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Instruction Manual
testo 816
Sound Level Meter
99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176
Phone 781-665-1400
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431
Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com
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General Information
General Information
Please read this documentation through carefully and familiarise
yourself with the operation of the product before putting it to use.
Keep this document to hand so that you can refer to it when
necessary.
Identification
Symbol Meaning Comments
Warning advice: Warning! Read the warning advice
Serious physical injury could be caused if the carefully and take the
specified precautionary measures are specified precautionary
not taken. measures
Warning advice: Caution! Read the warning advice
Slight physical injury or damage to equipment carefully and take the
could occur if the specified precautionary specified precautionary
measures are not taken. measures
Important Please pay particular
attention.
Key Press the key.
Tex t, Display contents Text or symbol is shown on
the display.
Taste
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Contents
Contents
General Information ........................................................20
Contents ........................................................................21
1. Safety Advice..................................................................22
2. Intended Purpose ..........................................................23
3. Product Description........................................................24
3.1 Display and operating elements ........................................................24
3.2 Supply voltage ..................................................................................24
4. Initial Operation ..............................................................25
4.1 Putting in the battery ........................................................................25
5. Operation ......................................................................25
5.1 Switching on/off ................................................................................25
5.2 Setting the meter ..............................................................................25
5.3 Measuring ........................................................................................29
5.4 Calibration ........................................................................................31
6. Care and Maintenance....................................................32
6.1 Changing the battery ........................................................................32
6.2 Microphone ......................................................................................32
6.3 Meter ................................................................................................32
7. Technical Data ................................................................33
8. Accessories and Spare Parts..........................................34
9. Measurement Engineering Fundamentals........................35
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Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431
99 Washington Street
, Melrose, MA 02176
TestEquipmentDepot.com
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1. Safety Advice
1. Safety Advice
Avoid electrical hazards:
Never use to measure on or near live parts!
Product safety/preserving warranty claims:
Operate the meter only within the parameters specified in the
technical data. Do not use force.
Never store with solvents (e.g. acetone).
Observe maximum storage and transport temperature as well
as operating temperature.
Ensure that liquid does not enter into the microphone.
Open the meter only when this is expressly described in the
Instruction Manual for maintenance purposes.
Carry out only the maintenance and repair work that is
described in the Instruction Manual. Follow the prescribed
steps exactly. For safety reasons, use only original spare parts
from Testo.
Warranty claims will no longer apply if the meter is handled
improperly or force is applied.
Ensure correct disposal:
Dispose of defective rechargeable batteries and spent
batteries at the collection points provided.
Send the meter directly to us at the end of its life cycle. We will
ensure that it is disposed of in an environmentally friendly
manner.
As declared in the certificate of conformity, this product fulfils
the guidelines of 89/336/EEC.
Meter conforms with DIN EN 60651 (IEC 651), Class 2.
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2. Intended Purpose
2. Intended Purpose
testo 816 is a sound meter with the sound level measurement
ranges 30-80dB, 50-100dB and 80-130dB, automatic range
switchover, two time weightings, two frequency weightings, a
maximum/minimum function, display light and a tripod screw.
Using the calibrator (accessory), the meter can be recalibrated
with the enclosed adjustment screwdriver.
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3. Product Description
3.1 Display and operating elements
3.2 Supply voltage
Voltage is supplied by a 9V block battery Type 006 P or IEC6F22
or NEDA 1604 (included). If a battery is not inserted, it is possible
to supply voltage via an external mains unit.
3. Product Description
Display
Microphone
On/Off
button
Fast/Slow
button
Light
button
Min/Max
button
A/C
weighting
Level
button
Battery
compartment
(rear)
Calibration screw
8V input
AC/DC output
Tripod thread
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4. Initial Operation
4.1 Putting in the battery
1
Open battery compartment at the back of the instrument.
2
Insert 9V block battery. Ensure +/- is correct.
3
Close battery compartment.
5. Operation
5.1 Switching on/off
Switch on meter: press .
- All segments light up briefly and the meter switches to the
measurement mode (measurement range 50 - 100dB).
Switch off meter: press .
5.2 Setting the meter
The following functions can be set:
Function Description Setting options
Time weighting Sets measurement time Fast or Slow
Frequency weighting Sets weighting A or C
Level Switches over 30 to 80dB
measurement range 50 to100dB
80 to 130dB
30 to 130dB (Auto range)
Hold function Switches on MAX / MIN
Max Hold/Min Hold Function
Light Switches on display light On/Off
4. Initial Operation
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Setting the time weighting
The measurement time (time weighting) is set by pressing .
SLOW/FAST:
The ranges "Slow" with a time weighting of 1s and "Fast" with a
time weighting of 125ms are available. Incoming sound signals
are integrated in a time period from 1s or 125ms respectively.
When "Fast" is set, the display rate of a reading increases to
approx. 5-6 measurement rates per second. The "Slow" time
weighting is selected for noises whose signals only change slowly
e.g. machines, photocopiers, printers etc. Select the "Fast" mode
to measure sudden changes in sound level (e.g.building
machines).
Setting the frequency weighting
Frequency weighting is set with the button.
A/C:
The frequency weightings "A" and "C" are available. Frequency
weighting A is used for standard sound level measurements. This
weighting corresponds to the sound pressure felt by the human
ear, also referred to as "aurally compensated sound level". If the
low frequency levels of a sound are to be assessed, frequency
weighting C is used. If the displayed value is considerably higher
during the C weighting than during the A weighting, the level of
low frequency noise is high.
5. Operation
Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431
99 Washington Street
, Melrose, MA 02176
TestEquipmentDepot.com
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Setting the measurement range
The measurement range is switched using the button.
Level:
The testo 816 sound level meter covers the range 30 to 130 dB.
The measurement ranges 30 to 80, 50 to 100 and 80 to 130 dB
are available as well as an Auto Range function. The meter is in
the middle measurement range 50 to 100 dB when first switched
on. The measurement range is switched each time to a higher
level by activating the "LEVEL" button: 50...100dB Æ80...130dB
ÆAuto range. You can switch back into the lowest range 30 to 80
dB from the Auto Range mode.
MAX/MIN - Hold Function
Use the button to activate the Max Hold or Min Hold
function. "Max" appears in the display once the "Max/Min" button
is activated. In this mode, the meter shows the maximum value of
the sound level since the max mode was set. The display is only
updated if a higher value than the previously displayed value is
measured. The meter goes into the Min-Hold mode when the
"Max/Min" button is activated again. "Min" appears in the display.
The display is only updated if the sound level is below the
displayed value. Max/Min flashes in the display if the "Max/ Min"
button is activated again. The current value is displayed and the
maximum or minimum value is stored in this mode. The maximum
or minimum value is displayed by again activating the "Max Min"
button. The "Max Min" button must be kept pressed for two
seconds in order to quit the Max Min mode.
The Max-Min mode is cancelled by activating the Level,
Fast/Slow or A/C button.
5. Operation
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Switching light on/off
The display light is switched on by pressing the button.
The light is switched off again by pressing the button again.
Auto Off function
When switched on, the meter is in the automatic off mode (Auto
Off Function). The meter switches off automatically after 30
minutes if no button has activated during this time. This function
is symbolised by the clock in the display. You can deactivate this
function by keeping the button pressed when switching on
the meter. A clock symbol then does not appear in the display.
AC/DC output
The testo 816 meter has an AC/DC output with the following
specifications:
AC: 1 V RMS at end-scale deflection
Output impedance approx. 100 Ohm
Output signal through standard 3,5mm jack connector
(see figure below).
Note: If the meter measures in the Auto Range function,
the output signal corresponds to the automatically
selected measurement range.
DC: Output 10mV/dB
Output impedance 1 kOhm
Output signal through standard 3.5mm jack connector
(see Figure below).
5. Operation
AC signal
Earth
DC signal
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Mains connection
The testo 816 meter has an 8V mains connection for
use with a mains unit (see Ordering data)
5.3 Measuring
Sound waves can be reflected off walls, ceilings and other
objects. Also the meter housing and the person measuring (if
measuring incorrectly) are disturbing factors in the sound field
and can lead to incorrect measurement results.
How to avoid measurement errors
The meter housing and the person operating the meter may not
only obstruct the sound coming from a certain direction but they
can also produce reflections and consequently serious
measurement errors. Experiments have shown, for example, that
the body can cause errors of up to 6 dB with frequencies of 400
Hz if a measurement takes place less than one meter away from
the person. This error is less for other frequencies but a minimum
distance should be adhered to. Generally, it is recommended that
the meter is held at least 30 cm - even better 50 cm - away from
the body.
We recommend fitting the instrument to a tripod for exact
measurements.
Measuring
1 Switch on instrument
2 Set measurement time (”FAST/SLOW”)
3 Set frequency (”A/C”)
4 Set measurement range (”Level”)
5 Always direct the microphone exactly at the sound source to
be measured (reference direction).
6 Save the highest and lowest value via ”Max/Min”
5. Operation
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Absolute pressure dependency
testo 816 is calibrated by default for measurements at a height of
0 m above sea level. Measurements at other heights give rise to
measurement errors which can be corrected using a table (see
technical data). Subtract the appropriate offset value from the
value measured (e.g. - 0.1 dB for measurements at a height of
500 m above sea level). You can avoid this measurement error by
calibrating the meter in the corresponding height prior to every
measurement. Please refer to the Instruction Manual for the
calibrator.
Wind cap
Generally the wind cap supplied should be attached during
measurements outdoors and when air movements occur. Wind
noises in the microphone cause measurement errors since the
wanted signal (of the noise source) and the wind noise add up
together.
The wind cap does not falsify the measurement result.
Overmodulation and undermodulation
With every measurement cycle, the sound level meter checks
whether the measured sound level is in the validity range of the
respective measurement range. Deviations are indicated by
"Over" and "Under" on the display. However, the criteria for
overmodulation and undermodulation are different.
Overmodulation is signalled if the maximum value (peak value e.g.
short sound pulse, bang) during the last measurement cycle was
too high. This value may be considerably higher than the actual
value of the sound level displayed. Therefore, it can happen that
"Over" is signalled although a sound level within the normal
framework of the respective measurement range is shown. By
contrast "Under" is geared to the measured actual value and is
therefore set when the lower limit of the measurement range is
reached.
5. Operation
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5.4 Calibration
The testo 816 sound level meter has already been calibrated in
the factory. In order to check accuracy, recalibration with the
calibrator is recommended particularly if the instrument has not
been used for a long period of time. The testo 816 meter should
also be checked with the calibrator prior to and following
measurements in tough conditions, at great heights, at high air
humidity levels or when particularly high demands are made on
the measurement results.
For calibration purposes, the calibrator is placed with a rotary
motion on the microphone. Switch on the sound level meter and
set it to the measurement range 50-100 dB, time weighting "Fast"
and frequency weighting "A".
The calibrator is then switched on by moving the switch to the
middle position (94 dB). If the sound level meter deviates from the
value shown, it can be readjusted using the adjustment
screwdriver supplied. You can then check whether the second
level of the calibrator is also within the error limit of ± 0.2 dB.
Please note that to do this you must select the corresponding
measurement range (80-130 dB). If the value shown is not within
the error limit, please contact our service department.
5. Operation
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6. Care and Maintenance
6.1 Changing the battery
If the battery symbol appears in the display, the lifetime remaining
is approx. 10 hours. To avoid mismeasurement, please change
the battery as soon as possible.
1
Open the battery compartment at the back of the meter.
2
Remove the spent battery and insert the new battery,
Type 9V block (ensure+/- is correct).
3
Close battery compartment.
6.2 Microphone
A robust, long-term stable measurement microphone is located in
the housing head. A function test can be carried out with the
calibrator. The housing can be cleaned with alcohol (isopropanol).
Please ensure that liquid does not get into the microphone.
The attached wind cap also protects the microphone from dust
and humidity.
Please contact our service department if the microphone is
defect.
6.3 Meter
testo 816 is maintenance-free and is therefore not bound by any
maintenance intervals. Clean the housing with a damp cloth.
Weak household cleaning agents can be used.
Never clean with abrasive cleaning agents or solutions.
6. Care and Maintenance
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7. Technical Data
Feature Values
Sensor: ½ inch electret condenser measurement microphone
Overall measurement range: 30 to 130 dB
Level ranges: 30 to 80 dB
50 to 100 dB
80 to 130 dB
Auto range: 30 to 130dB
Frequency range: 31.5 Hz to 8 kHz
Frequency weighting: A/C
Reference frequency: 1000 Hz
Backup impedance of microphone: 1 kΩ at 1 kHz
AC/DC output AC: 1V RMS at end scale deflection; output impedance approx.
100 Ohm
DC: output 10 mV/dB; output impedance approx. 1 kOhm
Absolute pressure dependency: -1.6*10
-3
dB/hPa
Time weighting: 125 ms (Fast) or
1 s (Slow)
Accuracy: ± 1.0 dB (under reference conditions: 94dB at 1kHz)
Display: LCD
Digital display: 4 digit LCD display, 13mm high
Resolution: 0.1dB
Display refresh: 0.5s
Analog display: 50 segment bar graph
Resolution: 1dB
Display refresh: 100ms
Battery: 9V Block (6F 22)
Battery life Approx. 50 hours (alkaline manganese)
Tripod thread: ¼ inch
Operating temperature: 0 to +40°C
Operating humidity: 10 to 90 %RH
Storage temperature: -10 to +60°C
Storage humidity: 10 to 75 %RH
Housing material: ABS
Mains connection: For 8V mains unit 0554 1084
Temperature dependancy table
Absolute pressure dependancy
Altitude in metres above s.l. Pressure p in mbar Correction in dB
0 - 250 1013 - 984 0.0
>250 - 850 983 - 915 -0.1
>850 - 1450 914 - 853 -0.2
>1450 - 2000 852 - 795 -0.3
7. Technical Data
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Temperature correction value table
Relative humidity: 65 %RH
Reference value sound pressure level: 124 dB
Temperature range with discrepancy <0.5 dB:10...40 °C
Temperature in °C Correction in dB
-10 -0.7
0 -0.7
5 -0.6
50 1
Frequency weighting
Nom. frequency in Hz A-weighting C-weighting Error limits
in Hz in dB in dB Class 2 in dB
31.5 -39.4 -3.0 ±3
125 -16.1 -0.2 ±1.5
250 -8.6 -0.0 ±1.5
500 -3.2 -0.0 ±1.5
1000 0 0 ±1.5
2000 +1.2 -0.2 ±2
4000 +1.0 -0.8 ±3
8000 -1.1 -3.0 ±5
8. Accessories and Spare Parts
Name Item no.
testo 816 sound level meter 0563 8165
incl. battery,Instruction Manual, screwdriver, wind cap
Calibrator 0554 0452
Wind cap 0193 0816
9V rechargeable battery 0515 0025
Recharger for external recharging of rechargeable battery 0554 0025
Mains unit 0554 1084
Screwdriver 0554 0818
7. Technical Data
63 -26.2 -0.8 ±2
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9. Measurement Engineering
Fundamentals
Pressure and Sound
Noises are changes in the sound pressure in the air. When
conditions are normal, the air pressure is 1013 mbar about which
the sound pressure of the noise source fluctuates. The human ear
senses these pressure fluctuations and converts them to nerve
pulses. The ear is like a pressure sensor with an enormous
dynamic range. The quietest noise which can be heard by
humans causes pressure fluctuations of 0.0002 µbar
(corresponding to 0 dB), the loudest noise (which can be heard
without pain) has a sound pressure level of 635 µbar
(corresponding to 130 dB).
This corresponds to a pressure difference of around 3,000,000fold. Since stating the pressure in mbar would result in very long
figures, logarithmic notation is used and calculation is with level
values. In this way, a level increase of 20 dB corresponds to a 10fold increase in pressure. A sound level meter to EN 60651
measures the frequency weighted actual value of the sound level,
it is a measure of the total sound energy converted during
measurement time.
9. Measurement Engineering Fundamentals
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Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431
99 Washington Street, Melrose, MA 02176
TestEquipmentDepot.com
0973.8160/03/C/wh/05.05.2006
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