Acoustic calibrator
The reference tone that proves a sound level meter's readings can be trusted.
What it is
About Acoustic calibrator
An acoustic calibrator fits snugly over a sound level meter's microphone and emits a stable, known sound pressure level (typically 94 dB or 114 dB at 1 kHz) so the meter's accuracy can be verified in the field. Standard practice under IEC 60942 requires a field check immediately before and after any measurement session, with periodic full calibration (annually) at an accredited laboratory. Without this check, environmental and occupational noise readings are generally not considered valid for regulatory or legal purposes.
What you can do with it
Capabilities
Verify a sound level meter's accuracy before and after each measurement session
Detect microphone drift or meter faults in the field
Provide a documented, traceable calibration record for regulatory-compliant measurements
Support annual and periodic full calibration at an accredited lab
How to learn it
Learning Resources
Manufacturer instructions and IEC 60942 standard documentation
Institute of Acoustics measurement training courses (cover calibration procedure as standard practice)
On-the-job training alongside sound level meter use, since calibration is a routine, procedural step
Accredited calibration lab guidance (e.g. UKAS-accredited providers)
Pro Tip
Keep the calibrator's own certificate of calibration up to date and store it with your measurement records — an assessment can be challenged on the calibrator's traceability just as easily as the meter's.
Skills that use this tool
Roles that use this tool