The digital sound level meter C.A 832 from Chauvin Arnoux belongs to the Physics Line series and is designed for precise measurement of ambient and noise levels. The device is intended for professional use in industrial and commercial environments where compliance with safety regulations regarding noise emissions is required. It features a compact design with a robust shockproof housing that protects it from mechanical stress and makes it suitable for use under harsh conditions.

Applications

The C.A 832 is used to check sound levels in work environments to ensure that permissible noise limits are not exceeded. It is suitable for long-term measurements where continuous sound level trends must be recorded, for example in production halls, workshops, or during testing of machines and systems. Measurements are performed in accordance with the requirements of IEC 651 Class 2, which is recognized for sound level meters in industrial practice.

Functions and Equipment in Detail

The device measures in the range of 37 to 130 dB, divided into three measurement ranges, enabling flexible adaptation to different sound level conditions. Accuracy is ± 1.5 dB, ensuring reliable and reproducible measurements. The resolution of 0.1 dB allows for detailed representation of measured values. The weighting curves dB(A) and dB(C) account for the frequency-dependent sensitivity of the human ear, with dB(A) being relevant for everyday noise perception and dB(C) for higher frequencies and sound peaks. The MAX and HOLD functions store the maximum measured value and keep it displayed, which is useful for documenting sound peaks.

Technology Explained Simply

The integration times Fast" and "Slow influence how quickly the device responds to changes in sound level. The Fast integration is suitable for dynamic sound trends, while the Slow integration is used for continuous, stable measurements. The analog output, with an output voltage of 10 mV per dB and an output voltage of 1 VRMS at 600 Ω, allows connection to external measuring instruments or recording systems to graphically display or analyze sound level trends.

Compatibility and Accessories

The device can be mounted on a tripod using a threaded connection, enabling stable positioning during long-term measurements. The robust shockproof housing protects the device during transport and use in harsh environments. Physical dimensions are 237 x 60.5 x 38 mm, and the weight is 230 g, allowing for convenient handling.

Mounting and Installation

Mounting is done via the integrated thread, which is compatible with standard tripod threads. No additional mounting equipment is required. Operation is performed using the front buttons of the device, which allow selection of measurement functions, weighting curves, and integration times.

Operational Advantages

The C.A 832 offers a combination of precision, robustness, and flexibility. The ability to store the maximum sound level and use the analog output expands its applications. Compliance with IEC 651 Class 2 ensures that measurement results are recognized in industrial practice. The compact design and low weight facilitate transport and handling in the field.

Protection Rating

The device features a robust shockproof housing that absorbs mechanical stress. However, no specific protection rating such as IP67 or IP54 is specified, so no statement can be made regarding weather resistance or protection against dust and water.

Manufacturer and Model

Manufacturer is Chauvin Arnoux, model C.A 832. Sources indicate that the device is a discontinued model, suggesting it may no longer be produced in series but may still be available.

Application Focus

The application focus lies in industrial acoustics, checking workplace noise exposure, documenting sound levels in production environments, and complying with occupational safety regulations. Measurements are performed digitally, ensuring high readability and documentability of values.

Batteries are not included in the delivery scope.