Thank you for purchasing General Tools & Instruments’
DSM20 USB Digital Sound Level Data Logger. Please read this
user’s manual carefully and thoroughly before using the
instrument.
The DSM20 is a low-cost, compact, battery-powered sound
level meter capable of unattended logging (recording) of the
decibel level of an environment for days, weeks or months.
Data logging can be started or stopped by pushing a button on
the unit, eliminating the need to bring a laptop to the job site.
Windows®7 and Windows®XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
After a data log has been captured and stored, it can be
®
uploaded as a .txt file to any PC running the Windows
®
Windows
XP operating system after plugging the DSM20 into
7 or
one of the computer’s USB ports. The DSM20’s internal flash
memory is large enough to store up to 32000 data points.
Included with the product—which is slightly larger than a
thumb drive—is a mini-disc with the drivers needed to
interface the unit to the computer, as well as software that
can display a data log file as a table or graph and/or export it
to Microsoft Excel. Exporting to Excel is recommended for
sophisticated trending and analysis of sound level data and
easy detection of unexpected excursions.
KEY FEATURES
• One button starts/stops data logging without a PC
• Plug-and-play USB 2.0 interface; no need for cables,
cradles or docks
• Large storage capacity offers the ability to track, store, and
download 32,000 data points into Excel-Format.
• LCD displays real time sound level
• A/C frequency weighting
• FAST/SLOW time weighting
• MAX/MIN/AVG displays
• High and low alarm limit, selectable sampling time
• Ability to analyze data in graph view using included
software and also print or save the results.
SAFETY INSTRUCTION
Do not use the DSM20 in the presence of flammable or
explosive gases.
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WHAT’S IN THE PACKAGE
The DSM20 comes in a blister pack containing:
• The instrument (with included “1/2 AA” battery)
• A disc with software drivers for Windows
®
Windows
XP computers, a program for capturing data
logs and displaying them as curves, a software installation
and operation manual, a PDF of this user’s manual
• A stand to mount the instrument
• A USB extension cord
• A hard copy of this user’s manual (inside the fold-over card)
®
7 or
showing through the small square hole in the rear of the unit.
Push back the cover, insert a fresh battery in the correct
orientation, and replace the cover, pushing it forward until you
feel and hear a click.
Note: If the battery is removed from a unit before it has been
set up from software or while it is recording, the unit must be
reconfigured before it can be reactivated. If it is not
reconfigured, the unit will remain in standby mode.
Replacement “1/2 AA” batteries are available from General.
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
Fig. 1 shows the main components, controls, display and
connectors of the DSM20. Familiarize yourself with their
names and functions before
moving on to the Setup
Instructions.
A. Microphone
B. Function button
Fig. 1
C. LCD
D. Protective cap
D
E. Full-size USB plug
SETUP INSTRUCTIONS
INSTALL THE BATTERY
The DSM20 uses a 3.6VDC “1/2 AA” Lithium-ion battery
(included).
screwdriver with a fine point to push in the silver flange
To open the battery compartment
, use a
SOFTWARE, DRIVERS, CONFIGURATION
Please refer to the software manual on the CD for installation,
configuration and operating instructions.
A
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
DEPLOY THE UNIT
The DSM20 is particularly easy to deploy on a job site
because the unit does not need to be plugged into a computer
to be activated (ready to start logging data). The DSM20—
B
C
with its protective cap on—can be deployed either by laying
it on a horizontal surface or by mounting it onto the stand
provided.
E
BUTTON FUNCTIONS
To turn on the device, press and hold the unlabeled yellow
Function button (Fig. 1, Callout B) for 3 seconds. If the device
has not yet been activated, this operation will activate the
Log
device and the LCD will display
. If the device is already
activated, this operation will deactivate the logger and the
Con
LCD will display
. If the memory is full, the LCD will
54
FUL
display
modes which are
the button briefly to switch between these modes.
Normal
Max
: displays the maximum reading recorded since activation
Min
: displays the minimum reading recorded since activation
Avg
: displays the average value of readings recorded since
Status
Log
Con
Ful
---
during recording. The data logger has 5 display
Normal, Max, Min, Avg
: displays current sound level
of this mode
of this mode
activation of this mode
: displays status of the device
: currently logging data
: inactive; connect to computer to configure for next
data logging session
: memory is full
configured and ready to start logging
and
Status
. Press
SPECIFICATIONS
Range: 30~130dB Resolution: 0.1dB Accuracy: ±1.5dB
Max capacity: 32000 data points Link Protocol: USB 1.0/2.0
Power supply: DC3.6V Li Battery Capacity: 1200mAh
Working current: <1mA
Operating temperature: 32° to 122°F (0° to 50°C)
Operating humidity: 10-90%RH non-condensing
Storage temperature: 14° to 122°F (-10° to 50°C),
5% to 95%RH w/o battery
Dimensions: 7.09 x 1.10 x 1.06 in. (180 x 28 x 27 mm)
Weight: 2.01 oz. (57g) w/o battery
MAINTENANCE TIPS
• Avoid dropping the unit. Do not subject it to violent shock or
vibration or expose it to strong electromagnetic fields (for
example, near arc welders or induction heaters).
• Keep the unit out of direct sunlight.
• Do not use chemicals or abrasive cloth to clean the display
window or housing.
• Before storing the DSM20 for an extended period of time
(several months or more), remove the battery to avoid
having it leak and damage the unit.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
General Tools & Instruments’ (General’s) DSM20 USB Digital
Sound Level Data Logger is warranted to the original
purchaser to be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of one year. Subject to certain
restrictions, General will repair or replace this instrument if,
after examination, the company determines it to be defective
in material or workmanship. The warranty period begins on
the date of purchase. You are encouraged to register your
product online. General will extend your warranty an
additional 60 days if you register at
www.generaltools.com/ProductRegistry.
This warranty does not apply to damages that General
determines to be from an attempted repair by non-authorized
personnel or misuse, alterations, normal wear and tear, or
accidental damage—including dropping the unit. The
defective unit must be returned to General Tools &
Instruments or to a General-authorized service center, freight
prepaid and insured.
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Acceptance of the exclusive repair and replacement remedies
described herein is a condition of the contract for purchase of this
product. In no event shall General be liable for any incidental,
special, consequential or punitive damages, or for any cost,
attorneys’ fees, expenses, or losses alleged to be a consequence
of damage due to failure of, or defect in any product including,
but not limited to, any claims for loss of profits.
Register now at www.generaltools.com/ProductRegistry to
receive a 60-day extension to your warranty.
RETURN FOR REPAIR POLICY
Every effort has been made to provide you with a reliable
product of superior quality. However, in the event your
instrument requires repair, please contact our Customer
Service to obtain an RGA (Return Goods Authorization)
number before forwarding the unit via prepaid freight to the
attention of our Service Center at this address:
Remember to include a copy of your proof of purchase, your
return address, and your phone number and/or e-mail
address.
99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176
Phone 781-665-1400
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431
Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com
Specifications subject to change without notice
NOTICE - WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS.