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Appendix B
Glossary of Terms
Leq (Equivalent Level)
The true equivalent sound level measured over the run time. The term LEQ is functionally the same as LAVG except that it is only used when the Exchange Rate is set to 3 dB and the threshold is set to none.
Logging
(Also called Data Logging.) Certain measurements, such as average level (Lavg) and maximum level (max), can be recorded by the dosimeter at regular intervals. For example: A dosimeter is set to log Lavg and max at one minute logging intervals. If the dosimeter runs for one hour, then it would log 60 Lavg results and 60 max levels. You would be able to see the average and maximum levels for each minute of the one hour run time.
Maximum Level (Lmax)
The highest sampled sound level during the instrument’s run time allowing for the unit’s Response Time setting (Fast or Slow).
Measurement Range
The decibel range within which the unit’s measurements are valid.
Minimum Level (Lmin)
The lowest sampled sound level during the instrument’s run time allowing for the unit’s Response Time setting (Fast or Slow).
Noise Floor
In a “Perfectly Quiet” room, the electrical noise produced by the microphone is approximately 35 dB on
Peak Level
Peak is the highest instantaneous sound level that the microphone detects. Unlike the Max Level, the peak is detected independently of the unit’s Response Time setting (Fast or Slow). Example: The peak circuitry is very sensitive. Test this by simply blowing across the microphone. You will notice that the peak reading may be 120 dB or greater. When taking a
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