Svantek SVAN 971 User manual

USER MANUAL
SVAN 971
POCKET-SIZE
SOUND LEVEL METER &
ANALYSER
Warsaw, July 2017
Copyright © 2017 SVANTEK. All rights reserved.

SVAN 971 User manual
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Note: On account of continuous product improvement SVANTEK reserves the right
to make changes to product specifications without notice. To download the most up to date user's
manual please visit our web site at www.svantek.com.
This user’s manual presents the firmware revision named 1.11.4 (see the Unit Label review to check
version details).
The succeeding software revisions (marked with the higher numbers) can change the view of some
displays presented in the text of the manual.
WEEE Note: Do not throw the device away with the unsorted municipal waste at the end of its
life. Instead, hand it in at an official collection point for recycling. By doing this you will help to preserve
the environment.
The software described in this manual is furnished under a license agreement and may be used only in
accordance with the terms of that agreement.
Copyright Notice
Copyright © 2017 Svantek Sp. z o.o.
All rights reserved.
Reproduction without permission is prohibited.
Trademarks
Trademarks or registered marks in this manual belong to their respective manufacturers.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Disclaimer
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment
on the part of Svantek.
Svantek provides this document “as is,” without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied,
including, but not limited to, its particular purpose. Svantek reserves the right to make improvements
and/or changes to this manual, or to the products and/or the programs described in this manual, at any
time.
Information provided in this manual is intended to be accurate and reliable. However, Svantek assumes
no responsibility for its use, or for any infringements on the rights of third parties that may result from its
use.
This product might include unintentional technical or typographical errors. Changes are periodically
made to the information herein to correct such errors, and these changes are incorporated into new
editions of the publication.
Technical Support Contact Information:
web: www.svantek.com
e-mail: off[email protected]

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CONTENTS
1INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................. 6
1.1 SVAN 971 AS SOUND LEVEL METER &ANALYSER ................................................................................. 6
1.2 GENERAL FEATURES OF SVAN 971 ..................................................................................................... 7
1.3ACCESSORIES INCLUDED..................................................................................................................... 7
1.4 ACCESSORIES AVAILABLE .................................................................................................................... 7
1.5 INSTRUMENT SOFTWARE OPTIONS AVAILABLE (FIRMWARE) ...................................................................... 8
2MANUAL CONTROL OF THE INSTRUMENT..................................................................................... 9
2.1 CONTROL PUSH-BUTTONS ON THE FRONT PANEL..................................................................................... 9
2.2 INPUT AND OUTPUT SOCKETS OF THE INSTRUMENT................................................................................ 10
3GENERAL INFORMATION............................................................................................................. 12
3.1. BASIS OF THE INSTRUMENT’S CONTROL ............................................................................................... 12
3.2. POWERING OF THE INSTRUMENT ....................................................................................................... 14
3.3. GETTING STARTED .......................................................................................................................... 15
3.4. ICONS DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................ 16
3.5. DATA SAVING ................................................................................................................................ 17
3.6. DATA SAVING ................................................................................................................................ 18
3.7. ACTIVATION OF THE OPTIONAL FUNCTIONS .......................................................................................... 19
4FUNCTIONS OF THE INSTRUMENT –FUNCTION........................................................................... 20
4.1. MEASUREMENT FUNCTIONS OF THE INSTRUMENT –MEAS.FUNCT........................................................... 20
4.2. INSTRUMENT’S CALIBRATION –CALIBRATION ....................................................................................... 20
4.2.1. Calibration By Measurement................................................................................................ 21
4.2.2. History of calibrations - Last Cal. .......................................................................................... 22
4.2.3. Post measurement calibration –Post Cal............................................................................. 22
4.2.4. Automatic calibration –Auto Cal. ........................................................................................ 22
5SETTING UP THE MEASUREMENT –MEASUREMENT ................................................................... 23
5.1 SETTING UP THE MAIN MEASUREMENT PARAMETERS -GENERAL SETTINGS................................................. 23
5.2 SETTING UP THE MEASUREMENT TRIGGER –MEAS. TRIG........................................................................ 25
5.3 SETTING PARAMETERS FOR PROFILES –PROFILES .................................................................................. 26
5.4 SETTING THE ALARM THRESHOLDS FOR DOSE METER FUNCTIONS –ALARM................................................. 27
5.5 SETTING UP THE DATA LOGGING –LOGGING ........................................................................................ 27
5.5.1 Setting up the logger general parameters –Logger Set........................................................ 28
5.5.2 Selection of results for logging –Logger Res......................................................................... 29
5.5.3 Logger trigger parameters setup –Logger Trig .................................................................... 29
5.5.4 Event recording setup –Event Rec. ....................................................................................... 31
5.6 SETTING UP THE MEASUREMENT RANGE –RANGE................................................................................. 32
5.7 SELECTION OF THE MICROPHONE COMPENSATION FILTERS –COMP. FILTER................................................ 33
5.8 SETTING UP THE EXPOSURE TIME –EXP. TIME...................................................................................... 33
5.9 SETTING UP TEN STATISTICAL LEVELS –STAT. LEV.................................................................................. 33
5.10 PROGRAMMING THE INSTRUMENT’S INTERNAL TIMER –TIMER................................................................ 34
5.11 EXAMPLE OF TIMER EXECUTION......................................................................................................... 34
6SETTING UP THE DATA VIEW –DISPLAY ...................................................................................... 35
6.1 SELECTION OF THE VIEW MODES –DISP. MODES.................................................................................. 35
6.1.1 ONE RESULT PRESENTATION MODE .................................................................................................... 35
6.1.2 THREE PROFILES PRESENTATION MODE ............................................................................................... 36
6.1.3 LOGGER PRESENTATION MODE.......................................................................................................... 37
6.1.4 STATISTICS PRESENTATION MODE ...................................................................................................... 38
6.1.5 FILE INFORMATION PRESENTATION MODE............................................................................................ 38
6.1.6 RUN SPL PRESENTATION MODE......................................................................................................... 38
6.2 SETTING THE SCALE OF THE PRESENTATION AND THE DISPLAY’S GRID –DISP. SCALE ..................................... 39
6.3 SELECTION OF RESULTS FOR PRESENTATION –MEAS. RES....................................................................... 39
6.4 SELECTION OF LOGGER RESULTS FOR PRESENTATION -LOGGER RES. ......................................................... 40

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6.5 SETTING THE POWER SAVER-SCREEN SET............................................................................................ 40
7MANAGING THE FILES –FILE ....................................................................................................... 41
7.1 MANAGING THE FILES SAVED IN THE EXTERNAL MEMORY –FILE MANAG. .................................................. 41
7.1.1 Assigning the directory for files saving –Work. Dir............................................................... 42
7.1.2 Renaming file/catalogue –Rename ...................................................................................... 42
7.1.3 Information about file/catalogue –Info................................................................................ 43
7.1.4 Deleting file/catalogue –Delete............................................................................................ 43
7.1.5 Erasing of the external memory –Erase Disk ........................................................................ 43
7.2 MANAGING THE SETUP FILES –SETUP MANAG..................................................................................... 43
8SETTINGS OF THE INSTRUMENT PARAMETERS –INSTRUMENT ................................................... 45
8.1. CHOOSING SIMPLE OR ADVANCED USER INTERFACE MODE –INTERFACE.................................................... 45
8.2. CHECKING THE STATE OF THE INTERNAL BATTERY –BATTERY ................................................................... 46
8.3. SELECTION OF KEYBOARD MODES –KEYBOARD..................................................................................... 46
8.4. AUTOMATIC INSTRUMENT SWITCH OFF –POWER OFF ........................................................................... 47
8.5. TRANSMISSION SPEED OF THE USB INTERFACE –USB............................................................................ 47
8.6. SETTING THE PARAMETERS OF THE SERIAL INTERFACE -RS232 ................................................................ 47
8.7. PROGRAMMING THE SELF-VIBRATION MARKER –SELF VIBR. ................................................................... 47
8.8. PROGRAMMING THE INSTRUMENT’S INTERNAL REAL TIME CLOCK –RTC .................................................. 48
8.9. CHECKING SPECIFICATION OF THE INSTRUMENT -UNIT LABEL.................................................................. 48
9AUXILIARY SETTINGS –AUXILIARY SETUP.................................................................................... 49
9.1. SELECTING THE LANGUAGE OF THE USER INTERFACE –LANGUAGE ............................................................ 49
9.2. RESTORING THE FACTORY SETTINGS –FACTORY SET .............................................................................. 49
9.3. VOICE COMMENTS –COMMENTS ...................................................................................................... 49
9.4. DISPLAYING OF LEQ & LAV RESULTS –LEQ & LAV –LEQ & LAV.............................................................. 50
9.5. WARNINGS SELECTION –WARNINGS ................................................................................................. 50
10 PRINTING REPORTS - REPORT...................................................................................................... 52
10.1. PRINTING THE MEASUREMENT RESULTS –PRINT................................................................................... 52
10.2. SELECTING THE PRINTING OPTIONS –OPTIONS ..................................................................................... 53
10.3. SELECTING THE RESULTS FOR THE REPORT –RESULTS............................................................................. 54
10.4. SELECTING THE STATISTICS FOR THE REPORT –STATISTICS....................................................................... 54
10.5. SELECTING THE SPECTRA FOR THE REPORT –SPECTRUM ......................................................................... 54
10.6. PRINTER SET UP –PRINTER............................................................................................................... 54
11 1/1 AND 1/3 OCTAVE ANALYSER ................................................................................................. 55
11.1. SELECTION OF THE 1/1 OCT.OR 1/3 OCT.FUNCTIONS.......................................................................... 55
11.2. CONFIGURING THE 1/1 OCTAVE OR 1/3 OCTAVE ANALYSER................................................................... 55
11.4.1. SETTING UP THE MEASUREMENT RANGE FOR 1/1 OCTAVE AND 1/3 OCTAVE ANALYSIS -RANGE................ 56
11.4.2. SETTING UP THE PARAMETERS OF 1/1 OCTAVE AND 1/3 OCTAVE ANALYSIS -SPECTRUM ......................... 56
11.3. SAVING THE 1/1 AND 1/3 OCTAVE SPECTRA AS A TIME HISTORY -LOGGER RES.......................................... 57
11.4. SETTING UP THE 1/1 OCTAVE AND 1/3 OCTAVE SPECTRA VIEW .............................................................. 57
11.4.1. PRESENTATION OF 1/1 OCTAVE AND 1/3 OCTAVE SPECTRA............................................................... 57
11.4.2. SETTING THE SCALE OF THE SPECTRUM PLOT -SCALE.......................................................................... 58
11.4.3. SELECTION OF THE SPECTRA TO BE VIEWED –SPECT. VIEW ................................................................. 59
12 DOSIMETER ................................................................................................................................. 60
12.1. SELECTION OF DOSIMETER FUNCTION................................................................................................. 60
12.2. SETTING PARAMETERS IN A PROFILE –PROFILES.................................................................................... 60
12.3. SETTING THE ALARM THRESHOLDS FOR DOSE METER FUNCTIONS –ALARM................................................. 61
12.4. LOGGING THE RESULTS IN THE FILE -LOGGER RES.................................................................................. 61
12.5. DISPLAYING OF DOSIMETER RESULTS .................................................................................................. 61
12.6. DISPLAYING OF LEQ & LAV RESULTS –LEQ & LAV –LEQ & LAV.............................................................. 61

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13 RUNNING LEQ ............................................................................................................................. 62
14 MAINTENANCE............................................................................................................................ 63
14.1. POWERING OF THE INSTRUMENT ....................................................................................................... 63
14.2. MEMORY CARD EXTRACTION AND INSERTION ....................................................................................... 63
14.3. TRANSDUCERS ............................................................................................................................... 64
14.4. RESETTING THE INSTRUMENT ............................................................................................................ 64
14.5. FIRMWARE UPGRADE ...................................................................................................................... 64
14.6. PRESERVATION OF INTERNAL BATTERIES .............................................................................................. 65
14.7. TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE....................................................................................................... 65
14.8. CLEANING..................................................................................................................................... 65
14.9. TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................................................ 65
APPENDIXES
A. REMOTE CONTROL
B. DATA FILE STRUCTURES
C. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
D. DEFINITIONS AND FORMULAE OF MEASURED VALUES

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1 INTRODUCTION
The SVAN 971 is an extremely small Type 1 IEC 61672 Sound
Level Meter (SLM) and real time 1/1 & 1/3 octave analyser (RTA).
The instrument represents State of the Art technological design
bringing unprecedented levels of SLM and RTA integration.
The new user interface of this instrument makes measurement
configuration as easy as possible. This all makes the SVAN 971
an ideal choice for industrial hygiene noise measurements, short
period environmental noise measurements, acoustics
consultancy surveys, technical engineers dealing with noise
issues and general acoustics noise measurements.
The SVAN 971 provides broad band results with all required
frequency weighting filters plus real time 1/1 octave & 1/3 octave
spectra in the audio range.
The instrument enables huge time history logging capability
providing broad band results and spectra with adjustable double
(long and short) logging steps. Audio recording on user
selectable trigger conditions complete the logging functionality.
Data are stored on a micro SD memory card and can be easily
downloaded to PC (with the provided SvanPC++ software) over
USB or optional RS 232 interfaces.
The instrument can be easily calibrated in the field using an
acoustic calibrator. A built-in algorithm automatically activates
the calibration process whenever an acoustic calibrator is
installed on the microphone and the calibration history is saved
for later inspection.
Thanks to a robust (IP65) and pocket size housing, this
instrument is an excellent tool for anyone who deals with acoustic
measurements.
The SVAN 971 comes with SvanPC++ software for data
downloading, visualization, basic post-processing and exporting
to commonly used office software applications. Additionally, a
dedicated software package for environmental monitoring
(SvanPC++_EM) is also available. This module supports
measurement data management, advanced data processing and
analysis, visualization and automated reporting.
1.1 SVAN 971 as Sound Level Meter & Analyser
•SLM Mode: OVL, Lpeak, Lmax, Lmin, L,Leq, LE, Lden, LEPd, Ltm3,Ltm5, LN%, with
Type 1 IEC 61672:2013 accuracy in the frequency range 10 Hz ÷20 kHz with ACO 7052E
microphone (38mV/Pa, prepolarised ½” condenser microphone);
•Acoustic dosimeter mode: OVL, Lpeak, Lmax, Lmin, L, DOSE, D_8h, PrDOSE,LAV, Leq,
LE, SEL8, E, E_8h, LEPd, PSEL,Ltm3,Ltm5, LN%, PTC, PTP, ULT, TWA, PrTWA, Lc-a,
•parallel Impulse, Fast and Slow detectors for the measurements with A, B, C, Zand LF
frequency filters;
•total linearity measurement range 25 dBA LEQ ÷ 140 dB PEAK; is divided into two ranges:
- low range: 25 dBA LEQ ÷ 123 dB PEAK
- high range: 30 dBA LEQ ÷ 140 dB PEAK

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•1/1 Octave real-time analysis meeting Type 1 requirements of IEC 61260, 10 centre
frequencies from 31.5 Hz to 16 kHz (option) available simultaneously with three user definable
profiles for broadband measurements (SLM), time history logging and audio recording;
•1/3 Octave real-time analysis meeting Type 1 requirements of IEC 61260, 31 centre
frequencies from 20 Hz to 20 kHz (option) available simultaneously with three user definable
profiles for broadband measurements (SLM), time history logging and audio recording.
1.2 General features of SVAN 971
•Sound Level Meter in extremely small pocket size body
•Noise measurements meeting Type 1 IEC 61672-1 accuracy
•Two overlapping wide measurement ranges
•1/1 & 1/3 octave real-time frequency analysis (option)
•Dosimeter function for personal noise monitoring in the workplace (option)
•Audio event recording (option)
•Statistical analysis with up to 10 percentile values
•Time-history with two logging step intervals
•Automated calibration start and save
•Free-field & diffuse-field measurements
•Integration measurement run time programmable up to 24 h
•Setup editor available with SvanPC++ software
•Ready to use with predefined setups and reports in H&S mode of SvanPC++ software
•Advanced modules for data processing and reporting: SvanPC++_DM and SvanPC++_EM
(option)
•Super contrast colour OLED display
•Wide range of temperature operating conditions
•Protection rating IP 65 for use in the field
•Very handy, light weight and robust pocket size case
•Easy and friendly user interface for quick start and stop
1.3 Accessories included
•SV 7052 microphone capsule (38mV/Pa, prepolarised ½” condenser microphone)
•SV 18 microphone preamplifier
•SC 156 micro USB cable
•SA 62 micro SD memory card 4 GB capacity
•SA 22 foam windscreen
•four AAA batteries
•CD with manual
•Supervisor application software for data management and reporting for MS Windows
•SvanPC++ PC Software for viewing and exporting data for MS Windows
1.4 Accessories available
•SV 33A Type 1 acoustic calibrator: 1000 Hz/114 dB
•SV 75 RS232 interface option with external power supply plug for the SVAN 971
•SC 91/5 extension cable for SV18 (SVAN 971), 5 meters (for laboratory purposes)
•SA 72 carrying case for SVAN 971 and accessories (waterproof)
•SA 80 pocket soft bag for SVAN 971
•SA 271 outdoor protection kit for SVAN 971 microphone (microphone, desiccator and
cable not included)
•SA270D desiccator for outdoor protection kits SA271, SA277, SA279

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•SvanPC++_EM environmental monitoring module for SvanPC++ (hardware key, single
license)
1.5 Instrument Software options available (firmware)
•SVAN 971PACK Level Meter including time history logging, 1/1 & 1/3 octave analysis
•SV 971_1 1/1 octave analysis option
•SV 971_3 1/1 & 1/3 octave analysis option
•SV 971_10 acoustic dosimetry option
•SV 971_15 audio events recording option
Note: The software options listed above can be purchased at any time, as only the entry of
a special unlocks code is required for their activation.

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2 MANUAL CONTROL OF THE INSTRUMENT
Control of the instrument has been developed in a fully interactive manner. The user can operate the
instrument by selecting the appropriate position from the screen Menu list. Thanks to that, the number
of the control push-buttons of the instrument has been reduced to eight for ease of use and
convenience.
2.1 Control push-buttons on the front panel
The following control push-buttons are located on the front panel
of the instrument:
•<ESC>, (<P/S>),
•<Enter>,(<Menu>),
•▲,◄, ►, ▼.
•<Shift>,
•<Start/Stop>
The action given in (...)brackets denotes the second push-button
function which is available after pressing it in conjunction (or in
sequence) with the <Shift> push-button.
<Shift>
The second function of a push-button (P/S and Menu) can be used when the <Shift>
push-button is pressed together with <ESC> or <Enter>. This push-button can be
used in two different ways:
•as Direct like in a computer keyboard (e.g. while typing the filename); both
<Shift> and the second push-button must be pressed simultaneously;
•as 2nd Function; this push-button can be pressed and released before
pressing the second push-button.
Note: Simultaneous pressing of the <Shift> and <Start/Stop> push-buttons switches the
instrument on or off.
<Start/Stop>
This push-button enables the user to start and stop the measurement process.
<Enter>
This push-button enables the user to open the selected position on the Menu list, to
confirm selected settings or to switch the views of the result presentation modes.
Some additional functions of this push-button will be described in the following
chapters of this manual.
(<Menu>)
This push-button (pressed together with the <Shift>) enables the user to enter the
main list containing six sub-lists: Function, Measurement, Display, File,
Instrument, Aux. Setup and Report. Each of the mentioned above sub-lists consists
of other sub-lists, elements and data windows. These main sub-lists will be described
in detail in the following chapters of the manual. Double pressing the <Menu> push-
button enters the list containing the last earlier opened eight sub-lists. It often speeds
up the control of the instrument as the user has faster access to the frequently used
sub-lists for easy navigation.
<ESC>
This push-button closes the control lists, sub-lists or windows. It acts in an opposite
way to the <Enter> push-button. When the window is closed after pressing the
<ESC> push-button, any changes just made are ignored.
(<P/S>)
This push-button enables the user to pause or break the measurement process
temporarily. If there is no current running measurement in progress this push-button
opens the Setup Manager menu.
◄, ►
These push-buttons enable the user, in particular, to:
•select the column in a multi-column parameter list;

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•select the parameter value in an active position (e.g. filter Z, A or C, Integration
period: 1s, 2s, 3s, … etc.);
•control the cursor in Spectrum, Logger and Statistics modes of result
presentation;
•select the position of the character in the text edition screens;
•speed up the changing of numerical values of the parameters when pressed and
held.
(◄, ►)
The ◄, ►push-buttons pressed in together with <Shift> enable the user, in
particular, to:
•select the parameter value in an active position (e.g. filter Z, Aor C,Integration
period: 1s, 2s, 3s, … etc.);
•shift cursor from the first to the last position and back on the graphical view mode.
▲, ▼
The ▲, ▼ push-buttons enable the user, in particular, to:
•select lines in the list;
•select the correct character from the list in the text editing mode;
•change the presentation mode of the results.
(▲, ▼)
The ▲, ▼ push-buttons pressed in conjunction (or in sequence) with the <Shift>
enable the user, in particular, to:
•change the current result function in the measurement display mode,
•change the relationship between the Y-axis and X-axis of all plots presented on
the screen,
•program the Real Time Clock (RTC) and delayed run Timer.
<REC>
The simultaneously pressing the ◄, ►push buttons initiates recording of a voice
signal as a comment (see. Paragraph 9.3 “Voice comments”).
2.2 Input and output sockets of the instrument
Top cover of the instrument
The measurement Input is placed in the centre of the
instrument’s top cover. The SV 18 microphone
preamplifier has a specially designed matching plug
with a locking screw to secure the preamplifier to the
meter body. After plugging in the preamplifier to the
measurement input, the screw should be tightened to
light resistance only. Do not over tighten this connector.
It is not necessary to remove this preamplifier from the
top of the instrument unless the meter is in a calibration
laboratory as it is always used close coupled to the
meter body. The full description of the signals
connected to the sockets is given in Appendix C.
Bottom cover of the
instrument
In the bottom cover, there is
only one socket - USB. This
socket has a special
protection cover held in
place by a small captive
screw.
The USB Device 2.0 interface is the serial interface working with 12 MHz clock in the full speed mode
and with 480MHz in the high-speed mode, which is a default mode of the instrument. Thanks to its
speed, it is widely used in all PCs. The standard 4-pin socket is described in detail in Appendix C.

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There is a memory micro SD-card slot under the bottom
cover of the instrument and spaces for the 4 x AAA
batteries.
Note: Switch the power off before connecting the instrument to any other device (e.g. a
printer or a Personal Computer) or fitting the microphone capsule.

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3 GENERAL INFORMATION
To start using the instrument the user should turn it on by means of the <Shift> and <Start/Stop>
push-buttons at the same time.
3.1. Basis of the instrument’s control
The instrument is controlled by means of eight push-buttons on the keypad. Using these push-buttons
one can access all available functions and change the value of all available parameters. The
parameters are placed in a system of lists and sub-lists shown on the high contrast graphic colour
display.
The instrument's menu consists of different type of windows, which include: main menu list, sub-menu
list, option list, parameter list, text editor window, information window and file manager window with file
command list.
User interface Mode
The user interface may be presented in three
modes: Start/Stop, Simple or Advanced. These
modes can be selected in the User Inter. window of
the Instrument menu. The Simple mode defines
basic instrument functions, while the Advanced
mode defines the full scope of available functions.
Many windows can therefore have different view
depending on the selected operational mode.
Start/Stop mode limits the menu to only one
User Inter. window from Menu and measurement
windows.
<ENT>
<Menu>
Main menu
The main list contains the headers of seven lists, which also contain sub-lists.
The main list is opened after pressing the <Menu> (<Shift> and <Enter>)
push-button. This list contains the following lists: Function, Measurement,
Display, File, Instrument, Aux. Setup and Report.
Recent Items list
The double pressing of the <Menu> push-button opens the list of recently
accessed menu items. This enables the user to access the most frequently
used lists quickly, without the necessity of passing through the whole menu
path.
Position selection
The desired position in the menu list is selected using the
▲or ▼push-buttons.
▼

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Entering position
After the selection of the desired position in the menu list,
the user should press the <Enter> push-button to select
and open it. After this operation, a new sub-menu, option
list, parameter list or information window appears on the
display.
<ENT>
List of parameters
The parameter list contains parameters for which the user may select the value
from the available set.
▪The desired position in a list is accessed after pressing the ▲or ▼push-
button.
▪The change of the value in a selected position is performed by the ◄or ►
push-buttons (or pressed together with the <Shift> one).
▪The press of the <Enter> push-button saves all performed changes in the
list of parameters.
Option list
The option list consists of different options, from which only one may be
selected. The selection of the option is performed in the following way. The
user should highlight the desired option by means of the ▲or ▼push-buttons
and then press <Enter>. This option becomes active and the list is closed.
When the user re-enters this list again, the last selected option will be marked.
If the parameter has a numerical value, the user may speed up selection by pressing the ◄or ►push-
buttons longer than 2 seconds. In this case, the parameter starts to change automatically until the user
releases the pressed buttons.
The user may change the numerical parameter value with a larger step (usually 10, 20) by means of
the ◄or ►push-buttons pressed together with <Shift>.
Matrix of parameters
When the list of parameters consists of more than one column the user may
change:
▪column by means of ◄or ►push-button
▪line in the column by means of ▲or ▼ push-button
▪value in a selected position by means of ◄or ►push-button pressed with
<Shift>
▪value in a line by means of ▲or ▼ push-button pressed with <Shift>
▪value in a column, if the cursor is on one of Profile positions, by means of
◄or ►push-button pressed with <Shift>
▪value in a matrix, if the cursor is on one of Profile positions, by means of ▲
or ▼ push-button pressed with <Shift>
Complex parameters
For complex parameters, consisting of more than one value field like RTC or
result screen, the field is selected with the ►, ◄,▲, ▼push-buttons and value
is selected with the ►, ◄push-buttons pressed together with <Shift>. The
selection should be confirmed by <Enter>.
In all cases the <Enter> push-button is used for confirmation of the selection in a position and for
closing the opened sub-list. The sub-list is closed, ignoring any changes made in the list by pressing
the <ESC> push-button.

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Information window
Some windows inform the user about the state of the instrument, available
memory, not existing files or loggers, standards fulfilled by the unit, etc. To
scroll through the list, the user should use the ▲or ▼push-button. To close
such a window, the user should press the <ESC> push-button.
Text editing window
There are also windows in which the user may edit some text (i.e. the name of
the file, the header for the printed reports). This window contains help
information to guide the user on how to edit the text. The character which is
displayed inversely may be edited.
▪The position of the character in the edited text can be selected by means of
the ◄, ►push-buttons.
▪The available ASCII characters can be changed by means of the ▲or ▼
push-button. The subsequent digits, underline, upper case letters and
space appear on the display in the inversely displayed position after each
press of said push-buttons.
▪One can insert or delete the position in the edited text by means of the ◄,
►push-buttons pressed together with <Shift>.
►
Help information
In most windows the last line or two lines contain help information. It informs
the user how to select or modify the parameter’s value, change the character
in the text line etc. For example, Delete: Sh< means that you can delete the
selected position by means of ◄push-button pressed together with <Shift>.
Inactive parameters
If some functions or parameters are not available, the positions in the menu or
parameter lists linked with this function or parameter become inactive (the
selected line field will be in the frame with black background, not yellow). For
example, if Logger (path: <Menu> / Measurement / Logging / Logger Set.) is
switched off the other Logging positions are not active!
3.2. Powering of the instrument
The SVAN 971 can be powered by one of the following sources:
•Four AAA standard size batteries fitted internally. In the case of alkaline type, a new fully charged
set can operate more than 12 h (6.0 V / 1.6 Ah). Instead of the ordinary alkaline cells, four AAA
rechargeable batteries can be used (a separate external charger is required for charging them).
In this case, using the best NiMH type, the operation time can be increased up to 16 h (4.8 V /
2.6 Ah)
•USB interface –100 mA HUB
For each power source, there is a different view presented in the Battery window of the Instrument
list.
When the instrument is powered from internal batteries, the “Battery” icon is presented on the top line
of the display. When voltage of the batteries is too low for reliable measurements, the icon is red or
during attempt to switch the instrument on, the Low Battery! message occurs on the display for 2
seconds and the instrument switches off by itself. The fully charged set of 4 batteries ensures more
than 12 hours of continuous operation of the instrument (with Dim LCD switched on). The battery
condition can be checked by means of the Battery function. It is also presented continuously on the
top line of the display by means of the “Battery” icon.

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When there is a connection to the USB interface (USB Device socket is connected by means of the
SC 156 cable to a PC), the “Computer” icon is presented on the top of the display and in the Battery
window, there is the USB Power: Voltage: 5.00V message.
Note: In the case when “Battery” icon is red, it is strongly recommended to use USB
interface as soon as possible to ensure reliable operation. If no suitable external power
source is provided the instrument will be switched off automatically after a short time!
Prolonging the internal source of the instrument’s power can be achieved by means of the LCD screen
Dim Mode. The settings of power saver function (Dim Mode) may be selected in the Screen Set.
window (path: <Menu> / Display / Screen Set.).
3.3. Getting started
Turning the instrument on
To switch the power on the user should press the
<Shift> and <Start/Stop> push-buttons at the same
time. The instrument goes the self-test routine after
switching on (in this time the manufacturer's logo and
the name of the instrument is displayed) and then it
enters the basic SPL view mode.
Starting measurement
To start the measurements the user should press the <Start/Stop> push-
button. The results of the measurement are displayed in the last used result’s
display view mode. As an example, one profile mode is displayed.
One profile mode is always available for most Functions of the instrument. The results of the
measurements can also be presented in other display modes, which can be switch on and off and
adjusted to the user’s needs.
Setting up the measurement parameters
The instrument as sold has default settings which the user may change, but
always return to them with the use of Factory Settings option in the
Auxiliary Setup menu.
Next chapters of the manual will describe in detail what each parameter means
and how to change the instrument settings.
Main default settings
With default settings, the instrument will have a Simple user interface and will
measure sound pressure level by virtual meters, so called profiles
(Measurement Function: Level Meter) with 1 second delay from the <Start>
push-button pressure, infinite integration time (Integration Period: Inf), linear
Leq integration (LEQ Integration: Linear), compensation of microphone
internal noise (Compensation Filter: Microphone), active logging of the
selected results (Lpeak, Lmax, Lmin and Leq) with 1 second step for all
profiles and summary results saving. Other functions are switched off like:
measurement trigger, logger trigger, event recording, wave recording, timer.

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The logger and summary results will be automatically saved in the file with the
name defined by the instrument and presented in the Logger Setup sub-list
(Logger Name: Lxxxx).
Default Profile settings:
Profile 1 - Cweighting filter for Peak result (Filt.Peak(1)=C), A weighting
filter for other results (Filter(1)=A), Fast for the LEQ detector
(Detector(1)=Fast);
Profile 2 - Cweighting filter for Peak result (Filt.Peak(2)=C), C weighting
filter for other results (Filter(2)=C), Fast for the LEQ detector
(Detector(2)=Fast);
Profile 3 - Zweighting filter for Peak result (Filt.Peak(3)=Z), Z weighting
filter for other results (Filter(3)=Z), Fast for the detector
(Detector(3)=Fast);
The user can change all the above-mentioned settings using Profiles sub-list of the Measurement list.
The instrument remembers all changes for the next time it is used. Return to the default settings (set
up by the manufacturer) is possible after the selection of the Factory Set. position available in the
Aux. Setup list.
3.4. Icons description
Indicators of the instrument state
Additional information about the instrument’s state is given by means of the row
of icons visible in the top of the display.
The real-time clock (RTC) is also displayed in the same line together with icons.
The meanings of the icons are as follows:
“play” icon is displayed when the
measurement is running and the icon
shape is changing from self to
contoured.
“stop” icon is displayed when the
measurement is stopped by the instrument.
„waiting” icon is displayed, when the
instrument is waiting for measurement
start
“pause” icon is displayed when the
measurement is paused.
“SD Card” icon is displayed when the
external SD card memory is
connected.
“Internal memory” icon is displayed when
there is no external SD memory card
inserted.
“curve” icon is presented when the
current measurement results are
logged into the instrument’s logger
file.
“trigger” icon is displayed when other than
Level or Slope trigger is waiting for condition
fulfilment. The icon appears alternately with
the “play”, “curve” or “note” icons.
“tone” icon is displayed during wave
recording and event recording.
“Trigger Level - ” icon is displayed when
the trigger condition is set up to „Level -”.
The icon appears alternately with the „play”
icon.

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“computer” icon is displayed when
there is USB connection with the PC.
“Trigger Level + “ icon is displayed when
the trigger condition is set up to „Level +”.
The icon appears alternately with the „play”
icon.
“RS232” icon is displayed when the
RS232 port is activated.
“Trigger Slope +” icon is displayed when
the trigger condition is set up to „Slope+”.
“Shift” icon is displayed when the
<Shift> push-button is pressed.
“Trigger Slope –“ icon is displayed when
the trigger condition is set up to „Slope-”
“clock” icon is displayed when the
timer is On. It is active when the
instrument is waiting for the
measurement start up to occur. When
the measurement start up is close, the
icon changes its colour to green and
starts to blink.
“battery” icon is displayed when the
instrument is powered from the internal
batteries. Icon corresponds to the status of
the batteries (three, two, one or none
vertical bars inside the icon). When voltage
of batteries is too low, the icon becomes red.
3.5. Data saving
Memory type
All available measurement results and settings can be stored in the
instrument’s memory (micro SD Card) as files in the predefined or
assigned directories. The setup files are stored in the predefined
directory SETUP. The predefined directories can be changed by the
user or renamed.
The SD Card memory is activated automatically after insertion of the
card. The presence of an SD Card is signalled by the memory icon
with SD letters at the top left hand corner of the display.
- SD card is inserted
- no SD card
File manager
The File Manag. is used for checking the contents of
the memory and operation on files and catalogues
such as: rename, delete, display information and for
creation of new catalogues.
<ENT>
The SD Card memory is organised as standard
memory with directories and sub-directories (FAT32
file system). It is possible to create or to delete the
directory structure.
The content of each memory file type can be checked
with the help of the File Manag. function of the File
menu.
◄
Automatic logger files saving
Logger files are saved automatically to the SD card. To enable automatic saving several conditions
should be fulfilled:
1. SD card should be inserted and there should be enough space on it.
2. The Logger (path: <Menu> / Measurement / Logging / Logger Set.) should be switched on.
3. The new file should be defined with a unique name (path: <Menu> / Measurement / Logging /
Logger Set. / Logger Name).
The files are saved in the catalogue, which was set up as the working catalogue. The default working
catalogue (after using Factory Set function) is called SVANTEK.
С
Note: During the measurement run with data logging to the logger file, the “curve” icon is
displayed.

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The filename (Logger Name) is generated automatically using a pattern LLdd,
where LL is the string of letters (so called prefix) and dd is a string of digits
that forms a number. Up to 8 characters can be used to name a file.
The default prefix for the logger files is L.
The instrument assigns an individual counter to every prefix of files the user
has created and saved in the working directory. This counter is equal to the
maximum number in the set of files with the same prefix plus one. For example,
if there are files with names: L0, L15 and L16, the counter value is 17.
The number of the new automatically created file will have the value of the
counter. So, for the above example, new file name will be L17.
The user can change the automatically generated file
name in the special screen, which is opened after
pressing the ◄ or ► push-buttons.
After changing file name number without changing the
prefix and pressing <Enter>, the counter will be
adjusted to the new number.
►
The instrument accepts only that name which number
is equal or higher than the counter, assigned to the file
prefix.
<ENT>
Saving the setup files
The Setup files can be stored by means of Setup Man.
list or by pressing <Shift> with <ESC> push-buttons
from the measurement screen, when a measurement
is not being made.
All Setup files are stored in the default catalogue
SETUP on the SD disk.
<P/S>
3.6. Data saving
Downloading files
All files stored in the memory (micro SD Card) can be downloaded to the PC. There are two ways to
download files.
First way is to extract the micro SD Card and use it directly in the PC.
Second way is to use SvanPC++ or Supervisor software, which enables the user download and upload
functions as well as data view and data processing options. In this case, the instrument should be
connected to the PC via SC 156 USB cable.
Note: Working with the SvanPC++ and Supervisor software is fully described in the
documents: “SvanPC++ User Manual” and “Supervisor User Manual”.
Uploading files
Same approach is used for uploading files (usually setup files).
Files can be upload via micro SD Card or via SvanPC++ or Supervisor software.

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3.7. Activation of the optional functions
Standard instrument firmware contains all basic functions to perform measurements in accordance with
most international standards and methods. For more complex tasks the user has the possibility of
expanding the basic functions of the instrument with additional functions. These features include 1/1
and 1/3 octave analyser, event recording ect.
If additional functions were not supplied in the instrument kit and were not unblocked by supplier, such
a task is in responsibility of the user who decides to buy additional functions later.
The optional function is activated when the user is
trying to use it for the first time. For example, if
1/1 Octave was blocked, but the user purchased
this option later, then during the first attempt to
switch it on, the instrument requires entering the
special code that will unlock this function. Once
unlocked option will run permanently.
<ENT>
Pressing <Shift> and ◄ right after turning on the
instrument enables the user to check and to lock
back early unlocked options.
To select other options the user should press the
<Enter> push-button, which opens another page
of the Active Functions/Options list.
<ENT>

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20
4 FUNCTIONS OF THE INSTRUMENT –Function
To select the Function list, the user should press the
<Menu> push-button, select the Function text and
press <Enter>. In the Function list the user can select
the measurement function (Meas. Funct) and perform
the instrument calibration (Calibration).
<ENT>
4.1. Measurement functions of the instrument –Meas. Funct
The main function of the instrument is the measurement of broadband sound pressure level
(Lev. Met.). The Sound Level Meter (SLM) function provides the user with functions meeting the
standard IEC 61672:2013 for Type 1 accuracy. The instrument can also be used for medium to long-
term acoustic monitoring using the huge capacity data logger in which all the measurement results are
stored.
The user may also use 1/1 and 1/3 real time octave band analysis and dose meter (dosimeter) options.
These options broaden the main Level Meter functions of the instrument, because 1/1 and 1/3 analysis
as well as dose meter measurements are performed together with all calculations of the broadband
Level Meter functions.
To select the required function, the user should enter
the Meas. Funct list. After entering the Meas. Funct
list, the set of the available functions appears on the
display: Lev. Met., 1/1 Oct., 1/3 Oct., Dosimeter and
Run. LEQ. The currently active function is highlighted.
<ENT>
Note: The type of measurement function and the measurement mode is not displayed on
the screen, so the user should remember the currently selected function!
Note: The 1/1 Octave, 1/3 Octave, and Dosimeter functions are optional and should be
unlocked by entering the activation code in the text editor screen, which is opened after first
attempt to select it. Once unlocked, this option will be ready to use permanently.
Optional functions that broaden the applications of the instrument can be easily installed. These options
can be provided initially by the manufacturer or can be purchased later when required.
Note: It is not possible to change the measurement function during a measurement run. In
this case, the instrument displays for about 3 seconds the text: “Measurement in
Progress”. To change the mode of the instrument the current measurement in progress
must be stopped!
4.2.Instrument’s calibration – Calibration
The instrument is factory calibrated with the supplied microphone for the standard environmental
conditions. Because the microphone sensitivity is a function of the temperature, ambient pressure and
humidity, when the absolute sound pressure level value is important, the absolute calibration of the
measurement channel should be performed. To select the calibration function, the user should open
the Calibration sub-list.
The instrument performs the acoustic calibration automatically, when the calibrator is placed over the
microphone. The calibrator level is automatically detected and the calibration procedure is started. The
user simply should press <Enter> to confirm the calibration results. A sound measurement cannot be
in progress while the calibration is being performed.