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How to Set Up a Sound Level Meter

Get your noise monitoring started correctly with this 5-minute guide to setting up the 3M/TSI Quest SoundPro Sound Level Meter. RAECO Rents specialist Nolan Gallagher demonstrates how to attach the microphone, calibrate the unit to 114 dB, and navigate the dual-meter setup screens to ensure your frequency weightings and response times are optimized for your study.

SoundPro Quick Start Guide

This guide walks you through assembly, field calibration, setup, and running a study with the SoundPro.

Step 1: Assembly and Power

Before configuring the device, ensure the hardware is properly connected:

  • Attach the Microphone: Gently align the pins of the microphone with the preamp, push in until it keys together, and thread the base to secure it. 00:14
  • Power On: Press and hold the power button until the splash screen appears and the main menu loads. 00:26

Step 2: Field Calibration

Calibration verifies the meter is reading correctly before you start:

  • Prepare Calibrator: Ensure the adapter is on the calibrator, turn it on, and slide it onto the microphone. 00:41
  • Run Calibration: Select Cal on the meter screen. Use the soft keys to adjust the level until it matches the calibrator output (typically 114.0 dB). 00:59
  • Verification: Confirm the calibrated value plus date/time are displayed to verify success. 01:12

Step 3: Meter Configuration

The SoundPro can run two virtual meters simultaneously, each with independent settings:

  • Key Parameters: Set Threshold, Exchange Rate, and Criterion Level. 01:56
  • Weighting Options: Choose A (general surveys), C (low frequency), Z (true levels), or F (extended range). 02:49
  • Response Times: Use Fast for varying sound, Slow for general level, or Impulse for sudden bursts. 03:17

Step 4: Running the Study

  • Starting: Press Run/Pause. A play icon indicates the study is active. 04:00
  • Stopping: Press Pause first. Then press and hold Stop until the countdown finishes to save the data and clear the memory. 04:13

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