The CR:800B is a powerful sound level meter designed for accurate measurements over a long period of time. This user manual provides comprehensive technical information and instructions for its operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Function Description
The CR:800B Sound Level Meter is a precision measurement instrument capable of performing a wide range of sound level measurements. It can be configured for various measurement functions, including Broadband, 1:1 Octave Band, and 1:3 Octave Band measurements. The instrument allows for both manual and automatic measurement durations, with options for auto-repeat and auto-synchronization. It stores measurement data in its internal memory, which can then be viewed on the device or downloaded to a PC for further analysis using the Deaf Defier3 software.
The CR:800B series includes several models, each with specific capabilities:
- CR:811B: Type 1 Broadband Only
- CR:812B: Type 2 Broadband Only
- CR:821B: Type 1 Broadband with 1:1 Octave Band Filters
- CR:822B: Type 2 Broadband with 1:1 Octave Band Filters
- CR:831B: Type 1 Broadband with 1:1 & 1:3 Octave Band Filters
- CR:832B: Type 2 Broadband with 1:1 & 1:3 Octave Band Filters
The instrument is designed to meet IEC 60651 and 60804 standards, with Class 1 or Class 2 specifications depending on the model. It can be used with various accessories, including acoustic calibrators, preamplifiers, and microphone extension cables.
Important Technical Specifications
Sound Level Meter:
- Standards: IEC 60651:1979 Type 1 or Type 2, IEC 60804:1985 Type 1 or Type 2, IEC 61672-1:2003 Class 1 or Group X, ANSI S1.4 with NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor Fitted, IEC 61260 Class 1 (when fitted).
- Measurement Range:
- Broadband: 21dB(A) to 140dB(A) Type 1, 25dB(A) to 140dB(A) Type 2.
- 1:1 Octave Band Filters: 19dB(Z) to 140dB(Z).
- 1:3 Octave Band Filters: 14dB(Z) to 140dB(Z).
- Range Steps: 10-80, 20-90, 30-100, 40-110, 50-120, 60-130, 70-140.
- Noise Floor (Typical): Broadband 18dB(A) Type 1, 20dB(A) Type 2.
- 1:1 Octave Band Filters: 12dB(Z) @ 1kHz 1:1 Octave Band.
- 1:3 Octave Band Filters: 7dB(Z) @ 1kHz 1:3 Octave Band.
- Memory: 16Mbit, allowing up to 1300 broadband measurements, 770 1:1 octave measurements, and 330 1:3 octave measurements.
- Automatic Measurements: Can be set to record and store data over fixed times of 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 8 hours, 12 hours, or a user-defined period. Auto-repeat from 2 to 999 measurements (broadband mode only). Auto-synchronize to the clock.
- Display: Matrix LCD with backlight & Quasi Analogue Bar Graph.
- Weight: 450 gms.
- Dimensions: Type 1: 340mm x 75mm x 25mm, Type 2: 300mm x 75mm x 25mm.
Microphone:
- Type 1: MK:224 pre-polarized Free-field ½” Condenser.
- Type 2: MK:216 pre-polarized Free-field ½” Condenser.
- Capacitance: Random Incidence to ANSI S1.4 with NK:70 Adaptor 18pF.
Preamplifier:
- Type 1: MV:200C Removable Preamplifier.
- Type 2: MV:200C Integral Preamplifier.
Extension Cables: ZL:202 2m, ZL:205 5m, ZL:210 10m, ZL:215 15m, ZL:220 20m, ZL:225 25m.
Time Weightings: 'F' (Fast), 'S' (Slow), 'I' (Impulse) to IEC 61672-1:2003 Class 1 or 2 Group X.
Frequency Weightings: 'A', 'C' or 'Z' for Channel 1 and 'C' for Peak Channel 2. Z weighting is a flat frequency response of 8Hz – 20kHz ±1.5dB excluding microphone response.
Batteries: 2 x 1.5v Alkaline LR6/AA.
- Battery Life: Typically >30 hours for Broadband, >20 hours for 1:1 Octave Band.
Environmental:
- Operating Temperature: -10°C to +50°C.
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to +60°C.
- Humidity: Up to 95% RH Non Condensing.
External Connections:
- RS232 Communications: Via 8 pin mini Din socket with supplied ZL:800 Cable. Baud Rate: 38,400, Data Bits: 8, Stop Bit: 1, Parity: None.
- AC Output: Un-weighted AC Output. Measurement Range: 70-140 dB (-10 dB), 60-130 dB (0 dB), 50-120 dB (0 dB), 40-110 dB (0 dB Reference Range), 20-100 dB (+10 dB), 20-90 dB (+20 dB), 10-80 dB (+25dB).
- DC Output: DC log signal of the above with time constant as selected. DC output is 2 (Level [Top of Range value] +33dB) /41 giving approximately 24.4mV/dB.
Software Support: Deaf Defier3 for Windows.
Usage Features
The CR:800B is designed for ease of use with a clear menu-driven interface.
- Quick Start: The manual provides step-by-step instructions for quick setup and measurement, including switching on, calibration, setting measurement mode and duration, and starting/stopping measurements.
- Calibration: The instrument requires calibration before use. This involves connecting an acoustic calibrator and selecting the calibrate option from the menu. The display will show the calibration level (e.g., 94dB) and confirm successful calibration.
- Measurement Configuration: Users can configure various parameters such as measurement duration (manual, 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 8 hours, 12 hours, or user-defined), auto-repeat, and auto-synchronization.
- Display Contrast: The display contrast can be adjusted for optimal visibility in different lighting conditions.
- Time & Date: The internal clock can be set to ensure accurate time-stamping of measurements.
- Resolution: The display resolution can be set to 0.1dB or 0.01dB.
- Time Weighting: Users can select Fast, Slow, or Impulse time weighting.
- Frequency Weighting: A, C, or Z frequency weighting can be selected.
- Ln Values: The instrument supports four preset Ln statistical values (L1.0, L10.0, L50.0, L90.0, L95.0) which can be changed.
- User Metric: The user metric can be set to SEL, L_eq,t, or L_Ieq,t.
- Viewing Measurements: Stored measurements can be viewed on the instrument's display, showing parameters like elapsed time, LAeqt, LCpeak, and LAE. The display can also show graphical representations of 1:1 and 1:3 Octave Band measurements.
- Downloading Measurements: Measurements can be downloaded to a PC using the supplied ZL:800 RS232 cable and the Deaf Defier3 software. The software allows for detailed analysis and reporting of the collected data.
- Memory Management: The instrument's memory can be checked for available space, and measurements can be cleared as needed.
Maintenance Features
The CR:800B is designed for durability, but regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.
- Cleaning: The instrument should be kept clean and free from dust and debris. A soft cloth dampened with water or a mild detergent can be used. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Microphone Care: The microphone capsule is sensitive and should be protected from physical damage and moisture. Do not remove the microphone grill.
- Windshield: A UA:237 90mm Foam Windshield is supplied to reduce noise levels generated by air turbulence. It should be used in outdoor environments.
- Battery Replacement: The instrument uses two AA type batteries. The battery compartment is located at the bottom of the instrument. Ensure correct polarity when inserting new batteries. The instrument will indicate low battery voltage.
- Troubleshooting: The manual includes a comprehensive troubleshooting section that addresses common issues such as the instrument not switching on, calibration failures, measurement errors, and downloading problems. It provides possible causes and remedies for each symptom.
- Software Installation: The Deaf Defier3 software is installed from a CD-ROM. Ensure the PC meets the minimum system requirements for proper installation and operation.
- Preamplifier Removal/Attachment: The preamplifier can be removed or attached by twisting the locking ring. Care should be taken not to cross-thread the locking ring to avoid damage.
- Microphone Extension Cables: When using extension cables, ensure they are correctly attached and the instrument is calibrated with the cable attached.
The CR:800B is a robust and reliable instrument, but proper care and adherence to the maintenance guidelines will ensure its continued accuracy and performance.