A sound level meter is a monitoring device used to measure sound levels in decibels (dB) and is commonly used in industrial, environmental, and occupational noise monitoring applications. The device measures the sound pressure level (SPL) in a given environment and displays the results in dB on a digital or analog display.
Sound level meters can be used to measure a wide range of sound levels, from very low levels (below the threshold of hearing) to very high levels (above the threshold of pain). They are commonly used to measure noise levels in industrial settings, construction sites, and transportation environments, as well as in offices, schools, and other public places.
Modern sound level meters typically incorporate a digital signal processing (DSP) system that allows for real-time analysis of the sound signal. They may also include features such as frequency analysis, octave band analysis, and time-weighted measurements.
Sound level meters are available in a variety of form factors, from handheld devices to permanently installed systems. They may also be integrated with other monitoring devices, such as vibration sensors and environmental monitors, to provide a comprehensive picture of the environmental conditions in a given location.