Larson Davis SoundAdvisor User manual

SoundAdvisor Model 831C i-1
Larson Davis
SoundAdvisor
Model 831C
Sound Level Meter
Reference Manual

SoundAdvisor Model 831C i-2
Copyright
Copyright 2019, 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 representa-
tion, either expressed or implied, with respect to this instrument and documentation, its quality, performance, merchantabil-
ity, 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.
Recycling
PCB Piezotronics, Inc. is an environmentally friendly organization and encourages our customers to be environmentally con-
scious. When this product reaches its end of life, please recycle the product through a local recycling center or return the prod-
uct 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]

I831C.01 Rev M - Firmware Version 4.0.5
Table of Contents
Module 1 Model 831C Features 1-1
1.1 Basic Operations
1.2 Applications
1.3 Hardware Features
1.4 Performance Features
1.5 Standard 831C Package Contents
1.6 Options and Accessories
Module 2 Instrument Overview 2-1
2.1 Instrument Hardware Overview
2.2 Using the Keypad
2.3 Display Elements Overview
Module 3 Getting Started 3-1
3.1 Unpacking & Inspecting
3.2 Connecting the Microphone & Preamplifier
3.3 Connecting the Preamplifier to Meter
3.4 Disconnecting the Preamplifier
3.5 Powering the 831C SLM
3.6 Powering On or Off
3.7 Operating the 831C Remotely
3.8 Long Term Storage of 831C
Module 4 Using the Data Display 4-1
4.1 Understanding the Live Tab
4.2 Understanding the Overall Tab
4.3 Understanding the Session Log Tab
4.4 Adjusting the Graph Scale
4.5 Enabling or Disabling Display Tabs
Module 5 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C 5-1
5.1 Understanding the Calibration Process
5.2 Reviewing the Calibration Settings
5.3 Choosing a Calibrator
5.4 Calibrating Your SoundAdvisor 831C
Module 6 Creating a Measurement Setup 6-1
6.1 831C Setup Manager Overview
6.2 Creating a Custom Setup File
6.3 Troubleshooting a Measurement Setup File
Module 7 Making a Measurement 7-1
7.1 Before You Start
7.2 Performing the Measurement
7.3 Storing the Measurement
Module 8 Managing Measurement Data Files 8-1
8.1 Setting Data File Storage Preferences
8.2 Using the Data File Manager
8.3 Saving, Moving, or Copying Data Files
Module 9 System Properties 9-1
9.1 Setting Instrument Identification
9.2 Updating the Meter Time

SoundAdvisor Model 831C ii-2
9.3 Using NTP to Sync the Meter Clock
9.4 Editing Power Settings
9.5 Setting Meter Preferences
9.6 Setting Localization Options
9.7 Setting Options On the Displays Tab
9.8 Enabling or Disabling Options
9.9 Setting Network Preferences
9.10 Setting Up Alert Notifications
9.11 Setting System Alert Notification Details
9.12 Setting Up Cloud Storage for Data Files
9.13 Utilizing the Logic In, Logic Out Feature
9.14 Setting Reference Spectra
9.15 Generating an App Password
Module 10 System Information 10-1
Module 11 Using the Meter Lock 11-1
11.1 Locking the Meter
11.2 Choosing a Lock Mode
11.3 Allowing Calibration When Locked
11.4 Constraints
11.5 Unlocking the Meter
Module 12 System Utilities 12-1
12.1 Troubleshooting Bad Flash Block Error
Module 13 831C Network and Connections 13-1
13.1 Connecting to an Ethernet Port
13.2 Setting Up the Meter’s Network ID
13.3 Setting a Static IP Address
13.4 Using WiFi On Your 831C SoundAdvisor
Module 14 Upgrading Firmware & Options 14-1
14.1 Updating the G4 LD Utility
14.2 Upgrading 831C Firmware by Using G4 LD Utility
14.3 Upgrading Options
14.4 Enabling or Disabling Optional Firmware
Module 15 Using Measurement History 15-1
15.1 Setting Up a Measurement With Measurement History
15.2 Viewing Measurement History Data Files
Module 16 Using Time History 16-1
16.1 Setting up a Measurement With Time History
16.2 Making a Time History Measurement With Sound Markers
16.3 Viewing Time History Data
Module 17 Using Event History 17-1
17.1 Setting Up the Event History Measurement
17.2 Storing Event Data
17.3 Viewing Event History Data on the Event History Tab
17.4 Understanding Triggering Methods
Module 18 Using 831C Sound Recording 18-1
18.1 Setting Up Markers for Sound Recording
18.2 Making a Manual Sound Recording Using Mark Sound Type
18.3 Making an Automated Event Sound Recording

SoundAdvisor Model 831C ii-3
18.4 Enabling Measurement History Sound Recording
18.5 Understanding Recording Settings and Sound Quality
18.6 Sound Recording Playback
Appendix A Technical Specifications A-1
A.1 Instrument Platform
A.2 Base Software
A.3 Octave Band Analysis Software – Option 831C-OB3
A.4 Event Logging Software – Option 831C-ELA
A.5 Time History Software – Option 831C-LOG
A.6 PTB Approved Firmware
A.7 Frequency Response
A.8 Declaration of Conformity
Appendix B Measuring Sound Using IEC 61672-1 B-1
B.1 Overview
B.2 Section 9.3
Appendix C Glossary C-1
C.1 Overview
C.2 Glossary of Terms

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Basic Operations 1-1
Module 1 Model 831C Features
The SoundAdvisor Model 831C SLM is a Class 1 acoustic monitoring
instrument with a full-color touchscreen that measures noise
frequency, sound pressure level, and community and environmental
sound. The “C” in 831C refers to the full-color screen.
G4 LD Utility software (G4) connects your meter to your PC via USB,
Bluetooth, WiFi, or TCP/IP. With G4 you can calibrate the meter, create
setup files, download measurements, and analyze the results.
1.1 Basic Operations .................................................................................................................1-1
1.2 Applications .........................................................................................................................1-2
1.3 Hardware Features ..............................................................................................................1-2
1.4 Performance Features .........................................................................................................1-2
1.5 Standard 831C Package Contents ......................................................................................1-3
1.6 Options and Accessories .....................................................................................................1-3
1.6.1 Firmware Options .................................................................................................1-4
1.6.2 Hardware Options .................................................................................................1-4
1.1 Basic Operations
The 831C performs the following operations:
TRY THIS Explore the
interface, press buttons,
change settings, and test the
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
• Time stamping for Lmax, Lmin, Lpeak-(max) single event metrics.
• Sync clock with PC, attached GPS, or Network Time Protocol
(NTP)
• Create multiple Setup configurations using the Setup Manager

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Applications 1-2
1.2 Applications
The 831C monitors:
• City noise
• Construction noise
• Airport noise
• Nuisance noise
• Noise ordinance compliance
• Wind farm noise
1.3 Hardware Features
The 831C 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.
• 2 GB internal industrial grade data memory
• 240 x 320 full-color graphic LCD display with touchscreen user
interface
• Quiet Touch elastomeric keypad
• Meter uses NiMH, photo-lithium, lithium-Ion, and alkaline cells;
4-AA batteries provide upwards of 8 hours operating time
• 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 (tripod mount
is also available)
• 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
1.4 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

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Standard 831C Package Contents 1-3
• Weather Measurements (Wind Speed and Direction,
Temperature, and Humidity with SEN03x)
• Multiple language support: English, French, Italian, German,
Spanish, and Chinese
• Field-upgradeable firmware
1.5 Standard 831C Package Contents
The 831C is available as part of a specialized system, or in a standard
configuration. The following accessories come with the standard
configuration:
1.6 Options and Accessories
In this section:
•1.6.1 Firmware Options
•1.6.2 Hardware Options
Accessory Type Available Items
Microphones (377B02) ½-inch free-field
prepolarized microphone, 50
mV/Pa, providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
(377C20) ½-inch random
incidence prepolarized
microphone, 50 mV/Pa, providing
performance conforming to Class
1 sound level meter standards
Note: You can use other microphones with the 831C. For more
information, see 1.6.2 Hardware Options for more information.
Microphone
Preamplifiers
PRM831 PRM2103
Accessory Kit
(831-ACC) includes
these items:
(831-CCS) Hard Shell Case
(PSA029) Universal AC USB Power Adapter
(CBL138) USB to mini-B cable, 1.8 m
(WS001) 3 ½-inch windscreen
4 Rechargeable AA NiMH batteries
Desktop Software The G4 LD Utility software (G4) comes on the included LD USB drive.
The latest version of G4 is always available for download from
www.LarsonDavis.com/G4.
Lanyard

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Options and Accessories 1-4
1.6.1 Firmware Options
LEARN MORE To purchase
these options, see “Contact
Larson Davis” on page ii-2.
The following upgrades/options are available to purchase from Larson
Davis.
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 in WAV or OGG format
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 with all sound recording capabilities.
831C-SW
Make direct USB communication with Sierra Wireless RV50X cellular
gateway.
831C-AUD
Using the AudCal software from Larson Davis in conjunction with your
SoundAdvisor 831C enables you to test the calibration of audiometers
and sound booths.
1.6.2 Hardware Options
The following table contains only a few examples of the hardware
accessories available for your 831C. Additional components include,
but are not limited to, microphones, preamplifiers, software, power
supplies, tripods, calibrators, sensors, protective cases, adapters, and
cables. For a complete listing of standard and system accessories, see
http://www.larsondavis.com/products/soundlevelmeters/
soundadvisor/soundadvisorordering.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Options and Accessories 1-5
Accessory Type Available Options
Microphone Options
Note: These mics are
available directly from
Larson Davis. You can also
use other microphones with
the 831C.
(377A15) 1-inch, prepolarized
pressure condenser
microphone, 50 mV/Pa,
providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
(377B01) ¼-inch free-field
prepolarized microphone, 50
mV/Pa, providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
(377B10) ¼-inch free-field
prepolarized microphone, 50
mV/Pa, providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
(377C01) ¼-inch free-field
prepolarized microphone, 50
mV/Pa, providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
(377C13)½-inch, prepolarized,
pressure condenser
microphone, 50 mV/Pa,
providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
(377C10) ¼-inch free-field
prepolarized microphone, 50
mV/Pa, providing performance
conforming to Class 1 sound
level meter standards
Microphone Preamplifier
Options
(426E01) 1/2-inch ICP Low
Noise microphone preamplifier
(requires adapter (ADP074)
(PRM2103) Outdoor
microphone preamplifier
Environmental Protection
EPS 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/EPS044
Solar-powered noise monitoring system for outdoor, long-term,
and unattended sound monitoring
NMS/EPS045
Permanently-installed, solar-powered noise monitoring system
for outdoor, long-term, and unattended sound monitoring
Weather Data Acquisition
SEN031: combined weather sensor, wind speed and direction
(with no moving parts), temperature, humidity, pressure, and
rainfall (requires CBL170 and DVX008A)
SEN032: Ultrasonic Anemometer: wind speed and direction only
sensor (requires CBL170 and DVX008A).
Communication
DVX012, 013, 014, 015, 008A 831-INT-ET with integrated
Ethernet capability
GPS GPS001 GPS Receiver, USB Magnetic Mount

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Options and Accessories 1-6
Equivalent Electrical Impedance Adapter Options
Choose one of the following adapters in place of the microphone when making very high
impedance measurements. The adapter acts as a series capacitor with the same capacitance as
the microphone it replaces. If you’re making a square wave pulse measurement, include a 100
kHz, low pass, T filter with the adapter.
(ADP002) 6.8pF BNC Input
Adapter for ¼-inch, 7pF
microphone equivalent
(ADP090) 12pF, BNC Input
Adapter for ½-inch, 12pF
microphone equivalent
(ADP092) BNC In-Line, Low
Pass Filter, 75kHz
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
Accessory Type Available Options

SoundAdvisor Model 831C 2-1
Module 2 Instrument Overview
The SoundAdvisor Model 831C accomplishes all tasks related to
sound monitoring. The 831C is a reliable and diversely competent
meter. With the 831C, 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 831C.
In this module:
2.1 Instrument Hardware Overview .........................................................................................2-2
2.2 Using the Keypad ................................................................................................................2-3
2.2.1 Navigating and Selecting ......................................................................................2-4
2.2.2 Basic Run Functions ..............................................................................................2-4
2.2.3 Entering Text .........................................................................................................2-4
2.3 Display Elements Overview .................................................................................................2-5
2.3.1 Changing Display Color Themes ..........................................................................2-5
2.3.2 Using Tabs and Pages ...........................................................................................2-5
2.3.3 About Status Bar Icons and Indicators ................................................................2-6
2.3.4 Main Menu Overview .............................................................................................2-9
2.3.5 Tools Menu Overview ..........................................................................................2-10
2.3.6 Power Control Menu Overview ...........................................................................2-11

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Instrument Hardware Overview 2-2
2.1 Instrument Hardware Oeriew
FIGURE 2-1 831C Instrument Overview (front)
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 back-lit 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

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Using the eypad 2-3
FIGURE 2-2 Instrument Hardware
2.2 Using the Keypad
In this section:
•2.2.1 Navigating and Selecting
•2.2.2 Basic Run Functions
•2.2.3 Entering Text
The 831C has 13 buttons that are used to start, stop, or pause a
measurement navigate within the display, and power the meter off.
CAUTION DO NOT use the hardware power
switch to turn the 831C ON or OFF. The
purpose of this switch is to disconnect
the batteries for long-term storage (1 to 2
weeks). See 3.8 Long Term Storage of
831C.
CAUTION DO NOT use the AC/DC port as a
headphone jack.
1. AU connector intended for use with USB mass
storage, cellular modem, GPS, headphones,
speakers, and future devices.
2. Hardware Power Switch when set to “0” com-
pletely powers down the 831C for storage. Set to
“” for instrument operation.
3. USB Interface 2.0 peripheral full-speed port used
for communication, full control, and download-
ing 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 out-
put signals.
5. The I/O Connector for peripherals and external
power is typically used for external devices.
Navigation buttons
Up, Down, Right, Left
Reset a measurement
Power
Access the menus.
Stop or Store a measurement
Run or Pause a
measurement
Select or Enter
Softkeys: LEFT, RIGHT Navigate display tabs
CENTER Close or exit a menu.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Using the Keypad 2-4
2.2.1 Navigating and Selecting
To navigate the display on the meter, you can press directly on the
touchscreen using the tip of your finger, or use the navigation buttons
as shown in Table 2.1.
2.2.2 Basic Run Functions
The basic run measurement functions can be executed using the
buttons as shown in Table 2.2:
2.2.3 Entering Text
Table 2.1 Buttons for Navigation
Action Button(s) Description
Navigate to tabs */* Top left & right softkeys
Navigate to pages 8
2
Up & down navigation button
Navigate within display (e.g.,
move highlighted octave band)
4 6Left & right navigation button
Access content specific menu *** There are times when a content specific menu
appears. Press the associated top soft key to
access that menu.
Exit a menu /*/ Press the top-middle soft key to close or save. To
exit without saving, press it, and then select No or
Cancel.
Navigate up & down in a display 5Press the ENTER button to move up and down on
certain pages.
Make a selection 5Press the ENTER button to make a selection.
Table 2.2 Buttons for Basic Run
Action Button(s) Description
Initiate a run 9Start a measurement
Pause a run 9While the 831C is running, press this button to
pause
Stop measurement 7End a measurement during a run or pause
Store data file 7Pressing the stop/store button while the meter is
stopped will store the measurement data
Reset measurement 1Press once to clear unsaved measurement data.
Press a second time to reset filters (this may take
a few seconds).

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Display Elements Overview 2-5
The 831C allows for complete operation from the meter itself. When
you select a field to enter text, a virtual keypad appears. Use the UP,
DOWN  , and LEFT and RIGHT   navigation buttons to
navigate. Press e to make a selection.
2.3 Display Elements Oeriew
In this section:
•2.3.1 Changing Display Color Themes
•2.3.2 Using Tabs and Pages
•2.3.3 About Status Bar Icons and Indicators
•2.3.4 Main Menu Overview
•2.3.5 Tools Menu Overview
•2.3.6 Power Control Menu Overview
2.3.1 Changing Display Color Themes
The 831C has a full-color, back-lit LCD touchscreen and allows you to
select your preferred color theme. The Dark theme is featured in this
manual. For more information, see 9.5.6 Customizing the Display
Color Theme.
2.3.2 Using Tabs and Pages
The 831C interface is organized into tabs. The Live and Overall tabs are
further organized into pages that can be accessed using the UP 
and DOWN  navigation buttons. If needed, additional pages of
measurement data are available to purchase from Larson Davis.
When the 831C is first powered on, the Live tab (Page 1) is the first
screen you’ll see. Figure - reviews display elements that are common
to most tabs.
FIGURE 2-3 Live Tab (Page 1)
Status bar icons. See 2.3.3
About Status Bar Icons and
Indicators.
Access the Tools menu
View additional data on
pages using the UP and
DOWN navigation
buttons.
Measurement name of
current running
measurement
Data display Session Log tab to the left
Overall tab to the right.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Display Elements Overview 2-6
There are 5 tabs in addition to the Live tab. Press the top-left or top-
right softkeys (*/*)to navigate between tabs. Figure -4 shows the
next 2 tabs to the right of the Live tab.
FIGURE 2-4 Navigating Tabs to the Right
Live Tab: Since the Live tab shows active, real-time values that the
meter is currently sensing, this page is not controlled by the (RUN/
PAUSE) button . This allows you to view the current SPL without
disrupting your measured data. You can enable and view up to 13
pages of Live data.
Overall Tab: Values on the Overall tab are averaged from the start of
the measurement up to the current time (Elapsed Time). If the
measurement is stopped, the elapsed time stops. You can enable and
view up to 20 pages of Overall data.
Session Log Tab: The Session Log tab displays a record of meter
actions during a measurement. The Session Log tab in Figure -4 shows
a time-stamped line item for every run, pause, resume, stop, and sound
recording action. The source responsible for each action is also
recorded. Resetting and storing data begins a new, blank session log.
LEARN MORE For details on each tab, see Module 4 Using the Data Display.
2.3.3 About Status Bar cons and ndicators
The status bar at the top of the screen displays the meter,
measurement, connection, alert status, and battery status as shown in
Figure -.
FIGURE 2-5 Status Bar
Power Indicator
USB Memory Status
WiFi Status
OBA Indicator
SLM Indicator
Measurement Runtime
Run Status
File Name

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Display Elements Overview 2-7
Power Indicators
Battery Power Indicator
The battery icon indicates the state of the battery charge by color and
volume. When using battery power, the battery icon indicates the state
of the battery from fully charged to depleted, left to right. The bolt
symbol appears over the battery icon if the battery is currently
charging.
External Power Icon
The external power connection icon appears when the 831C is powered
from an external power supply or from the USB port.
iFi Status Icon
See 13.4 Using iFi On Your 831C SoundAdvisor.
USB Memory Status Icons
When you insert a USB drive into the 831Cs USB port, the USB drive
icon appears in the Status bar of the meter’s display as shown in Figure
-.
If the Data Storage setting is set to USB, but no USB drive is inserted,
the USB not available icon appears. Files save to the meter until you
insert a USB drive.
If the USB drive is removed during a measurement, the same icon
appears, the measurement ends, and data with that measurement is
not visible on the meter. When the USB drive is reinserted, the USB
caution icon appears. The meter notifies you that there is unsaved
data and prompts you to Save or Delete the measurement data. You
cannot continue with the same measurement.
Input Overload Icon
When a signal from the preamplifier exceeds the calibrated input range
of the 831C, the Input Overload icon appears. While the overload is
present, the icon flashes.
When the overload condition resolves, the icon is still present (not
flashing) to indicate that an overload has occurred during the
measurement. Press the RESET button to clear the icon from the
display.
Under Range Icon
The Under Range icon displays in the status bar while an under range
condition applies. For details about the under range level, see 5.1.2
Determining Noise Floor, Overload, and Under Range Levels.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Display Elements Overview 2-8
FIGURE 2-6 Under Range vs Normal Range Data Display
OBA Overload Icon
The OBA Overload icon displays while the input to the Octave Band
Analyzer is overloaded.
TAKE NOTE When the OBA Range property is set to Normal, the OBA Overload Icon
displays at a level 33 dB lower than if the OBA Range had been set to
High.
OBA Under Range Icon
When the signal from the preamplifier drops so that 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
flashes.
Measurement Status Icons
FIGURE 2-7 Measurement Status Icons
Under Range Display Normal Range Display
Values in an “under range”
condition display darkly on the
Live tab.
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.

SoundAdvisor Model 831C Display Elements Overview 2-9
If the touchscreen is enabled, or if you’re operating the meter remotely,
tapping the icon produces the following result:
Sleep Icon
When the 831C is not connected to a PC, it can be put in a battery
power saving “sleep” mode that shuts down the analog circuitry,
including the preamplifier. In this case, the Sleep icon displays in place
of the measurement status icon.
To learn more about power saving options, see 9.4 Editing Power
Settings.
File Operation Icon
The file operation icon appears in the status bar while a file is saved to
the USB, moved from the USB to meter, or copied. All these operations
are done in the Data File Manager.
For more information, see 8.2 Using the Data File Manager.
2.3.4 Main Menu Overview
The 831C main menu contains the following 5 features:
Setup Manager
The Setup Manager is a menu on the 831C —divided into tabs just like
the 831C main display— that enables you to customize measurement
settings in a setup file or “Setup.” To access the Setup Manager, press
the Menu soft key, and select Setup Manager.
TAKE NOTE You can also create a setup file using G4 LD Utility, then transfer the
file to the meter. For more information, see the G4 LD Utility Manual.
Mark Sound Type
When you’ve purchased and installed firmware option 831C-SR or
831C-MSR, this feature allows you to assign a Sound Type marker to
the current sound. When you examine the data file after the
Table 2.3 Using the Measurement Status Icon
Measurement State Action Resulting
Measurement State
Run Tap Once Stop
Run Double Tap Pause
Pause Tap Once Run
Stop/Reset Tap Once Run
Stop/Reset Double Tap Store
Run Pending N/A N/A
Power Save Tap Once Run