HS5618 Integrated Sound Level Meter

Overview

The HS5618 Integrated Sound Level Meter is a compact, microprocessor-controlled instrument engineered for precision environmental and occupational noise assessment. It operates on the fundamental principle of acoustic pressure transduction via an electret condenser microphone, followed by analog signal conditioning, true RMS detection (with crest factor ≥3), and digital integration of time-weighted sound pressure levels. Designed in strict accordance with IEC 61672-1:2013 Class 2 and GB/T 3785–2010 standards, the HS5618 delivers metrologically traceable measurements for regulatory compliance, workplace safety evaluations, and community noise monitoring. Its embedded single-chip architecture enables real-time computation of key metrics—including equivalent continuous sound level (L_eq), sound exposure level (L_ae), maximum sound level (L_max), instantaneous sound pressure level (L_p), and noise dose (DL)—without reliance on external software or post-processing.

Key Features

• Automatic range switching with ≤1 dB linearity error across the full 40–130 dB dynamic range
• Dual-frequency weighting networks (A and C) compliant with IEC 61672-1 for broad-spectrum noise characterization
• True RMS detector with guaranteed crest factor handling ≥3—critical for impulsive and non-Gaussian noise sources
• Configurable integration intervals: pre-set durations (10 s, 1–24 h) and user-defined manual timing up to 24 h
• 3½-digit LCD display providing simultaneous readout of L_p, L_eq, L_ae, and DL (%) with automatic unit labeling
• Integrated max-hold function for peak-level capture under S- or F-time weighting
• Fixed 80 dB lower threshold for noise dose calculation, referenced to the standard 90 dB / 8 h criterion (100% dose)
• Compact ergonomic form factor (240 × 47 × 30 mm) and lightweight design (0.4 kg with batteries) for extended field use

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HS5618 is validated for measurement of airborne sound pressure levels generated by diverse sources including industrial machinery, transportation systems (road, rail, aviation), HVAC equipment, construction activities, and residential appliances. Its 20–12.5 kHz microphone response and 31.5–8 kHz specified frequency range (per IEC 61672-1) ensure fidelity in typical environmental and occupational bands. The instrument meets the performance requirements of IEC 61672-1:2013 Class 2 for general-purpose sound level meters and conforms to IEC 61252:2017 for personal sound exposure meters used in occupational health assessments. It supports calibration per IEC 60942:2017 using the HS6020 acoustic calibrator (94 dB @ 1 kHz). While not certified for GLP/GMP environments, its data integrity and repeatability align with ISO 9001-aligned QA procedures for routine monitoring applications.

Software & Data Management

The HS5618 operates as a standalone, self-contained measurement system with no onboard data logging or USB/Bluetooth connectivity. All results are displayed in real time and retained only during active measurement; no internal memory or export capability is provided. Users must manually record readings or employ external time-synchronized loggers for longitudinal analysis. For regulatory reporting, measurements are intended to be documented contemporaneously with observer notes, calibration verification records (including date, calibrator model, and output level), and environmental conditions (temperature, humidity). Though lacking FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails, its deterministic firmware and fixed algorithmic processing support reproducible outcomes suitable for ISO 14001 environmental management systems and OSHA 1910.95 hearing conservation program documentation.

Applications

• Environmental noise mapping near highways, airports, and urban infrastructure
• Ongoing compliance monitoring per national emission limits (e.g., China’s GB 12348–2008, EU Directive 2002/49/EC)
• Workplace noise surveys for hearing conservation programs and risk assessment (ISO 9612, GBZ/T 188)
• Pre- and post-mitigation evaluation of noise control interventions (barriers, enclosures, damping treatments)
• Product noise certification testing for household appliances, power tools, and motorized equipment
• Educational demonstrations of acoustics fundamentals and regulatory frameworks

FAQ

What standards does the HS5618 comply with?
It conforms to IEC 61672-1:2013 Class 2 and GB/T 3785–2010 for sound level meters, and IEC 61252:2017 for personal sound exposure meters.

Can the HS5618 measure impulse noise?
Yes—its true RMS detector with crest factor ≥3 enables reliable assessment of short-duration, high-amplitude events such as hammering, stamping, or firearm discharge.

Is external data logging supported?
No—the device lacks memory storage, serial interfaces, or wireless transmission; all readings must be manually recorded.

What is the recommended calibration interval?
Per IEC 60942:2017, field calibration with the HS6020 (94 dB @ 1 kHz) is required before and after each measurement session; annual traceable recalibration at an accredited lab is advised.

Does it support Z-weighting or octave-band analysis?
No—only A- and C-frequency weightings are implemented; spectral decomposition requires dedicated analyzers compliant with IEC 61260.