-9 240
-10
160
-11
200
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)

0
-1
-2
-3 Mic at n
-4
0
-5
30
330
-6
70
-7
290
-8
110
-9
250
-10
150
-11
210
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)
-1
-2
Mic at n
-3
10
-4
350
-5
50
-6 310
-7 90
-8 270
-9 130
-10
230
-11
170
190
-12
-13
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)

Directional Characteristics
0
350 10
340 2 20
330 30
Frequency Hz
-2 266
320 40
335
310 -6 50
422
300 60
-10 531
290 70
668
-14
841
280 -18 80 1059
1334
270 -22 90
1679
260 100 2113
2661
250 110
3350
240 120 4217
5309
230 130
6683
220 140
8414
210 150
200 160
10593
190 170
180
0
350 10
2
330 30
-2
282
320 40
355
310 -6 50
447
300
-10
60 562
708
290 70
-14
891
280 -18 80 1122
1413
270 -22 90
1778
260 100
2239
2818
250 110 3548
4467
240 120
5623
230 130
7079
220 140 8913
210 150
11220
200 160
190 170
180

0
350 10
2
330 30
-2 299
320 40
376
310 -6 50
473
300
-10
60 596
750
290 70
-14
944
280 -18 80 1189
1496
270 -22 90
1884
260 100 2371
2985
250 110
3758
240 120
4732
5957
230 130
7499
220 140
9441
210 150
11885
200 160
190 170
180
0
350 10
340 2 20
Frequency (Hz)
330 30
320
-2
40
251
316
310 -6 50
398
300 60
-10 501
290 70 631
-14
794
280 80
-18 1000
1259
270 -22 90
1585
260 100 1995
2512
250 110
3162
240 120 3981
5012
230 130
6310
220 140
7943
210 150
200 160 10000
190 170
180

Random Incidence
-2
Randomized
-4
Decibels (dB re 1000 Hz)
-6
-8
-10
-12
-14
200
2000
20000
Frequency (Hz)
FIGURE A-29 Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone: Random Incidence

Noise Levels
The noise of the Model 831 includes contributions from the following components:
Instrument and preamplifier
Microphone
Noise Level as a Function of 1/3 Octave Frequency Bands
In the following sections, the noise levels for each component, and the total, are presented as a
function of 1/3 octave frequency bands.
Typical Noise of Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone, 0 dB Gain, Low Range
10
4
Noise (dB SPL)
2
Total Noise
0
-2
Electronic Noise
-4
-6
-8 Microphone
Noise
-10
10000
12500
16000
20000
1000
1250
1600
2000
2500
3150
4000
5000
6300
8000
10.0
12.5
16.0
20.0
25.0
31.5
40.0
50.0
63.0
80.0
100
125
160
200
250
315
400
500
630
800
8.0
Frequency (Hz)
FIGURE A-30 Noise of Model 831 with 377B02: 0 dB Gain, Low Range

Typical Noise of Model 831 with 377B02 Microphone, 0 dB Gain, Normal Range
40
35
30
25 Total Noise Electronic Noise

Noise (dB SPL)
20
15
10
-5 Microphone
Noise
-10
10000
12500
16000
20000
1000
1250
1600
2000
2500
3150
4000
5000
6300
8000
10.0
12.5
16.0
20.0
25.0
31.5
40.0
50.0
63.0
80.0
100
125
160
200
250
315
400
500
630
800
8.0
Frequency (Hz)
FIGURE A-31 Noise of Model 831 with 377B02: 0 dB Gain, Normal Range

10
Noise (dB SPL)
0 Total Noise
-5
Microphone Electronic Noise

Noise
-10
10000
12500
16000
20000
1000
1250
1600
2000
2500
3150
4000
5000
6300
8000
10.0
12.5
16.0
20.0
25.0
31.5
40.0
50.0
63.0
80.0
100
125
160
200
250
315
400
500
630
800
8.0
Frequency (Hz)

25
20
15
Noise (dB SPL)
10
Total Noise Electronic Noise
-5
Microphone
Noise
-10
10000
12500
16000
20000
1000
1250
1600
2000
2500
3150
4000
5000
6300
8000
10.0
12.5
16.0
20.0
25.0
31.5
40.0
50.0
63.0
80.0
100
125
160
200
250
315
400
500
630
800
8.0
Frequency (Hz)

Noise Level as a Function of Octave Frequency Bands
In the following sections, the noise levels for each component, and the total, are presented as a
function of octave frequency bands.
15
10
Total Noise
Noise (dB SPL)
Electronic Noise
0
Microphone
-5 Noise
-10
16000
1000
2000
4000
8000
16.0
31.5
63.0
125
250
500
8.0
Frequency (Hz)

50
40
30 Total Noise Electronic Noise

Noise (dB SPL)
20
10
0 Microphone
Noise
-10
16000
1000
2000
4000
8000
16.0
31.5
63.0
125
250
500
8.0
Frequency (Hz)

15
10
Noise (dB SPL)
5 Total Noise
Microphone Electronic Noise

-5 Noise
-10
16000
1000
2000
4000
8000
16.0
31.5
63.0
125
250
500
8.0
Frequency (Hz)

30
25
20
15
Noise (dB SPL)
Total Noise Electronic Noise
10
0
Microphone
Noise
-5
-10
16000
1000
2000
4000
8000
16.0
31.5
63.0
125
250
500
8.0
Frequency (Hz)

Broadband Noise Levels
The A, C and Z-weighted self-generated noise levels, including 377B02 microphone are presented in
Table A-24.
6HOI*HQHUDWHG(OHFWULFDO1RLVH
G%JDLQ G%JDLQ
:HLJKWLQJ W\SLFDOG% PD[G% 7\SLFDOG% PD[G%
$
&
=
6HOI*HQHUDWHG7RWDO1RLVH
G%JDLQ G%JDLQ
$
&
=

&RPELQDWLRQRIWKHHOHFWURQLFQRLVHDQGWKHWKHUPDOQRLVHRIWKH%PLFURSKRQHDW&
PHDVXUHGLQDVHDOHGFDYLW\DQGYLEUDWLRQLVRODWHGZLWKDQDYHUDJLQJWLPHRIVHFRQGV

(OHFWURQLFQRLVHRIWKHLQVWUXPHQWZLWKDQ$'3S)LQSODFHRIWKHPLFURSKRQH

+LJKHVWDQWLFLSDWHGVHOIJHQHUDWHGQRLVH
Table A-24 831 Self-generated Noise

Microphone Preamplifier Specifications
For PRM2103 preamplifier specifications, see the PRM2103 Manual.
Nominal Nominal
Preamplifier Microphone Microphone Preamplifier Nominal Sensitivity at 831 Input Sensitivity Limits
Type Type Sensitivity Gain High Low
mV/Pa dB mV/Pa dB re. 1V/Pa dB re. 1V/Pa dB re. 1V/Pa
PRM831 377B02 50 -0.1 49.4 -26.1 -23.1 -29.1
PRM831 377B20 50 -0.1 49.4 -26.1 -23.1 -29.1
PRM831 377B01 2 -2.1 1.57 -56.1 -52.1 -60.1
PRM831 377B10 1 -2.1 0.79 -62.1 -58.1 -66.1
426A12
0 dB Gain 377B02 50 -0.1 49.4 -26.1 -23.1 -29.1
426A12
20 dB Gain 377B02 50 19.9 494.3 -6.1 -3.1 -9.1
426A12
0 dB Gain 377B20 50 -0.1 49.4 -26.1 -23.1 -29.1
426A12
20 dB Gain 377B20 50 19.9 494.3 -6.1 -3.1 -9.1
1
with ADP043
FIGURE A-38 Model 831 with Various Microphones and Preamplifiers

Model PRM831
The Larson Davis PRM831 is an electret microphone preamplifier for use with a Larson Davis Model
831 Sound Level Meter. It requires very little supply current and will drive 300 feet of cable. The
preamplifier operates over wide temperature and humidity ranges. It has very little attenuation for use
with 50 mV/Pa sensitivity microphones up to 140 dBSPL.
Specifications
Frequency response
with respect to the response at 1 kHz with 1 Volts rms input and 12 pF equivalent microphone.
8 Hz to 16 Hz +0.1, -0.2 dB
16 Hz to 100 kHz +0.1, -0.1 dB
Lower -3 dB limit < 1.5 Hz
Attenuation
0.1 dB (typical)
Input Impedance
10 G Ohm // 0.16 pF
Output Impedance
50 Ohm
Maximum Output
28 Vpp
143 dB peak for microphones with 50 mV/Pa sensitivity
Maximum Output Current
12 mA peak
Distortion
Harmonics <-70 dBC with 8 Volt rms output at 1 kHz

Output Slew Rate
2 V/S (typical)
Electronic Noise
with 12 pF equivalent microphone
1.8 V typical A-weighted (2.4 V max)
4.3 V typical Flat 20 Hz to 20 kHz (5.0 V max)
Power Supply Voltage
15 to 36 Volts
DC Output Level
~1/2 power supply voltage
Power Supply Current
1.9 mA typical
Temperature Sensitivity
<0.05 dB from -40 to +80 C (14 to +176 F)

Humidity Sensitivity
<0.05 dB from 0 to 90% RH, non-condensing at 50 C (122 F)
Dimensions
12.7 mm diameter x 73 mm length (0.50" diameter x 2.88" length)
Microphone Thread
11.7 mm - 60 UNS (0.4606 - 60 UNS)
Cable Driving Capability (<0.1 dB error)
Model 831 SLM: 10 V rms output signal, full scale

To 50 kHz with 10 (3 m) cable

To 6.3 kHz with 1000 (305 m) cable
Model 831: 3 V rms signal, 10.5 dB below full scale
Test Conditions
All values are at 23 C, 50% RH, 35 Volt supply, 3 m (10') cable and equivalent microphone of 12 pF
unless otherwise stated.

Output Connector
Switchcraft TA5M
5-Pin male
Pin Signal
1 Signal Ground
2 Signal Output
3 Power Supply + 35 Volts
4 Preamp sense
5 No Connection
Shell Connect to preamp housing
Table A-25 Output Connector
Compatibility
Use with " electret microphone having about 50 mV/Pa sensitivity and meeting the mechanical
requirements of IEC 61094-4 or " electret microphone using the Larson Davis ADP043 adapter.
In the interest of constant product improvement, specifications are subject to change without notice.
Larson Davis provides a complete line of acoustic measurement tools including dosimeters, sound
level meters, real time analyzers, preamps, calibrators and microphones.

Preamplifier Model: PRM831 Serial Number: 10123
Certificate of Electrical Conformance
Frequency response of this model PRM831 preamplifier was tested at a level of 1 Vrms with 12pF microphone
capacitance and driving a short cable. Output level at 1kHz is 0.9878 Vrms (-0.107 dBV), uncertainty 0.033 dB.
Results are displayed relative to the level at 1kHz.
0.5
Level 0.0
(dB)
-0.5
-1.0
-1.5
-2.0
2.5 5 10 20 50 100 200 501 1000 1995 5012 10000 19953 50000 100000
Frequency (Hz)
Freq (Hz) Measured (dB) Uncert (dB) Tolerance (dB) Freq (Hz) Measured (dB) Uncert (dB) Tolerance (dB)
--------- ------------- ----------- -------------- --------- ------------- ----------- --------------
2.51 -1.05 0.075 -0.82, -1.26 630.96 -0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
3.16 -0.70 0.058 -0.54, -0.86 794.33 -0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
3.98 -0.46 0.058 -0.34, -0.58 1000.00 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
5.01 -0.30 0.036 -0.21, -0.39 1258.90 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
6.31 -0.20 0.036 -0.12, -0.26 1584.90 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
7.94 -0.13 0.036 -0.07, -0.19 1995.30 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
10.00 -0.09 0.016 -0.03, -0.15 2511.90 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
12.59 -0.06 0.016 -0.01, -0.11 3162.30 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
15.85 -0.04 0.016 +0.01, -0.09 3981.10 0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
19.95 -0.03 0.016 +0.02, -0.08 5011.90 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
25.12 -0.03 0.016 +0.02, -0.08 6309.60 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
31.62 -0.02 0.016 +0.03, -0.07 7943.30 0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
39.81 -0.02 0.016 +0.03, -0.07 10000.00 0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
50.12 -0.02 0.016 +0.04, -0.06 12589.00 0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
63.10 -0.01 0.016 +0.04, -0.06 15849.00 0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
79.43 -0.01 0.016 +0.04, -0.06 19953.00 0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05
100.00 -0.01 0.016 +0.04, -0.06 25250.00 0.01 0.022 +0.05, -0.05
125.89 -0.01 0.016 +0.04, -0.06 31500.00 0.01 0.022 +0.05, -0.05
158.49 -0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05 39750.00 0.01 0.022 +0.05, -0.05
199.53 -0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05 50000.00 0.01 0.022 +0.06, -0.06
251.19 -0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05 63000.00 0.00 0.047 +0.07, -0.07
316.23 -0.01 0.016 +0.05, -0.05 79500.00 0.00 0.047 +0.08, -0.08
398.11 -0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05 100000.00 0.00 0.047 +0.09, -0.09
501.19 -0.00 0.016 +0.05, -0.05 126000.00 0.00 0.063 +0.10, -0.10
Noise floor data: 1kHz (1/3 Octave) = 0.42 uV, -7.6 dBuV, uncertainty = 0.47 dB
Flat (20Hz-20kHz) = 4.3 uV, 12.6 dBuV, uncertainty = 0.47 dB
Awt = 1.8 uV, 4.9 dBuV, uncertainty = 0.46 dB
Uncertainties are given as expanded uncertainty at ~95% confidence interval (k = 2).
Technician: Leroy Harbaugh Test Date: 10OCT2007
FIGURE A-39 Certificate of Conformance; PRM831

Vibration Sensitivity
In the following tables, R
" ef"represent the noise level measured by equivalent stationary microphone.
Vibration Parallel to Microphone Diaphragm
Frequency Laeq Ref

31.5 35.7 35.4
63 35.5 34.8
125 35.8 36.8
250 47.7 47.9
500 52.6 51.4
630 60.5 50.4
800 61.0 54.4
1,000 62.2 60.0
Table A-26 Axis of Vibration Parallel to the Microphone Diaphragm
Vibration Perpendicular to Microphone Diaphragm
Frequency Laeq Ref

31.5 35.9 35.6
63 38.6 34.5
125 46.0 35.5
250 54.1 39.4
500 67.1 44.2
630 82.6 70.0
800 69.7 45.7
1,000 69.2 51.7
Table A-27 Axis of Vibration Perpendicular to the Microphone Diaphragm
Model 831 Manual Vibration Sensitivity A-59

A-60 Vibration Sensitivity Model 831 Manual
APPENDIX
B Measuring to IEC61672-1
This appendix presents information for measuring the sound level meter functionality of the Model
831 according to IEC61672-1.
Sections 5, 6, 7 and 9 (except 9.3)

The following table references sections and tables in this manual where information called for in
specific sections of IEC61672-1 can be found. In certain instances the requested information is not
applicable, as noted in the Comments column.
Further information called for in section 9.3 for testing, as appropriate for a sound level meter, can be
found in "Section 9.3" on page B-7.
Section Model 831 Manual Comments
5.1.4 "Hardware Features" on page 1-1
5.1.6 "Microphone" on page 1-4 and Chapter 7

"Making a Measurement on page 7-1.
5.1.7 "Connecting the Microphone and

Preamplifier" on page 2-2 and "Connecting
the Preamplifier" on page 2-3
5.1.8 Computer software is not an

integral part of the Model 831
5.1.10 "Frequency Weightings" on page A-11.
5.1.12 The Model 831 measures sound

level using a single range
5.1.13 "Section 9.3" on page B-7
5.1.14 "Overview" on page 3-1 and "Overall SLM"

on page 5-16
5.1.15 "AC/DC Output" on page A-15 and "h)

Electrical Insert Signals" on page B-10
5.1.16 "Microphones and Microphone

Preamplifiers" on page 3-3
Model 831 Manual Measuring to IEC61672-1 B-1

5.1.17 "j) Highest Sound Pressure Level" on page

B-10
5.1.18 The Model 831 is a single

channel instrument
5.1.19 "Start-up Period" on page 7-2
5.2.1 "Calibrator" on page 8-5
5.2.3 "Acoustic Calibration" on page 8-5
5.2.4 "e) Frequency Responses and Corrections"

on page B-8
5.2.5 "e) Frequency Responses and Corrections"

on page B-8
5.5.10 "g) Linear Measurement Starting Level" on

page B-9
5.5.11 "g) Linear Measurement Starting Level" on

page B-9
5.7.1 "Noise Levels" on page A-45
5.7.5 "Low Level Sound Fields" on page 7-16
5.8.1 "Sound Level Meter Specifications" on

page A-3
5.11 "Overload Indication" on page 7-8
5.12.1 "Under Range Icon" on page 3-9
5.12.2 Model 831 measures sound level

using a single range. The lower
limit for level linearity error is
caused by the inherent noise
from the microphone and
electronic elements within the
sound level meter.
5.13.1 "Performance Specifications" on page A-4
B-2 Sections 5, 6, 7 and 9 (except 9.3) Model 831 Manual

5.17 "Threshold and Criterion" on page 9-4
5.18.1 Chapter 5 "Data Display on page 5-1
5.18.4 "General Specifications" on page A-8
5.18.5 "Software CD" on page 1-4
5.18.6 Model 831 uses no alternative

display devices
5.19.1 "AC/DC Output" on page A-15 and "Jack

Function" on page 18-13
5.20.1 "Control Tab" on page 4-9 and "Time" on

page 18-3
5.20.1 "Time of Day Drift" on page A-17
5.20.2 "Min/Max Integration Time" on page A-16
5.21.1 "Microphone Extension Cable" on page 7-4
5.21.2 "n) Radio Frequency Emission" on

page B-11
5.22.2 The Model 831 is a single

channel instrument
5.23.2 "k) Battery Power Voltage Range" on page

B-10
5.23.3 "Power Supply" on page A-18
6.1.2 "l) Typical Stabilization Time" on

page B-10
6.2.2 "Calibration Overview" on page 8-1
6.2.2 Note "Model 831 with 1/2 Free-Field

Microphone" on page 8-6
6.5.2 "General Specifications" on page A-8
Model 831 Manual Sections 5, 6, 7 and 9 (except 9.3) B-3

6.6.1 "o) AC Power and Radio Frequency

Susceptibility" on page B-11
6.6.3 No detectable increase in any

direction with application of 74
dB A-weighted sound level.
6.6.10 "o) AC Power and Radio Frequency

Susceptibility" on page B-11
6.7 Vibration in "Glossary"
7.1 "Microphone Extension Cable" on page 7-4
7.2 "Effect of Windscreen" on page A-31
7.4 "Octave Band Analyzer Tab (Optional)" on

page 4-6
9.2.1 General
a "Standards Met by Model 831" on page A-1
b "Configuration of the System" on page 7-1

"Microphone Extension Cable" on page 7-4
and "Use of a Windscreen" on page 7-4.
c "Standard Accessories" on page 1-4
d No microphone extension or
microphone extension cable is
required to meet specified
standards
e The Model 831 is a single

channel instrument
9.2.2 Design Features

a Chapter "Parameters Measured" on page
24-1
b "Frequency Response" on page A-33
c "Frequency Weightings" on page A-11
d "Sound Level Meter Specifications" on

page A-3
e "Performance Specifications" on page A-4

f "20 dB Gain" on page 4-5
g "General Specifications" on page A-8
h "Performance Specifications" on page A-4
i "Performance Specifications" on page A-4
j Computer software is not an

integral part of the Model 831
k Additional metrics measured,

not specified by the IEC 61672
standard, perform to their
respective standards published
elsewhere, for example Takt
Maximal and SEA
9.2.3 Power Supply

a "Power Supply" on page A-18
b "Power Indicator" on page 3-7 and "k)

Battery Power Voltage Range" on page B-
10
c "Power Supply" on page A-18
d "Power Supply" on page A-18
9.2.4 Adjustments at the calibration check frequency

a "Recommended Calibrator" on page 8-5
b "Recommended Calibrator" on page 8-5
c "Acoustic Calibration" on page 8-5
d See "e) Frequency Responses and

Corrections" on page B-8
9.2.5 Operating the Sound Level Meter

a "General Specifications" on page A-8
b "Positioning the Model 831" on page 7-3
c "Low Level Sound Fields" on page 7-16
d "Start-up Period" on page 7-2

e "Integration Method" on page 4-5
f "Control Tab" on page 4-9 and "Time" on

page 18-3
g "Manual Stop, Timed Stop or Stop When

Stable" on page 6-4
h "Overview" on page 3-1 and "Overall SLM"

on page 5-16
i "Overload Indication" on page 7-8 and

"Overall SLM" on page 5-16 and "Run
Pending Icon" on page 3-11
j "Measurement Range" on page 7-8
k "Threshold and Criterion" on page 9-4
l "Software CD" on page 1-4 and "Overview"

on page 3-1
m "Overview" on page 3-1
n "AC/DC Output" on page A-15 and "Jack

Function" on page 18-13
9.2.6 Accessories
a "Effect of Windscreen" on page A-31
b "Microphone Extension Cable" on page 7-4
c "Octave Band Analyzer Tab (Optional)" on

page 4-6
d No manufacturer-provided
auxiliary devices are provided
9.2.7 Influence of variations in environmental conditions

a No components of the Model
831 are intended to be operated
only in an environmentally
controlled enclosure
b "General Specifications" on page A-8
c "Declaration of Conformity" on page A-21

Section 9.3
a) Reference Sound Pressure Level

The reference sound pressure level is 114 dB re 20 Pa.
b) Reference Level Range

The reference level range is normal.
c) Microphone Reference Point

The microphone reference point is the center of the diaphragm of the 377B02 microphone.
d) Periodic Testing
Table 2 lists values of Larson Davis 831 with PRM831 and 377B02 Microphone adjustment data of A-
weighted levels used for periodic measurements.

e) Frequency Responses and Corrections
Larson Davis 831 with PRM831 and 377B02 Microphone

average frequency responses and corrections
Required by IEC 61672-1
0 Free Field expanded
Wind Screen Corrections with uncertainty
0 Free Field 0 Free Field Effect of on 831 Wind Screen of Corrections
Exact
Frequency Response Corrections Wind Screen 0 Free Field on 831 @ 95%
Hz dB dB dB dB dB dB
251.19 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1
316.23 -0.1 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1
398.11 0.2 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1
501.19 0.2 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1
630.96 0.2 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1
794.33 0.2 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1
1000.00 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1
1059.25 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1
1122.02 -0.2 0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1
1188.50 -0.2 0.2 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1
1258.93 -0.4 0.4 0.3 -0.1 0.1 0.1
1333.52 -0.3 0.3 0.2 -0.1 0.1 0.1
1412.54 -0.2 0.2 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1
1496.24 -0.1 0.1 0.0 -0.1 0.1 0.1
1584.89 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 -0.2 0.1
1678.80 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 -0.3 0.1
1778.28 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 -0.3 0.1
1883.65 -0.1 0.1 0.4 0.3 -0.3 0.1
1995.26 0.2 -0.2 0.4 0.6 -0.6 0.1
2113.49 0.4 -0.4 0.4 0.8 -0.8 0.1
2238.72 0.3 -0.3 0.5 0.8 -0.8 0.1
2371.37 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.6 -0.6 0.1
2511.89 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.6 -0.6 0.1
2660.73 0.2 -0.2 0.4 0.6 -0.6 0.1
2818.38 0.0 0.0 0.6 0.6 -0.6 0.1
2985.38 -0.2 0.2 0.3 0.1 -0.1 0.1
3162.28 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 -0.3 0.1
3349.65 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.1 -0.1 0.1
3548.13 -0.1 0.1 0.0 -0.1 0.1 0.1
3758.37 0.1 -0.1 0.0 0.1 -0.1 0.1
3981.07 0.1 -0.1 0.0 0.1 -0.1 0.1
4216.97 0.0 0.0 -0.2 -0.2 0.2 0.1
4466.84 0.4 -0.4 -0.3 0.1 -0.1 0.1
4731.51 0.1 -0.1 -0.4 -0.3 0.3 0.1
5011.87 -0.1 0.1 -0.4 -0.5 0.5 0.1
5308.84 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1
5623.41 0.0 0.0 -0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1
5956.62 0.1 -0.1 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 0.1
6309.57 0.2 -0.2 0.2 0.4 -0.4 0.1
6683.44 0.1 -0.1 0.2 0.3 -0.3 0.1
7079.46 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.2 -0.2 0.1
7498.94 0.0 0.0 -0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.1
7943.28 0.0 0.0 -0.3 -0.3 0.3 0.1
8413.95 0.3 -0.3 -0.4 -0.1 0.1 0.1
8912.51 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.2 -0.2 0.1
9440.61 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1
10000.00 0.0 0.0 0.2 0.2 -0.2 0.1
10592.54 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.2 -0.2 0.1
11220.18 0.1 -0.1 -0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1
11885.02 0.0 0.0 -0.2 -0.2 0.2 0.1
12589.25 0.3 -0.3 -0.3 0.0 0.0 0.1
13335.21 0.3 -0.3 -0.3 0.0 0.0 0.1
14125.38 0.1 -0.1 -0.2 -0.1 0.1 0.1
14962.36 0.1 -0.1 -0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1
15848.93 -0.2 0.2 0.4 0.2 -0.2 0.2
16788.04 -0.2 0.2 0.1 -0.1 0.1 0.2
17782.79 -0.1 0.1 -0.1 -0.2 0.2 0.1
18836.49 -0.2 0.2 -0.4 -0.6 0.6 0.1
19952.62 -0.1 0.1 -1.4 -1.5 1.5 0.1

SLM with PRM831 and 377B02 Microphone
0 Free Field 0 Free Field 0 Free Field 0 Free Field expanded

Corrections from Corrections with Corrections from Corrections with uncertainty of
Frequency
B&K 4226 WS from B&K B&K UA0033 WS from B&K Corrections @
Calibrator1 4226 Calibrator1 EA1 UA0033 EA1 95% confidence
Hz dB re 1000 Hz dB re 1000 Hz dB re 1000 Hz dB re 1000 Hz dB

31.62 -0.14 -0.14 -0.09 -0.09 0.25
63.10 -0.11 -0.11 -0.09 -0.09 0.25
125.89 -0.21 -0.21 -0.20 -0.20 0.25
251.19 -0.08 -0.08 -0.09 -0.09 0.25
501.19 -0.22 -0.12 -0.22 -0.12 0.25
1000.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.25
1995.26 -0.05 -0.45 -0.02 -0.42 0.25
3981.07 0.76 0.76 0.78 0.78 0.25
7943.28 2.91 3.21 3.30 3.60 0.35
12589.25 5.85 6.15 6.42 6.72 0.50
15848.93 7.74 7.34 8.46 8.06 0.50
1. add numbers in this column to levels read on the SLM to correct to the 0 Free Field
level at frequency
EA - Electrostatic Actuator
WS - Windscreen
Note: Data was taken at reference conditions 23 C, 50% RH, 101.3 kPa
f) Linear Operating Range

A-weighted sound levels for the 831 at the upper and lower limits of the linear operating ranges.
Gain 31.5 Hz 1 kHz 4 kHz 8 kHz 12.5 kHz
0 dB 24 dB to 101 dB 24 dB to 140 dB 24 dB to 141 dB 26 dB to 139 dB 26 dB to 136 dB
20 dB 19 dB to 81 dB 19 dB to 120 dB 19 dB to 121 dB 19 dB to 119 dB 19 dB to 116 dB
g) Linear Measurement Starting Level

The starting point for measuring level linear errors on the reference range is 114 dB.

h) Electrical Insert Signals
The electrical design of the input device to insert electrical signals into the preamplifier is a series
12pF 5% capacitor. The Larson Davis ADP090 is used for this purpose. The ADP090 can be used
for noise floor measurements by attaching the included short on the front of the ADP090.
i) Self-generated Noise
Self-generated noise of the Model 831 is shown in Table B-10.
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(OHFWURQLFQRLVHRIWKHLQVWUXPHQWZLWKDQ$'3S)LQSODFHRIWKHPLFURSKRQH

+LJKHVWDQWLFLSDWHGVHOIJHQHUDWHGQRLVH
Table B-1: Self-generated Noise Levels
j) Highest Sound Pressure Level

The highest sound pressure level the Larson Davis 831 is designed to accommodate at the level of
overload is 140 dB. The peak-to-peak voltage at this level is 28 Vpp input through the ADP090.
k) Battery Power Voltage Range

The battery power supply voltage range for which the 831 conform to this standard:
6.4 Volts maximum
The 831 will shut down if the battery is below 4.0 Volts when used with alkaline batteries. Therefore
from 4.0 to 6.4 Volts is the usable range of battery voltage. The instrument will shut off to ensure that
no data is taken that would not meet the requirements of IEC 61672.
l) Typical Stabilization Time

The typical time interval needed to stabilize after changes in environmental conditions.

For a temperature change of 5 C then 30 minutes are required.
For a static pressure change of 5 kPa then 15 seconds are required.
For a humidity change of 30% (non-condensing) then 30 minutes are required.
m) Field Strength > 10 V/m

The Larson Davis model 831 was not measured for field strengths greater than 10 V/m.
n) Radio Frequency Emission

The mode of operation of the 831 that produces the greatest radio frequency emission levels was with
the 831 set to run and with an EXC010 (10' microphone extension cable) used to connect the PRM831
to the 831.
o) AC Power and Radio Frequency Susceptibility

The mode of operation of the 831 that produced the greatest measurement susceptibility to A.C. power
frequency and radio frequency fields was with the 831 set to run, USB cable attached and with an
EXC010 (10' microphone extension cable) between the PRM831 and the 831.

APPENDIX
C Integrated Level Calculations
Basic Integrated Level Calculations

Equivalent Continuous Sound Level
The Larson Davis Model 831 calculates equivalent

continuous sound levels based on equations from IEC
standard 61672-1, Section 3.9 which defines Leq as follows:
Note that the 831 displays the equiv- Equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level
alent continuous A-weighted sound (also average A-weighted sound pressure level) is defined as
pressure level as LAeq. follows:
1/ 2

LAT LAeqT 20 lg 1
T t TP d
2
A / P dB
0

where:
LAeqT is the equivalent continuous A-weighted sound
pressure level re 20 Pa, determined over a time interval T
is a dummy variable of time integration over the averaging
time interval ending at the time of observation t
T is the averaging time interval
pA() is the A-weighted sound pressure
p0 is the reference sound pressure of 20 Pa
In the equation, the numerator of the argument of the
logarithm is the root-mean-square, frequency-weighted
sound pressure level over the averaging time interval T.
Model 831 Manual Integrated Level Calculations C-1

Note that the format used by the 831 When a frequency weighting other than A is used, the
to display equivalent continuous frequency weighting used shall be included explicitly in the
sound pressure level is LXeq, where title and the formula of the quantity, for example equivalent
X is the frequency weighting (X = A, continuous C-weighted sound pressure level:
C or Z).
1/ 2

L L
CT CeqT 20 lg 1T P
C
2
d / P0 dB
t T
If no frequency weighting is used, the quantity is simply

called equivalent continuous sound pressure level.
Time-Weighted Averages
The Larson Davis 831 calculates many time-integrated

levels or time-weighted averages (TWA) based on different
parameters and time intervals. They are all designed and
programmed to perform the equation specified in IEC
61672-1 with allowances for the following:
A, C and Z frequency weighting characteristics
Various interval times, both fixed interval TWAs and
variable interval event TWAs
Exchange-rates, or doubling rates can be entered that
effect certain TWA measurements
Certain TWA measurements include a programmable
threshold with only levels above this threshold contributing
to the measurement
No attempt is made to meet the IEC 61672-1 requirement to
title the TWA by frequency weighting and time interval
within the analyzers display or report system. The
Frequency Weighting and Time Interval are both displayed
in the same view to meet this requirement.
The following figure indicates how the requirements are met
in the 831.
C-2 Basic Integrated Level Calculations Model 831 Manual

The numerical value for the TWA and ProjTWA
Time-weighted average (TWA) based on 8 hours

The Projected Time Weighted Average for 8 hours
The currently selected Frequency Weighting (A) and
Detector Response (Slow) for SPL
The currently selected Exchange Rate
Threshold Level
Elapsed measurement time shown as h:mm:ss.s
FIGURE C-1 TWA
Note that the 831 displays the time The actual equations used within the 831 are based on those
weighted average as TWA[Hr] for IEC 61672-1 and are implemented according to this
where Hr is the time in hours over equation:
which the average is performed.
n
Ls
-------
-
10 log n

k
L TWA = L cal + k log

s = 1
where:
L(s) is the current SPL at sample s (for measurements that
include a threshold, L(s) is set to - if L(s) is less than the
Threshold Level Lt)
k is the exchange rate constant which is equal to:
10.00 for an exchange rate of 3dB (Leq)
13.29 for an exchange rate of 4dB (LDOD)
16.61 for an exchange rate of 5dB (LOSHA)
20.00 for an exchange rate of 6dB (LAvg)
Model 831 Manual Basic Integrated Level Calculations C-3

n is the total number of samples taken in the measurement.
The sample rate is 32 samples per second.
Lcal is the calibration offset that corrects for various
sensitivities of microphones
SEL Calculations
Note that the 831 displays SEL as SEL is available for the overall measurement and is
LXE, where X is the frequency calculated using this formula:
weighting (X = A, C or Z).
n
L s
-------
-
10 log 32

k
SEL = L cal + k log

s = 1
All of the SEL energy values in the analyzer utilize the

Threshold and Exchange Rate settings. Care should be taken
when modifying these settings since some standards or
governments require SEL to be taken without a Threshold
(set it to zero) and with an Exchange Rate of 3dB.
Sound Exposure Level
Sound Exposure in hours
Sound Exposure in seconds
FIGURE C-2 Sound Exposure Level and Sound Exposure

Dose and Projected Dose Calculations
Dose is a measure of Sound Exposure and is defined in

ANSI S1.25 Section 4.7 as:
T
L L
--------------c
100 q
D Q = --------- 10
dt
Tc
0
See FIGURE C-3 DOSE and Pro- where:

jected DOSE"
D(Q) is the percentage criterion exposure for exchange rate
Q
Tc is the criterion sound duration = 8 hours
T is the measurement duration in hours
t is the time in hours
L is the SLOW, (or FAST) A-weighted sound level, a
function of time, when the sound level is greater than or
equal to L, or equals - when the A-weighted sound level is
less than Lt
Lt is the threshold sound level specified by the manufacturer
LC is the criterion sound level specified by the manufacturer
Q is the exchange rate in dB, and q = the parameter that
determines the exchange rate, where:
q = 10 for a 3dB exchange rate
q = 13.29 = 4/log(2) for a 4dB exchange rate
q = 16.61 = 5/log(2) for a 5dB exchange rate
q = 20 = 6/log(2) for a 6dB exchange rate
The factor of 100 in the equation produces a result that is a
percentage.
Dose is obtained from the accumulations made for TWA and
SEL using the formula:
where,

L(s) is the current SPL at sample s; for measurements that
include a threshold L(s) is set to if L(s) is less than the
Threshold Level Lt
n
L
s
----------

k Lc
log 10 ----- log T c 115200 + log 100
k
s=1
DOSE = 10 %
k is the exchange rate constant. See the explanation for q

on the previous page.
n is the total number of samples taken in the measurement.
The sample rate is 32 samples per second.
Tc is the criterion sound duration as set by the 831s
Criterion Time Hours setting which by default is set to 8
hours Lc is the criterion sound level as set by the 831s
Overall Criterion or Current Criterion settings.
Addition of the term log(100) was used to implement the
100 multiplier of the ANSI equation that creates the
percentage. Subtracting the log of the Criterion Time was
used to implement the division of Criterion Time of the
ANSI equation.
Projected Dose in the analyzer is obtained with an equation
similar to that of Dose except that the actual duration (time)
of the measurement is used rather than a Criterion Time, as
thus:
n
L
s
----------

k L
log 10 -----C- log n + log 100
k
s=1
PROJDOSE = 10 %

where the log(n) is the actual time factor, n being the total
number of samples taken.
DOSE
Projected DOSE
The currently selected Frequency Weighting (A)

and Detector Response (Slow) for SPL
The currently selected Exchange Rate
Criterion Time and Level
Elapsed measurement time shown as h:mm:ss.s
FIGURE C-3 DOSE and Projected DOSE
Sound Exposure Calculations
Sound exposure and sound exposure level are calculated as

specified in IEC 61672-1.
Note that the 831 displays Sound Sound Exposure

Exposure as EX, where X is the
frequency weighting (X=A, C or Z).
See FIGURE C-2 Sound Exposure The A-weighted sound exposure EA of a specified event is
Level and Sound Exposure" represented by
t2
EA p A2 (t )dt
t1
where PA2(t) is the square of the A-weighted instantaneous

sound pressure during an integration time starting at t1 and
ending at t2.
The unit of A-weighted sound exposure is pascal-squared
seconds if A-weighted sound pressure is in pascals and
running time is in seconds. However it is sometimes

expressed in pascal-squared hours for measurements of
noise exposure in the workplace.
Note that the 831 displays Sound Sound Exposure Level

Exposure Level as LXE, where X is
The A-weighted sound exposure level LAE is related to a
the frequency weighting (X=A, C or
corresponding measurement of time-average, A-weighted
Z).
sound level, LAT or LAEeqT, by
dB 10 lgE / E dB L
t 2

LAE 10 lg p A2 t dt / p02T0 A 0 AT 10 lg T / T0 dB
t1
where
EA is the A-weighted sound exposure in pascal-squared
seconds
E0 is the reference sound exposure of:
(20 Paxs = 400 x 10-12 Pa2s
T0 = 1 s
T = t2 - t1, the time interval for measurement, in seconds, for
sound exposure level and time-average sound level

Community Noise Descriptors
LDN
The day-night level LDN is defined by the following
formula:
1 Lday Lnight LPN

LDN 10 log10 H D 10 10 H N 10 10

H D H N
Where:
HD is the number of hours programmed for "daytime",
HN is the number of hours programmed for "nighttime",
Lday is the equivalent level measured during the daytime
period,
Lnight is the equivalent level measured during the
nighttime period
LPN is the nighttime penalty level, generally 10dB.
In the default form, the day has sixteen hours (HD = 16) and
the night has eight hours (HN = 8). The defined time periods
for Day and Night times are programmed the same as LDEN.
Default time periods are shown below.
Generally LDN is only defined for full 24 hour periods. If the
measurement did not last for the entire 24 hours (or more),
the level measured for any partial portion of the day or night
period is assumed to represent the entire period. If there was
no measurement performed for either the day or night time
period then the number of hours used in the formula is set to
zero and the corresponding Lday or Lnight will be shown as
"- - -". The Session Log and Run Time are used to qualify
the measurement periods.
Model 831 Manual Community Noise Descriptors C-9

LDEN
The day-evening-night level LDEN is defined by the
following formula:
1 Lday Levening LPE Lnight LPN

LDEN 10 log10 H D 10 10 H E 10 10
H N 10 10

H D H E H N
Where:
HD is the number of hours programmed for the "day"
period,
HE is the number of hours programmed for "evening"
period,
HN is the number of hours programmed for "night"
period,
Lday is the equivalent level measured during the daytime
period,
Lnight is the equivalent level measured during the
nighttime period,
LPE is the evening penalty level, generally 5dB (4.7dB
for CNEL) and
LPN is the nighttime penalty level, generally 10 dB.
In the default form, the day has twelve hours (HD = 12),
evening has four hours (HE = 4) and the night has eight
hours (HN = 8). In the default form, the day has eight hours,
the evening has four hours and the night has eight hours, as
can be seen in the equation. The default times for these
periods are as follows:
Day: 0700 to 1900
Evening: 1900 to 2300
Night: 2300 to 0700
Lday, Levening and Lnight are A-weighted long-term
average sound levels measured during the day, evening and
night, respectively
Generally LDEN in only defined for full 24 hour periods. If
the measurement did not last for the entire 24 hours (or
more), the level measured for any partial portion of the day,
evening or night period is assumed to represent the entire
period. If there was no measurement performed for any of
C-10 Community Noise Descriptors Model 831 Manual

the day, evening or night time periods then the number of
hours used in the formula is set to zero and the
corresponding Lday, Levening or Lnight will be shown as "-
- -". The Session Log and Run Time are used to qualify the
measurement periods.
CNEL
In the state of California, a commonly used community
noise descriptor is Community Noise Equivalent Level
(CNEL), defined by the following formula:
0700 1900 2200 2400

1

L + 10 10 L 10 L + 5 10 L + 10 10
CNEL = 10log10 ------ 10
i
+ 10
i
+ 10
i
+ 10
i

24 0000 0700 1900 2200

This is essentially the same as the LDEN using default

values, with the exception that the evening period begins at
22.00 instead of 23.00. Thus, by making this change in the
LDEN formula, the measured value will represent CNEL.
Model 831 Manual Community Noise Descriptors C-11

C-12 Community Noise Descriptors Model 831 Manual
APPENDIX
D Glossary
This appendix contains technical definitions of key
acoustical and vibration terms commonly used with Larson
Davis instruments. The reader is referred to American
National Standards Institute document S1.1-1994 (R2004)
for additional definitions. Specific use of the terms defined
are in the main body of the text.
Allowed Exposure Time (Ti) It is the allowed time of exposure to sound of a constant A-
weighted sound level given a chosen Criterion Level,
Criterion Duration, and Exchange Rate. The equation for it
is
Tc Tc
T i = ----------------------------------------- = -----------------------------------------
L Lc Q L Lc q
2 avg 10 avg
where Lc is the Criterion Level, Tc is the Criterion Duration,

Q is the Exchange Rate, q is the Exchange Rate Factor and
Lavg is the Average Sound Level.
Example: If Lc = 90, Tc = 8, Q = 3 and Lave= 95 then
8 8
T i = -------------------------
95 90 3
- = -------------------------------
95 90 10
= 2.52 = 2 hours and 31 minutes
2 10
This means that if a person is in this area for 2 hours and 31

minutes he will have accumulated a Noise Dose of 100%.
Standard: ANSI S12.19.
The table for Exchange Rate (Q), Exchange Rate Factor (q)
and Exposure Factor is shown in the section Exchange Rate
(Q), Exchange Rate Factor (q), Exposure Factor (k) on page
D-7.
Average Sound Level (Lavg) It is the logarithmic average of the sound during a
Measurement Duration (specific time period), using the
chosen Exchange Rate Factor. Exposure to this sound level
over the period would result in the same noise dose and the
actual (unsteady) sound levels. If the Measurement Duration
is the same as the Criterion Duration, then Lavg=LTWA(LC)
where the Measurement Duration (specified time period) is
T=T2-T1 and q is the Exchange Rate Factor. Only sound
Model 831 Manual Glossary D-1

T
2
1 Lp t q
L avg = qLog 10 --- 10 dt
T
T
1
levels above the Threshold Level are included in the

integral. Standard: ANSI S12.19
Community Noise Equivalent A rating of community noise exposure to all sources of
Level (CNEL, Lden) sound that differentiates between daytime, evening and
nighttime noise exposure. The equation for it is
0700 1900 2200 2400

1

L + 10 10 L 10 L + 5 10 L + 10 10
= 10log -----
-
i i i i
L 10 + 10 + 10 + 10
24
den 10
0000 0700 1900 2200

The continuous equivalent sound level is generally

calculated on an hourly basis and is shown in the equation as
L. The levels for the hourly periods from midnight to 7 a.m.
have 10 added to them to represent less tolerance for noise
during sleeping hours. The same occurs from 10 p.m. to
midnight. The levels for the hourly periods between 7 p.m.
and 10 p.m. have 5 added to them to represent a lessened
tolerance for noise during evening activities. They are
energy summed and converted to an average noise exposure
rating.
Criterion Duration (Tc) It is the time required for a constant sound level equal to the
Criterion Level to produce a Noise Dose of 100%. Criterion
Duration is typically 8 hours.
Example: If the Criterion Level = 90 dB and the Criterion
Duration is 8 hours, then a sound level of 90 dB for 8 hours,
will produce a 100% Noise Dose. See Noise Dose. Standard:
ANSI S12.19
D-2 Glossary Model 831 Manual

Criterion Sound Exposure The product of the Criterion Duration and the mean square
(CSE) sound pressure associated with the Criterion Sound Level
when adjusted for the Exchange Rate. It is expressed in
Pascals-squared seconds when the exchange rate is 3 dB.
where q is the Exchange Rate Factor. See Exchange Rate.
Lc q
CSE = T c 10
Standard: ANSI S1.25

Criterion Sound Level (Lc) It is the sound level which if continually applied for the
Criterion Duration will produce a Noise Dose of 100%. The
current OSHA Criterion Level is 90 dB.
Daily Personal Noise Exposure It is the level of a constant sound over the Criterion Duration
(LEP,d) that contains the same sound energy as the actual, unsteady
sound over a specific period. The period is generally shorter,
so the sound energy is spread out over the Criterion Duration
period.
Example: If the Criterion Duration = 8 hours and the specific
period is 4 hours and the average level during the 4 hours is
86 dB, then the LEP,d = 83 dB.
Day-Night Average Sound A rating of community noise exposure to all sources of
Level (DNL, Ldn) sound that differentiates between daytime and nighttime
noise exposure. The equation for it is
0700 2200 2400

1

L + 10 10 L 10 L + 10 10
= 10Log -----
-
i i i
L 10 + 10 + 10
dn 10
24
0000 0700 2200
The continuous equivalent sound level (See definition) is

generally calculated on an hourly basis and is shown in the
equation as L.
The values for the hourly periods from midnight to 7 a.m.
have 10 added to them to represent less tolerance for noise

during sleeping hours. The same occurs from 10 p.m. to
midnight. They are energy summed and converted to an
average noise exposure rating.
Decibel (dB) A logarithmic form of any measured physical quantity and

commonly used in the measurement of sound and vibration.
Whenever the word level is used, this logarithmic form is
implied. The decibel provides us with the possibility of
representing a large span of signal levels in a simple manner
as opposed to using the basic unit Pascal for acoustic
measurements.
It is not possible to directly add or subtract physical
quantities when expressed in decibel form since the addition
of logarithmic values correspond to multiplication of the
original quantity.
The word level is normally attached to a physical quantity
when expressed in decibels; for example, Lp represents the
sound pressure level.
The difference between the sound pressure for silence versus
loud sounds is a factor of 1,000,000:1 or more, and it is very
unpractical to use these large numbers. Therefore, a measure
that would relate to the number of zeros would help, for
example, 100,000 would be equal to 50 and 1000 would be
equal to 30 and so on. This is the basic principal of the dB
measure.
All dB values are unit free and therefore, the dB value is not
the value of the quantity itself, but the ratio of that quantity
to an actual reference quantity used. Thus, for every level in
decibels there must be a well defined reference quantity.
Sound versus vibration uses different references, but the dB
principal is the same. When the quantity equals the reference
quantity the level is zero. To keep dB values above zero, the
reference is generally set to be the lowest value of the
quantity that we can imagine or normally wish to use.
Before explaining the calculation of dB values, it is useful to
remember the following rules of thumb when dB values are
used for sound levels:
- Doubling of the Sound Pressure = 6 dB
- Doubling of the Sound Power = 3 dB
- Doubling of the Perceived Sound Level = (approx) 10 dB

Note: The latter is frequency and level dependent, but the
value 10 dB is a good rule of thumb, especially around 1
kHz.
Table 1 shows the actual value of a specific item, such as
sound power, for which the sound level is calculated. First,
the sound power value is divided with the reference used and
then the ten-based logarithm is applied. This value is then
multiplied by 10 to create the decibel value (see equation D-
1 below).
For every 10 decibels, a unit called Bel is created. The
decibel stands for: deci for one tenth and bel for Bel
(compare decimeter). The relationship between Bel and
decibel is thus: 1 Bel = 10 decibels. It is not possible to
directly add or subtract decibel values, since addition of
logarithmic values correspond to multiplication of the
original quantity.
Table 1
Power form, squared units Level form
Exponential Form of 10Exponent
Ration of Value to Reference
Ratio
1 100 0
10 101 10
100 102 20
200 102.3 23
1,000 103 30
10,000 104 40
100,000 105 50
1000,000 106 60
Each time the sound pressure level increases by 6 dB, the

corresponding sound pressure value is doubled and thus
multiplied by 2. Each time the sound power level increases
by 3 dB, the sound power value is multiplied by 2. Thus, it is
important to notice that a doubling of the sound power is
equal to 3 dB, and a doubling of the sound pressure is equal
to 6 dB, since a doubling of the sound pressure will result in
a quadruple increase of the sound power. The advantage
with using dB is simply that they remain the same even if we
use sound pressure or sound power. Compare this to the use
of voltage and power units in electrical engineering, units
being related by P~V2. In table 2 an illustration is made of
values calculated on sound pressure, non-squared units.

The original definition of decibel was intended for power-
like quantities, such as sound power. If we consider sound
pressure levels instead (usually denoted P in acoustics), the
equation will be the same, since the two in the squared
units will move from within the bracket and become a 20 log
instead of a 10 log and thus compensate for using linear or
quadratic units. Please note that it is not allowed to use 20
log for squared units, since that expression assumes that we
use linear units, like sound pressure in acoustics or voltage
in electrical engineering. This is illustrated in equation D-1
below:
2
P P ;p 0 = 20Pa
dB = 10Log 10 -------2- = 20Log -----
P0 P 0
Table 2 illustrates how a a tenfold increase of the sound

pressure will result in an increase in 20 dB steps, while
sound power increases in 10 dB steps. See the linear form
(Table 2) and compare with equation D-1. In conclusion, dB
values are always the same, independent of using sound
power or sound pressure as the base unit. A 6 dB increase
implies four times the sound power or two times the sound
pressure.
Table 2
Linear form, non-squared units Level form
Exponential Form of 20Exponent
Ration of Value to Reference
Ratio
1 100 0
10 101 20
100 102 40
200 102.3 46
1,000 103 60
10,000 104 80
100,000 105 100
1000,000 106 120

Department of Defense Level The Average Sound Level calculated in accordance with
(LDOD) Department of Defense Exchange Rate and Threshold Level.
See Average Sound Level
Dose (See Noise Dose)
Detector The part of a sound level meter that converts the actual
fluctuating sound or vibration signal from the microphone to
one that indicates its amplitude. It first squares the signal,
then averages it in accordance with the time-weighting
characteristic, and then takes the square root. This results in
an amplitude described as rms (root-mean-square).
Eight Hour Time-Weighted It is the constant sound level that would expose a person to
Average Sound Level (L TWA(8)) the same Noise Dose as the actual (unsteady) sound levels.
The equation for it is
D
L TWA 8 = L c + qLog 10 ---------
100
NOTE: This definition applies only for a Criterion Duration

of 8 hours.
Energy Equivalent Sound Level The level of a constant sound over a specific time period that
(Leq) has the same sound energy as the actual (unsteady) sound
over the same period.
T2 2
T1
p t dt
L eq = 10Log 10 --------------------------
2
po T
where p is the sound pressure and the Measurement

Duration (specific time period) T=T2-T1. See Sound
Exposure Level.
Exchange Rate (Q), Exchange It is defined in ANSI S1.25 as the change in sound level
Rate Factor (q), Exposure corresponding to a doubling or halving of the duration of a
Factor (k) sound level while a constant percentage of criterion
exposure is maintained. The rate and the factors are given

in the table below.
Exchange Rate, Q Exchange Rate Exposure Factor, k
Factor, q
3.01 10 1
4 13.29 .75
5 16.61 .60
6.02 20 .50
Far Field There are two types of far fields: the acoustic far field and
the geometric far field.
Acoustic Far Field: The distance from a source of sound is
greater than an acoustic wavelength. In the far field, the
effect of the type of sound source is negligible. Since the
wavelength varies with frequency (See the definition of
Wavelength), the distance will vary with frequency. To be in
the far field for all frequencies measured, the lowest
frequency should be chosen for determining the distance.
For example, if the lowest frequency is 20 Hz, the
wavelength at normal temperatures is near 56 ft. (17 m); at
1000 Hz, the wavelength is near 1.1 ft. (1/3 m). See the
definition of Acoustic Near Field for the advantages of being
in the acoustic far field.
Geometric Far Field: The distance from a source of sound is
greater than the largest dimension of the sound source. In the
far field, the effect of source geometry is negligible. Sound
sources often have a variety of specific sources within them,
such as exhaust and intake noise. When in the far field, the
sources have all merged into one, so that measurements
made even further away will be no different. See the
definition of Geometric Near Field for the advantages of
being in the geometric far field.
Free Field A sound field that is free of reflections. This does not mean
that the sound is all coming from one direction as is often
assumed, since the source of sound may be spatially
extensive. See the definitions of near and far fields for more
detail. This definition is often used in conjunction with
reverberant field.
Frequency (Hz, rad/sec) The rate at which an oscillating signal completes a complete
cycle by returning to the original value. It can be expressed
in cycles per second and the value has the unit symbol Hz
(Hertz) added and the letter f is used for a universal
descriptor. It can also be expressed in radians per second,

which has no symbol, and the greek letter is used for a
universal descriptor. The two expressions are related through
the expression =2f.
Frequency Band Pass Filter The part of certain sound level meters that divides the
frequency spectrum on the sound or vibration into a part that
is unchanged and a part that is filtered out. It can be
composed of one or more of the following types:
Low Pass: A frequency filter that permits signals to pass
through that have frequencies below a certain fixed
frequency, called a cutoff frequency. It is used to
discriminate against higher frequencies.
High Pass: A frequency filter that permits signals to pass
through that have frequencies above a certain fixed
frequency, called a cutoff frequency. It is used to
discriminate against lower frequencies.
Bandpass: A frequency filter that permits signals to pass
through that have frequencies above a certain fixed
frequency, called a lower cutoff frequency, and below a
certain fixed frequency, called an upper cutoff frequency.
The difference between the two cutoff frequencies is called
the bandwidth. It is used to discriminate against both lower
and higher frequencies so it passes only a band of
frequencies.
Octave band: A bandpass frequency filter that permits
signals to pass through that have a bandwidth based on
octaves. An octave is a doubling of frequency so the upper
cutoff frequency is twice the lower cutoff frequency. This
filter is often further subdivided in 1/3 and 1/12 octaves (3
and 12 bands per octave) for finer frequency resolution.
Instruments with these filters have a sufficient number of
them to cover the usual range of frequencies encountered in
sound and vibration measurements.The frequency chosen to
describe the band is that of the center frequency. Note table
in Frequency Filter - Frequency Weighting.
Frequency Filter - Weighted A special frequency filter that adjusts the amplitude of all
parts of the frequency spectrum of the sound or vibration
unlike band pass filters. It can be composed of one or more
of the following types:
A-Weighting: A filter that adjusts the levels of a frequency
spectrum in the same way the human ear does when exposed
to low levels of sound. This weighting is most often used for

evaluation of environmental sounds. See table below.
B-Weighting: A filter that adjusts the levels of a frequency
to higher levels of sound. This weighting is seldom used.
See table below.
C-Weighting: A filter that adjusts the levels of a frequency
to high levels of sound. This weighting is most often used
for evaluation of equipment sounds. See table below.
Flat-Weighting: A filter that does not adjust the levels of a
frequency spectrum. It is sometimes an alternative selection
for the frequency-weighting selection.
Z-Weighting: Similar to a flat-weighting curve, this is a
bandpass filter with a passband from 10 Hz to 20 kHz.
Center Frequencies, Hz Weighting Network Frequency
Response
1/3 Octave 1 Octave A B C
20 -50.4 -24.2 -6.2
25 -44.7 -20.4 -4.4
31.5 31.5 -39.4 -17.1 -3.0
40 -34.6 -14.2 -2.0
50 -30.2 -11.6 -1.3
63 63 -26.2 -9.3 -0.8
80 -22.5 -7.4 -0.5
100 -19.1 -5.6 -0.3
125 125 -16.1 -4.2 -0.2
160 -13.4 -3.0 -0.1
200 -10.9 -2.0 0

Center Frequencies, Hz Weighting Network Frequency
Response
1/3 Octave 1 Octave A B C
250 250 -8.6 -1.3 0
315 -6.6 -0.8 0
400 -4.8 -0.5 0
500 500 -3.2 -0.3 0
630 -1.9 -0.1 0
800 -0.8 0 0
1000 1000 0 0 0
1250 0.6 0 0
1600 1.0 0 -0.1
2000 2000 1.2 -0.1 -0.2
2500 1.3 -0.2 -0.3
3150 1.2 -0.4 -0.5
4000 4000 1.0 -0.7 -0.8
5000 0.5 -1.2 -1.3
6300 -0.1 -1.9 -2.0
8000 8000 -1.1 -2.9 -3.0
10000 -2.5 -4.3 -4.4
12500 -4.3 -6.1 -6.2
16000 16000 -6.6 -8.4 -8.5
20000 -9.3 -11.1 -11.2
Leq See Energy Equivalent Sound Level, Sound Level,
Energy Average, and Time Weighted Average
Level (dB) A descriptor of a measured physical quantity, typically used
in sound and vibration measurements. It is attached to the
name of the physical quantity to denote that it is a
logarithmic measure of the quantity and not the quantity
itself. The word decibel is often added after the number to
express the same thing. When frequency weighting is used
the annotation is often expressed as dB(A) or dB(B).
Measurement Duration (T) The time period of measurement. It applies to hearing
damage risk and is generally expressed in hours.
Microphone Guidelines Microphone - Types: A device for detecting the presence of
sound. Most often it converts the changing pressure
associated with sound into an electrical voltage that
duplicates the changes. It can be composed of one of the
following types:
Capacitor (Condenser): A microphone that uses the motion
of a thin diaphragm caused by the sound to change the
capacitance of an electrical circuit and thereby to create a

signal. For high sensitivity, this device has a voltage applied
across the diaphragm from an internal source.
Electret: A microphone that uses the motion of a thin
diaphragm caused by the sound to change the capacitance of
an electrical circuit and thereby to create a signal. The
voltage across the diaphragm is caused by the charge
embedded in the electret material so no internal source is
needed.
Microphone - Uses: The frequency response of
microphones can be adjusted to be used in specific
applications. Among those used are:
Frontal incidence (Free Field): The microphone has been
adjusted to have an essentially flat frequency response when
in a space relatively free of reflections and when pointed at
the source of the sound.
Random incidence: The microphone has been adjusted to
have an essentially flat frequency response for sound waves
impinging on the microphone from all directions.
Pressure: The microphone has not been adjusted to have an
essentially flat frequency response for sound waves
impinging on the microphone from all directions.
What a microphone measures: A microphone detects more
than just sound. The motion of a microphone diaphragm is
in response to a force acting on it. The force can be caused
by a number of sources only one of which are we interested:
sound. Non-sound forces are: (1) direct physical contact
such as that with a finger or a raindrop; (2) those caused by
the movement of air over the diaphragm such as
environmental wind or blowing; (3) those caused by
vibration of the microphone housing; and (4) those caused
by strong electrostatic fields.
Rules:
1. Do not permit any solid or liquid to touch the microphone
diaphragm. Keep a protective grid over the diaphragm.
2. Do not blow on a microphone and use a wind screen over
the microphone to reduce the effect of wind noise.
3. Mount microphones so their body is not subject to
vibration, particularly in direction at right angles to the plane
of the diaphragm.
4. Keep microphones away from strong electrical fields.
A microphone measures forces not pressures. We would like
the microphone to measure sound pressure (force per unit
area) instead of sound force. If the pressure is applied

uniformly over the microphone diaphragm a simple constant
(the diaphragm area) relates the two, but if the pressure
varies across the diaphragm the relationship is more
complex. For example, if a negative pressure is applied on
one-half the diaphragm and an equal positive pressure is
applied to the other half, the net force is zero and essentially
no motion of the diaphragm occurs. This occurs at high
frequencies and for specific orientations of the microphone.
Rules:
1. Do not use a microphone at frequencies higher than
specified by the manufacturer; to increase the frequency
response choose smaller microphones.
2. Choose a microphone for free field or random incidence
to minimize the influence of orientation.
A microphone influences the sound being measured. The
microphone measures very small forces, low level sound can
run about one-billionth of a PSI! Every measurement
instrument changes the thing being measured, and for very
small forces that effect can be significant. When sound
impinges directly on a microphone the incident wave must
be reflected since it cannot pass through the microphone.
This results in the extra force required to reflect the sound
and a microphone output that is higher than would exist if
the microphone were not there. This is more important at
high frequencies and when the microphone is facing the
sound source.
Rules:
1. Do not use a microphone at frequencies higher than
specified by the manufacturer; to increase the frequency
response choose smaller microphones.
2. Choose a microphone for free field or random incidence
to minimize the influence of orientation.
A microphone measures what is there from any direction:
Most measurements are intended to measure the sound level
of a specific source, but most microphones are not
directional so they measure whatever is there, regardless of
source.
Rules:
1. When making hand-held measurements, keep your body
at right angles to the direction of the sound you are
interested in and hold the meter as far from your body as
possible. Use a tripod whenever possible.
2. Measure the influence of other sources by measuring the
background sound level without the source of interest. You
may have to correct for the background.

Near Field There are two types of near fields: the acoustic near field
and the geometric near field.
Acoustic Near Field: The distance from a source of sound is
less than an acoustic wavelength. In the near field, the effect
of the type of sound source is significant. Since the
wavelength varies with frequency (See the definition of
Wavelength), the distance will vary with frequency. The
most common example of a near field is driving an
automobile with an open window. As you move your ear to
the plane of the window, the sound pressure level builds up
rapidly (wind noise) since most of the pressure changes are
to move the air and very little of it compresses the air to
create sound. Persons not far way, can hardly hear what you
hear. The acoustic near field is characterized by pressures
that do not create sound that can be measured in the far field.
Therefore measurements made here are not useful in
predicting the sound levels far way or the sound power of
the source.
Geometric Near Field: The distance from a source of sound
is less than the largest dimension of the sound source. In the
near field, effect of source geometry is significant. Sound
sources often have a variety of specific sources within them,
such as exhaust and intake noise. When in the near field, the
sound of a weaker, but close, source can be louder than that
of a more distant, but stronger, source. Therefore
measurements made here can be used to separate the various
sources of sound, but are not useful in predicting the sound
levels and sound spectrum far from the source.
Noise Typically it is unwanted sound. This word adds the response
of humans to the physical phenomenon of sound. The
descriptor should be used only when negative effects on
people are known to occur. Unfortunately, this word is used
also to describe sounds with no tonal content (random):
Ambient: The all encompassing sound at a given location
caused by all sources of sound. It is generally random, but
need not be.
Background: The all encompassing sound at a given location
caused by all sources of sound, but the source to be
measured. It is essentially the sound that interferes with a
measurement.
Pink: It is a random sound that maintains constant energy
per octave. Pink light is similar to pink noise in that it has a
higher level at the lower frequencies (red end of the

spectrum).
White: It is a random sound that contains equal energy at
each frequency. In this respect, it is similar to white light.
Noise Dose (D) It is the percentage of time a person is exposed to noise that
is potentially damaging to hearing. Zero represents no
exposure and 100 or more represents complete exposure. It
is calculated by dividing the actual time of exposure by the
allowed time of exposure. The allowed time of exposure is
determined by the Criterion Duration and by the sound level
(the higher the level, the shorter the allowed time). The
sound levels must be measured with A-frequency weighting
and slow exponential time weighting. See Projected Noise
Dose.
100T L L q
D = ------------ 10 i c
Tc
where
T is Measurement Duration
Tc is Criteria Time
Li is TWA
Lc is Criteria Level
q is exchange rate factor; see page D-7 "Exchange Rate (Q),
Exchange Rate Factor (q), Exposure Factor (k)"
Noise Exposure (See Sound Exposure)
OSHA Level (LOSHA) The Average Sound Level calculated in accordance with the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration Exchange
Rate and Threshold Level.
Preamplifier A part of the sound level meter that matches a particular
model of microphone to the meter. It must be chosen in
conjunction with a microphone and a cable that connects
them.
Projected Noise Dose It is the Noise Dose expected if the current rate of noise
exposure continues for the full Criterion Duration period.

Single Event Noise Exposure The total sound energy over a specific period. It is a special
Level (SENEL, LAX) form of the Sound Exposure Level where the time period is
defined as the start and end times of a noise event such as an
aircraft or automobile passby.
Sound The rapid oscillatory compressional changes in a medium
(solid, liquid or gas) that propagate to distant points. It is
characterized by changes in density, pressure, motion, and
temperature as well as other physical quantities. Not all
rapid changes in the medium are sound (wind noise) since
they do not propagate.
The auditory sensation evoked by the oscillatory changes.
Difference between sound and noise: Sound is the physical
phenomenon associated with acoustic (small) pressure
waves. Use of the word sound provides a neutral description
of some acoustic event. Generally, noise is defined as
unwanted sound. It can also be defined as sound that causes
adverse effects on people such as hearing loss or annoyance.
It can also be defined as the sound made by other people. In
every case, noise involves the judgment of someone and
puts noise in the realm of psychology not physics.
Rules:
1. Use word sound to describe measurements to remove the
emotional overtones associated with the word noise. Some
sound metrics use noise in their name and it is proper to use
the name as it is.
Sound Exposure (SE) It is the total sound energy of the actual sound during a
specific time period. It is expressed in Pascals-squared
seconds.
T2
2
SE = pA t dt
T1
where pA is the sound pressure and T2 - T1 is the

Measurement Duration (specific time period).
When applied to hearing damage potential, the equation is
changed to
where k is the Exposure Factor. See Exchange Rate.

T2
k
p t dt
2
SE = A
T1
Sound Exposure Level (SEL, The total sound energy in a specific time period. The
L E) equation for it is
T2

2
p t dt
T
SEL = 10Log 10 ------------------------
1
2
-
p0 T
The sound pressure is squared and integrated over a specific

period of time (T2-T1) this is called the sound exposure and
has the units Pascal squared- seconds or Pascal squared-
hours. P0 is the reference pressure of 20 Pa and T is the
reference time of 1 second. It is then put into logarithmic
form. It is important to note that it is not an average since the
reference time is not the same as the integration time.
Sound Pressure The physical characteristic of sound that can be detected by
microphones. Not all pressure signals detected by a
microphone are sound (e.g., wind noise). It is the amplitude
of the oscillating sound pressure and is measured in Pascals
(Pa), Newtons per square meter, which is a metric equivalent
of pounds per square inch. To measure sound, the oscillating
pressure must be separated from the steady (barometric)
pressure with a detector. The detector takes out the steady
pressure so only the oscillating pressure remains. It then
squares the pressure, takes the time average, and then takes
the square root (this is called rms for root-mean square).
There are several ways this can be done.

Moving Average: The averaging process is continually
accepting new data so it is similar to an exponential moving
average. The equation for it is
t
1 2 t T
p rms =
T
--- p e d
ts
The sound pressure is squared and multiplied by a
exponential decay factor so that when the time of integration
is near the current time (t) it is essentially undiminished. For
times older (less) than the current time, the value is
diminished and so becomes less important. The rate at which
older data are made less influential is expressed by the
constant T. The larger it is, the slower the decay factor
reduces and the slower the response of the system to rapid
changes. These are standardized into three values called
Time Weighting. See the values below.
Fixed Average: The averaging process is over a fixed time
period. The equation for it is
T2
1 2
p rms =
T2 T1
----------------------- p t dt
T1
The sound pressure is squared and averaged over a fixed
time period. Unlike the moving average, the sound pressures
in all time intervals are equally weighted.
Sound Pressure Level (SPL, Lp) The logarithmic form of sound pressure. It is also expressed
by attachment of the word decibel to the number. The
logarithm is taken of the ratio of the actual sound pressure to
a reference sound pressure which is 20 MicroPascals ( Pa).
There are various descriptors attached to this level
depending on how the actual sound pressure is processed in
the meter:
Instantaneous: The time varying reading on a meter face on
in a meter output due to changes in the sound pressure. The
reading will depend on the time-weighting applied.

The fundamental relationship between the two is logarithmic
p rms L p 20
L p = 20log 10 ---------- p rms = p 0 10
p0
where p0 is the reference sound pressure of 20 Pa. The

square of the sound pressure is a power-like quantity that
can be expressed in the original form of the level definition
2
p rms 2 2 L p 10
L p = 10log 10 ---------
2
- p rms = p 0 10
p0
Sound Pressure Level can be converted to sound pressure as

follows. If the sound pressure is 1 Pascal, then the sound
pressure level is
1
- = 20log 10 50000 = 20 4.699 = 94.0dB
L p = 20log 10 ---------------------
6
20 10
Calibrators often use a level of 94 dB so they generate a

sound pressure of 1 Pascal.
If the sound pressure level = 76.3 dB, then the sound

pressure is
6 76.3 20 3.815 6 2.185

Pa = 20 10 10 = 20 10 = 20 10 = 20 0.0065 = 0.13
Energy Average (Leq): The value of a steady sound measured

over a fixed time period that has the same sound energy as
the actual time varying sound over the same period. This
descriptor is widely used. It is a fixed average (See Sound
Pressure).
Impulse: The value of an impulsive sound. The reading will
depend on the time-weighting applied.

Unweighted Peak: The peak value of a sound with a meter
that has flat frequency weighting and a peak detector.
Weighted Peak: The peak value of a sound with a meter that
has a frequency weighting other than flat and a peak
detector.
Sound Power(W) The sound power emitted by a sound source. It is measured
in Watts.
Sound Power Level (PWL, Lw) The logarithmic form of sound power. It is also expressed by
attachment of the word decibel to the number. The logarithm
is taken of the ratio of the actual sound power to a reference
sound power, which is 1 pico-watt. Sound power level
cannot be measured directly, but can only be deduced
through measurements of sound intensity or sound pressure
around the source. The equation for it is
W L w 10
L w = 10log 10 ------- W = W 0 10
W0
Sound Speed The speed at which sound waves propagate. It is measured

in meters per second. It should not be confused with sound
or particle velocity which relates to the physical motion of
the medium itself.
c = 20.05 degC + 273 m sec
c = 49.03 degF + 460 ft sec
Spectrum (Frequency The amplitude of sound or vibration at various frequencies.

Spectrum) It is given by a set of numbers that describe the amplitude at
each frequency or band of frequencies. It is often prefixed
with a descriptor that identifies it such as sound pressure
spectrum. It is generally expressed as a spectrum level.

Taktmaximal-5 An integration of the five second maximum A frequency
weighted, fast time weighted sound pressure levels.
L AF max 5s (n )
10 10

LAFTM 5 10 log
n

Where:
LAmax 5s(n) is the maximum A-weighted fast exponential
time weighted sound pressure level for each n 5-second time
period
and
n is the number of 5 second periods accumulated during the
measurement.
Threshold Sound Level (Lt) The A-weighted sound level below which the sound
produces little or no Noise Dose accumulation and may be
disregarded. It is used for hearing damage risk assessment.
Time Weighted Average Sound It is the level of a constant sound over the Criterion
Level (TWA, LTWA(TC)) Duration, that would expose a person to the same Noise
Dose as the actual (unsteady) sound over the same period. If
the Exchange Rate is 3 dB then the TWA is equal to the Leq.
T
2 L t K
1
L TWA TC = Klog 10 --- 10 dt
p
T
T
1
where Tc=T2-T1 and K is the Exchange Rate Factor. It is

used for hearing damage risk assessment.

Time Weighting The response speed of the detector in a sound level meter.
There are several speeds used.
Slow: The time constant is 1 second (1000 ms). This is the
slowest and is commonly used in environmental noise
measurements.
Fast: The time constant is 1/8 second (125 ms). This is a less
commonly used weighting but will detect changes in sound
level more rapidly.
Impulse: The time constant is 35ms for the rise and 1.5
seconds (1500 ms) for the decay. The reason for the double
constant is to allow the very short signal to be captured and
displayed.
Vibration The oscillatory movement of a mechanical system
(generally taken to be solid). It is used as a broad descriptor
of oscillations.
Wavelength (l) The distance between peaks of a propagating wave with a
well defined frequency. It is related to the frequency through
the following equation
c
= --
f
where c is the sound speed and f is the frequency in Hz. It

has the dimensions of length.
Wavenumber (k) A number that is related to the wavelength of sound and is
used to compare the size of objects relative to the
wavelength or the time delay in sound propagation. It is
related to wavelength through the following equation
2 2f
k = ------ = -------- = ----
c c
where is the wavelength, c is the sound speed, f is the

frequency in Hz, and is the radian frequency. It has the
dimensions of inverse length.

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Model 831

Sound Level Meter

I831.01 Rev Q Manual

Preamplifier Model: _________ Serial Number: ___________

Microphone Model: _________ Serial Number: ___________

Chapter 2 First Use 2-1

Chapter 3 Overview 3-1

Chapter 4 Basic Measurement Setup 4-1

Chapter 5 Data Display 5-1

I831.01 Rev Q Manual

Chapter 6 Run Control 6-1

Chapter 7 Making a Measurement 7-1

Chapter 8 Calibration 8-1

Chapter 9 Industrial Hygiene 9-1

Chapter 10 Voice Recording 10-1

Chapter 11 Time History 11-1

Chapter 12 Measurement History 12-1

Chapter 13 Event History 13-1

Chapter 14 FFT and Tonality 14-1

Chapter 15 RT-60 15-1

I831.01 Rev Q Manual

Chapter 17 Data Explorer 17-1

Chapter 18 System Properties 18-1

Chapter 19 Non-Acoustical Inputs 19-1

Chapter 20 Communication 20-1

Chapter 22 About 22-1

Chapter 23 System Utilities 23-1

Chapter 24 Parameters Measured 24-1

Chapter 25 Memory Utilization 25-1

I831.01 Rev Q Manual

Appendix A Technical Specifications A-1

Appendix B Measuring to IEC61672-1 B-1

Appendix C Integrated Level Calculations C-1

Appendix D Glossary D-1

Welcome to the Larson Davis Model 831. This versatile

Model 831 Manual 831 Features 1-1

1-2 Basic Measurements Model 831 Manual

Model 831 Manual Available Options 1-3

Included with purchase of 831-FF or 831-ACC including:

1-4 Standard Accessories Model 831 Manual

Model 831 Manual Optional Accessories 1-5

1-6 Optional Accessories Model 831 Manual

Model 831 Manual Optional Accessories 1-7

Direct Input Cable or Adaptor

Cables for Environmental Monitoring

Cable for use with PSA027 Universal Input Power

1-8 Optional Accessories Model 831 Manual

Model 831 Manual Optional Accessories 1-9

1-10 Optional Accessories Model 831 Manual

Unpacking and Inspection

Included with 831-FF and 831-RI. 831-ACC including

Model 831 Manual First Use 2-1

FIGURE 2-1 Microphone

Connecting the Microphone and Preamplifier

FIGURE 2-2 Microphone-Preamplifier

Carefully place the bottom end of the microphone over the

2-2 Connecting the Microphone and Preamplifier Model 831 Manual

FIGURE 2-3 Preamplifier Connected

Press 5 to clear the message box.

Model 831 Manual Connecting the Preamplifier 2-3

Preamplifier Model: _ Serial Number: ___

Microphone Model: _ Serial Number: ___