AWA5688 Multi-Function Sound Level Meter

Overview

The AWA5688 Multi-Function Sound Level Meter is a Class 1 precision handheld instrument engineered for high-fidelity environmental and occupational noise assessment. Built upon advanced digital signal processing (DSP) architecture, it replaces the legacy AWA5680 series with enhanced power efficiency, expanded dynamic range, and real-time parallel signal analysis capabilities. Unlike conventional meters relying on analog filtering and sequential weighting, the AWA5688 performs simultaneous A-, C-, and Z-frequency weighting alongside F (Fast), S (Slow), and I (Impulse) time weightings—enabling concurrent evaluation of multiple acoustic metrics within a single measurement cycle. Its core transduction system comprises a 1/2″ pre-polarized condenser microphone (Φ12.7 mm) coupled with the low-noise AWA14602前置 amplifier, delivering stable sensitivity (−40 dB re 1 V/Pa) and minimal phase distortion across its full 20 Hz–12.5 kHz operational bandwidth. The meter adheres strictly to international metrological requirements, certified to IEC 61672–1:2013 Class 1 and GB/T 3785.1–2010 Class 1 standards—ensuring traceable accuracy for regulatory reporting, ISO 14001-compliant monitoring, and OSHA/NIOSH-aligned exposure assessments.

Key Features

• True RMS digital detection with 24-bit A/D conversion and 32 kHz sampling rate for high-resolution waveform capture and spectral integrity
• 105 dB linear dynamic range under A-weighting—eliminating manual range switching during transient or variable-level measurements
• Simultaneous triple-frequency (A/C/Z) and triple-time (F/S/I) weightings—supporting integrated evaluation of LA_eq, LC_peak, L_Zmax, and impulse noise parameters in one acquisition
• 2.6″ high-contrast color TFT display (240 × 320 px) with adaptive ambient-light sensing and 46-step manual backlight control for field readability under diverse lighting conditions
• Low self-noise floor (≤20 dB(A)) enabling reliable measurement down to near-ambient thresholds—critical for quiet-area surveys and building acoustics validation
• Integrated data logging with configurable interval recording (10 s, 1 min, 5 min, etc.), timestamped event tagging, and internal memory storage for extended unattended operation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AWA5688 is designed for direct-field airborne sound pressure level (SPL) measurement in open-air environments, indoor workspaces, transportation corridors, industrial facilities, and urban planning zones. It supports standardized microphone calibration via pistonphone or electro-acoustic calibrators compliant with IEC 60942. Its mechanical and electrical design conforms to IP54 ingress protection for dust and water resistance during outdoor deployment. Regulatory alignment includes full compliance with GB/T 3785.1–2010 (equivalent to IEC 61672–1 Class 1), GB/T 3241–2010 (octave-band analysis per IEC 61260–1:2014 Class 2), and relevant clauses of ISO 9612 for workplace noise mapping. While not FDA-regulated, its audit-ready data structure—including immutable timestamps, operator ID fields, and calibration history logs—supports GLP-aligned documentation for third-party verification and environmental impact statement (EIS) submissions.

Software & Data Management

Data export is supported via USB 2.0 interface to PC-based AWA6290T analysis software (Windows-compatible), enabling post-processing of time-history waveforms, octave/1/3-octave spectral analysis, statistical distribution plots (L₁₀, L₅₀, L₉₀), and custom report generation in PDF or CSV formats. All stored measurements retain metadata such as GPS coordinates (when paired with optional GNSS module), temperature/humidity readings (via external sensor input), calibration date, and user-defined site identifiers. The firmware implements secure parameter locking and password-protected configuration changes—facilitating controlled access in multi-user laboratory or municipal monitoring networks. Audit trails are maintained for all calibration events and settings modifications, satisfying documentation requirements under ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 7.7 and EU Directive 2002/49/EC Annex II.

Applications

• Environmental noise mapping for municipal zoning and EIA compliance (e.g., EN 1793–5, ISO 1996–2)
• OHS-compliant workplace noise exposure assessment per ISO 9612 and national occupational safety regulations
• Building acoustics verification including façade insulation (ISO 140–3), room reverberation (ISO 3382), and HVAC noise diagnostics
• Transportation noise monitoring near airports (ICAO Annex 16), railways (EN 15663), and roadways (CNOSSOS-EU)
• Product noise certification testing for appliances, power tools, and consumer electronics per IEC 60704–1 and ISO 3744
• Educational and research use in acoustics laboratories requiring Class 1 traceability and multi-weighting flexibility

FAQ

What calibration standards does the AWA5688 support?
It is fully compatible with standard 114 dB @ 1 kHz pistonphones (e.g., Brüel & Kjær Type 4228) and electro-acoustic calibrators meeting IEC 60942 Class 1 specifications.
Can the AWA5688 perform octave-band analysis?
Yes—when used with AWA6290T software and configured per GB/T 3241–2010 (IEC 61260–1:2014 Class 2), it supports real-time and post-processed 1/1 and 1/3-octave band analysis.
Is firmware upgrade available remotely?
Firmware updates are distributed via secure download from Hangzhou Aihua’s authorized technical portal and installed via USB-connected PC using AWA6290T utility software.
Does the device meet requirements for legal noise enforcement?
As a Class 1 instrument certified to IEC 61672–1:2013 and GB/T 3785.1–2010, it satisfies metrological prerequisites for evidentiary noise measurements in jurisdictions recognizing these standards.
How is data integrity ensured during long-term logging?
All logged records include CRC-32 checksums, monotonic timestamps synchronized to internal RTC (±2 s/month drift), and write-once memory allocation to prevent overwriting or accidental deletion.