Larson Davis SoundAdvisor 831C, 831C Reference Manual

SoundAdvisor

Model 831C Sound Level Meter

Vertrieb für Österreich :

nbn Elektronik Handelsgesellschaft m. b. H.

Riesstraße 146, 8010 Graz | Tel. [phone] | Fax [phone]www.nbn.at

Larson Davis

SoundAdvisor

Model 831C

Reference 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.

Safety

If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Larson Davis, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

Record of Serial Number and Purchase Date

SoundAdvisor Model 831C 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.

i.1 Contact Larson Davis

Website

www.larsondavis.com

Worldwide Corporate Headquarters

Larson Davis - a PCB Piezotronics division
3425 Walden Avenue
Depew, NY 14043-2495 USA

Toll-free (in the US): 888-258-3222
Phone: [phone]
USA fax: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

SoundAdvisor Model 831C i-2

i.2 Download G4 LD Utility

G4 LD Utility (G4) software enhances the features, flexibility, and ease-of-use of Larson Davis instruments
by providing setup utilities, instrument calibration, computer-based control of the instrument, data download
and manipulation, printing, and export of data to third-party software for post processing and analysis.

When you insert the G4 LD Utility software CD, it will start automatically. If it does not, access the CD drive
and click LDsetup.exe. Alternatively you can download G4 at
http://www.larsondavis.com/G4

The install program prompts for any additional required information. A PCB Piezotronics menu item will be
created under the Program menu item in the Start menu and a shortcut will be placed on the desktop.

i.2.1 Connecting SoundAdvisor to G4

After installing G4 LD Utility, make your initial connection via USB cable from your instrument to PC. Press
the power button 0 on SoundAdvisor to turn the instrument on. Launch the G4 software and click Connect.

FIGURE I-1 G4 LD Utility Connect

In the Connect to Meter dialog box, select the device and connection type. Instruments that are detectable
via USB connection appear automatically in the list. When your instrument appears, select it and click
Connect when the instruments appear. G4 can be connected to multiple instruments through both TCP/IP
address and USB connection. For more information about G4 see the G4 LD Utility Manual.

FIGURE I-2 Connection To Meter

SoundAdvisor Model 831C i-3

i.3 Using A Digital Reference Manual

Jump Back button for when
you go to a link and want to
return to your last place in the
document

Loupe Tool allows
for a quick zoom
window

Make text notes that point
directly to sections

Highlight or underline
any text

Create links to open other
documents you have that
relate to the content.

Larson Davis is committed to the green practices of limited paper waste. In this effort, we only offer
reference manuals in a digital PDF format. Digital notes and comments can be made in certain readers, and
you are encouraged to print any procedures or sections for quick references that fit your needs. Each page is
drafted on A4 size, and can be easily scaled to fit most printers. When printing set scaling to “Fit to Printable
Area”.

FIGURE I-3 PDF View on Adobe Acrobat Pro

SoundAdvisor Model 831C i-4

Table of Contents

Module 1 SoundAdvisor Features 1-1

1.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................1-1

1.2 Basic Operations ............................................................................................................1-1

1.3 Applications .................................................................................................................... 1-2

1.4 Hardware Features ......................................................................................................... 1-2

1.5 Performance Features .................................................................................................... 1-3

1.6 Available Options ...........................................................................................................1-3

1.7 Accessories ....................................................................................................................1-4

Module 2 Instrument Overview 2-1

2.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................2-1

2.2 Instrument ...................................................................................................................... 2-2

2.3 Keypad ...........................................................................................................................2-4

2.4 Microphones and Preamplifiers ...................................................................................... 2-6

2.5 Displays and Icons .........................................................................................................2-6

Module 3 Getting Started 3-1

3.1 Unpacking & Inspecting .................................................................................................. 3-1

3.2 Connecting the Microphone & Preamplifier ....................................................................3-3

3.3 Connecting the Preamplifier to SoundAdvisor ................................................................ 3-4

3.4 Disconnecting the Preamplifier .......................................................................................3-4

3.5 Powering the SoundAdvisor ...........................................................................................3-4

3.6 Turn the SoundAdvisor ON ............................................................................................ 3-8

3.7 Long Term Storage of SoundAdvisor ........................................................................... 3-10

Module 4 Data Display 4-1

4.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................4-1

4.2 Data Labels ....................................................................................................................4-2

4.3 Live Displays .................................................................................................................. 4-2

4.4 Overall Displays ............................................................................................................. 4-6

4.5 Session Log Tab .......................................................................................................... 4-16

4.6 Adjust Graph Scale ...................................................................................................... 4-17

Module 5 Calibration 5-1

5.1 Calibration Overview ...................................................................................................... 5-1

5.2 Calibration Displays ........................................................................................................5-2

5.3 Choosing a Calibrator ..................................................................................................... 5-5

5.4 Performing a Calibration ................................................................................................. 5-6

Module 6 Measurement Setup 6-1

6.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................6-1

6.2 Setup Manager ...............................................................................................................6-2

6.3 Default to LD Default Setup ............................................................................................6-9

6.4 User Defined Setup ........................................................................................................ 6-9

6.5 Exiting the Setup Manager ...........................................................................................6-10

Module 7 Making a Measurement 7-1

7.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................7-1

7.2 Before You Start ............................................................................................................. 7-2

7.3 Performing the Measurement ......................................................................................... 7-4

7.4 Storing the Measurement ............................................................................................... 7-7

7.5 Low Level Sound Fields ................................................................................................. 7-8

Module 8 Measurement Data Files 8-1

8.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................8-1

I831C.01 Rev C Supporting Firmware Version 3.0.2 ii-1

8.2 Data Storage Preferences .............................................................................................. 8-1

8.3 Data File Manager ..........................................................................................................8-2

8.4 USB Drive Storage ......................................................................................................... 8-4

8.5 File Naming System ....................................................................................................... 8-6

8.6 Out Of Memory ...............................................................................................................8-7

8.7 Access Limited ...............................................................................................................8-7

Module 9 System Properties 9-1

9.1 Overview ........................................................................................................................9-1

9.2 Device ............................................................................................................................9-2

9.3 Time ...............................................................................................................................9-2

9.4 NTP ................................................................................................................................ 9-3

9.5 Power .............................................................................................................................9-3

9.6 Preferences .................................................................................................................... 9-6

9.7 Localization .................................................................................................................... 9-9

9.8 Displays ........................................................................................................................9-10

9.9 Options .........................................................................................................................9-11

9.10 Network ........................................................................................................................9-11

9.11 Email ............................................................................................................................9-12

9.12 Other ............................................................................................................................9-13

9.13 Set Reference Spectra .................................................................................................9-14

Module 10 About System 10-1

Module 11 Lock 11-1

11.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................11-1

11.2 Lock Meter .................................................................................................................... 11-1

11.3 Lock Modes .................................................................................................................. 11-2

11.4 Allow Calibration When Locked .................................................................................... 11-3

11.5 Constraints ................................................................................................................... 11-4

11.6 Unlock ..........................................................................................................................11-4

Module 12 System Utilities 12-1

12.1 Bad Flash Blocks ..........................................................................................................12-1

Module 13 Communications & WiFi 13-1

13.1 Communication ............................................................................................................ 13-1

13.2 Connecting to an Ethernet Port .................................................................................... 13-2

13.3 WiFi ..............................................................................................................................13-2

Module 14 Upgrade Firmware 14-1

14.1 G4 LD Utility .................................................................................................................14-1

14.2 Upgrading SoundAdvisor Firmware ............................................................................. 14-1

14.3 Upgrading Options ....................................................................................................... 14-3

14.4 Enabling/Disabling Optional Firmware ......................................................................... 14-4

Module 15 Measurement History 15-1

15.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................15-1

15.2 Enabling Measurement History .................................................................................... 15-1

15.3 Setting up the Measurement ........................................................................................ 15-1

15.4 Making a Measurement ................................................................................................ 15-4

15.5 Viewing Measurement Data ......................................................................................... 15-5

15.6 Storing Measurement History ....................................................................................... 15-6

Module 16 Time History 16-1

16.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................16-1

16.2 Metrics Logged .............................................................................................................16-1

16.3 Enabling Time History .................................................................................................. 16-3

SoundAdvisor Model 831C ii-2

16.4 Setting up the Measurement ........................................................................................ 16-3

16.5 Making a Time History Measurement ........................................................................... 16-5

16.6 Markers ........................................................................................................................16-5

16.7 Viewing Time History Data ........................................................................................... 16-6

16.8 Storing Time History ..................................................................................................... 16-8

Module 17 Event History 17-1

17.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................17-1

17.2 Enabling Event History ................................................................................................. 17-1

17.3 Setting up the Measurement ........................................................................................ 17-2

17.4 Making an Event History Measurement ....................................................................... 17-5

17.5 Viewing Event History Data .......................................................................................... 17-5

17.6 Storing Event History .................................................................................................... 17-7

17.7 Triggering Method ........................................................................................................ 17-7

Module 18 Sound Recording 18-1

18.1 Overview ......................................................................................................................18-1

18.2 Enabling Sound Recording Option ............................................................................... 18-1

18.3 Create Setup File ......................................................................................................... 18-1

18.4 Manual Sound Recording ............................................................................................. 18-2

18.5 Marker Sound Recording ............................................................................................. 18-3

18.6 Event Sound Recording ............................................................................................... 18-4

18.7 Sound Recording Playback .......................................................................................... 18-7

18.8 Storing Sound Recordings ........................................................................................... 18-8

Appendix A Technical Specifications A-1

A.1 Overview ....................................................................................................................... A-1

A.2 SoundAdvisor Model 831C Instrument Platform ........................................................... A-1

A.3 SoundAdvisor Model 831C Base Software ................................................................... A-4

A.4 SoundAdvisor Model 831C Octave Band Analysis Software – Option 831C-OB3 ........ A-7

A.5 SoundAdvisor Model 831C Event Logging Software – Option 831C-ELA .................. A-13

A.6 SoundAdvisor Model 831C Time History Software – Option 831C-LOG .................... A-14

A.7 Frequency Response .................................................................................................. A-15

Appendix B Measuring IEC61672-1 B-1

B.1 Overview ....................................................................................................................... B-1

B.2 Section 9.3 .................................................................................................................... B-1

Appendix C Glossary C-1

C.1 Overview ....................................................................................................................... C-1

C.2 Glossary of Terms ......................................................................................................... C-1

SoundAdvisor Model 831C ii-3

Module

1.1 Overview ............................................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Basic Operations ................................................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Applications ...........................................................................................................1-2

1.4 Hardware Features ...............................................................................................1-2

1.5 Performance Features ..........................................................................................1-3

1.6 Available Options .................................................................................................. 1-3

1.6.1 Purchase-Required Options .....................................................................1-3

1.7 Accessories ...........................................................................................................1-4

1.7.1 Optional Accessories ...............................................................................1-4

1 SoundAdvisor Features

1.1 Overview

TAKE NOTE The “C” in 831C

stands for color.

1.2 Basic Operations

TRY THIS Explore the

interface, press buttons, change
settings, and test the
operations.

The SoundAdvisor Model 831C (the SoundAdvisor, 831C, or meter) is a

Class 1 acoustic monitoring instrument with a full-color touch screen that
measures noise frequency, sound pressure level, and community and
environmental sound.

G4 LD Utility (G4) software connects your meter through USB 2.0 high­speed and other wired and wireless methods to your PC. With G4 you can
calibrate the meter, create setup files, download measurements, and
analyze the results.

The SoundAdvisor performs the following operations:

• Measures sound: stop, pause, and resume measurement

• Display broadband and spectral sound values on a full-color
display screen

• View live and stored data while a measurement is in process

• Log simultaneously to time, statistical measurement and event
histories

• Use markers to annotate portions of time histories, including voice
annotation

• Automatically back up data to prevent data loss on power failure

• Calibrate using a Precision Acoustic Calibrator, and store
calibration history

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Overview 1-1

1.3 Applications

• Time stamping for L

• Sync clock with PC, attached GPS, or Network Time Protocol
(NTP)

• Create multiple Setup configurations using the Setup Manager

• Record audio in .wav and .ogg formats with event, manual, or
time-based triggers

The SoundAdvisor monitors:

• City noise

• Construction noise

• Airport noise

• Nuisance noise

• Noise ordinance compliance

max

, L

min

, L

peak-(max)

single event metrics.

1.4 Hardware Features

The SoundAdvisor is a precision integrating sound level meter with the
following hardware features:

TAKE NOTE Up to 32GB USB

memory can be purchased
from Larson Davis as an
option.

• Wind farm noise

• 2 GB internal industrial grade data memory

• 240 x 320 full-color graphic LCD display with touchscreen user
interface

• Quiet Touch elastomeric keypad

• 4-AA batteries provide upwards of 8 hours operating time, usable
with NiMH, photo-lithium, lithium-Ion, and alkaline cells

• AC/DC output jack with full dynamic range option

• Compatible with 61 m (200 ft.) microphone extension cable (full
scale to 20 kHz)

• Dust resistant durable plastic case with lanyard and tripod mount
(tripod not included)

• USB 2.0 high-speed host connector for mass storage, weather
sensors, USB headset, and WiFi communication devices

• USB 2.0 high-speed peripheral connector for control and data
download by a PC

• I/O connector for power, weather transducers, logic input/output,
and preamplifier communications

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Applications 1-2

1.5 Performance Features

• 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 with SEN03x)

• Multiple language support: English, French, Italian, German, and
Spanish

• Field-upgradeable firmware

1.6 Available Options

LEARN MORE To purchase

options, see “Contact Larson
Davis” on page ii-2.

The SoundAdvisor is delivered with all firmware options available at the
time of manufacture already installed. However, only those options which
have been purchased are enabled. Any of the other firmware options can
be enabled at a later date, following purchase, using a file delivered from
Larson Davis.

1.6.1 Purchase-Required Options

831C-LOG

Time History data logging with periods from 2.5 ms to 24 hours
831C-OB3
Real-time 1/1 & 1/3 Octave Frequency Analysis

831C-ELA

Measurement History for the manual or timed storage of statistical data,
and exceedance-based Logging Analysis with Events

831C-SR

Make event based and manual sound recordings that can be sent via email
or SMS and stored in the measurement data.

831C-MSR

Measurement History for the manual or timed storage of statistical data,
and exceedance-based Logging Analysis with Events, with all sound
recording capabilities

831C-SW

Make direct USB communication with Sierra Wireless RV50 gateway.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Performance Features 1-3

1.7 Accessories

TAKE NOTE Some of these

options may not be provided
with systems designed for
specific applications.

Microphone Preamplifier

Microphone

Software CD

Unless otherwise noted, the SoundAdvisor is delivered with these
standard accessories:

PRM831
or
PRM2103

377B02 1/2” free-field prepolarized microphone, 50 mV/Pa, providing
performance conforming to Class 1 sound level meter standards
or
377C20 1/2” random incidence prepolarized microphone, 50 mV/Pa,
providing performance conforming to Class 1 sound level meter standards

G4 LD Utility Software for setup, measurement, download, and data
viewing through CBL138 USB, TCP/IP, serial, or analog modem
connections

Accessory Kit

Other

1.7.1 Optional Accessories

Microphones

831-ACC includes:

• 831-CCS Hard Shell Case

• PSA029 Universal AC USB Power Adaptor

• CBL138 USB to mini-B cable, 1.8 m

• WS001 3 1/2” Windscreen

• 4 Rechargeable AA NiMH batteries

Lanyard

• 377C01 1/4” free-field prepolarized microphone, 2 mV/Pa, for
higher level and/or higher frequency measurements (ADP043
adaptor required)

• 377C10 1/4” pressure prepolarized microphone, 1.0 mV/Pa, for
higher level and/or higher frequency measurements (ADP043
adaptor required)

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Accessories 1-4

Microphone Preamplifiers

Environmental Protection

• 426E01 1/2” ICP Low Noise Microphone Preamplifier (requires
adaptor ADP074)

• PRM2103 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier

• PRM426A12 Outdoor Microphone Preamplifier

EPS2116 Environmental Shell

Protects microphone and preamplifier from rain and wind with mounting
options for pipes, poles, and most tripods

EPS030-831

Weather-proof enclosure for remote noise monitoring; includes battery

NMS/EPS043

Weather proof enclosure for remote noise monitoring

NMS044

Solar powered noise monitoring system for outdoor, long-term, and
unattended sound monitoring

Weather Data Acquisition

• 831-INT 831 Interface Unit for use with 426A12 Outdoor
Microphone Preamplifier and weather sensors

Communication

• DVX012, 013, 014, 015

• DVX008A USB to RS232, 9 Pin Adaptor

• 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 are available. 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

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Accessories 1-5

Cables

Extension and Interface Cables

• 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 831C 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

Tripods

• PSA027 Universal 90-240 AC Power Adaptor providing power
from electrical outlet, used to power the SoundAdvisor in
conjunction with CBL140, CBL145 or CBL154. 1.25 A,

2.5X5.5X14 mm

• BAT015 External battery holder for the 831, holding 4 or 8 D­sized alkaline 1.5 volt batteries to extend run time

• TRP001 Instrument/Camera Tripod with ADP032 1/2 in.
microphone clip used with EPS2116

• TRP002 Microphone Stand with Boom

• TRP003 Support Tripod, heavy duty, can be used with EPS029,
EPS030 and EPS2116

• ADP091 Mounting adapter, 426A12 TO TRP003

• TRP019 Permanent 17' tilt down pole.

• TRP020-06 Heavy duty 6' tripod

• TRP020-10 Heavy duty 10' tripod

• TRP020-15 Heavy duty 15' tripod

• TRP020-20 Heavy duty 20' tripod

Other Hardware

Calibrators

• CAL200 Class 1 Sound Level Calibrator, 94/114 dB @ 1 kHz

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Accessories 1-6

Optional Software

• CAL250 Class 1 Sound Level Calibrator, 114 dB @ 250 Hz

Soft Case

CCS032 pouch with belt clip

DNA (Data Navigation and Analysis) software

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Accessories 1-7

Module 2 Instrument Overview

2.1 Overview ............................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Instrument ............................................................................................................. 2-2

2.3 Keypad .................................................................................................................. 2-4

2.3.1 Navigating and Selecting ......................................................................... 2-4

2.3.2 Basic Run Function .................................................................................. 2-5

2.3.3 Entering Text ............................................................................................ 2-5

2.4 Microphones and Preamplifiers .............................................................................2-6

2.5 Displays and Icons ................................................................................................ 2-6

2.5.1 Measurement Data Tabs ..........................................................................2-7

2.5.2 Pages ....................................................................................................... 2-8

2.5.3 Status Bar Icons ....................................................................................... 2-9

2.5.4 Display Menus ........................................................................................ 2-13

2.1 Overview

The SoundAdvisor Model 831C accomplishes all tasks related to sound

monitoring. The SoundAdvisor is a reliable and diversely competent
meter. With the SoundAdvisor, you can:

• Measure all area sound

• Stream and record audio continuously or for events using sample
rates up to 51.2 ksps in compressed or uncompressed format

• Communicate with via USB, Ethernet, cellular, or WiFi

• Operate completely from the device itself, or remotely using G4
LD Utility software

• Easily expand memory using USB memory

• Automatically synchronize the clock with Network Time Protocol
(NTP) or GPS for optimal accuracy

• Select desired color theme on the full-color graphic LCD display
with touchscreen user interface

This module describes the hardware and visual components that make up
the SoundAdvisor.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Overview 2-1

2.2 Instrument

Standard 1/2” free field
or random incidence
microphone

Release button to disconnect
the preamp from the meter

240 x 320 full-color graphic
LCD display with touchscreen
user interface (shown with
Dark color theme)

Display navigation
softkeys

Multicolor back­lit keypad

Tools button leads
to system set-up
information

On/Off button is
also a one-touch
power control
access

Reset/Clear Measurement

USB Auxiliary port,
AC/DC output jack,
and I/O connectors

PRM831
Preamplifier

FIGURE 2-1 SoundAdvisor Instrument Overview (front)

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Instrument 2-2

FIGURE 2-2 Instrument Overview (bottom)

CAUTION DO NOT use the

hardware power switch to turn the
SoundAdvisor ON or OFF. This may
cause data to be lost. The purpose of
this switch is to disconnect the
batteries for storage (1 to 2 weeks). If
any longer, then remove the batteries
from the meter.

CAUTION The AC/DC jack is not a

headphone jack.

1. AUX connector intended for use with USB mass storage, cellular &
dial-up modems, GPS, headphones, speakers, and future devices.

2. Hardware Power Switch when set to “ 0 ” completely powers down
the SoundAdvisor for storage. Set to “ | ” for instrument operation.

3. USB Interface 2.0 peripheral full-speed port used for communication,
full control, and downloading of data to PC. The PSA029 external
power supply may be connected here. The maximum USB cable
length is 1m and the cable is part number CBL138.

4. AC/DC 2.5 mm Output jack for analog AC/DC output signals.

5. The I/O Connector for peripherals and external power is typically
used for external devices.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Instrument 2-3

2.3 Keypad

Arrow Keys
Up, Down, Right, Left

Reset a measurement

Power Control

Tools menu

Stop or Store a measurement Run or Pause a

measurement

Select or Enter

The SoundAdvisor has 13 buttons that are used to start, stop, or pause
measurement, navigate display, and safely power the meter off.

FIGURE 2-3 SoundAdvisor Keypad

Softkeys:
Left, Center, Right

2.3.1 Navigating and Selecting

To navigate the display on the meter, you can utilize the touch-screen
feature and simply press your selection directly on the screen using the tip
of your finger, or use the keypad.

Table 2.1 Navigating and Selecting

Action Key(s) Description

Navigate to tabs

Navigate to pages

/ /

8
2

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Keypad 2-4

Top left & right softkeys

Up & down arrow keys

Table 2.1 Navigating and Selecting

Action Key(s) Description

Navigate within display (e.g.,

move highlighted octave band)

Access content specific menu

Exit a menu

Navigate up & down in a display

Make a selection

2.3.2 Basic Run Function

Table 2.2 Basic Run

4 6

/*/

*

5

5

The basic run measurement functions can be executed using the following
keys:

There are times when a content specific menu appear
on the screen. The associated top soft key will access

The top middle soft key can be used to close or save.
If you don’t want to save, press it, and then select no

The enter key can be used to move up and down on

The enter key can be used to make a selection

Left & right arrow keys

that menu.

to exit.

certain pages

Action Key(s) Description

Initiate a run

Pause a run

Stop measurement

Store data file

Reset measurement

2.3.3 Entering Text

9
9

7
7

1

The SoundAdvisor allows for complete operation from the meter itself. In
instances where a text field will need to be edited, a keyboard will appear.
Navigate the keyboard using the arrow keys 2 8 up & down and 4
6 left & right. Use the 5 key to make a selection.

While the SoundAdvisor is running, press this

End a measurement during a run or pause

Pressing the stop/store button while the meter is

stopped will store the measurement data

Press the reset key to clear measurement

Start a measurement

button to pause

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Keypad 2-5

FIGURE 2-4 Keyboard

2.4 Microphones and Preamplifiers

The following microphone preamplifier is used with the SoundAdvisor:

LEARN MORE For information

on using the SoundAdvisor
with the PRM2103
preamplifier, see the PRM2103
Manual.

The following microphone are the most commonly used with the
SoundAdvisor:

2.5 Displays and Icons

The SoundAdvisor has a full-color, back-lit LCD touchscreen. The color
theme can be changed to dark or light from System Properties. See
“System Properties” on page 9-1.

• PRM831 1/2” Microphone Preamplifier

• 377B02 1/2” Free Field Microphone with nominal sensitivity of

50 mV/Pa

• 377C20 1/2” Random Incidence Microphone with nominal sensi-

tivity of 50 mV/Pa

• 377C01 1/4” Free Field Microphone with nominal sensitivity of

2.16 mV/Pa (ADP043 adaptor required)

• 377C10 1/4” Pressure Microphone with nominal sensitivity of 1

mV/Pa (ADP043 adaptor required).

When the SoundAdvisor is first powered ON, the Live screen is
displayed. When a measurement is in progress, the display is similar to
Figure 2-5 Live Main Screen.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Microphones and Preamplifiers 2-6

FIGURE 2-5 Live Main Screen

OBA Overload or
Under Range icon

Tools menu icon

Run time of current
measurement

Measurement status

Pages can be
accessed using the
up and down arrows

Measurement name
of current running
measurement

Data display

Session log,
Overall, and other
tabs can be accessed
using the right and
left softkeys

2.5.1 Measurement Data Tabs

TAKE NOTE There are seven

(7) tabs of measurement data.
Live, Overall, and Session Log
are default. To learn more
about additional tabs see
“Measurement Setup” on
page 6-1.

Measurement data is presented on three (3) main screens called “tabs”
that can be navigated using the top left/right softkeys:

Live

• Data is continuously displayed on this tab whether there is a mea-

surement running or not. Data displayed on the Live tab is not
stored in the meter.

• Up to 13 pages of Live Measurement data

Overall

• Represents data measured and averaged beginning from the time

the measurement was started until the elapsed time indicated at the
top of the display. If the measurement is stopped, the elapsed time
will stop. Pressing the run key again will continue the measure­ment. As long as there is no reset, the same measurement is con­tinued.

• Up to 20 pages of Overall Measurement data

Session Log

LEARN MORE To learn more

about the Session Log, see
“Session Log Tab” on page 4-

16.

• A record of actions during a measurement. A time-stamped record

is made for every Run, Pause, Resume, Stop, and Sound Record­ing action. The source responsible for each action is also recorded.
Resetting and storing data will clear the session record.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-7

FIGURE 2-6 Measurement Data Tabs

Live Tab’s Pages

Overall Tab’s Pages

2.5.2 Pages

TAKE NOTE You may not have

all the pages available on the
SoundAdvisor. Additional

The Live and Overall tabs each have data displays called “pages” that
can be accessed using the up 8and down 2 arrow keys. Figure 2-7

shows all the pages available for these tabs.
pages of measurement data can
be purchased through Larson
Davis. “Contact Larson
Davis” on page i-2.

FIGURE 2-7 Live and Overall Pages

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-8

2.5.3 Status Bar Icons

Power Indicator

USB Memory Status

WiFi Status

OBA Indicator

SLM Indicator

Measurement Runtime

Run Status

File Name

FIGURE 2-8 Status Bar

Power Indicators

TAKE NOTE The battery icon

animates through the battery
state cycle while charging.

The top status bar will alert the user the status of the meter, measurement,

connection, and battery.

Battery

The battery icon indicates the state of the battery charge by color and

volume. Figure 2-9 Battery States indicates all the states of the battery

going from fully charged to depleted, if read left to right. The bolt symbol

appears over the battery icon if the battery is currently charging.

FIGURE 2-9 Battery States

External Power

The external power connection icon appears when the SoundAdvisor is

powered from an external power supply or via the USB port.

FIGURE 2-10 External Power Icon

Battery Status Pending

While the SoundAdvisor is checking the battery status, this pending icon

will appear until the battery percentage is determined.

FIGURE 2-11 Battery Status Pending Icon

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-9

WiFi Status

USB Memory Status

Input Overload Icon

See “WiFi” on page 13-2.

See “USB Drive Storage” on page 8-4.

When a signal from the preamplifier exceeds the calibrated input range of

the SoundAdvisor, 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.

FIGURE 2-12 SLM Overload Icon

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.

When using a microphone having a sensitivity of 50 mV/Pa, the input

overload will occur approximately as shown in Table 2.3.

Under Range Icon

Table 2.3 Input Overload Levels

Input Gain, dB Overload Level, dB Peak

0 143

20 123

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.

FIGURE 2-13 Under Range Icon

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 alter in color, as shown in Figure 2-14.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-10

FIGURE 2-14 Under Range vs. Normal Range Data Display

Under Range Display Normal Range Display

OBA Overload Icon

If the input to the Octave Band Analyzer becomes overloaded, the OBA

Overload icon will appear to indicate the overload.

FIGURE 2-15 OBA Overload Icon

Table 2.4 OBA Overload Levels

Input Gain, dB OBA Range Overload Level, dB

0 Normal 143

20 Normal 123

0 Low 110

20 Low 90

OBA Under Range Icon

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 2.4.

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 all filters of the OBA are “under range” the OBA Under Range

Icon appears.

FIGURE 2-16 OBA Under Range Icon

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-11

As long as this under range condition exists, the icon will flash. When the

Run

A measurement is currently
running.

Stop

A measurement is stopped.

Reset

A measurement reset has
occurred.

Run Pending

The meter is waiting for
filters and detector
initialization to complete
and will automatically start
the run when the system is
stable (typically less than 10
seconds).

Pause

The present run is paused.

measured OBA levels no longer produces an under range condition, the

icon will be removed from the display.

Measurement Status

The state the meter is currently in will be indicated by a measurement

status icon. The measurement status is indicated by five icons for the five

states: run, stop, reset, pause, run pending.

FIGURE 2-17 Measurement Status Icons

If touch-screen is enabled, or you are operating the SoundAdvisor

remotely, touching the icon will change the status with the following

results:

Table 2.5 Touch Icon Results

Measurement State Action

Resulting

Measurement State

Run Press Once Stop

Run Double Tap Pause

Pause Press Once Run

Stop/Reset Press Once Run

Stop/Reset Double Tap Store

Run Pending N/A N/A

Power Save Press Once Run

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-12

Analog Power Save Icon

LEARN MORE To learn more

about power saving options,
see “Power” on page 9-3.

When the SoundAdvisor is not connected to a PC, it can be put in a power

saving mode that shuts down the analog circuitry, including the

preamplifier, to save battery power. The power save icon will be

displayed in the location where the measurement status icons appear.

FIGURE 2-18 Analog Power Save Icon

File Operation Icon

The file operation icon will appear on the status bar to indicate that a file

is currently being saved onto the USB, moved from the USB to meter, or

is being copied. All these operations are done in the Data File Manager,

see page 8-1. It is a standby icon that will disappear once the operation in

complete.

FIGURE 2-19 File Operation Icon

2.5.4 Display Menus

The SoundAdvisor features and functions are organized into three general

menus:

Main Menu

Accessed using the center softkey that indicates Menu

• Setup Manager

• Mark Sound Type

• Any Level Menu - Access on profile display by pressing 5

• Adjust Graph

• Print Screens (only available with printer inserted)

Tools Menu

Accessed using 3 Tools or the menu icon on the display

• Data File Manager

•Calibrate

• Setup Manager

• System Properties

• About

• Lock

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-13

Any Level Menu

FIGURE 2-20 Any Level Menu

• System Utilities

• Communication

• Setup WiFi (if available)

Power Control

Accessed by pressing the 0 once

• Battery Information

•Display

•Off

• Reboot

To select which sound level parameter is to be used for the 2nd numerical

value displayed, press the 5 to open the menu.

Setup Manager

TAKE NOTE A new setup file

can be created using G4 LD
Utility and then moved on to
the meter.

TRY THIS Name a

measurement file using the on
screen keypad that appears
once you select the
measurement name.

The Setup Manager is a platform that allows for measurements to be

made with preset settings in what are called “setup files” or “setups”.

From any tab or page on the meter, press the Menu soft key, select Setup

Manager. The first display is a list of the setup files currently available on

the meter. The Active setup is the current setup for all runs made. The

Default setup can be made active, and it cannot be removed or deleted.

Select Active and navigate to the different settings using top left and right

softkeys.

General

Name a measurement file, and add description.

SLM

Define the weightings, filters, and integration type for the measurement

sound levels.

OBA

Set the parameters for the real-time octave band frequency analysis.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-14

TAKE NOTE

Enabling some
settings will open more pages
under the tabs in the data
display.

Ln

Define the Ln statistics.

Control

Define the way a measurement is performed, the timing, and the storage
of measurement history records.

LEARN MORE For more

information on the
Measurement Settings tabs and
pages, “Measurement Setup”
on page 6-1.

System Properties

LEARN MORE To learn more,

see “System Properties” on
page 9-1.

Time History

Enable the time history and select the metrics that are stored in the time
history.

Triggers

Define the levels at which noise exceedance events will be triggered

Event History

Define the timing and options for events.

Markers

Define the marker types and enable markers.

Day/Night

Define the time periods and level penalties for community noise metrics.

Sound

Set the quality of sound recording and enable its usage.

Weather

Set the weather station type and values of external transducers for the
measurement of wind speed, wind direction, temperature and humidity.

Power

Define battery type, if the external power source should charge the
battery, and features like auto-off, power-save, backlights, keypad
backlight, LCD brightness, and the external shutoff voltage.

Preferences

Set mic correction, auto-store, the AC output, reset properties, data
storage location, GPS mode, and the time zone correction.

Locale

Set language preference, decimal symbol, date format, and the units in
which the measurement is displayed.

Displays

Define the default start display, and toggle between tabs to hide or show
pages.

Options

Hide or show purchased options on the meter.

Network

View the 831 INT-ET IP address and the external Ethernet IP and MAC
addresses. Enable Watchdog is also on this page.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Displays and Icons 2-15