Below are general answers on how to choose a sound level meter & calibrator from the list of GAO Tek’s sound level meters & calibrators. To facilitate our customers to select our products, we have further classified our sound level meters & calibrators by their features acoustic, handheld, multi-function, professional, real-time, rugged, and data logging. 

We have products in stock and can ship overnight to most places in the U.S. and Canada. 

If you have any questions about our products or want to place an order, our technical experts can help you. Please fill out this form or email us.  

 

Type and Class: Choose a Type and Class of our sound level meter based on our specific needs. Type 1 meters are more accurate and suitable for precise measurements, while Type 2 meters are generally less expensive and suitable for general-purpose applications.  

Frequency Weighting: A-weighting is commonly used for general noise measurements, while C-weighting is used in industrial and environmental noise assessments. Some of our meters also provide an option for Z-weighting for unfiltered measurements.  

Time Weighting: Fast and Slow time weightings are standard. Fast is suitable for rapidly changing noise levels, while slow one provides a more average reading over time. We should choose based on the characteristics of the sound we are measuring.  

Measurement Range: Select our meters with an appropriate measurement range that covers the expected sound levels in our environment. This prevents clipping (saturation) at high levels and ensures accuracy at low levels.  

Data Logging and Storage: If we need to record data over time, choose our sound level meters with data logging capabilities and sufficient storage capacity. This is crucial for long-term assessments and compliance monitoring.  

Integration Time: Some of our meters allow us to adjust the integration time, which affects the time over which the sound level is measured. Shorter integration times capture rapid changes, while longer times provide more averaged readings.  

Display and User Interface: Look for a meter with a clear and easy-to-read display. Intuitive user interfaces and menu systems are essential for ease of operation with our sound level meter.  

Type and Frequency: Choose a calibrator suitable for the type of sound level meter we have (Type 1 or Type 2). Ensure that our calibrator’s frequency matches the frequency range of our sound level meter.  

Accuracy and Stability: Select a calibrator with high accuracy and stability. This ensures that the reference tone it generates is reliable and consistent over time for us.  

Battery Life: Check the battery life of our calibrators, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods or in the field. A long-lasting battery reduces the risk of interruptions during measurements with our GAO Tek equipment.  

Compatibility: Ensure that our calibrators are compatible with specific sound level meter models. Some of our meters may have specific requirements for calibration equipment.  

Ease of Use: Look for a calibrator with a simple setup and operation. Features such as automatic power-off and easy adjustment mechanisms contribute to user-friendly calibration with our GAO Tek devices.  

Documentation and Traceability: Verify that calibrators come with proper documentation, including a calibration certificate. This ensures traceability to national or international standards, providing confidence in the accuracy of measurements.  

Robustness: Consider the robustness and durability of our calibrators, especially if it will be used in various environments. A sturdy construction ensures long-term reliability for us. Â