Pulsar 90 Quantifier User manual

Model 90 Quantifier Sound Level Meter
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User Manual for the
Pulsar Model 90 Quantifier
Sound Level Meters
This manual, the software to which it relates, the
program code and drawings are all:
© Copyright Pulsar Instruments Plc 1989-2012

Model 90 Quantifier Sound Level Meter
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The content of this manual, any illustrations, technical information and descriptions within this
document were correct at the time of going to print. Pulsar Instruments Plc reserves the right to
make any changes necessary, without notice, in line with the policy of continuing product
development and improvement.
No part of this publication may be duplicated, reprinted, stored in a data processing system or
transmitted by electronic, mechanical, photographic or other means, or recorded, translated,
edited, abridged or expanded without the prior written consent of Pulsar Instruments Plc.
No liability is accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in this manual, although due care has
been taken to ensure that is it complete and accurate as possible.
Accessories supplied by Pulsar Instruments Plc have been designed for use with the
instrumentation manufactured by Pulsar Instruments Plc. No responsibility is accepted for
damage caused by the use of any other parts or accessories.
In order to take account of a policy of continual development, Pulsar Instruments Plc reserves
the right to change any of the information contained in this publication without prior notice.
Produced by Pulsar Instruments Plc, The Evron Centre, John Street, Filey, North Yorkshire, YO14
9DQ. © Copyright Pulsar Instruments Plc 2012
Reference Number 05/09/MODEL 90/01

Model 90 Quantifier Sound Level Meter
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Preface......................................................................................................................... 5
Messages and Symbols ..................................................................................................5
Section 1 Introduction.................................................................................................. 6
Main Features ...............................................................................................................6
Measurement Functions..................................................................................................6
Broadband Measurement Mode .......................................................................................6
1:1 & 1:3 Octave Band Measurement Mode ......................................................................7
Options & Accessories....................................................................................................7
Section 2 Getting Started ............................................................................................. 8
How to.........................................................................................................................8
Make a 15 minute Broadband Measurement................................................................................ 8
Make a 1:1 Octave Band Measurement over 1 minute .................................................................. 8
Make a 1:3 Octave Band Measurement over 5 minutes................................................................. 8
Make a set of twenty four 1 hour measurements.......................................................................... 8
Quick Start ...................................................................................................................9
Switch on................................................................................................................................ 9
Calibrate the Sound Level Meter ................................................................................................ 9
Set the measurement duration .................................................................................................10
Check the measurement range.................................................................................................10
Change the measurement function............................................................................................11
Start & Stop the measurement .................................................................................................11
Review the measurement.........................................................................................................12
Unpacking and checking the Sound Level Meter ..............................................................13
Instruments Layout .....................................................................................................14
Installing the software .................................................................................................15
Assembly ...................................................................................................................15
Preamplifier............................................................................................................................15
Using Microphone Extension Cables...........................................................................................16
Batteries................................................................................................................................16
Using an external power supply ................................................................................................17
Windshield.............................................................................................................................17
NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor.............................................................................................17
Switching On ..............................................................................................................18
Checking the Configuration of the Instrument.................................................................19
Time and Date........................................................................................................................19
Measurement Range................................................................................................................19
Measurement Mode.................................................................................................................20
Measurement Duration ............................................................................................................20
Measurement Auto Repeat .......................................................................................................21
Measurement Auto Synchronise................................................................................................21
Configuring the instrument from the Analyser software................................................................21
Calibration..................................................................................................................22
Starting a measurement...............................................................................................23
Broadband Mode.....................................................................................................................23
1:1 Octave Band Mode ............................................................................................................23
1:3 Octave Band Mode ............................................................................................................24
Displaying the data during a measurement.....................................................................25
Broadband Mode.....................................................................................................................25
Pausing and Resetting a measurement...........................................................................26
Stopping the measurement...........................................................................................26
Viewing the stored measurements.................................................................................27
After a measurement has been stopped.....................................................................................27
Recalling stored measurements ................................................................................................27
Section 3 Configuring the Sound Level Meter ............................................................. 28
Keypad ......................................................................................................................28
Menu System..............................................................................................................28
Measurement Mode .....................................................................................................29
Broadband Mode.....................................................................................................................29
1:1 Octave Band Mode ............................................................................................................30

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1:3 Octave Band Mode ............................................................................................................30
Measurement Duration.................................................................................................31
Measurement Auto Repeat............................................................................................33
Measurement Auto Synchronise ....................................................................................34
Measurement Range ....................................................................................................35
Instrument Setup........................................................................................................37
Display Contrast .....................................................................................................................37
Time & Date...........................................................................................................................38
Calibration Level.....................................................................................................................38
Display Resolution...................................................................................................................39
Time Weighting ......................................................................................................................40
Frequency Weighting...............................................................................................................40
Ln values...............................................................................................................................41
User Metric ............................................................................................................................42
Configuring the instrument from the Analyser software................................................................43
Section 4 Viewing and Downloading the measurements............................................. 44
Recalling Stored Measurements.....................................................................................44
Broadband Measurement .........................................................................................................45
1:1 Octave Band Measurements ...............................................................................................45
1:3 Octave Band Measurements ...............................................................................................46
Checking & Clearing the memory...................................................................................48
Downloading Measurements to the Software...................................................................50
Software Installation....................................................................................................50
Connecting the instrument to the PC..............................................................................50
Understanding how the measurements are stored ...........................................................51
Section 5 Maintenance & Care .................................................................................... 53
Section 6 Troubleshooting.......................................................................................... 54
Basics ........................................................................................................................54
Calibration..................................................................................................................54
Measurements & Settings.............................................................................................54
Downloading Measurements .........................................................................................55
Appendix 1 Specifications........................................................................................... 56
Model 105 & 106 Acoustic Calibrators ........................................................................ 61
Operation...................................................................................................................61
Switching on the Calibrator ......................................................................................................61
Permanent-on Mode................................................................................................................61
Calibrating a Sound Level Meter................................................................................................62
Background Noise ...................................................................................................................62
Stabilisation ...........................................................................................................................62
Changing the Battery...................................................................................................63
Battery type...........................................................................................................................63
Specification............................................................................................................... 64
Technical Information ..................................................................................................65
Free Field Correction....................................................................................................66
Microphone Correction Values...................................................................................................66
Example ................................................................................................................................66
Appendix 3 Software Installation ............................................................................... 67
System Requirements..................................................................................................67
Installation Requirements.............................................................................................67
Appendix 4 Configuring the instrument from the software......................................... 68
Appendix 5 CE Certificate of Conformity..................................................................... 69
Equipment Description .................................................................................................69
Guarantee................................................................................................................... 70
Pulsar Instruments Offices............................................................................................70

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Preface
Thank you for purchasing this MODEL 90 Series Sound Level Meter from Pulsar
Instruments Plc. This powerful instrument provides excellent expansion capability, and
has been designed to provide reliable, accurate measurements over a long period of
time.
This manual describes the procedure that should be followed to set up and operate the
MODEL 90 Sound Level Meter, as well as comprehensive technical information, using
optional accessories as well as troubleshooting.
This manual also contains the information regarding the MODEL 106 and MODEL 105
Acoustic Calibrators.
If you are a new user of Sound Level Meters or new to the MODEL 90 Sound Level
Meter, first read Section 1 Introduction to familiarise yourself with the features,
components and accessories supplied. Then read Section 2 Getting Started for step-by-
step instructions on how to use the instrument.
The different versions of the MODEL 90 are:
MODEL 91 Class 1 Broadband Only
MODEL 92 Class 2 Broadband Only
MODEL 93 Class 1 Broadband with 1:1 Octave Band Filters
MODEL 94 Class 2 Broadband with 1:1 Octave Band Filters
MODEL 95 Class 1 Broadband with 1:1 & 1:3 Octave Band Filters
MODEL 96 Class 2 Broadband with 1:1 & 1:3 Octave Band Filters
The MODEL 90 Sound Level Meters meet the requirements for Class 1 and Class 2 of
IEC 61672-1:2002 standard for Class 1 Group X or Class 2 Group X Sound Level Meters
as appropriate.
They also meet the requirements for Class 1 and Class 2 according to IEC 60651 and
60804 depending upon the version of the instrument. Please refer to page 56 for full
technical details of the MODEL 90 Sound Level Meters.
To meet the requirements of ANSI S1.4 for Random Incidence microphone response, an
NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor should be used when making measurements. Please
refer to page 17 for details of the use of the NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor.
Messages and Symbols
Messages are used in this manual to bring important information to your attention. The
different message types are indicated as shown below.
Pay attention! A caution informs you that improper use of the equipment or
failure to follow instructions may cause data loss or may damage the
equipment.

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Please read. A note is a hint or advice that helps you make best use of the
equipment and accessories.
Section 1 Introduction
Main Features
Measurement Functions
The measurement functions that can be provided by the MODEL 90 depend upon the
options that have been fitted. If the instrument has been fitted with the 1:1 Octave
Band or the 1:3 Octave Band filters, these measurements will be available.
Listed below is a summary of the measurements that can be provided by the basic
Broadband instrument, and by the addition of the 1:1 Octave Band or the 1:3 Octave
Band filters.
If the Auto Repeat function is used, the MODEL 90 can be made to repeat the
broadband measurement up to 999 times. See page 21 for details of setting the auto
repeat function. The instrument can also be configured to synchronise the
measurement start time with the instrument clock. See page 21 for details of the Auto
Synchronise function.
Broadband Measurement Mode
In Broadband Mode, the instrument stored the overall values such as LAeq, LAFmax and
Ln’s as well as storing a noise profile, or Time History, during each measurement.
The MODEL 90 instruments can store up to 1,300 Broadband Measurements which can
be of any length, up to a maximum of 99 hours per measurement. With each
measurement is stored a noise profile which consists of 1 second Leq samples, with up
to a maximum of 11 days of Noise Profile being available.
Function
Frequency
Weighting
Displayed as
Maximum
value
Minimum
value
Sound Level with Fast Time
Weighting
A
LAF
LAFmax
LAFmin
C
LCF
LCFmax
LCFmin
Z
LZF
LZFmax
LZfmin
Sound Level with Slow Time
Weighting
A
LAS
LASmax
LASmin
C
LCS
LCSmax
LCSmin
Z
LZS
LZSmax
LZsmin
Sound Level with Impulse
Time Weighting
A
LAI
LAImax
LAImin
C
LCI
LCImax
LCImin
Z
LZI
LZImax
LZImin
Equivalent Continuous Sound
Pressure Level with
integration time t
A
LAeqt
-
-
C
LCeqt
-
-
Z
LZeqt
-
-
Sound Exposure Level (SEL)
A
LAE
-
-
C
LCE
-
-
Z
LZE
-
-
Peak Sound Pressure
C
LCpeak
-
-
Takt Maximum Sound Level
DIN 45641 (LAFTeq)
A LAFTeq - -
Impulse Weighted Equivalent
A
LAIeqt
-
-
i

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Sounds Press Level with
integration time t (LIeqt)
C
LCIeqt
-
-
Z
LZIeqt
-
-
Please note that only one Frequency Weighting can be selected at any time.
1:1 & 1:3 Octave Band Measurement Mode
In the 1:1 or 1:3 Octave Band Filter Mode, the MODEL 90 instrument provide a
sequential sweep through the filter bands over the measurement duration. In addition
to the frequency bands, the instruments also provide a measurement of the overall
LAeq, LCeq and LZeq functions.
Function
Frequency
Weighting
Displayed as
Stored
Measurement
Applies to
Sound Level with Fast Time
Weighting
Z LZF No
1:1 & 1:3
Octave Bands
Equivalent Continuous Sound
Pressure Level with
integration time t
Z LZeqt Yes
1:1 & 1:3
Octave Bands
A
LAeqt
Yes
Broadband
C
LCeqt
Yes
Broadband
Z
LZeqt
Yes
Broadband
The 1:1 Octave Band Filters cover the following frequency bands: 31.5Hz to 16kHz
The 1:3 Octave Band Filters cover the following frequency bands: 25Hz to 16kHz
When the MO:800/6 Options is fitted, the 1:3 Octave Band Filters include the additional
20Hz and 20kHz 1:3 Octave Band Filters.
Options & Accessories
The MODEL 90 Series are also available with a range of options and accessories that
can enhance the performance and applications of the instrument. For full details, please
contact Pulsar Instruments Plc your local representative.
The most commonly used accessories are listed below.
Model 105 Class 1 Acoustic Calibrator
Model 106 Class 2 Acoustic Calibrator
K2 Hard Attache Case
WS90 Windshield
CP1 Carry Pouch
TR1 Tripod
DC80 USB Download Cable
MEC2 2 m Microphone Extension Cable for Instruments with removable preamp
MEC 5 5 m Microphone Extension Cable for Instruments with removable preamp
MEC10 10 m Microphone Extension Cable for Instruments with removable preamp
TM1 Preamplifier Tripod Mount
Outdoor Kits
WK1 Outdoor Weatherproof Kit with Lightweight Outdoor Microphone System
WK2 Outdoor Weatherproof Kit with Heavy Duty Outdoor Microphone System
Replacement Microphone Capsules

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MK:226 Class 1 Microphone Capsule for Models 91, 93 & 95
MK:216 Class 2 Microphone Capsule for Models 92,94 & 96
Section 2 Getting Started
How to...
These example settings are designed to demonstrate the different configurations that
are available from the MODEL 90 Sound Level Meters. Please check the configuration of
the instrument to match the measurement requirements of your application before
making a measurement.
Make a 15 minute Broadband Measurement
1. Switch on
2. Calibrate
3. Set Measurement Mode to Broadband
4. Set measurement duration to 15 minutes
5. Switch off Auto Repeat & Auto Synchronise
6. Set Measurement Range
7. Start Measurement
a. Run for 15 minutes
8. Stop Measurement
9. Review Measurement Data
Make a 1:1 Octave Band Measurement over 1 minute
1. Switch on
2. Calibrate
3. Set Measurement Mode to 1:1 Octave Band
4. Set Measurement Duration to 1 minute
5. Set Measurement Range
6. Start Measurement
a. Run for 1 minute
7. Stop Measurement
8. Review Measurement Data
Make a 1:3 Octave Band Measurement over 5 minutes
1. Switch on
2. Calibrate
3. Set Measurement Mode to 1:3 Octave Band
4. Set Measurement Duration to 5 minutes
5. Set Measurement Range
6. Start Measurement
a. Run for 5 minutes
7. Stop Measurement
8. Review Measurement Data
Make a set of twenty four 1 hour measurements
1. Switch on
2. Calibrate
3. Set Measurement Mode to Broadband
4. Set Measurement Duration to 1 hour
5. Set Auto Repeat to On
6. Set Number to 25
7. Set Auto Synchronise to On
a. Start Measurement

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8. After 24 1 hour measurements the instrument will stop
9. Review Measurement Data
Quick Start
Switch on
Key Press Display
When the instrument has switched on, the start-up screen will change to the standard
noise level display.
Calibrate the Sound Level Meter
If a microphone extension cable is to be used during a measurement, the
instrument must be calibrated with the cable attached.
Connect the Acoustic Calibrator to the Sound Level Meter and select the 94dB setting
on the Acoustic Calibrator. Press the Menu key to select the Calibrate option and press
OK to start the calibration procedure.
Key Press
Display
Comments

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If the calibration is successful , press the exit key to return to the main screen.
Set the measurement duration
Press the menu key to view the current measurement duration and the status of the
auto repeat and auto synchronise function. At the bottom of the screen is the current
configuration.
Key Press
Display
Comments
In this example, the measurement
duration is set to 30 minutes.
The Auto-Repeat function is
switched on.
The Auto-Synchronise function is
switched on.
If the measurement duration is not as required, use the Measurement Duration menu
option to set the required measurement duration. Refer to page 31 for details of setting
the measurement duration.
Check the measurement range
Press the Range key to check the current measurement range.

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Key Press
Display
Comments
In this example, the measurement
range is set to 70dB to 140dB.
To change the measurement range, use the Up and Down Arrow keys to select the
required measurement range and press OK. Refer to page 35 for details of setting the
measurement range and the use of the bar graph display in choosing the correct
measurement range.
Change the measurement function
To check the current measurement function and to change the measurement function,
press the menu key. Use the Up and Down arrows keys to select the required
measurement mode and OK to Select the mode required.
Key Press
Display
Comments
In this example, the instrument is
set to Broadband Measurement
Mode
Start & Stop the measurement
To start the measurement, press the Start Key
Key Press
Display
Comments

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Press the Up and Down arrow keys to view the measurement functions during the
measurement.
To stop the measurement, press the Stop Key.
Key Press Display
Comments
The instrument stores the
measurement in memory and
enters the measurement review
mode.
Review the measurement
When the measurement has been stopped, the instrument automatically stores the
measurement in memory and enters the measurement review mode. Use the Up and
Down arrow keys to view the different measurement values and press the exit key to
return to the main display.
Refer to page 44 for details of the measurement review mode.

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Unpacking and checking the Sound Level Meter
Carefully remove the instrument from its shipping container and inspect it for possible
damage or missing items. If the meter appears to be damaged or something is missing,
contact Pulsar Instruments Plc your local representative immediately.
The basic MODEL 90 instrument is supplied with the following standard accessories:
Analyser for Windows Software on CD-ROM
MODEL 90 User Manual
Certificates of Calibration
ZL:100 USB Data Cable
Batteries 2 x AA
In addition, the Class 1 versions of the instrument are supplied with an MV:200D
Preamplifier and a microphone box.
If you have ordered the instrument as a complete measurement kit, you will have also
received some further items such as an Acoustic Calibrator, Carrying Case and
Windshield.

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Instruments Layout

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Installing the software
Before measurements can be downloaded from the MODEL 90 instrument, the Analyser
software must be installed from the supplied CD.
Please refer to page 50 for further details of the installation of the Analyser software.
Assembly
The MODEL 90 instruments are supplied fully assembled apart from the MV:200
Preamplifier for Class 1 instruments and the batteries.
Preamplifier
The Class 1 versions of the MODEL 90 (MODEL 91, MODEL 93 and MODEL 95) are
supplied with a removable preamplifier, the MV:200D. Also, a removable preamplifier
may be fitted as an option to the Class 2 instruments.
This preamplifier must be connected to the Sound Level Meter before the unit is
switched on. This unit is connected to the top of the MODEL 90 using a locking ring. To
connect the MV:200D Preamplifier, follow the diagram below:
(1) Place the preamplifier into the socket on the Sound Level Meter
(2) Ensure the connector has located into the socket
(3) Tighten the Locking Ring.
Do not cross thread the locking ring. Damage caused by misuse is not covered by the
warranty for the instrument.
Removing the Preamplifier
Do not twist the preamplifier body. Unscrew the locking ring and pull the

Model 90 Quantifier Sound Level Meter
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preamplifier from the Sound Level Meter.
Using Microphone Extension Cables
The MODEL 90 instruments can be used with a microphone extension cable if the
instrument is fitted with the removable preamplifier. If a microphone extension cable is
to be used during a measurement, the instrument must be calibrated with the cable
attached.
Connect the microphone extension cable in the same manner as the MV:200C
Preamplifier.
Batteries
The batteries of the MODEL 90 are located behind the cover on the bottom of the
instrument. Slide the cover to the right hand side to remove and to access the battery
holder.
Ensure the instrument is switched off. Remove the battery holder from the instrument
and insert the batteries. The MODEL 90 instruments uses two AA type batteries, also
known as LR6.
Ensure that the batteries are inserted correctly. DO NOT reverse the polarity
of the batteries as this may cause damage to the instrument.

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Using an external power supply
The MODEL 90 can be used with an
external power supply. When the
external supply is connected, the MODEL
90 switches automatically from the
internal battery power.
When the external power is either
removed or switched off, the instrument
will automatically switch back to the
internal battery supply.
When an external supply is connected, the display of the instrument will show a symbol
in the top right corner as shown below.
Windshield
The MODEL 90 Series can be used with a 90mm Foam Windshield which will reduce the
noise levels generated by air turbulence over the microphone capsule.
The windshield can also be used to protect the microphone capsule of the Sound Level
Meter from dust and fluids which may affect the performance of the instrument. To use
the Windshield, push the hole in the windshield over the microphone of the Sound Level
Meter. The Windshield must be removed before the Sound Level Meter can be
calibrated.
NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor
The NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor is designed to modify the
response of the microphone capsule from Free Field to Random
Incidence in order to comply with the requirements of ANSI
S1.4.
For instruments supplied for use outside of the USA, this
adaptor may not be supplied. For further details, please contact
your local representative.
To fit the NK:70 Random Incidence Adaptor, push the adaptor
over the microphone grill. Do not attempt to remove the
microphone grill as this may cause damage to the capsule.
To calibrate the instrument fitted with the microphone capsule,
remove the NK:70 Adaptor and follow the instructions supplied
with the instrument. Do Not attempt to calibrate the instrument
with the NK:70 fitted.

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Switching On
Key Press
Display
When the instrument is first switched on, a Welcome screen is shown with the
instrument type and version number. After 3 seconds, the display will change and the
current Sound Level will be shown with the current configuration shown as above.
In this example, the instrument is showing the Fast A-Weighted Sound Level with the
current Date and Time shown at the bottom of the screen. The battery level is shown in
the top right hand corner of the display.
Across the top of the display, above the numbers, is shown the sound level as a bar
graph. This graph is scaled with the current measurement range. Please refer to page
35 for details of changing the measurement range.
The display will also show the battery level and when the instrument is in Overload or
Under Range. The Glossary on page Error! Bookmark not defined. also describes the
indication of Overload and Under Range.
Low Battery Level
Overload
Under Range

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Checking the Configuration of the Instrument
The Setup of the instrument should be checked before making a measurement.
Time and Date
Key Press
Display
Comments
The current time and date are
shown at the bottom of the
screen.
Measurement Range
Key Press
Display
Comments
The current measurement range is
shown highlighted. Use the Up
and Down Arrows to change the
range.
Press the OK key to change the
range or Exit to discard.
The bar at the top of the screen
shows the noise level in proportion
to the measurement range.

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Measurement Mode
Key Press
Display
Comments
The current measurement mode is
shown on the screen.
In this example, the measurement
mode is Broadband.
Measurement Duration
Key Press
Display
Comments
The measurement duration is
shown at the bottom of the
screen.
In this example, the measurement
time is 30 minutes.
When the instrument is set to either 1:1 or 1:3 Octave Band Mode, the Run Duration is
divided between the frequency bands. For example, if the measurement duration is set
to 30 minutes, the MODEL 90 instrument will take a total of 30 minutes to complete
the sweep through the frequency bands.
To meet the accuracy required by the standards to which the instrument is designed to
meet, there is a minimum time required to measure each frequency band. Therefore,
the MODEL 90 enforces a minimum measurement duration of 1 minute for the 1:1
Octave Band Mode and 3 minutes for the 1:3 Octave Band Mode.