USB Decibel Dataloggers? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Pack34
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2022, 07:28:01 pm
content: Is there a simple datalogger that could be used for decibel level datalogging?In the past I've often used the picotech TC-08 for temperature, saleae for analog and digital signals, but haven't had the need until now to be able to evaluate noise. For those I would write basic python scripts to execute an action on the product, log all the appropriate data, store the log files, shut down the product, and repeat 100k times.

author: Tjuurko
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2022, 04:26:57 am
content: https://www.tekcoplus.com/products/slm25tkSLM25TK Sound Level Meter with Data Logging Function Measure 30dB~130dB and CD Software

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2022, 04:17:48 pm
content: Pack34, did you end up getting a sound level meter? I recently became interested in a data logging sound level meter and the one suggested above is in my list.The SLM25TK looks like a hybrid of two Reed models in that it has data logging like the R8080 and form of the R8050.https://www.reedinstruments.com/product/reed-instruments-r8050-sound-level-meterhttps://www.reedinstruments.com/product/reed-r8080-sound-level-meterdataloggerReed looks like a solid enough meter and the R8080 software looks superior to the SLM25TK (and others), but the Reed R8080 is out of my price range.I was also looking at the BAFX3608:https://bafxpro.com/products/bafx-products-decibel-meter-sound-level-reader-w-battery-advanced-sound-meterThe BAFX3608 has sampling rates of 125ms or 1s; the SLM25TK is 500ms or 1s.The BAFX3608 has 4,700 internal data point storage; the SLM25TK has 32,000.Amazon reviews seem generally positive for the BAFX, but the one quoted below give me great pause on this unit.Quotehttps://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/REYIT01FMN9L4/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_viewpnt?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B00P1D84N6#REYIT01FMN9L4I think both units need to be calibrated before each use. I found procedure for the SLM25TK:https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0393/5153/files/slm-25calibration_of_usb_sound_meter.pdf?v=1657595769I'm not sure if these devices use a USB to serial data converter cable, but read of several issues of newer Windows not connecting, like the old FT232 issues.I have not figured out which one to get, and maybe neither, so still looking.BTW, I want to use the device to monitor band stage conditions, stage/AV room theater projections, sound level for auto exhaust/race track limits, general fooling around, and learning/awareness. Also, for dispute documenting/resolution. No commercial application, so the Reed is difficult to justify.

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2022, 12:20:43 am
content: Well, I found an eBay auction for a Gain Express branded version of a NIB SLM-25 for 28USD and tossed in a bid, and won.

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 07, 2022, 02:24:24 am
content: I'm happy with it so far as long as it keeps working. I collected some data and played with the AC/DC output. I guess the DC output would need a PWM filter.Here is a log of a quiet room, with some scuffling around at first, setting on my laptopAnd then some tappy tap tap on my edrumsAnd then aplay at the DC output, low noise, then whistleWhistleon AC output

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2022, 06:05:55 pm
content: So I found a flaw with my device which I do not see on the yoo toobs. It counts time and seconds decade is messed up. It counts thusly

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 09, 2022, 06:22:43 pm
content: I also measured my parrot's scream at 103dBA from 2 meters distance. He does not like strange objects, especially black ones. I wonder how loud that would be at point blank, because sometimes he screams into my ear when standing on my shoulder, and it's painful.I found an online calculator, so at ~5cm that would be 135 dB. What a meanie