IEC 60804:2000

Describes instruments for the measurement of frequency weighted and time averaged sound-pressure levels. Ensures specified accuracy and stability of an integrating sound level meter and reduces to the practical minimum any differences in equivalent measurements taken with instruments of various makes and models which satisfy the requirements of this standard. Specifies the following characteristics and test methods for integrating sound-level meters: a)integrating and averaging characteristics; b)indicator characteristics; c)overload sensing and indicating characteristics.

Contains changes to clauses 3, 4, 6, 9 and 11 of IEC 60804.

Contains changes to clauses 6 and 9 of IEC 60804.

Gives electroacoustical performance specifications for three kinds of sound measuring instruments: - a conventional sound level meter that measures exponential time-weighted sound level; - an integrating-averaging sound level meter that measures time-average sound level; and - an integrating sound level meter that measures sound exposure level. A single instrument may make any, or all, of the three kinds of measurements. Two performance categories, class 1 and class 2, are specified in this standard. In general, specifications for class 1 and class 2 sound level meters have the same design goals and differ mainly in the tolerance limits and the range of operational temperatures. Tolerance limits for class 2 specifications are greater than, or equal to, those for class 1 specifications. Sound level meters conforming to the requirements of this standard have a specified frequency response for sound incident on the microphone from one principal direction in an acoustic free field or from random directions.

Provides details of the tests necessary to verify conformance to all mandatory specifications given in IEC 61672-1:2002 for conventional sound level meters, integrating-averaging sound level meters and integrating sound level meters. Pattern evaluation tests apply for each channel of a multi-channel sound level meter, as appropriate. Tests and test methods are applicable to class 1 and class 2 sound level meters. The aim is to ensure that all testing laboratories use consistent methods to perform pattern evaluation tests.