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As the AR glasses market transitions from proof-of-concept to large-scale commercialization, product capabilities in audio and haptic interaction continue to expand, driving increased demands for production-line testing. With key modules such as audio and VPU (Vibration Processing Units), AR glass production-line testing is evolving from simple functional validation to consistency control aimed at enhancing real-world user experience. Based on actual mass production project experience, this article introduces audio and VPU testing solutions for different workstations, with a focus on free-field audio testing, VPU deployment, and fixture design, providing practical reference for scaling AR glasses manufacturing. Accelerating Market Expansion of AR Glasses and New Trends in Production-Line Testing As smart glasses products mature, their functional boundaries are expanding rapidly. According to various industry reports, the shipment volume and investment scale of AR glasses continue to increase, with the market shifting from concept validation to commercialization. Products driven by companies like Meta are increasingly capable of supporting voice interaction, calls, notifications, and recording, supplementing functions traditionally carried out by smartphones and earphones. This shift has transformed AR glasses from a low-frequency conceptual product into a high-frequency wearable interaction terminal. Consequently, audio capabilities have become a core component of the smart glasses experience, directly impacting voice interaction and call quality. At the same time, vibration and haptic feedback have been introduced to enhance interaction confirmation and user perception. As these capabilities become commonplace in mass-produced products, production-line testing is no longer just focused on whether basic functions work but is now required to handle multiple critical capabilities, such as audio and VPU, simultaneously. This shift presents new challenges for upgrading production-line testing solutions. Audio Testing Solutions for Multi-Station Production Lines Audio is one of the most directly influential functions on the user experience of AR glasses, and its production-line testing needs to balance accuracy, consistency, and production efficiency. In a multi-station production environment, audio testing is often distributed across several workstations depending on the assembly phase. At the temple or frame workstations, audio testing focuses more on validating the basic performance of individual microphones or speakers, ensuring that key components meet the requirements early in the assembly process and avoiding costly rework later on in the process. At the final assembly workstation, the focus shifts to overall audio performance and system-level coordination. While different workstations focus on different aspects, the fixture positioning, acoustic environment control, and testing process design need to maintain consistent logic throughout. CRYSOUND’s AR glass audio testing solutions are designed to address this need, with a unified testing architecture that allows flexible deployment across different workstations while maintaining stable and consistent results. The solutions can be divided into the following two types, meeting the aesthetic and UPH requirements of different production lines. Drawer-Type Single-Unit (1-to-1) Easy automation integration Standing operation for convenient loading and unloading Simultaneous testing of SPK and MIC (airtightness), supporting multi-MIC scenarios Serial testing for left and right SPK, parallel testing for multiple MICs Supports Bluetooth, USB ADB, and Wi-Fi ADB communication Average cycle time (CT): 100s | UPH: 36 Clamshell Dual-Unit (1-to-2) Parallel dual-unit testing for improved efficiency Ergonomic seated operation design Simultaneous testing of SPK and MIC (airtightness), supporting multi-MIC scenarios Serial testing for left and right SPK (single box), parallel testing for multiple MICs Supports Bluetooth, USB ADB, and Wi-Fi ADB communication Average cycle time (CT): 150s | UPH: 70 Speaker EQ in AR Glasses: From Pressure Field to Free Field In traditional earphone products, speaker EQ is usually built in a relatively stable pressure-field environment, where ear coupling and wearing style have a well-controlled impact on the acoustic environment. In contrast, AR glasses typically use open structures for the speakers, with no sealed cavity between the driver and the ear, making their acoustic performance closer to free-field characteristics. This structural difference makes the frequency response of AR glasses speakers more sensitive to sound radiation direction, structural reflections, and wearing posture, and dictates that their EQ strategy cannot simply follow earphone product experience. In the production-line testing and tuning process, the speaker EQ for AR glasses needs to be evaluated and validated under free-field conditions. Due to the open acoustic structure, the frequency response is more susceptible to structural reflections, assembly tolerances, and variations in wearing posture, making it difficult to rely solely on hardware consistency to ensure stable listening across different products. By introducing EQ tuning, these systemic deviations can be compensated without changing the structural design, improving the consistency of audio performance during mass production. The focus of the testing solution is not to pursue idealized sound quality, but rather to capture real acoustic differences under stable and repeatable free-field testing conditions, providing reliable data for EQ parameter validation. CRYSOUND supports customized EQ algorithms. In one mass production project, speaker EQ calibration was introduced at the final test station under free-field conditions, and the results were accepted by the customer, validating the applicability and practical significance of this solution for glasses products. VPU Testing Solutions for AR/Smart Glasses Why AR Glasses Include VPU (Vibration Processing Unit) As AR/smart glasses increasingly support voice interaction, calls, and notifications, relying on audio feedback alone is no longer enough. In noisy environments, privacy-sensitive scenarios, or with low-volume prompts, users need a feedback method that does not disturb others but is sufficiently clear. This is where VPU is introduced. Unlike traditional earphones, glasses are not always tightly coupled to the ear, making audio prompts more susceptible to environmental noise. By utilizing vibration or haptic feedback, the system can convey status confirmations, interaction responses, or notifications to users without increasing volume or relying on screens. Therefore, VPU becomes a key component for supplementing or even replacing some audio feedback in AR glasses. Primary Roles of VPU in AR Glasses In current mass-produced smart glasses designs, VPU typically serves the following functions: Interaction confirmation feedback: such as successful voice wake-up, completed command recognition, or the start/stop of recording or photo taking. Silent notifications: vibrational feedback in scenarios where audio prompts are unsuitable. Enhanced experience: boosting interaction certainty and immersion when combined with audio feedback. These functions have made VPU an essential capability in the AR glasses interaction experience, rather than just an optional feature. Typical VPU Placement in AR Glasses (Why in the Nose Bridge/Pads) Structurally, VPU is typically located near the nose bridge or nose pads for three main reasons: Proximity to sensitive body areas: The nose bridge is sensitive to small vibrations, providing high feedback efficiency. Stable and consistent coupling: Compared to the temples, the nose bridge has a more stable and consistent contact with the face, ensuring better vibration transmission. Does not interfere with audio device layout: Avoids interference with speakers and microphones in the temple region. Therefore, during production-line testing, VPU is often tested as an independent target, requiring dedicated verification at the frame or final assembly stage. VPU Testing Implementation and Consistency Control on the Production Line Based on the functional positioning and structural characteristics of VPU in AR glasses, VPU testing is typically scheduled based on the product form and assembly progress in mass production. In some cases, testing may even be moved earlier in the process to identify potential VPU issues before they are exacerbated in subsequent assembly stages. It is important to note that production-line testing environments differ fundamentally from laboratory validation environments. In laboratory testing, VPU is typically tested as a standalone component under simplified conditions and higher excitation levels (e.g., 1g). However, in production-line environments, the VPU is already integrated into the frame or complete product, requiring excitation conditions that closely mimic those of real-world wearing scenarios. In practice, production-line VPU testing typically takes place in the 0.1g–0.2g, 100–2kHz excitation range, verifying consistency in VPU performance under realistic physical conditions. CRYSOUND’s AR glasses VPU production-line testing solution uses the CRY6151B Electro-Acoustic Analyzer as the testing and analysis platform. The vibration table provides stable excitation, and the product VPU synchronizes vibration response signals with a reference accelerometer. Software analysis evaluates key parameters such as frequency response (FR) and total harmonic distortion (THD).This test architecture balances testing effectiveness and production-line throughput, meeting the deployment needs for VPU testing at different stations. Compared to audio testing, VPU testing is more sensitive to testing configurations and fixture design, with less room for error and greater difficulty in consistency control. Based on experience from multiple projects, fixture design must fully account for structural differences in locations such as the nose bridge and nose pads. It is important to prioritize materials and contact methods that facilitate vibration transmission, and to design standardized fixture shapes that keep the fixture's center of gravity aligned with the vibration table's working plane, minimizing the introduction of additional variables at the structural level. By following these design principles, the stability and repeatability of VPU test results can be improved in a production-line environment, providing reliable support for validating the product's VPU capabilities. From Functional Testing to Experience Constraints In AR glasses production lines, the role of testing is evolving. In the past, audio or vibration modules were more likely to be treated as independent functions, with the goal of confirming whether they were "functional." However, with the current form of the product, these modules directly influence voice interaction, wearing comfort, and overall experience. As a result, the test results now serve as a prerequisite for the overall product performance. For example, audio and VPU modules are no longer just performance verification items; they now play a role in the consistency control of the user experience. The interaction between audio performance, vibration feedback, and structural assembly means that production-line testing needs to identify potential issues that could affect the experience in advance, rather than just filtering out problems at the final inspection stage. This change is pushing test strategies from "functional pass" to "experience control." If you’d like to learn more about AR glasses audio testing solutions—or discuss your blade process and inspection targets—please use the “Get in touch” form below. Our team can share recommended settings and an on-site workflow tailored to your production conditions.

Octave-band analysis can be implemented in two fundamentally different ways: FFT binning (integrating PSD/FFT bins into 1/1- and 1/3-octave bands) and a true octave filter bank (standards-oriented bandpass filters + RMS/Leq averaging). In this post, we compare how the two methods work, where their results match, where they diverge (scaling, window ENBW, band-edge weighting, latency, transient response), and how OpenTest supports both for acoustics, NVH, and compliance measurement. For a detailed explanation of the concepts, read this → Octave-Band Analysis: The Mathematical and Engineering Rationale Octave-band filter banks (true octave / CPB filter bank) Parallel bandpass filters + energy detector + time averaging A filter-bank (true octave) analyzer typically: Design a bandpass filter H_b(z) (or H_b(s)) for each band center frequency. Run filters in parallel to obtain band signals y_b(t). Compute band mean-square/power and apply time averaging to output band levels. To be comparable across instruments, filter magnitude responses must satisfy IEC/ANSI tolerance masks (class) for the specified filter set. [1][3] IIR vs FIR: why IIR (cascaded biquads) is common in practice IIR advantages: lower order for a given roll-off, lower compute, good for real-time/embedded; stable when implemented as SOS/biquads. FIR advantages: linear phase is possible (useful when waveform shape matters); design/verification can be more straightforward. For band-level outputs, phase is usually not the primary concern, so IIR filter banks are common. Multirate processing: the “secret weapon” of CPB filter banks Low-frequency CPB bands are very narrow. Implementing them at the full sampling rate is inefficient. A common strategy is to group bands by octave and downsample for low-frequency groups: Low-pass then decimate (e.g., by 2 per octave) for lower-frequency groups. Implement the corresponding bandpass filters at the reduced sampling rate. Ensure adequate anti-aliasing before decimation. Time averaging / time weighting: band levels are statistics, not instantaneous values Band levels typically require time averaging. Common options include block RMS, exponential averaging, or Leq (energy-equivalent level). In sound level meter contexts, IEC 61672-1 defines Fast/Slow time weightings (Fast ~125 ms, Slow ~1 s). [5][6] Engineering implication: different time constants produce different readings, so time weighting must be stated in reports. How to validate that a filter bank behaves “like the standard” Sine sweep: verify passband behavior and adjacent-band isolation; observe time delay effects. Pink/white noise: verify average band levels and variance/stabilization time; check effective bandwidth behavior. Impulse/step: examine ringing and time response (critical for transient use). Cross-check against a known compliant reference instrument/implementation. From band definitions to compliant digital filters: an end-to-end workflow (conceptual) Choose the band system: base-10/base-2, the fraction 1/b (commonly b=3), generate exact fm and f1/f2. Choose performance target: which standard edition and which class/mask tolerance? Choose filter structure: IIR SOS for real-time; FIR or forward-backward filtering if phase/zero-phase is required. Design each bandpass: map f1/f2 into the digital domain correctly (e.g., pre-warp for bilinear transform). Implement multirate if needed: decimate for low-frequency groups with sufficient anti-alias filtering. Verify: magnitude response vs mask; noise tests for effective bandwidth; sweep/impulse tests for time response. Calibrate and report: units and reference quantities, averaging/time weighting, method details. Time response explained: group delay, ringing, and averaging all shape readings A band-level analyzer is a time-domain system (filter → energy detector → smoother), so readings are governed by multiple time scales: Filter group delay: how late events appear in each band. Filter ringing/decay: how long a short pulse “rings” within a band. Energy averaging/time weighting: the time resolution vs fluctuation of the output level. Thus, for transients (impacts, start/stop events, sweeps), different compliant implementations can yield different peak levels and time tracks—consistent with ANSI’s caution. [3] Rule of thumb: for steady-state contributions, use longer averaging for stability; for transient localization, shorten averaging but accept higher variability and lock down algorithm details. Common real-time pitfalls Forgetting anti-aliasing in the decimation chain: low-frequency bands become contaminated by aliasing. Numerical instability of high-Q low-frequency IIR sections: use SOS/biquads and sufficient precision. Averaging in dB: always average in energy/mean-square, then convert to dB. Assuming band energies must sum exactly to total energy: standard filters are not necessarily power-complementary; verify using standard-consistent criteria instead. Octave-Band Filter Bank Analysis in OpenTest OpenTest supports octave-band analysis using a filter-bank approach:1) Connect the device, such as SonoDAQ Pro2) Select the channels and adjust the parameter settings. For an external microphone, enable IEPE and switch to acoustic signal measurement.3) In the Octave-Band Analysis section under Measurement Mode, choose the IEC 61260-1 algorithm. It supports real-time analysis, linear averaging, exponential averaging, and peak hold.4) After configuring the parameters, click the Test button to start the measurement.5) A single recording can be analyzed simultaneously in 1/1-octave, 1/3-octave, 1/6-octave, 1/12-octave, 1/24-octave, and 1/24-octave bands. Figure 1: Octave-Band Filter Bank Analysis in OpenTest FFT binning and FFT synthesis FFT binning: convert a narrowband spectrum into CPB band integrals Estimate spectrum (single FFT, Welch PSD, or STFT). Integrate/sum within each octave/fractional-octave band to obtain band power. This is common in software/offline work because a single FFT provides high-resolution spectrum that can be re-binned into any band system (1/1, 1/3, 1/12, …). Key challenge #1: FFT scaling and window corrections After an FFT, scaling depends on your definitions: 1/N normalization, amplitude vs power vs PSD, one-sided vs two-sided spectrum, and windowing. For noise measurements, ENBW is crucial; ignoring it can introduce systematic offsets. [7] A practical PSD normalization (periodogram form) # convert to one-sided PSD: multiply by 2 except DC (and Nyquist if present) This yields PSD in units of (input unit)²/Hz and supports energy consistency checks by integrating PSD over frequency. Two quick self-checks for scaling White noise check: generate noise with known variance σ²; integrate one-sided PSD over 0..fs/2 and recover ≈σ² (accounting for the ×2 rule). Pure tone check: generate a sine with amplitude A (RMS=A/√2); integrating spectral energy should recover ≈A²/2 (subject to leakage and window choice). If both checks pass, your FFT scaling is likely correct; then partial-bin weighting and octave binning become meaningful. Key challenge #2: band edges rarely align to bins → partial-bin weighting Hard include/exclude decisions at band edges cause step-like errors, especially at low frequency where bands are narrow. Use overlap-based weighting (Section 4.2.4) for the boundary bins. Does zero-padding solve edge misalignment? (common misconception) Zero-padding interpolates the displayed spectrum but does not improve true frequency resolution (which is set by the original window length). It can reduce visual stair-stepping but cannot turn 1–2-bin low-frequency bands into reliable band-level estimates. Fundamental fixes are longer windows or multirate processing/filter banks. Key challenge #3: time–frequency trade-off (window length sets low-frequency accuracy and delay) FFT resolution is Δf = fs/N. Low-frequency 1/3-octave bands can be only a few Hz wide, so achieving enough bins per band requires very large N, increasing latency and smoothing transients. Root cause: 1/3 octave is constant-Q, but STFT uses constant-Δf bins In CPB, band width scales with frequency (Δf_band ∝ f, constant-Q). In STFT, bin spacing is constant (Δf_bin constant). Therefore low-frequency CPB needs extremely fine Δf_bin (long windows), while high frequency is over-resolved. Solution routes: long-window STFT vs multirate STFT vs CQT/wavelets Long-window STFT: simplest, but high latency and transient smearing. Multirate STFT: downsample low-frequency content and FFT at lower fs, similar in spirit to multirate filter banks. Constant-Q transform (CQT) / wavelets: naturally logarithmic resolution, but matching IEC/ANSI masks requires extra calibration/validation. [4] For compliance measurements, standards-oriented filter banks are preferred; for research/feature extraction, CQT/wavelets can be attractive. FFT synthesis: constructing per-band filtering in the frequency domain FFT synthesis pushes the FFT approach closer to a filter bank: Define a frequency-domain weight W_b[k] per band (brick-wall or smooth/mask-like). Compute Y_b[k] = X[k]·W_b[k] and IFFT to get y_b[n]. Compute band RMS/averages from y_b[n]. It can easily implement zero-phase (non-causal) filtering. For strict IEC/ANSI matching, W_b and normalization must be carefully designed and validated. Making FFT synthesis stream-like: OLA, dual windows, and amplitude normalization To output continuous time signals per band, use overlap-add (OLA): frame, window, FFT, apply W_b, IFFT, synthesis window, and OLA. Choose analysis/synthesis windows to satisfy COLA (constant overlap-add) conditions (e.g., Hann with 50% overlap) to avoid periodic level modulation. If the goal is to match standard filters, how should W_b be chosen? W_b[k] depends on what you want to match: Match brick-wall integration: W_b is hard 0/1 within [f1,f2]. Match IEC/ANSI filter behavior: |W_b(f)| approximates the standard mask and effective bandwidth (matches ∫|W_b|²). Match energy complementarity for reconstruction: design Σ_b |W_b(f)|² ≈ 1 (Section 7.6). You typically cannot satisfy all three perfectly at once; define your priority (compliance vs decomposition/reconstruction) up front. Energy-conserving frequency-domain filter banks: why Σ|W_b|² matters If you want band energies to sum to total energy (within numerical error), a common design aims for approximate power complementarity: IEC/ANSI masks do not necessarily enforce strict complementarity, so don’t assume exact additivity in compliance contexts. Welch/averaging strategies: how to make FFT band levels stable Use Welch averaging (segment, window, overlap, average power spectra). Average in the power domain (|X|² or PSD), then convert to dB. For non-stationary signals, consider STFT to obtain time–band matrices. Report window type, overlap, averaging count, and ENBW/CG treatment. FFT-Binning Analysis in OpenTest OpenTest supports octave-band analysis based on FFT binning:1) Connect the device, such asSonoDAQ Pro2) Select the channels and adjust the parameter settings. For an external microphone, enable IEPE and switch to acoustic signal measurement.3) In the Octave-Band Analysis section under Measurement Mode, choose the FFT-based algorithm.4) A single recording can be analyzed simultaneously in 1/1-octave, 1/3-octave, 1/6-octave, 1/12-octave, and 1/24-octave bands. Figure 2: FFT-Binning Octave-Band Analysis in OpenTest Filter-bank vs FFT/FFT synthesis: differences, equivalence conditions, and trade-offs A comparison table DimensionFilter-bank (True Octave / CPB)FFT binning / FFT synthesisStandards complianceEasier to match IEC/ANSI magnitude masks; mainstream for hardware instruments. [1][3]Hard binning behaves like band integration; matching masks requires extra weighting or standard-compliant digital filters.Real-time / latencyCausal real-time possible; latency set by filter order and averaging.Block processing adds at least one window length of delay; low-frequency resolution often forces longer windows.Transient responseContinuous output but affected by group delay/ringing; different compliant implementations may differ. [3]Set by STFT windowing; transients are smeared by windows and sensitive to window type/length.Leakage & correctionsControlled via filter design; leakage can be managed.Strongly depends on window and ENBW/scaling; edge-bin misalignment needs partial weighting. [7]InterpretabilityRMS after bandpass filtering—aligned with sound level meters and analyzers.Spectrum estimation + binning—more statistical; interpretation depends on window/averaging settings.ComputationMany filters in parallel; multirate can reduce cost.One FFT can serve all bands; efficient for offline/batch.Phase & reconstructionIIR is typically nonlinear phase (fine for levels).Frequency weights can be zero-phase; reconstruction needs attention to complementarity and transitions. When do both methods give (almost) the same answers? Band-averaged results typically agree closely when: You compare averaged band levels (not transient peak tracks). The signal is approximately stationary and the observation time is long enough. FFT resolution is fine enough that each band contains enough bins (especially at the lowest band). FFT scaling is correct (one-sided handling, Δf, window U, ENBW/CG where needed). Partial-bin weighting is used at band edges. Why differences grow for transients and short events Differences are driven by mismatched time scales: filter banks have band-dependent group delay and ringing but continuous output; STFT uses a fixed window that sets both frequency resolution and time smoothing. If event duration is comparable to the window length or filter impulse response, results depend strongly on implementation details. Error budget: where mismatches usually come from (and how to locate them quickly) Wrong averaging/combination in dB: must average and sum in the energy domain. Inconsistent FFT scaling: 1/N conventions, one-sided vs two-sided, Δf, window normalization U. Missing window corrections: ENBW for noise; coherent gain/leakage for tones. Using nominal frequencies to compute edges instead of exact definitions. No partial-bin weighting at band boundaries (especially harmful at low frequency). Multirate/anti-alias issues in filter banks. Different averaging time constants/windows between methods. True method differences: brick-wall binning vs standard filter skirts/roll-off imply systematic offsets. A strong debugging approach: first match total mean-square using white noise (scaling/ENBW/partial-bin), then validate band centers and adjacent-band isolation using swept sines or tones. Engineering checklist: make 1/3-octave analysis correct, stable, and reproducible Choose a method: compliance → filter bank; offline statistics → FFT binning For regulations/type testing/instrument comparability: prefer IEC/ANSI-compliant filter banks and report standard edition and class. [1][3] For offline processing, large datasets, or flexible band definitions: FFT binning can be efficient, but scaling and boundary weighting must be rigorous. If you need per-band time-domain signals (modulation, envelope, etc.): consider FFT synthesis or explicit filter banks. Selecting FFT parameters from the lowest band (example) Example: fs=48 kHz, lowest band of interest is 20 Hz (1/3 octave). Its bandwidth is only a few Hz. If you want at least M=10 bins per band, you may need Δf_bin ≤ bandwidth/10, implying a very large N (e.g., ~100k points; 2^17=131072). This illustrates why real-time compliance often favors filter banks. Typical mistakes that prevent results from matching Summing magnitude |X| instead of power |X|² or PSD. Averaging in dB instead of in linear power/mean-square. Ignoring ENBW/window scaling for noise. [7] Computing band edges from nominal frequencies. Not stating time weighting/averaging conventions (Fast/Slow/Leq). [5][6] Recommended validation flow (regardless of implementation) Tone-at-center test (or sweep): verify that energy peaks in the correct band and adjacent-band rejection behaves as expected. White/pink noise: verify expected spectral shape in band levels and assess stability/averaging time. Cross-implementation comparison: compare your implementation with a known reference on identical signals; isolate scaling vs definition vs filter-skirt differences. Record and freeze parameters (band definition, windowing, averaging) in the test report. Reproducibility checklist: include these in reports so others can recompute your levels Band definition: base-10 or base-2? b in 1/b? exact vs nominal used for computation? reference frequency fr? Implementation: standard filter bank (IIR/FIR, multirate) vs FFT binning/synthesis; software/library versions. Sampling/preprocessing: fs, detrending/DC removal, anti-alias filtering, resampling. Time averaging: Leq / block RMS / exponential; time constants, block size, overlap, averaging frames; Fast/Slow context if relevant. FFT details (if used): window type, N, hop, zero-padding, PSD normalization, one-sided handling, ENBW/CG, partial-bin weighting. Calibration/units: input units and reference quantities (e.g., 20 µPa), sensor calibration factors and dates. Output definition: RMS vs peak vs band power; 10log vs 20log conventions; any band aggregation steps. If you remember one line: document “band definition + time averaging + FFT scaling/window treatment (if any)”. Most disputes disappear. Quick formulas and numeric example (ready for code/report) Base-10 one-third-octave constants G = 10^(3/10) ≈ 1.995262 r = 10^(1/10) ≈ 1.258925 # adjacent center-frequency ratio k = 10^(1/20) ≈ 1.122018 # edge multiplier about center f1 = fm / k f2 = fm * k Example: the 1 kHz one-third-octave band fm = 1000 Hz f1 = 1000 / 1.122018 ≈ 891.25 Hz f2 = 1000 * 1.122018 ≈ 1122.02 Hz Δf ≈ 230.77 Hz Q ≈ 4.33 OpenTest integrates both methods. Download and get started now -> or fill out the form below ↓ to schedule a live demo. Explore more features and application stories at www.opentest.com. References [1] IEC 61260-1:2014 PDF sample (iTeh): https://cdn.standards.iteh.ai/samples/13383/3c4ae3e762b540cc8111744cb8f0ae8e/IEC-61260-1-2014.pdf [3] ANSI S1.11-2004 preview PDF (ASA/ANSI): https://webstore.ansi.org/preview-pages/ASA/preview_ANSI%2BS1.11-2004.pdf [4] HEAD acoustics Application Note: FFT - 1/n-Octave Analysis - Wavelet (filter bank description): https://cdn.head-acoustics.com/fileadmin/data/global/Application-Notes/SVP/FFT-nthOctave-Wavelet_e.pdf [5] IEC 61672-1:2013 (IEC page): https://webstore.iec.ch/en/publication/5708 [6] NTi Audio Know-how: Fast/Slow time weighting (IEC 61672-1 context): https://www.nti-audio.com/en/support/know-how/fast-slow-impulse-time-weighting-what-do-they-mean [7] MathWorks: ENBW definition example: https://www.mathworks.com/help/signal/ref/enbw.html

Octave-band analysis converts detailed spectra into standardized 1/1- and 1/3-octave bands using constant-percentage bandwidth on a logarithmic frequency axis. In this post, we explain the mathematical basis of CPB, why IEC 61260-1 and ANSI S1.11 define octave bands the way they do, and how band levels are computed in practice (FFT binning vs. filter-bank RMS). The goal: repeatable, comparable results for acoustics, NVH, and compliance measurements. What is octave-band analysis, and what problem does it solve? Octave-band analysis is a family of spectrum analysis methods that partition the frequency axis on a logarithmic scale into band-pass bands. Each band has a constant ratio between its upper and lower cut-off frequencies (constant percentage bandwidth, CPB). Within each band we ignore fine line-spectrum details and focus on total energy / RMS (or power) in that band. In other words, it is not “what happens at every 1 Hz,” but “how energy is distributed across equal relative bandwidths.” This representation naturally matches human hearing and many engineering systems, whose frequency resolution is often closer to a relative (log) scale than a fixed-Hz scale. It is a common reporting format required by many standards: room acoustics parameters, sound insulation ratings, environmental noise, machinery noise, wind/road noise, etc., often use 1/3-octave bands. From linear Hz to log frequency: why CPB looks more like an engineering language Using equal-width frequency bins (e.g., every 10 Hz) to accumulate energy leads to inconsistent behavior across the spectrum: At low frequencies, a 10 Hz bin may be too wide and can smear details. At high frequencies, a 10 Hz bin may be too narrow, giving higher variance and less stable estimates for random noise. In contrast, CPB bandwidth grows with frequency (Δf ∝ f). Each band covers a similar relative change, improving stability and repeatability—important for standardized testing. A visual intuition: bandwidth increases on a linear axis, but is uniform on a log axis Figure 1: the same 1/3-octave bands plotted on a linear frequency axis—bandwidth appears larger at high frequencies Each horizontal segment represents a 1/3-octave band [f1, f2]; the short vertical mark is the band center frequency fm. On a linear axis, higher-frequency bands look wider. Figure 2: the same bands on a logarithmic frequency axis—bands become evenly spaced (the essence of CPB) Once the horizontal axis is logarithmic, these bands appear equal-width/equal-spacing; this is exactly what “constant percentage bandwidth” means. These two figures capture the core idea: octave-band analysis uses equal steps on a log-frequency scale, not equal steps in Hz. Standards and terminology: what do IEC/ANSI/ISO systems actually specify? In practice, “doing 1/3-octave analysis” is constrained by more than just band edges. Standards specify (or strongly imply): how center frequencies are defined (exact vs nominal), the octave ratio definition (base-10 vs base-2), filter tolerances/classes, and even the measurement/averaging conventions used to form band levels. IEC 61260-1:2014 highlights: base-10 ratio, reference frequency, and center-frequency formulas IEC 61260-1:2014 is a key specification for octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters. It adopts a base-10 design: the octave frequency ratio is G = 10^(3/10) ≈ 1.99526 (very close to 2, but not exactly 2). The reference frequency is fr = 1000 Hz. It provides formulas for the exact mid-band (center) frequencies and specifies that the geometric mean of band-edge frequencies equals the center frequency. [1] Key formulas (rearranged from the standard): [1] If the fractional denominator b is odd (e.g., 1, 3, 5, ...): If b is even (e.g., 2, 4, 6, ...): And always: Why does the even-b case look “half-step shifted”? Intuitively, the center-frequency grid is evenly spaced on log(f). When b is even, IEC chooses a half-step offset relative to fr so that band edges align more neatly in common reporting conventions. In practice, a robust implementation is to generate the exact fm sequence using the standard’s formula, then compute edges via f1 = fm / G^(1/(2b)) and f2 = fm * G^(1/(2b)), and only then label bands by the usual nominal frequencies. View the data with OpenTest (IEC 61260-1 Octave-Band Analysis) -> Band edges, center frequency, and the bandwidth designator b Standards commonly use 1/b as the “bandwidth designator”: 1/1 is one octave, 1/3 is one-third octave, etc. [1] Once (G, b, fr) are chosen, the entire band set (centers and edges) is fixed mathematically. Exact vs nominal: why two “center frequencies” appear for the same band “Exact” center frequencies are used for mathematically consistent definitions and filter design; “nominal” values are used for labeling and reporting. [1] ISO 266:1997 defines preferred frequencies for acoustics measurements based on ISO 3 preferred-number series (R10), referenced to 1000 Hz. [2] As a result, the exact geometric sequence is typically labeled with familiar nominal values such as: 20, 25, 31.5, 40, 50, 63, 80, 100, 125, 160, …, 1k, 1.25k, 1.6k, 2k, 2.5k, 3.15k, …, 20k. Implementation tip: compute edges from exact frequencies; only round/display as nominal. This avoids drifting away from the standard. Base-10 vs base-2: why standards don’t insist on an exact 2:1 octave Although “octave” is often thought of as 2:1, IEC 61260-1 specifies base-10 (G=10^(3/10)) rather than G=2. Key motivations include: Alignment with decimal preferred-number series (ISO 266 is tied to R10). [2] International consistency: IEC 61260-1:2014 specifies base-10 and notes that base-2 designs are less likely to remain compliant far from the reference frequency. [1] In base-10, one-third octave corresponds to 10^(1/10) ≈ 1.258925 (also interpretable as 1/10 decade), which yields a clean mapping: 10 one-third-octave bands per decade. “10 one-third-octave bands = 1 decade”: why this matters With base-10 one-third-octave spacing, each step multiplies frequency by r = 10^(1/10). Therefore: 10 consecutive 1/3-octave bands multiply frequency by exactly 10 (one decade). This matches ISO 266/R10 conventions and simplifies tables, plotting, and communication. Standardization values readability and consistency as much as raw mathematical purity. Figure 3: Base-10 one-third-octave spacing—10 equal ratio steps per decade (×10 in frequency) ANSI S1.11 / ANSI/ASA S1.11: tolerance classes and a transient-signal caution ANSI S1.11 (and later ANSI/ASA adoptions aligned with IEC 61260-1) specify performance requirements for filter sets and analyzers, including tolerance classes (often class 0/1/2 depending on edition). [3][4] A practical caution in ANSI documents: for transient signals, different compliant implementations can produce different results. [3] This highlights that time response (group delay, ringing, averaging time constants) matters for transient analysis. What do class/mask/effective bandwidth actually control? “I used 1/3-octave bands” is not just about nominal band edges. Standards aim to ensure different instruments/algorithms yield comparable results by constraining: Frequency spacing: center-frequency sequence and edge definitions (base-10, exact/nominal, f1/f2). Magnitude response tolerance (mask): allowable ripple near passband and required attenuation away from center. Energy consistency for broadband noise: constraints on effective bandwidth so band levels are comparable across implementations. Effective bandwidth matters because real filters are not ideal brick walls. For broadband noise, the output energy depends on ∫|H(f)|^2 S(f)df. Differences in passband ripple, skirts, and roll-off can cause systematic offsets. Standards constrain effective bandwidth to keep such offsets within acceptable limits. [1][3][4] The transient caution is not a contradiction: masks mainly constrain steady-state frequency-domain behavior, while transients depend on phase/group delay, ringing, and time averaging. [3] Mathematics: band definitions, bandwidth, Q, and band indexing CPB and equal spacing on a log axis CPB is equivalent to equal-width spacing in log-frequency. If u = log(f), then every band spans a fixed Δu. Many spectra (e.g., 1/f-type) look smoother and statistically more stable in log frequency. Band-edge formulas from the geometric-mean definition (general 1/b form) IEC defines the center frequency as the geometric mean of the edges: fm = sqrt(f1 f2). [1] For 1/b octave bands, the edge ratio is typically f2/f1 = G^(1/b), where G is the octave ratio. Then: For base-10 one-third octave (b=3): G=10^(3/10). Adjacent center ratio is r = G^(1/3) = 10^(1/10) ≈ 1.258925; edge multiplier is k = 10^(1/20) ≈ 1.122018. Q-factor and resolution: octave analysis is constant-Q analysis Define Q = fm / (f2 − f1). For CPB bands, Δf = f2 − f1 scales with fm, so Q depends only on b and G (not on frequency). Quick reference (base-10, fr=1000 Hz): Fractional-octaveBand ratio f2/f1Relative bandwidth Δf/fmQ = fm/Δf1/11.9952620.7045921.4191/21.4125380.3471072.8811/31.2589250.2307684.3331/61.1220180.1151938.6811/121.0592540.05757317.369 Interpretation: for 1/3 octave, Q≈4.33 and each band is about 23% wide relative to its center. Finer bands (1/6, 1/12) give higher resolution but higher variance for random noise and typically require longer averaging. Band numbering (integer index) and formulaic enumeration Implementations often use an integer band index x. In IEC, x appears directly in the center-frequency formula: fm = fr * G^(x/b). [1] This provides a stable way to enumerate all bands covering a target frequency range and ensures contiguous, standard-consistent edges. For base-10: so and you can invert as Figure 4: Q factor for common fractional-octave bandwidths (base-10 definition) Two meanings of “1/3 octave”: base-2 vs base-10—do not mix them Some literature uses base-2: adjacent centers are 2^(1/3). IEC 61260-1 and much modern acoustics practice use base-10: adjacent centers are 10^(1/10). A quick check: if nominal centers look like 1.0k → 1.25k → 1.6k → 2.0k (R10 style), it is likely base-10. Mathematical definition of band levels: from PSD integration to dB reporting Continuous-frequency view: integrate PSD within the band Octave-band level is essentially the integral of power spectral density over a frequency band. For sound pressure p(t): For vibration (velocity/acceleration), the same logic applies with different units and reference quantities. Key point: because dB is logarithmic, any summation or averaging must be performed in the linear power/mean-square domain first. Two discrete implementations: filter-bank RMS vs FFT/PSD binning Filter-bank method: y_b(t)=BandPass_b{x(t)}, then compute mean(y_b^2) as band mean-square (optionally with time averaging). FFT/PSD binning method: estimate S_pp(f) (e.g., via periodogram/Welch), then numerically integrate/sum bins within [f1,f2]. For long, stationary signals, averaged results can be very close. For transients, sweeps, and short events, they often differ. Be explicit about what spectrum you have: magnitude, power, PSD (and dB/Hz) Magnitude spectrum |X(f)|: amplitude units (e.g., Pa), useful for tones/harmonics. Power spectrum |X(f)|²: mean-square units (Pa²). Power spectral density (PSD): mean-square per Hz (Pa²/Hz), most common for noise. Because octave-band levels represent band mean-square/power, you must end up integrating/summing in Pa² (or analogous) regardless of starting representation. Frequency resolution and one-sided spectra: Δf, 0..fs/2, and the “×2” rule FFT bin spacing is Δf = fs/N. A typical discrete approximation is: If you use a one-sided spectrum (0..fs/2), to conserve energy you typically multiply all non-DC and non-Nyquist bins by 2 (because negative-frequency power is folded into the positive side). Different software handles these conventions differently, so align definitions before comparing results. Window corrections: coherent gain (tones) vs ENBW (noise) are different Windowing reduces spectral leakage but changes scaling: For tone amplitude: correct by coherent gain (CG), often CG = sum(w)/N. For broadband noise/PSD: correct by equivalent noise bandwidth (ENBW), e.g., ENBW = fs·sum(w²)/(sum(w))². [9] CG controls peak amplitude; ENBW controls average noise-floor area. Octave-band levels are energy statistics and are more sensitive to ENBW. WindowCoherent Gain (CG)ENBW (bins)Rectangular1.0001.000Hann0.5001.500Hamming0.5401.363Blackman0.4201.727 Partial-bin weighting: what to do when band edges do not align to FFT bins Band edges rarely land exactly on bin frequencies. Treat PSD as approximately constant within each bin of width Δf, and weight boundary bins by their overlap fraction: This produces smoother, more physically consistent band levels when N or band edges change. Figure 5: Partial-bin weighting schematic when band edges do not align with FFT bins A unifying formula: both methods compute ∫|H_b(f)|² S_xx(f) df Both filter-bank and PSD binning can be written as: Brick-wall binning corresponds to |H_b|² being 1 inside [f1,f2] and 0 outside. A true standards-compliant filter has a roll-off and ripple, which is why standards constrain masks and effective bandwidth. Band aggregation: composing 1-octave from 1/3-octave, and forming total levels Under ideal partitioning and energy accounting: Three adjacent 1/3-octave bands can be combined to approximate one full octave band. Summing all band energies over a covered range yields the total energy. Always combine in the energy domain. If L_i are band levels in dB, energies are E_i = 10^(L_i/10). Then: IEC 61260-1 notes that fractional-octave results can be combined to form wider-band levels. [1] Effective bandwidth: why standards specify it Real filters are not ideal rectangles. For white noise (constant PSD S0), output mean-square is: For non-white spectra such as pink noise (PSD ~ 1/f), standards may define normalized effective bandwidth with weighting to maintain comparability across typical engineering noise spectra. [1] Practical implication: FFT “hard-binning” implicitly assumes a brick-wall filter with B_eff = (f2 − f1). A compliant octave filter has skirts, so B_eff can differ slightly (and by class). To match results, either approximate the standard’s |H(f)|² in the frequency domain or document the methodological difference. Why 1/3 octave is favored (math + perception + engineering trade-offs) Information density is “just right”: finer than 1 octave, steadier than very fine fractions A single octave band can be too coarse and hide spectral shape; very fine fractions (e.g., 1/12, 1/24) can be unstable and expensive: Higher estimator variance for random noise (each band captures less energy). More computation and higher reporting burden. Often more detail than regulations or rating schemes need. One-third octave is the classic compromise: enough resolution for engineering insight, stable enough for standardized measurements, and broadly supported by instruments and software. Psychoacoustics: critical bands in mid-frequencies are close to 1/3 octave Many psychoacoustics references describe ~24 critical bands across the audible range, and in the mid-frequency region the critical-bandwidth is often similar to a 1/3-octave bandwidth. [7][8] This makes 1/3 octave a natural intermediate representation for problems tied to perceived sound, while still being more standardized than Bark/ERB scales. Direct standards/application pull: many workflows mandate 1/3 octave I/O Once major standards define inputs/outputs in 1/3 octave, ecosystems (instruments, software, reporting templates) converge around it. Examples: Building acoustics ratings: ISO 717-1 references one-third-octave bands for single-number quantity calculations. [5] Room acoustics parameters (e.g., reverberation time) are commonly reported in octave/one-third-octave bands (ISO 3382 series). [6] Extra base-10 benefits: R10 tables, 10 bands/decade, readability 10 bands per decade: multiplying frequency by 10 corresponds to exactly 10 one-third-octave steps (very clean for log plots). R10 preferred numbers: 1.00, 1.25, 1.60, 2.00, 2.50, 3.15, 4.00, 5.00, 6.30, 8.00 (×10^n) are widely recognized and easy to communicate. Compared with base-2, decimal labeling is less awkward and cross-standard ambiguity is reduced. Octave-band analysis is typically implemented using either FFT binning or a filter bank. Keep reading -> Octave-Band Analysis Guide: FFT Binning vs. Filter Bank OpenTest integrates both methods. Download and get started now -> or fill out the form below ↓ to schedule a live demo. Explore more features and application stories at www.opentest.com. References [1] IEC 61260-1:2014 PDF sample (iTeh): https://cdn.standards.iteh.ai/samples/13383/3c4ae3e762b540cc8111744cb8f0ae8e/IEC-61260-1-2014.pdf [2] ISO 266:1997, Acoustics - Preferred frequencies (ISO): https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/ [3] ANSI S1.11-2004 preview PDF (ASA/ANSI): https://webstore.ansi.org/preview-pages/ASA/preview_ANSI%2BS1.11-2004.pdf [4] ANSI/ASA S1.11-2014/Part 1 / IEC 61260-1:2014 preview: https://webstore.ansi.org/preview-pages/ASA/preview_ANSI%2BASA%2BS1.11-2014%2BPart%2B1%2BIEC%2B61260-1-2014%2B%28R2019%29.pdf [5] ISO 717-1:2020 abstract (mentions one-third-octave usage): https://www.iso.org/standard/77435.html [6] ISO 3382-2:2008 abstract (room acoustics parameters): https://www.iso.org/standard/36201.html [7] Ansys Help: Bark scale and critical bands (mentions midrange close to third octave): https://ansyshelp.ansys.com/public/Views/Secured/corp/v252/en/Sound_SAS_UG/Sound/UG_SAS/bark_scale_and_critical_bands_179506.html [8] Simon Fraser University Sonic Studio Handbook: Critical Band and Critical Bandwidth: https://www.sfu.ca/sonic-studio-webdav/cmns/Handbook5/handbook/Critical_Band.html [9] MathWorks: ENBW definition example: https://www.mathworks.com/help/signal/ref/enbw.html

In real DAQ use, enclosure durability and scratch resistance directly affect service life and maintenance cost. This article shares a pencil hardness scratch test on the SonoDAQ top cover (PC + carbon fiber) and compares it with a typical laptop enclosure. The results show how the enclosure performs from 2H to 5H and why the surface finish helps it hold up in daily handling. How Scratch Resistance Affects DAQ Use When choosing a DAQ front end, engineers usually look first at the specs—sample rate, dynamic range, synchronization accuracy, channel count… But after a few years of real use, many realize that enclosure reliability and scratch resistance can be just as important to the system’s service life and day-to-day experience. For soundand vibration test equipment, this is even more obvious. Typical SonoDAQ applications include NVH road tests, on-site industrial measurements, and long-term outdoor or semi-outdoor acquisition, where the device often has to: be carried frequently, loaded into vehicles, or fixed on fixtures or test benches; be moved between lab desks, instrument carts, and tool cases; remain in close contact with other metal equipment, screwdrivers, laptops, and more. In such environments, a housing that scratches easily not only looks worn, but can also drive up maintenance and replacement costs. To better reflect daily handling, we ran a pencil-hardness scratch test on the SonoDAQ front-end upper cover and used a common laptop enclosure as a reference. Test Setup The test was performed strictly in accordance with ISO 15184:2020, and was intended to evaluate the scratch resistance of the UV-cured coating on the outer surface of the SonoDAQ front-end upper cover. Samples SampleDescriptionA — SonoDAQ top coverMaterial: PC + carbon-fiber plate (top/bottom covers), with an internal aluminum frame and corner protection.B — Typical laptop enclosureMaterial: Plastic/metal housing with a sprayed coating. This test follows the pencil hardness test approach. Pencils of different hardness grades were used to scratch the enclosure surface under consistent contact conditions, and the surface was inspected for any scratches visible to the naked eye. Test Tools Pencil hardness tester, additional weights can be added as required. Pencils: hardness grades 2H, 3H, 4H, and 5H. Procedure Insert the pencil into the pencil hardness tester at a 45° angle, with a total load of 750 g (equivalent to applying 7.5 N to the coating surface). For each pencil hardness grade, scratch the enclosure surface three times and check whether any visible scratches appear. Keep the scratch length and applied force as consistent as possible to ensure comparability across hardness grades. Results Criteria Whether visible scratches appear; Whether the surface gloss changes noticeably. Results From the results, we could see that the front-end enclosure showed different levels of scratch resistance under different pencil grades. To further validate durability, we ran the same pencil hardness test on a typical laptop enclosure. Laptop housings are usually plastic or metal and also have a painted surface. We used the same method as for the DAQ unit: 2H Pencil: SonoDAQ ProTypical Laptop Conclusion: Neither the SonoDAQ enclosure nor the laptop enclosure showed any obvious scratches; visually there was almost no change. 3H Pencil: SonoDAQ ProTypical Laptop Conclusion: Neither the SonoDAQ enclosure nor the laptop enclosure showed any obvious scratches; visually there was almost no change. 4H Pencil: SonoDAQ ProTypical Laptop Conclusion: At 4H, the SonoDAQ enclosure still showed no visible scratches; in contrast, the laptop enclosure exhibited clearly visible scuffs, essentially reaching the upper limit of its scratch resistance. 5H Pencil: SonoDAQ Pro Conclusion: At 5H, light scratches began to appear on the SonoDAQ enclosure, indicating it was approaching its scratch-resistance limit. Note that the pencil hardness test is primarily a relative comparison of scratch resistance between enclosures; it does not represent a material’s absolute hardness or long-term wear life. However, for assessing whether a surface is “easy to scratch” in everyday use, it is a very direct method. If we translate the pencil grades into typical real-world scenarios: Accidental rubbing from most keys, equipment edges, and tools usually falls in the 2H-3H range; 4H-5H corresponds to harder, sharper, and more forceful scratching—often with some deliberate pressure. At 4H, the SonoDAQ enclosure is still difficult to mark, and it only shows slight scratching at 5H. This means that during normal handling, loading, installation, and daily use, the enclosure is not easy to scratch. Why It Holds Up The SonoDAQ front-end enclosure uses a PC + carbon-fiber composite, which provides good mechanical strength and toughness. On top of that, the surface is finished with a spray-and-bake paint process plus a UV-cured top layer, which plays a key role in: Increasing surface hardness and improving scratch resistance; Improving corrosion resistance and environmental robustness; Balancing durability with a premium look and feel. For instrumentation, “harder” is not always “better.” The right design balances scratch resistance, impact resistance, weight, and long-term reliability. As the results show, SonoDAQ’s enclosure is durable enough for real-world use. For more information on SonoDAQ features, application scenarios, and typical configurations, please fill out the Get in touch form below to contact the CRYSOUND team. We will provide selection recommendations and support based on your test requirements.

Across acoustics testing, product R&D, environmental noise monitoring, and NVH analysis, simply “capturing sound” isn’t the goal—accurate sound measurement is. A measurement microphone is engineered for repeatable, traceable, and quantifiable results, so your data stays comparable across devices, labs, and time. In this post, we explain what a measurement microphone is and how it differs from a regular microphone, based on real-world acoustic measurement workflows. What Is a Measurement Microphone? A measurement microphone is a high-precision acoustic transducer designed to measure sound pressure accurately. Its purpose is not to make audio “sound good,” but to be truthful, calibratable, and repeatable. A typical measurement microphone is engineered to provide: Known and stable sensitivity (e.g., mV/Pa), so its electrical output can be converted into sound pressure (Pa) or sound pressure level (dB). Controlled, near-ideal frequency response (as flat as possible under specified sound-field conditions) for accurate multi-band measurement. Excellent linearity and wide dynamic range, maintaining low distortion from very low noise floors to high SPL environments. Traceable calibration capability, working with acoustic calibrators or pistonphones to manage measurement uncertainty and maintain a reliable measurement chain. Environmental stability, minimizing drift due to temperature, humidity, static pressure, and long-term aging—critical for both lab and field use. In short: a measurement microphone is the front-end sensor of a metrology-grade measurement chain, where the output must meaningfully represent true sound pressure in a defined sound field. What Is a Regular Microphone? Most microphones people encounter daily—conference mics, phone mics, streaming mics, stage mics, and studio mics—are built for audio capture and production. They typically prioritize: Speech clarity and pleasing timbre Wind/plosive resistance and usability Directivity and feedback control System compatibility, size, durability, and cost Many regular microphones are intentionally not flat. For example, they may boost the vocal presence band, roll off low frequencies, or apply built-in processing such as noise reduction, AGC (automatic gain control), and limiting. These features can be great for “good sound,” but they can severely compromise measurement accuracy. The Core Difference: Different Goals, Different Design Philosophy Measurement Accuracy vs. Pleasant Sound Measurement microphones aim to represent true sound pressure with accuracy, repeatability, and traceability. Regular microphones aim to produce usable or pleasant audio, where tonal shaping is often desired. Calibration and Traceability: Quantifiable vs. Hard to Quantify Measurement microphones are designed to support periodic calibration: Regular microphones are typically treated as functional audio devices—specs may be provided, but traceable metrology calibration is rarely central to their usage. Quick Comparison Table DimensionMeasurement MicrophoneRegular MicrophonePrimary GoalAccurate, traceable measurementAudio capture and sound qualityFrequency ResponseControlled & defined (free/pressure/diffuse field)Tuned for application; may be intentionally shapedCalibrationDesigned for calibration and uncertainty managementTypically not traceable or routinely calibratedLinearity/Dynamic RangeEmphasizes wide range, low distortionLimiting/compression/processingKey SpecsSensitivity, equivalent noise, max SPL, phase, driftSensitivity, directivity, timbre, ease of useTypical Use CasesAcoustics testing, compliance, R&D, NVH, monitoringMeetings, streaming, recording, stage, calls Why Do You Need a Measurement Microphone? If your work involves any of the following, a measurement microphone is often essential: Acoustic product development: loudspeaker/headphone response & distortion, spatial acoustics, array localization NVH engineering: cabin noise, transfer path analysis, order tracking Environmental/industrial noise monitoring: long-term stability and verifiable SPL logging Standards and compliance testing: traceable results and reproducible procedures across labs Acoustic material and silencer evaluation: impedance tubes, reverberation chambers, anechoic measurements In these scenarios, the real problem is rarely “can you record sound?” The real question is: can you trust the dB value? If your work involves any of the scenarios above, CRYSOUND’s measurement microphones are specifically designed for these high-standard applications, delivering stable, reliable, and consistent measurement data to fully meet the demands of such use cases. Conclusion: Measurement Turns Sound into Reliable Data A regular microphone helps you hear. A measurement microphone helps you verify. When you need to put acoustics into engineering reports, standards, and closed-loop product improvement, a measurement microphone is the foundation that makes results defensible. To learn more about microphone functions and measurement hardware solutions, visit our website—and if you’d like to talk to the CRYSOUND team, please fill out the “Get in touch” form.

CRYSOUND’s PCBA testing solution integrates RF and audio performance validation within a 1-to-8 parallel architecture, enabling synchronized electrical, RF, audio, and power testing. This unified platform enhances PCBA test efficiency and adaptability for TWS, smart speakers, and wearables, driving cost-effective, high-volume production with streamlined integration. Industry Pain Points: Challenges of Traditional PCBA Testing in Multi-Category Production As smart hardware products diversify and iteration cycles shorten, traditional automated testing equipment increasingly exposes limitations—especially in cross-category production scenarios: Low space utilization: Traditional testers are typically customized for a single product category. Power testing for smart speakers, low-power testing for smart glasses, and RF testing for earbuds often require separate dedicated equipment, leading to excessive floor space usage and high expansion costs. High labor costs: Single-board testing systems require dedicated operators for calibration and supervision. Different operating logics across devices increase training costs, while peak production periods often rely on temporary staffing, causing labor costs to scale directly with output. Low production efficiency: Testing processes are largely serial. Panelized boards must be transferred between multiple stations, and special procedures—such as multi-channel audio testing for smart speakers—further extend cycle times, making it difficult to meet delivery demands. These issues ultimately trap manufacturers in an operational dilemma of “higher output equals higher costs, and product changes equal line downtime,” limiting responsiveness and profit growth. Core Advantages: An Integrated Solution for Multi-Scenario Applications Leveraging a mature technical architecture and extensive industry experience, the CRYSOUND panelized PCBA testing solution abandons the traditional “single-function, single-application” design philosophy. Instead, it addresses real-world multi-category production needs to optimize both testing efficiency and cost control. Fully Integrated Design with Over 50% Space Optimization The solution integrates key testing functions—including electrical performance, RF validation, audio inspection, and power stability testing—into a single system, forming a one-stop testing workflow: Smart speaker applications: Integrated multi-channel audio testing and high-power stability modules eliminate the need for separate acoustic chambers and power validation benches. The system occupies only 25 m², saving 58% of space compared to traditional distributed layouts. Smart glasses applications: Designed for compact PCBA form factors, the system focuses on precise low-power current measurement and short-range RF validation, reducing damage risks caused by multi-station transfers. TWS/OWS earbud applications: RF, audio, and current parameter testing are completed within a single station. The 8-channel parallel testing architecture supports efficient panelized testing cycles. Through functional integration, a single system can replace 3–4 traditional dedicated testers, significantly improving workshop space utilization and enabling flexible capacity expansion. Intelligent Operations and Maintenance: Approximately 60% Labor Cost Reduction With a standardized user interface, the solution supports semi-unattended testing operations: Automated process control: After manual loading, the system automatically completes barcode registration, synchronized multi-module testing, and real-time data uploads. Abnormal conditions trigger tiered alarm mechanisms without requiring full-time supervision. Unified operating logic: All systems use a standardized human–machine interface. Operators can manage multi-category testing after a single training session, significantly reducing training costs and operational errors. Improved maintenance efficiency: One technician can manage four systems simultaneously, compared with the traditional ratio of one operator for two machines—resulting in a 200% increase in labor efficiency. Parallel Testing Architecture: Doubling Production Throughput By breaking through the bottleneck of serial testing, the multi-channel parallel testing design allows different test modules to operate simultaneously, dramatically reducing panelized board test cycles: Smart speakers: Parallel multi-channel audio and RF testing increases throughput from approximately 150 boards/hour to 300 boards/hour or more. TWS/OWS earbuds: The 8-channel parallel configuration achieves stable throughput of over 400 boards/hour, representing an efficiency improvement of approximately 150% compared with traditional single-channel systems. This approach eliminates the need to “add more machines to increase capacity,” enabling manufacturers to meet peak-order demands while optimizing cost efficiency. Standardized Technical Assurance: Precision and Reliability All core test modules undergo strict calibration and validation, meeting recognized industry standards: Equipped with RF test modules, MBT electrical performance modules, and audio loopback closed-loop testing units, supporting precise testing of mainstream chipsets from Qualcomm, BES, JieLi, and others. Testing accuracy complies with IPC-A-610 PCBA acceptability standards. RF shielding effectiveness reaches ≥70 dB within 700 MHz–6 GHz, audio distortion remains <1.5% within 100 Hz–10 kHz, and electrical measurement accuracy is controlled within ±0.5% of full scale. Test data can be stored in multiple formats, enabling full traceability from pre-test to post-test stages and meeting ISO 9001 quality management system requirements. Cost Advantages: Quantified Results Across Multiple Dimensions The CRYSOUND solution delivers sustainable cost advantages across equipment procurement, operations, and quality control: Equipment investment: Integrated design reduces the number of dedicated testers required, lowering initial equipment investment by over 30% for multi-category production. Operational costs: Optimized space utilization and reduced staffing requirements lower rental and labor expenses, saving RMB 150,000–300,000 per system annually. Quality costs: Integrated testing minimizes handling damage during panel transfers. For lightweight boards such as those used in smart glasses, damage rates drop by 30%, while precise testing and data traceability keep defect rates below 2%, representing a 40%+ reduction compared with traditional approaches. Case Studies: Efficiency Upgrades in Multi-Category Production The following cases are based on anonymized production data from real customers and demonstrate actual deployment results: Case 1: Mid-Sized TWS Earphone ODM (Monthly Output: 500,000 Units) Initial challenges: Four traditional test lines deployed in an 800 m² workshop, each requiring four operators. Single-line throughput was approximately 200 boards/hour, creating delivery pressure during peak seasons. Results after implementation: Four traditional lines were consolidated into two CRYSOUND test lines, freeing 200 m² of space for expansion. Each line required only 1.5 operators, saving RMB 45,000 per month in labor costs. Throughput per line increased to 400 boards/hour, doubling total monthly capacity to 1 million units, while delivery cycles shortened from 15 days to 10 days. Core value: Space utilization improved by 25%, labor costs reduced by 37.5%, and capacity increased by 24%. Case 2: Smart Speaker Brand Factory (Monthly Output: 150,000 Units) Initial challenges: Multi-channel audio testing and RF testing were separated into two stations, occupying 60 m². High-power testing defect rates reached 1.2%, mainly due to board damage during transfers. Results after implementation: The integrated system occupied only 25 m², saving 35 m² of production space. Eliminating multi-station transfers reduced handling-related defect rates to 0.5%, preventing the loss of approximately 1,000 units per month. Core value: Space usage reduced by 50%, changeover efficiency improved by 25%, and transfer-related defect rates decreased by 31.8%. The solution is now running stably across 10+ factories and 30+ production lines. Key Differences vs. Traditional Automated Test Equipment Comparison DimensionTraditional Automated EquipmentCRYSOUND Integrated Testing SolutionFunctional adaptabilitySingle-category customization; multiple systems required for cross-category productionIntegrated multi-scenario testing covering earbuds, speakers, and glassesChangeover efficiencyNo standardized process; line downtime up to 32 hoursParameterized configuration; downtime reduced to 4 hoursSpace utilizationDispersed single-function layouts with low efficiencyIntegrated design saving 50%+ spaceInitial investmentHigh due to multiple equipment purchasesOver 30% savings through integration CRYSOUND replaces the traditional “function-driven equipment” model with a “production-driven system” approach, enabling a shift from “adapting production to equipment” to “designing equipment around production.” Choose CRYSOUND Panelized PCBA Testing for Certainty in Quality and Efficiency As competition in smart wearable and consumer electronics markets intensifies, quality consistency and delivery speed are decisive factors. The CRYSOUND 1-to-8 PCBA comprehensive testing system is more than a piece of equipment—it is a complete solution for strengthening production-line competitiveness. By ensuring reliable wireless performance, optimized power consumption, and built-in safety validation for every PCBA leaving the factory, CRYSOUND helps manufacturers maintain full confidence and control over product quality, even at large-scale production volumes. If you’d like to learn more about PCBA testing—or discuss your blade process and inspection targets—please use the “Get in touch” form below. Our team can share recommended settings and an on-site workflow tailored to your production conditions.

Negative-pressure airtightness is critical for high-speed train car bodies, and even minor leaks can lead to rework or delivery risks. This article presents a case from Changchun where CRYSOUND’s CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera was used to quickly, intuitively, and verifiably pinpoint leaks on a carbon-fiber train car body shell, showcasing the CRY8124’s application in vacuum leak detection for carbon-fiber high-speed train car bodies. Case Snapshot Year: 2025 Location: Changchun Workpiece: Carbon-fiber train car body shell Test condition: Vacuum/negative-pressure setting; 15-minute pressure-hold test Sample size: 4 units Coverage: Scanned 6 key areas (car-body section joints/seams, structural interfaces, process holes, corners/curved transition areas, edge of cover film, around embedded components, etc.) Participants: CRYSOUND's Technical Engineers Deliverables: Acoustic imaging heatmap images/videos + report Project Background: Vacuum Leaks Are “Hard to Find, Time-Consuming, and Easy to Miss” Carbon-fiber car body shells feature complex structures with numerous joints and interfaces. When a leak exists during negative-pressure testing, traditional methods often face three common challenges: Experience-dependent localization: Requires repeated “listen–feel–try” steps, and heavily depends on operator skill and experience. High interference: Background noise from workshop fans, tools, friction, and impacts can mask weak leak signals. Inconsistent efficiency: Troubleshooting time varies significantly between operators for the same issue, making verification difficult. On-Site Approach: Pinpointing Leaks with “Visible Sound” In this project, CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera was used to perform scan-based inspections across key areas of the shell. The core value of acoustic imaging lies in making the sound source generated by a leak visible on the screen—turning leak localization from “guessing” into “seeing.” On-Site Inspection Procedure: Maintain the negative-pressure condition: Troubleshooting was performed under the customer’s specified negative-pressure (vacuum gauge pressure approx. -100 kPa) test state. Selected frequency range: Based on on-site verification, 20–40 kHz was selected (offset from the dominant background-noise frequencies, providing better contrast for leak sources). Selected imaging threshold: Based on on-site verification, an imaging threshold of -40 dB was selected Scan and locate: Move the device along high-risk areas such as seams, interfaces, corners, and the edges of cover films. Point verification: Re-test suspected sound-source points at close range and mark them; adjust angles as needed for confirmation (strong airflow, film vibration, or strong reflections may create false leak indications, so multi-angle rechecks are required). Evidence output: Save images/videos with acoustic heatmap overlays to support on-site closure and quality documentation. Reports can later be generated using CRYSOUND’s second-generation analysis software. Inspection Results: Multiple Leaks Quickly Identified Under the customer’s specified negative-pressure test conditions at a train manufacturing site in Changchun, acoustic imaging scan inspections were carried out on a carbon-fiber train car body shell. Multiple vacuum leak points identified: A total of three suspected leak points were marked. Rechecks were performed using a temporary sealing (blocking) comparison method. After the leak points were sealed, there was no measurable pressure drop, confirming three leak points. All confirmed points were marked on-site, and images/videos with the leak heatmap overlays were saved for quality documentation and verification. Efficiency: On average, the total inspection time per component—from “start scanning” to “finish inspection, marking, and saving evidence / completing verification”—was under 10 minutes. Closed-loop validation: After corrective actions, a re-inspection was performed under the same conditions. The leak heatmap disappeared, and the workpiece passed the customer’s pressure-hold specification. From the on-site inspection visuals, different leak points consistently appeared as stable acoustic heatmap overlays on the device interface. Why Is Acoustic Imaging Well Suited for This Process? From the perspective of airtightness testing for composite structures, vacuum leak detection is not short of methods that can “find a problem.” The real challenge is achieving results that are fast, accurate, visual, and verifiable. In composite car-body applications, the advantages of acoustic imaging mainly include: Visual localization: Leak points are overlaid directly onto the surface of the structure as acoustic heatmaps, making the leak location visible and reducing communication and handoff costs. Stronger resistance to environmental interference: By selecting an appropriate frequency range and setting the imaging threshold, the contrast between leak sources and background noise is improved, minimizing the impact of ambient interference on results. More controllable efficiency: As a handheld tool, the cycle time is more consistent, making it suitable for batch inspections and production-line management. Traceable evidence: Images and videos can be retained for review, quality traceability, and training purposes. Practical Tips: How to Be “Faster and More Accurate” On Site Based on our on-site experience in Changchun, here are three actionable recommendations: Prioritize high-risk geometries: seams, hole edges, corners, cover-film edges, and interface transition areas. Image first, then verify up close: use the device to identify suspected leak points first, then confirm them at close range and from multiple angles. Standardize the documentation template: save images/videos for every point to support corrective actions, test report writing, and follow-up verification. Conclusion: Turning Troubleshooting from “Experience-Based Work” into a Standardized Process” In vacuum leak detection for carbon-fiber train car body shells, CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera upgrades “listening for leaks” into visualized localization, delivering a closed-loop outcome with higher efficiency, clearer pinpointing, and retained evidence—while significantly reducing reliance on individual experience. If you’d like to learn more about the application of CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera for vacuum leak testing, or discuss a detection solution better suited to your composite-material process and acceptance criteria, please contact us via the form below. Our sales or technical support engineer will get in touch with you.

In acoustic testing, sensor calibration, electroacoustics, and NVH, gain, input range, and quantization directly determine the quality of the data you capture. This article explains these three factors from an engineering perspective. Using typical CRYSOUND setups—measurement microphones, preamps, acoustic imaging systems, and DAQ system such as SonoDAQ Pro with OpenTest—it shows how to configure them correctly in practice. From the Test Floor: When “Weird Waveforms” Are Caused by Quantization In real acoustic test environments, engineers often encounter situations like these: On a production line, waveforms from a batch of MEMS microphones suddenly look stair-stepped, and the spectrum becomes rough. In NVH or fan noise tests, low-level waveform sections appear grainy, with details barely visible. In acoustic imaging systems, signals from distant leakage points are audible but unstable, with jittery image edges. Figure 1: Data with poor quantization quality often appears noisy or blurred. Many engineers initially attribute these issues to excessive noise. In practice, a large portion of them result from signals that are too small relative to an overly large input range, causing most quantization levels to be wasted. If a signal does not sufficiently occupy the system’s dynamic range, even a high-resolution ADC cannot deliver meaningful data quality. Three Core Concepts Explained in Engineering Terms Gain: Bringing the Signal into the Right Zone In CRYSOUND acoustic measurement chains, gain is typically applied in the following parts: Measurement microphone and preamplifier stages Electroacoustic analyzers or DAQ front ends such as SonoDAQ Pro Figure 2: Left: a 5 V signal. Right: applying a gain of 2 to the 5 V signal, resulting in a 10 V signal. The purpose of gain is straightforward: amplify signals that may only be tens or hundreds of millivolts so they approach the DAQ’s full-scale input and can be properly digitized by the ADC. Range: The Window Through Which the System Sees the Signal Input range defines both the maximum signal amplitude a system can accept and the voltage step corresponding to each quantization bit at a given ADC resolution. For high-precision devices such as CRYSOUND measurement microphones and sound level meters like CRY2851, selecting an appropriate range that keeps the signal within the linear operating region is essential for stable measurements. Figure 3: Left: input range set to 10 V. Right: input range set to 0.01 V. Figure 4: Number of available bins used for signal quantization. Quantization: Translating the Analog World into Digital Data Quantization is the process by which an ADC converts continuous analog signals into discrete digital values. When more quantization levels are effectively used, the digital signal represents the analog waveform more faithfully. When fewer levels are used, stair-step waveforms and low-level jitter become apparent. Figure 5: During quantization, the signal amplitude is divided into discrete levels. How Gain and Range Work Together in CRYSOUND Systems The interaction between gain, range, and quantization becomes clearer when viewed through real CRYSOUND application scenarios. 1. Sensors and Electroacoustic Testing CRYSOUND measurement microphones, preamplifiers, and electroacoustic analyzers (e.g., CRY6151B) are commonly used for: Microphone capsule testing; Production-line and laboratory testing of headphones, loudspeakers, and other electroacoustic components. In these systems, the typical best practice is: Estimate the signal level based on the DUT sensitivity and the expected sound pressure level (SPL); Set an appropriate gain on the front-end amplifier or analyzer so the signal reaches about 60–80% of full scale; Select a matching input range to avoid clipping while also preserving as much dynamic range as possible. This approach delivers low distortion while making full use of the ADC’s effective bits, reducing quantization noise. 2. Acoustic Imaging and Array Measurements In CRYSOUND acoustic imaging products (e.g., acoustic imaging cameras based on high-performance microphone arrays), the system often processes wideband signals from many synchronized channels, then applies localization and imaging algorithms. In this scenario: If the signal level from a given direction is far below the lower limit of the overall range, that area may suffer from insufficient quantization resolution, resulting in more image speckle/noise; Properly setting the overall array gain and the input range of each front-end module helps balance weak far-field signals against strong near-field signals. That’s why, for gas leak detection, partial discharge identification, or mechanical degradation monitoring, a reliable acoustic imaging system depends not only on algorithms, but also on the underlying quantization quality. 3. DAQ Systems and Repeatable Workflows For acoustic and vibration acquisition, CRYSOUND provides modular DAQ hardware (e.g., the SonoDAQ series) and the OpenTest software platform, enabling end-to-end workflows from measurement and analysis to automated test sequences. On these platforms, engineers can: Configure per-channel sensor gain, range, and sampling rate directly in the channel settings; Save a validated configuration as a template and reuse it across different products or projects; Use wizard-style interfaces in applications such as sound power, noise, and vibration to ensure parameter settings remain aligned with relevant standards. In other words:Gain, range, and quantization—these “low-level details”—can be captured in software scenario templates and turned into shared, auditable testing assets for the team, instead of living only in one engineer’s experience. A Quick Cheat Sheet for CRYSOUND Users Whether you are using CRYSOUND measurement microphones, sound level meters, electroacoustic test systems, or a DAQ + OpenTest platform, the checklist below can be used as a quick pre-test verification in daily work. Confirm the expected signal range: Estimate the maximum signal amplitude using experience or a short trial capture. Set an appropriate front-end gain: Target is under typical operating conditions, waveform peaks should reach about 60–80% of full-scale input. Select a matching input range: Avoid defaulting to ±10 V; if the signal level is clearly lower, consider using a smaller range. Check for clipping: Flat-topped waveforms or abnormally elevated spectral lines usually indicate overload. Save and reuse configurations: In CRYSOUND platforms, save channel, gain, and range settings as project templates to reduce human error. Closing: Accuracy Comes from the Entire System In real acoustic measurement systems, data quality is never determined by a single ADC alone. Instead, it is the result of the entire signal chain working together: Sensors → Amplification → Range → Quantization → Software Algorithms As an acoustic testing specialist, CRYSOUND aims to help engineers address these fundamental issues—gain, range, and quantization—through a complete product portfolio, from sensors and front-end hardware to acoustic imaging, electroacoustic testing, data acquisition, and software platforms. This provides a reliable data foundation for subsequent analysis and decision-making. If you’d like help choosing the right setup or validating your configuration, please fill out the Get in touch form and we’ll contact you.

With the rapid growth of consumer audio products such as headphones, loudspeakers and wearables, users’ expectations for “good sound” have moved far beyond simply being able to hear clearly. Now they want sound that is comfortable, clean, and free from any extra rustling, clicking or scratching noises. However, in most factories, abnormal noise testing still relies heavily on human listening. Shift schedules, subjective differences between operators, fatigue and emotional state all directly impact your yield rate and brand reputation. In this article, based on CRYSOUND’s real project experience with AI listening inspection for TWS earbuds, we’ll talk about how to use AI to “free human ears” from the production line and make listening tests truly stable, efficient and repeatable. Why Is Audio Listening Test So Labor-Intensive? In traditional setups, the production line usually follows this pattern: automatic electro-acoustic test + manual listening recheck. The pain points of manual listening are very clear: Strong subjectivity: Different listeners have different sensitivity to noises such as “rustling” or “scratching”. Even the same person may judge inconsistently between morning and night shifts. Poor scalability: Human listening requires intense concentration, and it’s easy to become fatigued over long periods. It’s hard to support high UPH in mass production. High training cost: A qualified listener needs systematic training and long-term experience accumulation, and it takes time for new operators to get up to speed. Results hard to trace: Subjective judgments are difficult to turn into quantitative data and history, which makes later quality analysis and improvement more challenging. That’s why the industry has long been looking for a way to use automation and algorithms to handle this work more stably and economically—without sacrificing the sensitivity of the “human ear.” From “Human Ears” to “AI Ears”: CRYSOUND’s Overall Approach CRYSOUND’s answer is a standardized test platform built around the CRYSOUND abnormal noise test system, combined with AI listening algorithms and dedicated fixtures to form a complete, integrated hardware–software solution. Key Characteristics of the Solution: Standardized, multi-purpose platform: Modular design that supports both conventional SPK audio / noise tests and abnormal noise / AI listening tests. 1-to-2 parallel testing: A single system can test two earbuds at the same time. In typical projects, UPH can reach about 120 pcs. AI listening analysis module: By collecting good-unit data to build a model, the system automatically identifies units with abnormal noise, significantly reducing manual listening stations. Low-noise test environment: A high-performance acoustic chamber plus an inner-box structure control the background noise to around 12 dBA, providing a stable acoustic environment for the AI algorithm. In simple terms, the solution is: One standardized test bench + one dedicated fixture + one AI listening algorithm. Typical Test Signal Path Centered on the test host, the “lab + production line” unified chain looks like this: PC host → CRY576 Bluetooth Adapter → TWS earphones Earphones output sound, captured by CRY718-S01 Ear Simulator Signal is acquired and analyzed by the CRY6151B Electroacoustic Analyzer The software calls the AI listening algorithm module, performs automatic analysis on the WAV data and outputs a PASS/FAIL result Fixtures and Acoustic Chamber: Minimizing Station-to-Station Variation Product placement posture and coupling conditions often determine test consistency. The solution reduces test variation through fixture and chamber design to fix the test conditions as much as possible: Fixture: Soft rubber shaped recess. The shaped recess ensures that the earbud is always placed against the artificial ear in the same posture, reducing position errors and test variation. The soft rubber improves sealing and prevents mechanical damage to the earphones. Acoustic box: Inner-box damping and acoustic isolation. This reduces the impact of external mechanical vibration and environmental noise on the measurement results. Professional-Grade Acoustic Hardware (Example Configuration) CRY6151B Electroacoustic Analyzer Frequency range 20–20 kHz, low background noise and high dynamic range, integrating both signal output and measurement input. CRY718-S01 Ear Simulator Set Meets relevant IEC / ITU requirements. Under appropriate configurations / conditions, the system’s own noise can reach the 12 dBA level. CRY725D Shielded Acoustic Chamber Integrates RF shielding and acoustic isolation, tailored for TWS test scenarios. AI Algorithm: How Unsupervised Anomaly Detection “Recognizes the Abnormal” Training Flow: Only “Good” Earphones Are Needed CRYSOUND’s AI listening solution uses an unsupervised anomalous sound detection algorithm. Its biggest advantage is that it does not require collecting many abnormal samples in advance—only normal, good units are needed to train a model that “understands good sound”. In real projects, the typical steps are as follows: Prepare no fewer than 100 good units. Under the same conditions as mass production testing, collect WAV data from these 100 units. Train the model using these good-unit data (for example, 100 samples of 10 seconds each; training usually takes less than 1 minute). Use the model to test both good and defective samples, compare the distribution of the results, and set the decision threshold. After training, the model can be used directly in mass production. Prediction time for a single sample is under 0.5 seconds. In this process, engineers do not need to manually label each type of abnormal noise, which greatly lowers the barrier to introducing the system into a new project. Principle in Brief: Let the Model “Retell” a Normal Sound First Roughly speaking, the algorithm works in three steps: Time-frequency conversion Convert the recorded waveform into a time-frequency spectrogram (like a “picture of the sound”). Deep-learning-based reconstruction Use the deep learning model trained on “normal earphones” to reconstruct the time-frequency spectrogram. For normal samples, the model can more or less “reproduce” the original spectrogram. For samples containing abnormal noise, the abnormal parts are difficult to reconstruct. Difference analysis Compare the original spectrogram with the reconstructed one and calculate the difference along the time and frequency axes to obtain two difference curves. Abnormal samples will show prominent peaks or concentrated energy areas on these curves. In this way, the algorithm develops a strong fit to the “normal” pattern and becomes naturally sensitive to any deviation from that pattern, without needing to build a separate model for each type of abnormal noise. In actual projects, this algorithm has already been verified in more than 10 different projects, achieving a defect detection rate of up to 99.9%. Practical Advantages of AI Listening No dependence on abnormal samples: No need to spend enormous effort collecting various “scratching” or “electrical” noise examples. Adapts to new abnormalities: Even if a new type of abnormal sound appears that was not present during training, as long as it is significantly different from the normal pattern, the algorithm can still detect it. Continuous learning: New good-unit data can be continuously added later so that the model can adapt to small drifts in the line and environment over the long term. Greatly reduced manual workload: Instead of “everyone listening,” you move to “AI scanning + small-batch sampling inspection,” freeing people to focus on higher-value analysis and optimization work. A Typical Deployment Case: Real-World Practice on an ODM TWS Production Line On one ODM’s TWS production line, the daily output per line is on the order of thousands of sets. In order to improve yield and reduce the burden of manual listening, they introduced the AI abnormal-noise test solution: ItemBefore Introducing the AI Abnormal-Noise Test SolutionAfter Introducing the AI Abnormal-Noise Test SolutionTest method4 manual listening stations, abnormal noises judged purely by human listeners4 AI listening test systems, each testing one pair of earbudsManpower configuration4 operators (full-time listening)2 operators (for loading/unloading + rechecking abnormal units)Quality riskMissed defects and escapes due to subjectivity and fatigueDuring pilot runs, AI system results matched manual sampling; stability improved significantlyWork during pilot stageDefine manual listening proceduresCollect samples, train the AI model, set thresholds, and validate feasibility via manual samplingDaily line capacity (per line)Limited by the pace of manual testingAbout 1,000 pairs of earbuds per dayAbnormal-noise detection rateMissed defects existed, not quantified≈ 99.9%False-fail rate (good units misjudged)Affected by subjectivity and fatigue, not quantified≈ 0.2% On this line, AI listening has essentially taken over the original manual listening tasks. Not only has the headcount been cut by half, but the risk of missed defects has been significantly reduced, providing data support for scaling the solution across more production lines in the future. Deployment Recommendations: How to Get the Most Out of This Solution If you are considering introducing AI-based abnormal-noise testing, you can start from the following aspects: Plan sample collection as early as possible Begin accumulating“confirmed no abnormal-noise”good-unit waveforms during the trial build /small pilot stage, so you can get a head start on AI training later. Minimize environmental interference The AI listening test station should be placed away from high-noise equipment such as dispensing machines and soldering machines. By turning off alarm buzzers, defining material-handling aisles that avoid the test stations, and reducing floor vibration, you can effectively lower false-detection rates. Keep test conditions consistent Use the same isolation chamber, artificial ear, fixtures and test sequence in both the training and mass-production phases, to avoid model transfer issues caused by environmental differences. Maintain a period of human–machine coexistence In the early stage, you can adopt a“100% AI + manual sampling”strategy, and then gradually transition to“100% AI + a small amount of DOA recheck,”in order to minimize the risks associated with deployment. Conclusion: Let Testing Return to “Looking at Data” and Put People Where They Create More Value AI listening tests, at their core, are an industrial upgrade—from experience-based human listening to data- and algorithm-driven testing. With standardized CRYSOUND test platforms, professional acoustic hardware, product-specific fixtures and AI algorithms, CRYSOUND is helping more and more customers transform time-consuming, labor-intensive and subjective manual listening into something stable, quantifiable and reusable. If you’d like to learn more about abnormal-noise testing for earphones, or planning to try AI listening on your next-generation production line—or discuss your blade process and inspection targets—please use the “Get in touch” form below. Our team can share recommended settings and an on-site workflow tailored to your production conditions.

Spatial audio performance can vary significantly across devices—even when similar audio algorithms are used. This article explains the role of the IMU in spatial audio, outlines key IMU testing challenges, and introduces CRYSOUND's production-ready IMU testing solution based on a three-axis, three-degree-of-freedom (3-DoF) rotary table. You’ll learn the working principles, test flow, and application scenarios to help ensure stable and consistent spatial audio performance in mass production. The Role of IMU in Spatial Audio: From Hearing Sound to Perceiving Space In recent years, spatial audio has become a key feature in TWS earbuds, over-ear headphones, and AR/VR devices. Users now expect more than conventional stereo sound—they want to perceive sound direction and distance in a natural, three-dimensional space. When the head turns, the sound source should remain fixed in space; when the head tilts or nods, the sound field should respond accordingly. To achieve this effect, a device must not only render spatial audio content, but also accurately understand how the user’s head is moving in real time. This capability is enabled by the IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit). An IMU integrates gyroscopes and accelerometers to measure angular velocity, acceleration, and orientation. In spatial audio systems, it serves as the core sensor that tracks head motion and feeds motion data into spatial audio algorithms. If the IMU lacks accuracy or stability, or if it does not align well with the audio algorithm, users may experience common issues such as: Response latency: the sound field lags behind head movement, causing discomfort or even mild dizziness; Tracking drift: sound positioning gradually shifts over time and no longer remains spatially fixed; Instability and jitter: noisy IMU output causes audible fluctuations in sound position. As immersive audio, AR experiences, and spatial communication continue to evolve, audio devices are transforming from simple playback tools into intelligent perception systems. As a result, IMU stability and test quality have become foundational requirements for next-generation spatial audio products. Three Major Challenges in IMU Testing for Spatial Audio Despite the importance of IMU performance, testing and validating IMUs is often underestimated during development and mass production. In practice, the industry commonly faces three core challenges: Lack of objective test methods tailored to spatial audio Traditional audio testing focuses on metrics such as frequency response, distortion, and sensitivity. These methods are not suitable for evaluating dynamic spatial perception, and subjective listening tests or manual motion checks lack objective and repeatable standards. Inability to reproduce real head movements with high precision Spatial audio relies heavily on head movements such as turning, nodding, and tilting. Manual rotation cannot maintain consistent angles or speeds, nor can it reliably repeat motion patterns across devices. Without precise and repeatable motion simulation, IMU issues may go undetected before products reach users. Low testing efficiency, making full inspection impractical Manual testing is time-consuming and inconsistent. In mass production, it often forces manufacturers to rely on sampling inspection instead of full inspection, increasing the risk of quality variation. At their core, these challenges stem from the absence of a controllable, repeatable, and quantifiable IMU orientation testing method. Overview of CRYSOUND’s Spatial Audio IMU Testing Solution To address these challenges, CRYSOUND has developed an IMU testing solution specifically designed for spatial audio and smart wearable applications. The goal is to provide an objective, automated, and production-ready testing approach. The system consists of: PC-based test software for test control, data acquisition, and analysis; A three-degree-of-freedom rotary table for simulating head motion; Communication interfaces (such as a Bluetooth adapter) for data exchange; Shielded enclosure and customized fixtures to ensure stable connections and safe device mounting. During a typical test, the host software establishes a connection with the device under test via Bluetooth or a wired interface, then sends commands to enable IMU data output. The rotary table sequentially moves to predefined orientations, while IMU data is collected and compared against reference angles. The entire process is automated, requiring the operator only to place the device and start the test, minimizing training effort and human error. Key Hardware: Why a Three-DoF Rotary Table Is Ideal for IMU Testing In spatial audio IMU testing, a three-degree-of-freedom rotary table provides a highly controllable and production-friendly solution. It accurately reproduces head movements across all three orientation axes and ensures consistent motion paths through programmatic control. Compared with manual operation or simplified mechanical setups, a 3-DoF rotary table offers higher repeatability, better control over angle and speed, and more stable test cycles—making it well suited for mass production environments where consistency and throughput are critical. The three axes correspond to common head motions: Yaw axis: simulates left-right head rotation; Pitch axis: simulates nodding movements; Roll axis: simulates head tilting. The rotary table achieves an absolute positioning accuracy of ±0.05° and a repeatability of approximately ±0.06°, providing a reliable reference for evaluating IMU orientation accuracy. System Features: How the Solution Addresses Real Production Needs Building on this hardware and automated workflow, CRYSOUND’s IMU testing solution delivers value in several key areas: High-precision motion simulationServo-driven control and three-axis motion allow precise and repeatable reproduction of head movements, eliminating the uncertainty inherent in manual testing. Controlled test speed and production throughputWith a maximum rotational speed of up to 200°/s and efficient Bluetooth communication, a six-orientation IMU test can be completed in approximately 60 seconds per unit, making full inspection feasible in production. Objective and quantifiable evaluationIMU output data is directly compared against known reference angles, reducing reliance on subjective judgment. Test results can be exported as reports or raw data and support MES integration for production tracking and quality analysis. Typical Application Scenarios This IMU testing solution is designed for manufacturers working with spatial audio and smart wearable products, including: Bluetooth earbuds and headphones, especially TWS and over-ear models with spatial audio features; VR controllers or devices requiring multi-orientation consistency checks; Smartphones and other consumer electronics requiring gyroscope validation; Smartwatches and fitness bands for IMU calibration and production testing. If you’d like to learn more about IMU testing—or discuss your blade process and inspection targets—please use the “Get in touch” form below. Our team can share recommended settings and an on-site workflow tailored to your production conditions.

In this article, we use a wind turbine blade factory as an example to show how CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera can help complete a vacuum (negative-pressure) integrity test for a single blade in about 10 minutes. What Is a Wind Turbine Blade? Wind turbine blades are the key rotor components that convert wind energy into mechanical power, which is then turned into electricity by the generator. They are typically made of glass-fiber or carbon-fiber composite materials and offer a high strength-to-weight ratio and strong corrosion resistance. The wind turbines you see on mountain ridges, in deserts, or along coastlines rely on these large blades to capture energy efficiently. Why Vacuum Bag Integrity Testing Matters in Vacuum Infusion In wind turbine blade manufacturing, vacuum bag airtightness during the vacuum infusion process is critical for stable vacuum levels and consistent laminate quality. Even small leaks can lead to process instability, additional troubleshooting time, and rework risk. A typical workflow looks like this: 1. Preparation: Lay auxiliary materials (release fabric, flow media), seal the blade with vacuum film, block openings with sealing tape, and connect the vacuum pump, lines, and a gauge. 2. Evacuate to target vacuum: Start the pump and ramp to the process-defined vacuum level. If the target cannot be reached or keeps drifting, check high-risk areas first (especially sealant joints). 3. Vacuum hold & leak check: After reaching the specified vacuum level, turn off the pump and begin the hold phase (typically 10–30 minutes). Confirm the vacuum loss stays within your acceptance limit. If there is a leak, the vacuum level will drop noticeably—locate the leak point and repair it promptly. 4. Repair, re-test, document: Mark the leak points, replace any damaged vacuum film, and reseal the leaking areas. After repair, repeat evacuation and the vacuum hold test until the system meets the acceptance criteria, then document the results before proceeding to the next step. Common Challenges in Wind Turbine Blade Vacuum Bag Testing A single blade can be 60–100 m long, creating a large sealing perimeter—so leak hunting can push the test beyond 30 minutes. Dense laminate around the blade root makes leaks harder to locate with traditional methods. Manual checks are slow and operator-dependent, leading to inconsistent results across shifts. Case Study: Faster Leak Localization and Lower Rework Cost At one blade manufacturer, routine vacuum-hold tests after bagging sometimes failed the hold criteria, leading to repeated troubleshooting and rework. The team introduced the CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera as an assistive tool to locate leaks faster during pre-infusion checks. Recommended Settings (Example) Turn on the CRY8124 and select the vacuum/leak scenario. Set the acoustic imaging band to 20–40 kHz. Adjust the imaging threshold (-40 dB to 120 dB) based on on-site conditions to reduce background noise from fans, cutting machines, and vacuum pumps. If ambient noise is high, enable focus/beamforming mode to further suppress environmental noise. On-Site Leak Scanning Workflow During inspection, the operator walks along key areas—such as the pressure side (PS), suction side (SS), the main-spar region, and around the root preform—while holding the CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera. When a leak is present, the device overlays an acoustic “cloud map” on the live video feed, helping pinpoint the leak location and reducing repeated manual checks. Measured Impact (Customer-Reported) After introducing the CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera, the average vacuum bag check time per blade dropped from 30+ minutes to around 10 minutes (about a 70% reduction in check time). The customer also reported annual cost savings exceeding $10,000 by reducing rework and scrap. How a 10-Minute Vacuum Bag Check Is Achieved The CRY8124 Acoustic Imaging Camera is designed for fast scanning across common blade inspection zones (PS/SS surfaces, main spar region, and the blade root). It provides a visual indication of leak location and relative leak severity, while using frequency filtering and beamforming to work in noisy production environments. With a high-density microphone array (up to 200 microphones, depending on configuration) covering 2 kHz–100 kHz, the system can capture ultrasonic components from small leaks and render them as an intuitive acoustic image. If you’d like to learn more about acoustic imaging for vacuum leak detection—or discuss your blade process and inspection targets—please use the “Get in touch” form below. Our team can share recommended settings and an on-site workflow tailored to your production conditions.

In acoustic design and noise control, a material’s acoustic impedance characteristics are a key factor in determining “how it sounds.” By measuring parameters such as the absorption coefficient, reflection coefficient, specific acoustic impedance, and acoustic admittance, we can not only quantify a material’s ability to absorb and reflect sound, but also evaluate its performance in real-world applications—such as room reverberation time, noise-control effectiveness in equipment, and the acoustic comfort of products like automobiles and home appliances. Accurate acoustic impedance testing gives engineers solid evidence for material selection, structural optimization, and acoustic simulation, dramatically reducing trial-and-error costs and shifting acoustic design from experience-driven to data-driven. Advantages of the Transfer-Function Method Among the many acoustic impedance measurement methods, the transfer-function method is widely used thanks to its fast testing speed, high accuracy, and broad applicable frequency range. By placing two microphones inside an impedance tube and using the sound-pressure transfer function, one can back-calculate parameters such as the absorption coefficient, reflection coefficient, and specific acoustic impedance—without complicated sound-source calibration or overly idealized assumptions about the sound field. Compared with the traditional standing-wave ratio method, the transfer-function method depends less on operator experience, delivers more stable low-frequency measurements, and is easier to automate and post-process, making it well suited for R&D, material screening, and high-throughput quality inspection in industry. CRYSOUND Integrated Test Solution CRYSOUND provides a complete acoustic impedance testing solution. Built around the CRY6151B data acquisition unit, and combined with our in-house algorithms plus testing software and an impedance-tube hardware system, it delivers an integrated workflow—from equipment calibration and data acquisition to parameter calculation and report generation. In terms of hardware configuration, we use a measurement chain optimized specifically for acoustic impedance testing. At the front end, two 1/4-inch pressure-field measurement microphones (CRY3402) are deployed. While ensuring a wide frequency range and wide dynamic range, they maintain excellent linearity and stability under high sound-pressure levels—making them ideal for precise measurements in the high-SPL sound field inside an impedance tube. At the back end, a CRY6151B data acquisition unit handles signal acquisition and output control, featuring low noise floor, stable output, and a clean, straightforward interface and operating logic. On the software side, we provide a complete workflow covering calibration, measurement, analysis, and reporting—making the tedious yet critical steps in acoustic impedance testing both meticulous and easier for users. Before testing, the software guides users through input/output calibration to ensure the gain and phase of the excitation output and acquisition channels are under control. It then performs a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) check, automatically evaluating whether the current test environment and hardware configuration meet the conditions for valid measurements, avoiding wasted time under low-SNR conditions. To match the characteristics of the transfer-function method, the software integrates transfer-function calibration and dual-microphone acoustic-center distance calibration modules. Through dedicated calibration procedures, it automatically corrects inter-channel amplitude/phase errors and microphone acoustic-center position offsets, reducing high-frequency ripple and computational error at the source. It also supports flange-tube calibration, compensating for leakage and geometric deviations at flange connections so that reliable absorption-coefficient and acoustic-impedance results can still be obtained even under conditions close to real-world use. The entire workflow complies with the requirements of GB/T 18696.2-2002. During actual measurements, the software supports multiple excitation types, including random noise and pseudo-random noise for rapid wideband scanning, as well as single-tone signals for precisely locating resonance frequencies and analyzing the relationship between impedance and sound speed — useful for material mechanism research or fine tuning. After the test, the data can be displayed in multiple band formats, and curves from different samples or operating conditions can be compared within the same interface. Users can view key parameter curves such as the absorption coefficient, reflection coefficient, and specific acoustic impedance, and can also automatically generate a test report that includes measurement conditions and result plots, greatly improving the efficiency and standardization of acoustic impedance testing. Overall, acoustic impedance testing is both a “magnifying glass” for understanding a material’s acoustic properties and a “ruler” for translating acoustic design into engineering reality. With an optimized hardware chain (CRY3402 microphones + CRY6151B data acquisition unit) and an integrated software platform that combines calibration, measurement, analysis, and reporting, we aim to make acoustic impedance testing—once a highly specialized and complex task—controllable, visual, and repeatable, truly supporting product R&D, quality control, and acoustic-experience improvement for enterprises.

In day-to-day acoustic measurements, it’s common to hear: “Insert the measurement microphone into the calibrator, press the button, and the microphone is calibrated.” From an engineering and metrology perspective, that wording is an oversimplification. To place a sound calibrator correctly in the measurement chain, we should start with what it generates—and what it can (and cannot) verify. Core Function of a Calibrator A sound calibrator is essentially a reference sound source that generates a stable, known sound pressure level (SPL) at a specified frequency—typically 1 kHz (and 250 Hz on some models). Depending on the model, the nominal level is often 94 dB or 114 dB. During use, you compare the calibrator’s nominal SPL with the reading of the entire measurement chain (microphone + preamplifier + front-end or sound level meter) to confirm whether the indicated value matches the reference. In other words, a calibrator is primarily an on-site verification tool rather than a device that “calibrates” (adjusts) the microphone itself. It helps you answer one practical question: for a known SPL at a known frequency, is the system reading correct? Relationship Between the Calibrator and the Measurement Microphone Structurally, a calibrator mainly provides a controlled acoustic field at the microphone diaphragm. It does not change the microphone’s intrinsic characteristics—such as sensitivity, frequency response, linearity, dynamic range, or self-noise. If the microphone or preamplifier drifts due to aging, mishandling, temperature/humidity exposure, or mechanical shock, the calibrator can reveal the deviation—for example, a consistent offset from the nominal level. But the calibrator cannot “fix” the microphone. If the deviation is abnormal, unstable, or growing over time, you typically troubleshoot the chain (fit/seal, adaptor size, connector, cable, preamp gain, settings) and, when necessary, send the microphone and/or calibrator to a laboratory for calibration or service. Understanding “Calibration” from a Metrological Perspective In acoustic metrology, “calibration” generally means comparing a device to a higher-level reference standard and documenting its deviation (and, where applicable, a correction factor) with traceability to national or international standards. For measurement microphones, a rigorous calibration is typically performed in a controlled laboratory environment, using reference microphones and equipment that comply with relevant standards (e.g., IEC 60942 for sound calibrators and the IEC 61094 series for measurement microphones). It commonly includes multi-point testing across conditions and an uncertainty statement. In the traceability chain, a handheld sound calibrator is mainly an on-site step used to: 1) perform quick checks before and after measurements, 2) record drift during use, and 3) support decisions on recalibration or service. Therefore, it’s more accurate to say: you are using a calibrator to verify the measurement system on-site—not completing a formal microphone calibration. Also note: the calibrator itself is part of your traceability chain. To keep the check meaningful, ensure the calibrator has a valid calibration certificate and is used within its specified environmental range. Summary A calibrator is a very important on-site comparison tool in the measurement chain. It can: Provide a standard sound pressure level signal for measurement microphones Help engineers quickly check whether the measurement system is operating in a reasonable state At the same time, it must be clearly understood that: The calibrator does not directly “calibrate” or repair the microphone itself Formal microphone calibration must be performed in a standard acoustic laboratory and must follow metrological specifications and procedures In engineering practice, only by clearly distinguishing between “on-site verification” and “laboratory calibration” can we both efficiently carry out daily testing and ensure that measurement data are accurate and metrologically traceable. You are welcome to visit www.crysound.com to learn more about microphone functions and hardware solutions, or contact the CRYSOUND team of  demonstrations and application support.

In industrial testing, research, and quality validation, data acquisition devices (DAQs / audio interfaces / measurement microphone front-ends) are the “front door” of the entire system. As technology and applications become more specialized, a wide variety of DAQ devices has emerged: High-precision front-ends designed specifically for acoustics and vibration General-purpose dynamic signal acquisition modules Common USB sound cards and measurement microphones Hardware is not the bottleneck anymore. The real challenge is: How do you connect, configure, and manage devices from different brands and protocols in one software platform? OpenTest is built around this pain point. With an open, multi-protocol hardware access architecture, it turns acquisition from “isolated devices” into a unified platform, enabling cross-brand, multi-device data acquisition and analysis. Multi-Protocol Hardware Access: Reducing Vendor Lock-In OpenTest supports several mainstream connection methods. You can choose the appropriate protocol based on your hardware type and driver environment (actual compatibility depends on software version and device drivers): openDAQ – For open DAQ integration. Used to connect open hardware such as CRYSOUND SonoDAQ and manage channels and acquisition parameters in a unified way ASIO / WASAPI / MME / Core Audio – Mainstream audio interfaces on Windows and macOS, supporting professional audio interfaces and USB measurement microphones such as RME, Echo, miniDSP, etc. Other proprietary protocols – Can be added according to project requirements This means you no longer need to be locked into a single hardware brand or a single piece of software. Existing devices can be brought smoothly under one platform for centralized management. Multi-Device Collaboration: One Project, Many Acquisition Tasks Complex tests often require multiple signal sources to be acquired together, for example: Dynamic signals such as microphones and accelerometers Operating parameters such as speed, temperature, pressure, torque Auxiliary audio paths for monitoring and playback With OpenTest’s multi-protocol architecture, you can manage multiple devices within the same project. For NVH and structural testing, this kind of cross-device collaboration significantly reduces repetitive work like: Recording in multiple software tools → exporting → manual time alignment → re-analysis Getting Started: Connecting Devices Quickly Connect your data acquisition device to the PC running OpenTest USB connection, or Network connection (ensure the device and PC are on the same subnet) In the Hardware Setup panel, click the “+” icon in the upper-right corner. OpenTest will automatically scan for connected devices Check the devices you want to use and click Confirm to add them to the active device list Switch to the Channel Setup list, click the “+” icon in the upper-right corner, select the channels required for the current project (channels from different devices can be combined), and click Confirm to add them to the project Select the channels; OpenTest will automatically start real-time monitoring and analysis. You can then switch to different measurement modules according to your test needs Presets + Fine Tuning: Easy to Start, Easy to Standardize To help teams enter the testing state quickly, OpenTest supports a “presets + adjustments” configuration approach: Turn commonly used hardware parameters and acquisition settings into reusable templates Apply templates directly when creating a new project to avoid starting from scratch Still keep full flexibility to fine-tune settings for different operating conditions and devices For production line or regression testing, templating adds an important benefit: uniform test conditions, comparable results, and traceable processes across time and across operators. Logging and Monitoring: Designed for Long-Term Stability For long-duration, multi-device acquisition, the worst case is discovering that something dropped out halfway. OpenTest provides observability features to address this: Device and channel status monitoring – Quickly detect disconnections, overloads, and abnormal inputs Operation and error logs – Record key actions and error events to support troubleshooting and process optimization This is especially critical for continuous production testing and durability tests, significantly reducing the chance of “realizing halfway through that nothing was actually recorded.” Typical Application Scenarios Acoustics and vibration R&D – Use the same platform to connect front-end DAQs and audio interfaces, quickly complete acquisition, analysis, and report generation Automotive NVH / structural testing – Acquire noise, vibration, and operating parameters together, minimizing cross-software alignment work Production line automated testing – Template-based configuration + monitoring/logging + automated reporting to improve consistency and traceability OpenTest’s goal is not to make you replace all your hardware, but to bring your existing hardware together on one platform so that data acquisition becomes more efficient, more controllable, and much easier to standardize. Visit www.opentest.com to learn more about OpenTest features and hardware options, or contact the CRYSOUND team for demos and application support.

In audio and NVH testing, keeping signals aligned in time is often harder than increasing channel count or resolution. With a single chassis, synchronizing several dozen or even a hundred channels is no longer a big challenge. What really hurts is when multiple acquisition chassis are distributed across different locations and connected over a network, yet are still expected to maintain nanosecond-level—or at least sub-microsecond-level— synchronization. Otherwise, high-level analyses such as in-vehicle sound field reconstruction, array beamforming and localization, or structural modal testing will all suffer from misaligned time axes. One of SonoDAQ's core design goals is to make this kind of multi-device synchronization feel effortless: plug in the network cable and let the system take care of the rest, so that many units behave like a single instrument. The key enabler behind this is a carefully engineered timing architecture built around PTP and GPS. Why Is Multi-Device Synchronization So Difficult? In traditional architectures, multi-device sync is typically handled in a few ways: Relying on the operating system clock plus software alignment Using one device to output a clock or trigger and configuring all other devices as slaves Applying a simple network time protocol such as NTP These techniques are barely acceptable when synchronization requirements are on the order of tens of milliseconds or a few milliseconds. But when you push into the microsecond or even nanosecond domain, several fundamental problems appear: Uncontrolled OS jitter: task scheduling, caching, and driver latency all make the apparent system time wander. Network latency and jitter: different paths and switches introduce variable delays that are hard to fully compensate in software alone. Long-term drift: even if devices are roughly aligned at startup, any small frequency error in the local oscillators will cause their time bases to slowly diverge over tens of minutes or hours. SonoDAQ's approach is to anchor every time-critical action to a common hardware time base, rather than relying on the operating system's notion of time. From Network Time to Hardware Time: PTP + PHC The first step is to make sure every SonoDAQ unit shares the same absolute time. (1) PTP / GPS as the upstream clock SonoDAQ can take a unified UTC reference either from IEEE 1588 PTP on the network or from an external GPS receiver. This reference is first fed into the on-board PTP Hardware Clock (PHC) as the local time base. In other words, PTP/GPS provides the world standard time, while the PHC is a local copy of that world time inside each acquisition chassis. (2) Closed-loop correction every 1/128 s A one-time alignment at startup is not enough. SonoDAQ continuously compares each local PHC against the reference clock at a period of 1/128 s: It evaluates both phase and frequency error at the current instant. It applies small, incremental corrections to the PHC, avoiding large jumps; Over long operating times, this closed loop continuously suppresses errors caused by crystal temperature drift and aging. As a result, every SonoDAQ's PHC closely tracks the PTP/GPS reference and does not quietly drift away over time. At this point, all devices have been brought onto the same nanosecond-grade hardware time base — this is the absolute timing foundation for all subsequent synchronization mechanisms. PLL + 10 PPS: Bringing the Unified Time into Every FPGA Once a common PHC is established, we still need to convert it into a tangible hardware signal that every FPGA can feel. From PHC / 1 PPS to 10 PPS PTP / GPS usually provides a 1 PPS (one pulse per second) signal. On SonoDAQ this 1 PPS is reshaped and multiplied by an on-board PLL to generate a stable 10 PPS pulse, which is then distributed to each FPGA. Nanosecond Across Mulit Chassis: Benefits of a Unified Time Base With this multi-layer timing architecture, SonoDAQ can provide nanosecond-scale alignment within a single chassis and sub-microsecond-level alignment across multiple chassis when deployed with an appropriate PTP/GPS reference and network topology. For test engineers, these details ultimately translate into very tangible capabilities: Full-vehicle NVH testing: in-vehicle and exterior microphones and vibration sensors can be acquired in sync along with speed, torque, and shaft angle signals, enabling more reliable order analysis and transfer-path analysis. Multi-point structural modal testing: multiple chassis distributed across a large structure can capture excitation and responses with precise timing relationships, making high-order modal extraction and damping estimation more robust. End-to-end delay measurements: a unified time stamp allows you to measure the true latency from stimulus output to response input, which helps tune and compensate complex audio signal chains. Engineering Experience: A Transparent High-Precision Timing System Although we have just walked through quite a bit of PTP, PHC, and 10 PPS plumbing, in practice engineers do not need to worry about any of this — SonoDAQ takes care of it automatically. When you drag data from multiple SonoDAQ units onto the same plot in the software, what you see is already a single, seamlessly aligned time axis. That is exactly what we mean by nanosecond-level synchronization for practical data acquisition. This is the original design intent behind SonoDAQ: to push the timing infrastructure to the limit, so that engineers can focus entirely on test strategies and data analysis. To learn more about CRYSOUND SonoDAQ and OpenTest, please visit the CRYSOUND website or contact our team via the “Get in touch” form.

From the outside, a measurement microphone looks deceptively simple. But in real-world engineering, its interface options are surprisingly diverse: Lemo, BNC, Microdot, 10-32 UNF, M5, SMB… Many newcomers to acoustics ask questions like: Why can’t microphone interfaces be standardized? Why are cables often not interchangeable between microphones? What power and signal schemes are hidden behind different connectors? This article provides a structured overview of common measurement microphone interfaces, looking at physical connectors, powering methods, cable characteristics, and typical application-driven selection. Main Physical Interfaces for Measurement Microphones Below is a connector-by-connector summary, including the typical powering approach for each. Lemo (5-pin, 7-pin): The Classic Solution for Externally Polarized Microphones Lemo is a precision circular multi-pin connector and is the most common choice for externally polarized measurement microphones. The Lemo B series is widely used (e.g., 0B, 1B, 2B), and most standard measurement microphones adopt the Lemo 1B interface. Key Characteristics A multi-pin connector can carry multiple signals simultaneously, such as: Microphone output (analog signal) External polarization high voltage (typically 200 V) Preamplifier power supply Calibration/identification signals Additional benefits: Very reliable mechanical locking Well-suited for lab environments, metrology, and semi-anechoic chamber measurements where stability and traceability matter Notes on External Polarization Common polarization voltage is 200 V; some systems support switching between 0 V / 200 V Polarization voltage stability affects microphone sensitivity; in engineering practice, sensitivity variation is often treated as approximately proportional to voltage variation The preamplifier is typically powered separately (up to 120 V) but delivered via the same multi-pin connector Maximum output voltage can reach 50 Vp Includes pins for charge injection methods Separate output and ground paths help achieve lower noise In metrology labs, type testing, acoustic calibration, and high-precision semi-anechoic chamber work, the combination of “externally polarized microphone + Lemo multi-pin connector” is essentially a standard configuration. When not to use Lemo: Harsh environments with heavy contamination, oil exposure, and salt spray High costs of cables and connectors require careful trade-offs in field engineering applications BNC: The Most Common External Connector for IEPE Microphones Names like IEPE / ICP / CCP refer to the same general technology route: constant-current powering, where power and signal are transmitted on the same line (Constant Current Powering). In this system, the most common physical connector is the coaxial BNC. Interface and Powering Characteristics Coaxial structure, ideal for analog voltage transmission Bayonet lock (quick and reliable plug/unplug) Supports longer cable runs with good noise immunity Low cost and highly universal Typical IEPE Powering Parameters Constant current: 2–20 mA (common settings include 2 mA, 4 mA, 8 mA, etc.) Compliance voltage (supply capability): typically 18–24 V Maximum output voltage: generally around 8 Vp If the constant current is too low or the compliance voltage is insufficient, the maximum output signal swing is limited—directly affecting the maximum measurable SPL and the linear measurement range. In everyday testing such as engineering noise measurements, NVH, and environmental noise work, “IEPE microphone + BNC” has become the de facto standard. When not to use BNC: Applications requiring long-distance transmission of high-frequency signals, where signal attenuation becomes significant Applications involving frequent plugging and unplugging, to avoid an increased risk of poor electrical contact Microdot (10-32 UNF / M5): Lightweight Connectivity for Small Microphones Microdot is a threaded miniature coax connector widely used for small sensors (compact measurement microphones, accelerometers, etc.). It commonly uses a 10-32 UNF thread. What “10-32 UNF” Really Means This is simply an imperial fine-thread standard: Nominal diameter: 0.19 inch ≈ 4.826 mm Pitch: 1/32 inch ≈ 0.7938 mm Because 10-32 UNF is the typical thread used on Microdot connectors, the term “10-32 UNF” is often used informally to refer to the Microdot interface itself. What about M5? M5 is a metric thread standard: Nominal diameter: 5 mm Pitch: 0.8 mm Its dimensions are close to 10-32 UNF, and when tolerances are not extremely strict it can serve as a substitute—commonly seen in accelerometers or vibration microphones. Interface Characteristics Very compact; ideal for lightweight setups Threaded locking provides strong mechanical stability Commonly paired with IEPE powering Best for short runs and high-speed signal transmission When microphones must be placed in tight spaces, or where sensor mass/size is critical, Microdot is a common choice for compact, high-density installations. When not to use Microdot: Applications requiring quick connect/disconnect or frequent sensor replacement Use in systems with low constraints on installation space and requiring large-size connectors or high-power transmission, to avoid increased connection complexity and cost SMB (SubMiniature B): For High-Density Multi-Channel or Internal Connections SMB is a small “push-on” coaxial connector. Interface Characteristics Compact size supports high channel density Push-on structure enables fast connection Better high-frequency performance than BNC More suitable for semi-permanent internal wiring SMB is often best viewed as an engineering connector used inside equipment, rather than a field-plugging standard. When not to use Microdot: Applications involving frequent plugging and unplugging or repeated mechanical stress Use as a front-end connection interface for external devices, to avoid structural damage and reduced reliability Extended Interface Function: TEDS and Smart Identification In multi-channel and integrated systems, TEDS (Transducer Electronic Data Sheet) is increasingly common. By integrating a small memory chip into the sensor or cable, TEDS can store: Model and serial number Sensitivity Calibration date and other parameters Compatible front-end hardware or acquisition software can automatically read TEDS to: Identify the sensor type on each channel Load sensitivity and calibration coefficients automatically Reduce manual entry errors Save calibration time and labor At the connector level, TEDS is typically implemented by using certain pins in multi-pin Lemo connectors, or via overlay methods in specific BNC-based solutions. When planning an interface system, it’s wise to consider early on whether TEDS support is required. Why Are There So Many Interfaces? Connector diversity is best explained from three perspectives: Different Polarization and Powering Schemes Externally polarized microphones (≈ 200 V polarization) → better suited to multi-pin connectors like Lemo Prepolarized + IEPE systems → better suited to coaxial connectors like BNC / Microdot / SMB Different Scenarios and Priorities Laboratory / metrology: high stability, multiple signals in one cable, secure locking → Lemo Field engineering / environmental measurement: convenient wiring, strong universality → BNC + IEPE Miniaturization / high-density arrays: size and channel density first → Microdot / SMB Long Product Lifecycles and Backward Compatibility Measurement systems often have lifecycles of 10–20 years or more To avoid forcing users to replace large numbers of cables and front-end systems, manufacturers typically continue existing interface ecosystems Under long lifecycle constraints, “full unification” is often impractical and offers limited engineering return Typical Application Mapping (Quick Reference) Engineering noise, NVH, vibration/noise tests: BNC / MicrodotEasy wiring, many channels, low maintenance cost Precision lab measurement, type testing, metrology calibration: Lemo 7-pin / 5-pinSupports polarization HV and multiple signals; suitable for traceable high-precision measurement Acoustic arrays, multi-channel acquisition card systems: Microdot / SMBHigh channel density, compact wiring, easier system integration Long-term environmental noise monitoring systems: BNC / customized protected connectorsFocus on weather resistance, waterproofing, salt fog resistance, and stable long-distance transmission Conclusion The variety of measurement microphone interfaces is mainly the result of trade-offs between technology routes, application requirements, and historical compatibility—not simply a “lack of standards”. Taking NVH testing as an example: if an existing system uses BNC connectors to connect accelerometers, high-frequency signal attenuation and intermittent contact issues may occur in multi-channel array measurements. To improve connection reliability and signal quality, LEMO connectors with locking mechanisms and superior vibration resistance should be selected. After replacement, signal transmission stability is significantly improved, noise interference is reduced, and the consistency of test data is enhanced. You are welcome to learn more about microphone functions and hardware solutions on our website and use the “Get in touch” form to contact the CRYSOUND team.

How does your phone instantly and accurately connect to your earphones instead of someone else’s in a room full of Bluetooth devices? Why does your smart fitness band sync data exclusively to your phone app after a workout? This dedicated "one-to-one" connection relies on the Bluetooth 5.0 unicast mechanism. Its intelligence goes far beyond simple pairing—it lies in how it maintains a stable, efficient, and private wireless link with extremely low power consumption. Core Philosophy of Connection Strategy: Precision and Energy Efficiency Unlike Classic Bluetooth, which focuses on establishing a persistently online data channel, the Bluetooth 5.0 Low Energy (LE) unicast mode adopts a "wake-on-demand, instantaneous communication" design philosophy. It no longer maintains a continuous connection link but instead achieves efficient communication through a precise timing synchronization mechanism. After devices pair (e.g., a phone and a fitness band), they do not stay in a constantly connected state. Instead, they negotiate and establish a "connection interval," waking up synchronously only at predetermined moments to complete microsecond-level data exchange before immediately entering a deep sleep state. This mechanism allows devices to remain in an ultra-low power state for over 99% of the time, providing the core support for the long battery life (months to years) of IoT devices. Connection: Dynamic Coordination Under Precise Timing The establishment and maintenance of a Bluetooth 5.0 unicast connection rely on a precise timing coordination mechanism. The connection establishment process is as follows: Advertising and Scanning Phase: The peripheral device (e.g., earphone) sends advertising packets containing identity information at fixed intervals. The central device (e.g., phone) continuously scans on the advertising channels, searching for the target device. Connection Initiation Phase: The central device sends a connection request to the peripheral, which includes initial communication timing and suggested connection interval parameters. Connection Parameter Negotiation: This is the core of connection optimization. Beyond the connection interval, two other key parameters are negotiated: Slave Latency: When the slave device (e.g., fitness band) has no data to send, it can skip waking up for a specified number of connection interval cycles, thereby extending its sleep time. Supervision Timeout: A threshold for judging the connection state. If no valid communication occurs within this timeout period, the connection is considered lost, triggering reconnection or disconnection procedures. Connection Establishment and Maintenance: The master and slave devices switch to data channels, synchronizing their sleep and wake cycles according to the previously negotiated timing. This enables ultra-low power consumption while ensuring stable communication. New Product: CRY578 Bluetooth LE Audio Interface Empowering BLE Testing With the introduction of the new high-performance, low-complexity LC3 codec by the LE Audio standard, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology can now achieve stable transmission of high-quality stereo audio while maintaining its ultra-low power characteristics. Compared to traditional solutions, the LC3 codec can reduce bandwidth requirements by approximately 50% at the same audio quality or improve audio quality at the same bandwidth, effectively addressing the pain point of balancing low power consumption with high audio fidelity. In response to this technological trend, our newly launched CRY578 Bluetooth LE Audio Interface comprehensively supports audio performance testing for both Classic Bluetooth (BR/EDR) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), covering core metrics such as frequency response, distortion, and audio latency. It is suitable for the R&D and quality inspection phases of various Bluetooth audio products, including TWS earphones, smart speakers, and wearable devices. For detailed specifications, application cases, or to inquire about trial opportunities for the CRY578, please fill out the “Get in touch” form below.

Under regulations such as the EU Machinery Noise Directive, more and more products—from toys and power tools to IT equipment—are required to declare their sound power level on labels and in documentation, rather than simply claiming they are “quiet enough.” For typical office devices like notebook computers, idle noise is often around 30 dB(A), while full-load operation can approach 40 dB(A). These figures are usually obtained from sound power measurements performed in accordance with ISO 3744 and related standards. Sound Pressure vs. Sound Power A noise source emits sound power, while what we measure with a microphone is sound pressure. Sound pressure varies with room size, reverberation, and microphone distance, whereas sound power is the source’s own “noise energy” and does not change with installation or environment. That makes sound power a better metric for external product noise specification. In simple terms: Sound power is the cause – the energy emitted by the source (unit: W / dB); Sound pressure is the effect – the sound pressure level we hear and measure (unit: Pa / dB). ISO 3744 defines how to do this in an “essentially free field over a reflecting plane”: arrange microphones around the source on an enveloping measurement surface, measure the sound pressure levels on that surface, then apply specified corrections and calculations to obtain stable, comparable sound power levels. Device Under Test: An Everyday Notebook Computer Assume our DUT is a 17-inch office notebook. The goal is to determine its A-weighted sound power level under different operating conditions (idle, office load, full load), in order to: Compare different cooling designs and fan control strategies; Provide standardized data for product documentation or compliance; Supply baseline data for sound quality engineering (for example, whether the fan noise is annoying). The test environment is a semi-anechoic room with a reflecting floor. The notebook is placed on the reflective plane, and multiple microphone positions are arranged around it (using a hemispherical frame or a regular grid). Overall, the setup satisfies ISO 3744 requirements for the measurement surface and environment. Measurement System: SonoDAQ Pro + OpenTest Sound Power Module On the hardware side, we use SonoDAQ Pro together with measurement microphones, arranged around the notebook according to the standard. OpenTest connects to SonoDAQ via the openDAQ protocol. In the channel setup interface, you select the channels to be used and configure parameters such as sensitivity and sampling rate. From Standard to Platform: Why Use OpenTest for Sound Power? OpenTest is CRYSOUND’s next-generation platform for acoustic and vibration testing. It supports three modes—Measure, Analysis, and Sequence—covering both R&D laboratories and repetitive production testing. For sound power applications, OpenTest implements a sound-pressure-based solution fully compliant with ISO 3744 (engineering method), and also covering ISO 3745 (precision method) and ISO 3746 (survey method). You can flexibly select the test grade according to the test environment and accuracy requirements. The platform includes dedicated sound power report templates that generate standards-compliant reports directly, avoiding repeated manual work in Excel. On the hardware side, OpenTest connects to multi-brand DAQ devices via openDAQ, ASIO, WASAPI, and NI-DAQmx, enabling unified management of CRYSOUND SonoDAQ, RME, NI and other systems. From a few channels for verification to large microphone arrays, everything can be handled within a single software platform. Three Steps: Running a Standardized ISO 3744 Sound Power Workflow Step 1: Parameter Setup and Environment Preparation After creating a new project in OpenTest: In the channel setup view, select the microphone channels to be used and configure sensitivity, sampling rate, frequency weighting, and other parameters. Switch to Measure > Sound Power and set the measurement parameters: Test method and measurement-surface-related parameters; Microphone position layout; Measurement time; Other parameters corresponding to ISO 3744. This step effectively turns the standard’s clauses into a reusable OpenTest scenario template. Step 2: Measure Background Noise First, Then Operating Noise According to ISO 3744, you must measure sound pressure levels on the same measurement surface with the device switched off and device running, in order to perform background noise corrections. In OpenTest, this is implemented as two clear operations: Acquire background noiseClick the background-noise acquisition icon in the toolbar. OpenTest records ambient noise for the preset duration.In the survey method, OpenTest updates LAeq for each channel once per second;In the engineering and precision methods, it updates the LAeq of each 1/3-octave band once per second. Acquire operating noiseAfter background acquisition, click the Test icon. OpenTest will:a. Record notebook operating noise for the preset duration;b. Update real-time sound pressure levels once per second;c. Automatically store the run as a data set for later replay and comparison. Step 3: From Multiple Measurements to One Standardized Report After completing multiple operating conditions (for example: idle, typical office work, full-load stress): In the data set view, select the records you want to compare and overlay them to observe sound power differences under different conditions; In the Data Selector, click the save icon to export the corresponding waveform files and CSV data tables for further processing or archiving; Click Report in the toolbar, fill in project and device information, select the data sets to include, adjust charts and tables, and export an Excel report with one click. The report includes measurement conditions, measurement surface, band or A-weighted sound power levels, background corrections, and other key information. It can be used directly for internal review or regulatory/customer submissions, following the same idea as other standardized sound power reporting solutions. From a Single Notebook Test to a Reusable Sound Power Platform Running an ISO 3744 sound power test on a notebook is just one example. More importantly: The standardized OpenTest scenario can be cloned for printers, home appliances, power tools, and many other products; Multi-channel microphone arrays and SonoDAQ hardware can be reused across projects within the same platform; The test workflow and report format are “locked in” by the software, making it easier to hand over, review, and audit across teams. If you are building or upgrading sound power testing capability, consider using ISO 3744 as the backbone and OpenTest as the platform that links environment, acquisition, analysis, and reporting into a repeatable chain—so each test is clearly traceable and more easily transformed from a one-off experiment into a lasting engineering asset. Visit www.opentest.com to learn more about OpenTest features and hardware solutions, or contact the CRYSOUND team by filling out the “Get in touch” form below.

In sound and vibration testing, flexibility is a decisive factor—especially when test requirements evolve rapidly. SonoDAQ, with its modular, scalable architecture, helps users easily manage everything from simple tests with a single device to complex, large-scale, multi-channel data acquisition. Whether in laboratory environments or industrial sites, SonoDAQ provides efficient, accurate data acquisition solutions, maximizing the adaptability and scalability of the system. Easy Testing with One Device, Scalable Expansion with Multiple Devices When testing requirements are modest, such as road tests or basic vibration testing, SonoDAQ Pro can easily meet the required number of channels with a single device. In this case, users only need one device to perform high-precision data acquisition, which is efficient and helps avoid unnecessary upfront hardware investment. However, as testing needs increase, especially in scenarios that require numerous sensors or synchronized multi-channel acquisition, SonoDAQ offers flexible expansion solutions. Users can connect multiple SonoDAQ Pro units in a daisy-chain or star topology to achieve large-scale data acquisition. For example, when conducting NVH testing or sound and vibration testing for large equipment, users can add more devices as needed, scaling up to hundreds of channels while ensuring high-precision synchronization across all devices. This scalability allows customers to avoid purchasing entirely new acquisition systems each time. By simply cascading existing SonoDAQ Pro units, they can easily cover more complex testing needs and avoid the common issues of device redundancy and high costs seen in traditional systems. Flexible Configuration to Meet Various Needs Even without large-scale acquisition needs, SonoDAQ remains highly flexible. With its modular design, users can easily adjust and reconfigure the system according to changing test requirements. For instance, if only temperature or strain signals are required, users can simply select the corresponding module and insert it into the chassis, without purchasing a new mainframe. This design makes SonoDAQ suitable for everything from simple laboratory tests to complex field tests. Users can expand the system as needed, without worrying about future expansion limits. Whether it's basic data acquisition or advanced signal analysis, SonoDAQ provides accurate, flexible data acquisition solutions, significantly enhancing testing efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Flexibility Brought by Modular Design The modular design of SonoDAQ is the core of its flexibility. Users can select different input modules, output modules, sensor interface modules, and more based on project requirements, and easily plug-and-play or upgrade them as needed. Whether it's adding more sensor channels or expanding with new functional modules, users can quickly implement changes by swapping modules, without affecting the normal operation of the existing system. This design ensures long-term device usability and enables SonoDAQ to adapt to ever-changing test requirements. When future requirements change, such as testing additional signal types (e.g., temperature, pressure, strain), SonoDAQ Pro can easily meet these new testing needs by simply swapping modules, allowing the overall system to continue running efficiently without the need for a full system overhaul. For example, an automotive manufacturer needs to perform NVH testing. Initially, they may only need 4–8 channels for in-car noise testing. In this case, engineers can use a single SonoDAQ Pro device to complete routine testing tasks. When they need to expand the testing scope and add more sensors (such as measuring vibration, strain, or temperature at different locations), they can simply daisy-chain multiple SonoDAQ Pro devices together. Through synchronization technology, they can ensure data consistency across all devices without redesigning the system or changing existing test procedures. Beyond automotive NVH, the same scalable architecture can be applied to aerospace components, industrial machinery, and even high-channel-count consumer electronics testing. Expand as Needed, Effortlessly Tackle Any Testing Challenge The flexible expansion capability of SonoDAQ allows it to scale from simple single-channel testing to large-scale multi-channel data acquisition. Whether it's for in-vehicle testing, industrial monitoring, or scientific research, SonoDAQ provides accurate, reliable data acquisition solutions. Its modular design and flexible system topology not only meet current needs but also enable quick adaptation to evolving testing scenarios in the future. Choosing SonoDAQ means moving away from fixed hardware configurations and instead adjusting the system based on needs, ensuring smooth, repeatable execution of every test. SonoDAQ is ready to transform your testing process—from simple single-device setups to large-scale, multi-channel systems. Contact us now: fill out the “Get in touch” form below, and our team will get back to you shortly.

SonoDAQ is the next-generation high-performance data acquisition system, specifically designed for sound and vibration testing. It features a modular architecture, making data acquisition more efficient and precise. From industrial environments to laboratory measurements, SonoDAQ meets the demands of high-precision data acquisition and provides seamless support for multi-channel synchronized data collection. Modular Design, Flexible to Adapt to Various Applications SonoDAQ adopts a completely new modular design, allowing for flexible configuration based on different needs. Whether you require a basic 4-channel setup or a large-scale system with hundreds of channels, SonoDAQ can easily accommodate both. You can select modules according to your project requirements and expand the system at any time, avoiding unnecessary costs. This flexibility is particularly well-suited for dynamic and evolving testing environments. High-Precision Synchronization Ensures the Accuracy of Test Results In sound and vibration testing, data accuracy is crucial. SonoDAQ is equipped with a 32-bit ADC and a sampling rate of up to 204.8 kHz. It ensures time synchronization between channels with a time error of less than 100 ns through PTP (IEEE 1588) and GPS synchronization. This level of synchronization precision allows you to obtain reliable and consistent data results, even in multi-channel, large-scale distributed acquisition systems. Flexible System Expansion with Multiple Network Topologies Another highlight of SonoDAQ is its powerful distributed acquisition capability. With various network connection methods like daisy chain and star topology, multiple devices can be easily integrated into the same acquisition system. Leveraging PTP (Precision Time Protocol) and GPS synchronization technology, SonoDAQ ensures nanosecond-level synchronization, providing data consistency across devices, whether for small-scale laboratory tests or large-scale field data collection. You can choose different system topologies based on your specific needs, offering flexibility for complex testing scenarios. Innovative Structural Design, the Ideal Choice for Field Applications SonoDAQ's frame is made using 5000t aluminum extrusion technology combined with carbon fiber-reinforced plastic, offering exceptional sturdiness while significantly reducing the device's weight. Additionally, SonoDAQ supports PoE power supply and hot-swappable batteries, ensuring efficient operation even in harsh environments and meeting the demands of long-duration continuous acquisition. Whether in the laboratory or on industrial sites, SonoDAQ delivers stable performance. Extensive Signal Compatibility, Expanding Your Testing Boundaries SonoDAQ supports a variety of signal inputs, including IEPE sensors, CAN bus, digital I/O, and other interface protocols. This allows it to meet a wide range of testing needs, from vibration monitoring to motor noise analysis. Whether you're conducting basic data acquisition or advanced signal analysis, SonoDAQ provides the precision and flexibility you require. Enhance Testing Efficiency, Making Data Acquisition Simpler With the accompanying OpenTest software, SonoDAQ allows you to monitor and analyze collected signals in real-time. OpenTest offers an intuitive interface and powerful data analysis features, making it easier to process and present test data. Additionally, SonoDAQ supports open protocols like ASIO and OpenDAQ, facilitating integration with other testing tools or software. SonoDAQ will help streamline your testing process, improve data acquisition efficiency, and provide precise measurements in various complex testing environments. Whether it's noise testing, vibration analysis, or complex sound power measurements, SonoDAQ is your ideal choice. Choose SonoDAQ today and bring revolutionary changes to your testing work! SonoDAQ is ready to transform your testing process — don’t wait to experience its power. Contact us now! Please fill out the 'Get in touch' form below, and we'll get back to you shortly！

With the development of technology and industry, acoustic technology has become increasingly mature and is now widely used in areas ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace, and from medical facilities to scientific research. In various industrial inspection scenarios, equipment maintenance, and fault diagnosis, acoustic imaging has become a fast and convenient tool. It can transform sound waves that are difficult for the human ear to detect into intuitive images, helping technicians quickly locate problems. CRYSOUND’s Acoustic Imaging products are designed for partial discharge detection, gas leak detection, mechanical fault detection, and more, and have been widely adopted in over ten industries, such as power distribution, automotive, and composites. So, how exactly do acoustic imaging systems work? This blog will explain the complete workflow of an acoustic imaging system—from sound wave acquisition to visual imaging—in a simple and easy-to-understand way. CRYSOUND Acoustic Imaging Camera Products 1. Sound Wave Acquisition: Capturing Invisible Sound Waves The core function of an acoustic imaging system is to capture sound waves, which are usually generated by vibrations, leaks, or malfunctions during equipment operation. When sound waves propagate through the air, they cause air molecules to vibrate, forming pressure waves. Acoustic imaging systems receive these pressure waves through a built-in microphone array (usually composed of multiple high-sensitivity microphones). Each microphone can independently capture the frequency, intensity, and phase information of the sound wave, like taking a 'fingerprint' of the sound. For example, when a motor malfunctions, the wear of its internal bearings generates high-frequency vibrations. These vibrations propagate through the air and are captured by the microphone array of the acoustic imaging system. By analyzing these acoustic signals, technicians can initially determine the type and location of the fault. Gas Leak Detection Mechanical Faults Detection Partial Discharge Detection 2. Signal Processing: From Raw Data to Useful Information The acquired acoustic signals are analog signals and need to be converted into digital signals by an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). These digital signals then enter the signal processing unit for a series of complex calculations. These calculations include: Noise Reduction: Using digital filtering techniques, environmental noise and other interference signals are removed, retaining useful acoustic information. Beamforming: Utilizing the spatial distribution of the microphone array, algorithms calculate the direction and distance of the sound source. This process is similar to using multiple ears to locate the sound source. Spectrum Analysis: The acoustic signal is decomposed into components of different frequencies, and the intensity of each frequency component is analyzed to determine the nature of the sound source (e.g., mechanical faults, leaks, etc.). After these processes, the raw acoustic signal is transformed into useful information containing the sound source’s location, intensity, and frequency characteristics. 3. Visual Imaging: Converting Sound into Images The processed acoustic data needs to be presented to the user in an intuitive way. Acoustic imaging cameras visualize sound through the following steps: Data Mapping: Mapping the location information of the sound source onto two-dimensional or three-dimensional space to form a sound source distribution map. Typically, an acoustic imaging camera uses color to represent sound wave intensity: red or yellow indicates a strong sound source, and blue or green indicates a weak sound source. Image Overlay: Overlaying the sound source distribution map with a visible-light image or infrared image to form a composite image. This allows users to see the physical appearance of the equipment and the distribution of sound sources on the same image, thus quickly locating problem areas. Real-time Display: Acoustic imaging cameras typically provide real-time imaging capabilities, dynamically displaying changes in sound sources. This is extremely useful for monitoring equipment operating status and diagnosing faults. 4. Application Scenarios: A Wide Range of Uses The working principle of acoustic imaging makes it widely applicable in multiple fields. In the industrial field, acoustic imaging cameras can be used to detect mechanical faults, gas leaks, and electrical problems in equipment. For example, by analyzing the sound waves of a transformer during operation, it is possible to determine whether there is internal discharge or loosening. 5. Technical Advantages: High Efficiency, Precision, and Non-Contact The working principle of acoustic imaging systems gives them the following technical advantages: High Efficiency: Acoustic imaging cameras can quickly scan large areas and display the distribution of sound sources in real time, greatly improving detection efficiency. Precision: Through advanced signal processing algorithms, acoustic imaging cameras can accurately locate the position and intensity of sound sources, with errors typically within a few centimeters. Non-Contact: Acoustic imaging cameras do not require contact with the device under test, avoiding potential damage or interference from traditional detection methods. Conclusion Acoustic imaging systems transform invisible sound into intuitive images by capturing sound waves, processing signals, and visualizing images, providing a powerful tool for fault diagnosis and equipment maintenance. Although their working principle involves complex signal processing algorithms, the core logic is simple and easy to understand: from sound wave acquisition to visual imaging, every step is aimed at converting sound into useful information. With the continuous development of technology, acoustic imaging technology will continue to demonstrate its unique value in more fields. If you are interested in CRYSOUND’s acoustic imaging solutions or would like to discuss your specific application, please fill out the 'Get in touch' form below and our team will be happy to assist you.

For a long time, many engineers have seen sound calibrators as nothing more than little boxes that output 1 kHz at 94 dB: single-function devices, sensitive to the environment, not particularly pleasant to use in the field—yet still an indispensable link in any acoustic measurement chain. CRYSOUND’s all-new CRY3018 Sound Calibrator is designed to break this “good enough” mentality and upgrade sound level calibration from a passive, basic tool into an intelligent, reliable, and future-ready measurement reference. A Class 1 Smart Calibrator Built for the Field CRY3018 is a portable, high-precision sound calibrator fully compliant with IEC 60942:2017 Class 1. It can serve as a unified calibration reference in laboratories, on production lines, and in field measurements. Its core capabilities can be summed up in four key phrases: Dual-frequency calibration: 250 Hz / 1000 Hz Dual sound pressure levels (SPL): 94 dB / 114 dB Closed-loop SPL feedback with environmental self-compensation Intelligent power management with high-brightness OLED status display If traditional calibrators are still stuck in the era of fixed-level outputs, the CRY3018 is more like an intelligent calibration platform: it senses the environment in real time and compensates automatically. That’s where its truly disruptive value lies. Dual Frequencies + Dual Levels: One Device, More Scenarios In real-world work, a single 1 kHz, 94 dB calibration simply doesn’t cover all scenarios. Some standards or devices require calibration at 250 Hz. In noisy environments, a higher SPL is needed to secure enough signal-to-noise ratio. CRY3018 tackles all of these needs in one go: 250 Hz / 1000 Hz dual-frequency calibration: Meets different standards and device requirements for calibration frequency, better reflects the actual measurement bandwidth, and makes it easier to verify system frequency response more comprehensively. 94 dB / 114 dB dual SPL levels: 94 dB covers sensitivity calibration of conventional sound level meters and measurement microphones, while 114 dB effectively cuts through background noise in high-noise environments, ensuring the calibration signal stands out clearly. Typical performance figures include: Frequency accuracy: < 0.5 Hz SPL accuracy: < 0.2 dB THD+N: < 1% This means engineers no longer need to carry multiple calibrators with different frequencies and levels. One CRY3018 is enough to cover the vast majority of professional acoustic applications. Closed-Loop SPL Feedback + Environmental Three-Parameter Compensation: From “Rule-of-Thumb” Calibration to Self-Adaptive Calibration A major pain point of traditional calibrators is their extreme sensitivity to environmental changes. Even small shifts in temperature, humidity, or atmospheric pressure can introduce significant systematic errors—errors that historically have been estimated based on experience, or simply ignored. CRY3018 takes a fundamentally different architectural approach: Built-in SPL feedback system: It continuously monitors the actual sound pressure in the cavity and forms a closed control loop. If the output drifts, the system automatically adjusts to keep the SPL stable. Integrated high-precision temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors: These track three key environmental factors in real time. Combined with intelligent algorithms, the calibrator performs environmental self-compensation, effectively suppressing systematic deviations caused by environmental changes. In simple terms: Before: The environment changed, so humans had to worry and estimate. Now: The environment changes; the calibrator senses it and compensates automatically. This not only improves consistency and repeatability of measurement results, it also marks a genuine step into an environment-aware, data-driven smart calibration era—upending traditional workflows that relied heavily on experience and manual corrections. Intelligent Power Management: 5-Minute Fast Charge, Up to 1,000 Calibrations One of the worst nightmares for field engineers is this: “You’re ready to calibrate, and the calibrator is dead.” CRY3018’s power system is carefully engineered to avoid exactly that: USB-C fast charging with pass-through support (charge and use at the same time) About 5 minutes of quick charge provides roughly 1 hour of operation A full charge can support close to 1,000 calibration cycles On top of that, it integrates comprehensive safety and status management: Overcharge, over-discharge, and short-circuit protection Low-battery warning Auto power-on when a microphone is inserted, and auto power-off when removed In busy production lines or time-critical field tasks, CRY3018 can operate with minimal interruption, dramatically reducing the risk of interrupted testing due to power issues. Industrial Design and UX for Frontline Engineers CRY3018 is not just about stacking numbers on a spec sheet. Its emphasis on ergonomics and readability reflects a new product philosophy: Lightweight, high-strength carbon-fiber composite housing: Strikes a balance between weight and robustness; impact-resistant and scratch-resistant, comfortable for long periods of handheld use and frequent transport. High-brightness OLED display + auto-rotate via gyroscope: Whether you hold it vertically or horizontally, the screen automatically rotates to match the orientation. Readings remain clear in bright labs and outdoor environments. Top status LED + simple, intuitive button logic: White flashing: adjusting SPL Green solid: SPL stable and ready to use Red solid: low battery, shutting down soon While charging: yellow flashing; full charge: green solid Paired with intuitive interactions like short press to power on, long press to power off, and dedicated Hz / dB buttons to switch frequency and level, even first-time users can operate CRY3018 confidently without reaching for the manual. Full-Size Microphone Compatibility: A Unified Solution from Lab to Line CRY3018 supports 1" measurement microphones and, through adapters, is compatible with 1/2", 1/4", and 1/8" sizes, enabling: Laboratory-grade measurement microphone calibration Sound level meter calibration for environmental noise monitoring systems Sensitivity consistency checks for sensors on production lines Routine verification of acoustic test systems (audio analyzer + microphone arrays) For teams managing multiple microphone sizes and numerous test points, CRY3018 can act as a unified acoustic reference source, consolidating fragmented calibration workflows, reducing device variety, and simplifying management in a big way. More Than a Spec Upgrade: Rethinking How We Do Acoustic Calibration If you only look at the specs, CRY3018 is a leading, feature-rich Class 1 sound calibrator. But if you look at the entire workflow, it represents a new mindset: Calibration is no longer a check-the-box formality, but a smart, quantifiable, and traceable process. The environment is no longer an uncontrollable factor, but a parameter that can be sensed and compensated in real time. The calibrator is no longer a fixed-level box, but a unified reference platform that spans lab, field, and production line. What CRY3018 brings is not just a new generation of product—it’s a new answer to the question: What should acoustic calibration look like today? If your team is looking for a sound calibrator that truly fits both current and future measurement needs, the CRY3018 may be a strong starting point to redefine your entire calibration experience.

Electric motors are widely used in modern automobiles and home appliances (such as in-vehicle electric seats and appliance fans), and their smooth operation directly affects product quality and user experience. Motor noise issues are often summarized as BSR (Buzz, Squeak, and Rattle), which refers to abnormal sounds generated by automotive motors and related components. BSR has been a long-standing issue in manufacturing. It not only lowers the perceived quality of the product but also may signal problems such as bearing wear, loose parts, and other faults. Allowing defective products to reach the market can seriously damage brand reputation and user experience. Traditional "Manual Listening": Painful and Unreliable In the past, BSR detection usually relied on "manual listening," but human hearing has significant limitations: Subjective Misjudgment: When BSR noise is masked by background noise, the human ear cannot easily identify it. Judgments are based on experience, and results lack objective support. Unable to Quantify Analysis: The severity of BSR is difficult to quantify, making it difficult to establish clear quality standards. Low Efficiency and Fatigue: After prolonged testing, the human ear becomes fatigued, and detection accuracy declines, increasing the risk of defective products slipping through. Breaking the Bottleneck: Intelligent Solutions to Overcome Manual Limitations CRYSOUND, deeply rooted in the field of acoustic testing, has launched a BSR-based end-of-line (EoL) acoustic test solution for electric motors. By combining hardware, software, and AI, CRYSOUND has created a closed-loop testing process that gives motor abnormal sound detection an intelligent upgrade. Core Components: BSR Detection Hardware System + Testing Software Platform Soundproof Chamber: Creates a controlled, low-noise testing environment, blocking external noise that could disrupt BSR detection. Data Acquisition Module: Accurately captures sound and vibration data from the motor during operation, ensuring that even subtle anomalies are not overlooked. Algorithm Analysis: Processes, analyzes, and intelligently evaluates the captured signals, making BSR defects difficult to hide. Test Workflow: From Signal Capture to Intelligent Decision 1. First, sensors precisely capture sound and vibration signals, converting the sound of the motor into digital data. 2. Then, the system processes the data and automatically generates visual analysis results, clearly showing where abnormalities occur and how severe they are. 3. Finally, professional algorithms such as transient analysis, FFT spectrum analysis, and sound-quality evaluation are applied. With deep learning models, the system can automatically identify BSR caused by bearing wear, looseness, foreign-object interference, and other factors, greatly reducing human misjudgment and accurately separating good products from defective ones. Multi-Scenario Coverage: From Motors to High-End Manufacturing, Boosting Quality Control Across Industries This solution has been widely applied in the following areas: Motor Assemblies: BSR detection for various micro motors, drive motors, actuators, and other motor-related components. Automotive Parts: In the body domain—air-conditioning vents, seat systems/rails/motors, electric door handles, and other components; in the cockpit domain—HUD motors, display rotation mechanisms, electric sunroofs, and related parts; in the chassis domain—braking systems, steering systems, and associated components; in the autonomous driving domain—LiDAR modules and other systems requiring BSR evaluation. Home Appliances: BSR detection for motors and motorized components used in high-end household appliances and smart home devices. Others: Industrial scenarios requiring stringent sound quality assessment and high-precision BSR detection. Five Major Advantages: Making Quality Inspection Smarter AI Acoustic Detection: By replacing manual inspection with machines, detection becomes more objective and efficient and supports continuous, high-throughput operation in production environments. Accurate BSR Capture and Visual Presentation: The characteristics of BSR are visually displayed through data charts, making problems easy to identify at a glance. Supports Full EoL Testing, Traceable Results: All process data is retained, making quality traceability clear and compliant with regulations. Highly Integrated One-Stop Solution, Improved Production Efficiency: This highly integrated, one-stop solution streamlines the testing process and seamlessly connects to the production line, enhancing overall production efficiency. Helps Improve Yield and Reduce Customer Complaints: Ensures strict quality control, making it difficult for defective products to leave the factory and significantly reducing customer complaints. If you are interested in CRYSOUND's intelligent BSR noise detection solution or would like to discuss your specific testing needs, please fill out the "Get in touch" form below and our team will be happy to assist you.

In audio and vibration testing, engineering teams often find themselves jumping between multiple software tools and data acquisition systems from different vendors. Interfaces vary, workflows are fragmented, and new engineers can spend a significant amount of time just learning the tools before they can focus on the engineering problem itself. OpenTest, developed by CRYSOUND, is a next-generation acoustic and NVH testing platform designed for engineers, researchers, and manufacturers. Built around the principles of an open ecosystem, AI-driven intelligence, and high compatibility, it allows users to complete the entire workflow—from acquisition to reporting—within a single software environment. OpenTest supports three operating modes: Measure, Analysis, and Sequence, covering both laboratory validation and repetitive production testing. Core capabilities include real-time monitoring and analysis, FFT and octave analysis, sweep analysis, sound power testing, sound level meter functions, and sound quality analysis. The platform also provides standard test reports and dedicated sound power reports that comply with international standards. On the hardware side, OpenTest connects to a wide range of multi-brand DAQ devices via mainstream audio protocols such as openDAQ, ASIO, and WASAPI, as well as optional proprietary drivers such as NI-DAQmx, enabling unified management of CRYSOUND SonoDAQ, RME, NI, and other devices within a single platform. On the software side, its modular plugin architecture exposes interfaces for Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, C++ and more, making it easy for teams to package in-house algorithms and domain applications as plugins and deploy them within the same environment. From Acquisition to Report: A Three-Step Quick-Start Workflow 1. Installation and Basic Connectivity – Let the Signals In Download the latest installer from the official website www.opentest.com and complete the installation. Connect your DAQ device to the PC; for your first trial, you can simply use the built-in PC sound card to run a quick test. In the OpenTest setup section, scan for available devices and select the devices and channels you want to use. Once added to the project, your basic connectivity is complete. 2. Run Basic Tests with Real-Time Analysis – See It First, Then Optimize In the channel management view, select the input/output channels you want to use and configure key parameters such as sensitivity, sampling rate, and gain. The system automatically activates the Monitor panel, where you can view real-time waveforms, FFT spectra, and key metrics such as RMS level and THD at a glance. When needed, you can enable the built-in signal generator to output excitation signals and use the recording function for long-duration acquisition, preserving data for later comparison and analysis. 3. Perform In-Depth Analysis and Reporting in the Measure Module – Turning Data into Decisions Switch to the Measure module to access advanced applications such as FFT analysis, octave analysis, sweep analysis, sound power testing, sound level meter, and sound quality—providing everything you need for deeper investigation. Use the data set functionality to review and overlay historical records, so you can compare different samples, operating conditions, or tuning strategies side by side. Waveforms and analysis results can be exported at any time. With the reporting function, you can generate test reports with a single click, closing the loop from test execution to final deliverables. Who Is OpenTest For? New acoustic and vibration test engineers who want to establish a complete workflow quickly using a single toolchain. Laboratories and corporate teams that need to manage multi-brand hardware and consolidate everything into one unified software platform. Project teams in automotive NVH, consumer electronics, and industrial diagnostics that require high channel counts, automation, and AI-enhanced analysis capabilities. Wherever you are on your testing infrastructure journey, OpenTest lets you start with a free entry-level edition and adopt an open, intelligent, and scalable ecosystem with a low barrier to entry. Visit www.opentest.com to explore detailed features, supported hardware, and licensing and plan options, and book a demo to see how OpenTest and CRYSOUND can help you build an efficient, open, and future-ready acoustic and vibration testing platform.

The all-new OpenTest website (opentest.com) is live, bringing product capabilities, ecosystem, docs, updates, and download into a single, streamlined experience to help engineers, researchers, and manufacturers get productive fast. At a Glance Clear information architecture with top-level navigation to Features / Hardware / Plugin / Pricing / About / Docs / Updates / Download. Three work modes tailored to real workflows: Measure, Analysis, Sequence. Feature matrix in one view covering Monitor, FFT, Octave, Sweep, Sound Power, Export/Report. Open ecosystem for hardware and plugins, supporting mainstream audio/DAQ interfaces and multiple development languages. Transparent plans with Community, Professional, and Enterprise options. Bulit for Engineers Three Work Modes Measure Mode — Real-time acquisition with live metrics plus post-run analysis for flexible review. Analysis Mode — Deep, offline analysis from data cleaning to computation. Sequence Mode — Purpose-built for repetitive/production tests, integrating acquisition → analysis → storage → reporting for repeatable throughput. Key Capabilities Monitor, FFT, Octave, Sweep, Sound Power, Export, and Report—covering mainstream acoustic and vibration analysis in lab or line environments. Open Ecosystem: Hardware & Plugins Open Hardware Access Protocol with compatibility for openDAQ, ASIO, WASAPI (and optional private protocols such as NI-DAQmx) to connect a wide range of DAQ devices. Three-layer plugin architecture — Algorithm / Theme / Application — enabling full-stack extensibility. Develop with Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW, C++, and more. Open-Source Core + Commercial Capabilities CommunityFully open-source core functions; 2 channels; Algorithm plugins; built-in Monitor/FFT/Octave/Basic Sweep/General Report; community forum support. ProfessionalUp to 24 channels; Algorithm + Theme plugins; Advanced Sweep and Sound Power; email support. EnterpriseUnlimited channels; Algorithm + Theme + Application plugins; white-label options and customization; enterprise-grade support and compliance. Get Started in Seconds Download for Windows from the homepage. The relaunch brings open ecosystem + clear capability boundaries + transparent plans onto one page—smoothing both decision-making and deployment. If you’re building or upgrading an acoustic/NVH testing platform, start with the new site, pick a plan, download, and close the loop from acquisition to reporting—faster.

On October 16–17, 2025, the CRYSOUND Global New Product Launch 2025 successfully took place in Hangzhou. The conference showcased the company’s latest innovations across multiple key areas, such as data acquisition, acoustic imaging, sound calibration, and Bluetooth audio. Newly launched products include SonoDAQ, OpenTest, the CRY8500 Series SonoCam Pi Acoustic Camera, the CRY3010 Series Sound Calibrator, and the CRY578 Bluetooth LE Audio Interface. During the conference, customers, partners, and industry experts from more than twenty countries gathered to explore cutting-edge innovations and future applications in acoustic technology. New Product Highlights On October 16, CRYSOUND officially launched five new products — SonoDAQ, OpenTest, CRY8500 Series SonoCam Pi Acoustic Camera, CRY3010 Series Sound Calibrator, and CRY578 Bluetooth LE Audio Interface. These latest innovations embody CRYSOUND’s continuous pursuit of excellence, delivering advanced performance, reliability, and flexibility for acoustic testing and measurement. SonoDAQ – Next-Generation Data Acquisition Hardware High Performance SonoDAQ uses PTP and GPS synchronization with inter-device latency under 100 ns, ensuring unified timing across all channels. With 1000 V isolation and a dual-gain, dual-ADC design, it delivers a 170 dB dynamic range for accurate, stable acquisition. High Reliability SonoDAQ features a rubber–carbon fiber–aluminum composite structure. Its chassis is precision-formed under 5,000 tons of pressure, withstanding the weight of two cars without performance loss. The unique T-shaped aluminum extrusion increases the heat dissipation area by 35%, ensuring long-term stability even in harsh environments. High Flexibility Offers USB-C, CAN FD, GLAN interfaces and hot-swappable batteries. Five operating modes—standalone, offline recording, small-scale daisy-chain, distributed, and large-scale star-chain—expand to 1,000+ channels. Modular design saves space and simplifies expansion. High Scalability Fully compatible with openDAQ, ASIO, DAQmx, WASAPI, and integrates with MATLAB, LabVIEW, Python, C++, building an open, modular ecosystem. OpenTest – Next-Generation Software Modular Front-end and back-end are separated, with an open-source core. Algorithms, logic, and interface are clearly decoupled, ensuring stability, easy maintenance, and independent upgrades. Cross-Platform Built on a cross-platform framework, runs natively on Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing consistent high performance. Extensible Supports a three-layer plugin system—algorithms, themes, applications. Users can integrate custom logic using Python, C++, or other mainstream languages to create tailored workflows. Lightweight, High-Performance, Sustainable Designed with efficient libraries and a streamlined architecture, it starts quickly with low resource usage, ready to meet technological and business demands for the next decade. CRY8500 Series SonoCam Pi Acoustic Camera Customizable, Replaceable Microphone Arrays Modular design supports four array configurations: 30 cm 128-channel, 30 cm 208-channel, 70 cm 208-channel, 110 cm 208-channel, with up to 208 MEMS microphones. Far-Field Beamforming & Near-Field Acoustic Holography Supports both far-field beamforming and near-field acoustic holography, switchable on the device. Real-Time Data Output API Provides API for real-time waveform and video output of up to 208 channels. 500 m UAV Detection & Tracking The 30 cm 208-channel array enables real-time detection and tracking of drones within 500 m. Class 1 Frequency Response Compliant with sound level meter standards, ensuring Class 1 frequency accuracy. CRY3010 Series Sound Calibrator Easy to Use The calibrator supports four microphone sizes from 1″ to 1/8″ via adapters. Its built-in lithium battery provides up to 365 days of operation on a full charge, or about 30 days from a 5-minute top-up. The OLED display offers high brightness of 450 nits and features auto-rotate and auto power on/off. High Stability The calibrator provides dual-frequency operation at 250 Hz and 1000 Hz, and dual sound levels of 94 and 114 dB. Precision feedback microphones and sensors provide environmental compensation for temperature, humidity, and pressure. High Reliability The carbon-fiber composite housing with rubber enhances drop resistance. The sound-damping enclosure and precision digital filtering effectively suppress environmental noise, ensuring measurement accuracy and long-term reliability. CRY578 Bluetooth LE Audio Interface Advanced Bluetooth Technology Supports Bluetooth 5.4, both Classic Audio and LE Audio, with sample rates from 16 kHz to 96 kHz. Rich Interface Options Equipped with UAC, Line in/out, and S/PDIF in/out, seamlessly integrating with various test systems. Wide Compatibility Works with major Bluetooth chipsets and supports SBC, AAC, aptX, LHDC, LDAC, LC3, LC3 plus codecs for fast connection and efficient testing. Intelligent Software Management Includes CRY578 Tool for protocol configuration and real-time log analysis. On-site Product Showcase Next to the main venue, CRYSOUND set up ten booths to highlight both its latest innovations and classic products. The live demonstration of ten networked SonoDAQ units became a key attraction, featuring PTP precision synchronization with under 100 ns inter-device latency, modular expansion, and intelligent LED backplane indicators, fully showcasing the system’s high-precision distributed acquisition capabilities. In combination with the OpenTest platform, SonoDAQ also powered demonstrations of the Intelligent Electroacoustic Testing System and Sound Power Testing Solution, offering a seamless workflow from configuration and data acquisition to automated report generation, significantly improving the efficiency of multi-channel electroacoustic and acoustic testing. The atmosphere was lively, with acoustic industry experts, customers, and CRYSOUND engineers engaging in in-depth discussions on innovative testing applications and future developments. Factory and Showroom Visit Clients and industry experts visited the CRYSOUND factory and showroom. The factory showcased the company’s craftsmanship and strict quality control across all product lines, giving visitors an in-depth understanding of the professionalism and quality behind each product. The showroom highlighted CRYSOUND’s development history and comprehensive product portfolio. They also toured the new headquarters under construction, learning about its planned R&D and production layout and witnessing CRYSOUND’s commitment to advancing acoustic technology. Training Sessions On the morning of October 17, CRYSOUND held specialized training sessions on SonoDAQ and OpenTest. Engineers combined live demonstrations with hands-on practice, showcasing how the two systems work together and their applications in typical testing scenarios. The sessions provided clear, practical insights into system functions and workflows, earning positive feedback from all participants. Roundtable Discussion At the close of the conference, a roundtable discussion on “The Future of AI in Acoustic Measurement” brought the event to a successful conclusion. CRYSOUND CEO Jason Cao and five industry experts explored industry trends, technological innovations, and the application of AI in acoustic measurement, exchanging insights and experiences to generate valuable perspectives for the future development of the industry. The CRYSOUND Global New Product Launch 2025 not only unveiled the company’s latest innovations but also brought together industry leaders, partners, and customers from over twenty countries. Attendees experienced the impressive performance of five new products, explored the factory and showroom, and participated in hands-on training that reinforced confidence in CRYSOUND’s expertise. Expert speeches and the roundtable discussion offered fresh insights and sparked forward-looking ideas for the industry. Looking ahead, CRYSOUND will continue to drive innovation, strengthen global partnerships, and explore new frontiers in intelligent acoustics, delivering lasting value to the industry.

Hosted by the Acoustical Society of China and exclusively sponsored by CRYSOUND , the Final Round of the 3rd “Shenghua Cup”National Acoustic Technology Competition successfully concluded in Hangzhou on October 11, 2025. This year’s competition attracted 61 teams from 39 universities and research institutes across China. Young acoustic talents demonstrated the remarkable strength and creativity of China’s new generation of acoustic researchers through hands-on challenges. The practical testing session of this year's “Shenghua Cup” was designed around real-world acoustic measurement scenarios. Relying on CRYSOUND's self-developed zero-threshold development kit — SonoCam Pi, the competition comprehensively assessed the participants' overall capabilities in system setup, data acquisition, and algorithm implementation. Despite complex testing environments and technical challenges, the participants remained composed and collaborative, skillfully integrating theory with practice and demonstrating solid professional competence. During the academic defense session, expert judges evaluated and questioned the teams from multiple dimensions — including algorithmic logic, technical depth, and application value. The lively exchanges of ideas showcased both the rigorous scientific mindset and the innovative spirit of acoustic research. CRYSOUND also organized the “Exploring the World of Acoustic Technology” tour, opening its showroom and production lines to experts and student teams. Through guided explanations and live demonstrations by CRYSOUND engineers, visitors gained close-up insights into the company’s core products — such as Acoustic Imaging Cameras, SonoCam Pi, Data Acquisition Systems, Measurement Microphones, and Calibrators — and engaged in in-depth discussions on the industrialization pathways of acoustic technologies. As the exclusive sponsor and organizer of the event, CRYSOUND not only provided full hardware and technical support, but also offered participation subsidies to every student team, encouraging them to focus fully on hands-on experimentation in the anechoic chamber without concerns. Jason Cao, CEO of CRYSOUND, remarked: “We hope the ‘Shenghua Cup’ is more than just a competition — it serves as a bridge linking universities, research institutes, and industries. Through this event, many innovative ideas have gained recognition from the industry and even led to potential collaborations. This is the true meaning of ‘industry-academia-research integration.’” While the competition may have concluded, innovation never stops. CRYSOUND extends heartfelt thanks to the Acoustical Society of China, to every expert, teacher, and student for their dedication and passion. Looking ahead, CRYSOUND will continue to work with industry partners to build a more open and dynamic innovation platform, helping more acoustic technologies move from the laboratory to industrial applications — together shaping a brighter future for the field of acoustics.

The industry's first TÜV-certified acoustic imaging camera with dual explosion protection (IECEx & ATEX), designed to redefine industrial inspection in hazardous environments. CRYSOUND proudly introduces the CRY8125 Ex Acoustic Imaging Camera — a cutting-edge solution specifically engineered for explosive atmospheres. With TÜV certification and full compliance with IECEx and ATEX Zone 2 standards, the CRY8125 Ex is purpose-built for reliable performance in hazardous environments. It combines advanced acoustic imaging capabilities such as gas leak detection, leak rate measurement, partial discharge detection and classification — setting a new benchmark for industrial inspection in explosive atmospheres. The Industry's First with TÜV-Certified Dual Explosion Protection The CRY8125 Ex Acoustic Imaging Camera is TÜV-certified for Zone 2 operation under both the IECEx and ATEX schemes, holding the following markings: II 3 G Ex ic IIC T5 Gc / II 3 D Ex ic IIIC T100°C Dc. It fully complies with IEC 60079-0 and IEC 60079-11 standards, ensuring safe and reliable use in potentially explosive gas and dust environments. This dual certification makes the CRY8125 ideal for hazardous-area applications in industries such as oil & gas, petrochemicals, chemicals, and gas-fired power generation, where explosion protection is mission-critical. Detect Any Type of Gas in Hazardous Zones The CRY8125 Ex Acoustic Imaging Camera is engineered to detect a wide variety of gases — including natural gas, hydrogen, carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds — even in explosive environments such as refineries, chemical plants, and gas facilities. It provides: Real-time leak quantification Instant estimation of potential economic loss Actionable data for fast maintenance decisions Built to Withstand the Harshest ConditionsTo ensure reliable field performance, the CRY8125 undergoes 28 days of rigorous environmental testing, including: High-temperature aging at 90°C Low-temperature exposure at -25°C 90% humidity cycling Drop tests to verify durability After completing these extreme tests, the CRY8125 maintains its IP54 rating— ensuring consistent operation under demanding industrial conditions. High-Performance Intrinsically Safe Acoustic Imaging Camera The CRY8125 features 200 microphones, a 100 kHz bandwidth, and the fastest processor to detect smaller leaks and partial discharges at greater distances. It’s widely used in oil, natural gas, chemical, and gas power industries. Its 8-inch 2K display offers 2 million pixels, 6x digital zoom, and 600-nit brightness, ensuring clear imaging even in direct sunlight for detailed inspections. With an extended detection range, the CRY8125 improves test efficiency over 4× while keeping operators safe by minimizing exposure to toxic gases and covering a wider area. Comprehensive Hardware Configuration The CRY8125 is designed for versatility and future-proof expansion: Supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for seamless direct data transfer to local devices Accommodates up to 4 IEPE sensors (such as accelerometers and microphones) to enable advanced detection capabilities All-in-One Workflow: From Detection to Reporting The CRY8125 features an integrated workflow that streamlines the entire inspection process—from image capture and acoustic analysis to automatic report generation. This greatly enhances the efficiency of gas leak detection, allowing for quicker decision-making and safer, more reliable operations. Real-World Applications The CRY8125 enables safer and more efficient inspections across multiple industries. Oil Industry: Detect hazardous leaks such as H₂S, CH₄, and VOCs to eliminate safety risks Natural Gas: Monitor pipelines and storage tanks to detect leaks and prevent economic loss Chemical Industry: Non-contact detection of Cl₂, H₂, N₂, and steam ensures operational safety Gas Power Generation: Identify gas leaks in tanks and partial discharges in transformers quickly and effectively Case Studies: Field-Proven Performance A coal chemical enterprise successfully located a gas leak in an overhead pipeline that traditional methods failed to detect. At a natural gas storage station, the CRY8125 Ex identified 8 leak points in just one minute, dramatically improving inspection efficiency. Set a New Standard in Acoustic Imaging Safety With its dual explosion-proof certification, intelligent workflow, and proven durability, the CRY8125 Ex Acoustic Imaging Camera is an essential solution for modern industrial inspection in hazardous environments. Discover the future of acoustic inspection—safe, smart, and fast.To learn more or request a demo, please reach out to us at info@crysound.com.

When testing headphones and earphones, precision and reliability are key. CRY801B Headphone Test Fixture Sets deliver exactly what is needed, providing a versatile solution for wired and wireless headphones, insert earphones, and ANC headphones. Available in two configurations—CRY801B-S11 and CRY801B-S12—these test fixture sets cater to a wide range of applications, with the option to replace the simulation mouth, preamplifiers, and cables according to specific needs. CRY801B Test Fixture: The Core of the System The CRY801B Headphone Test Fixture is central to both the S11 and S12 configurations, playing a crucial role in simulating real-world usage scenarios while providing accurate testing conditions. - Durable and Robust: Made from anodized aluminum, the CRY801B is highly durable and resistant to wear. It ensures a long service life, even under the demands of frequent testing, making it ideal for both high-volume and long-term use. - Easy Installation and Use: The CRY801B Test Fixture has a modular design for easy setup and operation. Its size and shape precisely match the dimensions of various headphones and earphones, enabling accurate simulations of both comfort and sound reproduction. CRY801B-S11 Configuration The CRY801B-S11 configuration is ideal for testing a variety of audio products, including: - Headphones - Insert earphones - ANC headphones - Microphone testing This set includes: - CRY801B Headphone Test Fixture - CRY3711 Ear Simulator - CRY3502 Preamplifier - CRY3602 Mouth Simulator The CRY3711 Ear Simulator in the CRY801B-S11 configuration complies with the IEC60318-4 standard and includes a 1/2-inch pressure field microphone, simulating the insertion of earplugs into the ear canal or outer ear to measure headphone performance. The CRY3602 Mouth Simulator features a built-in 20W power amplifier, designed to replicate the acoustic environment of the human mouth for accurate sound field reproduction during testing. This configuration is perfect for manufacturers testing headphones, insert earphones, and ANC headphones. It offers comprehensive, reliable results. CRY801B-S12 Configuration The CRY801B-S12 configuration is widely applicable for testing microphones and various types of earphones, including:   - Headphones   - Insert earphones   - Microphone testing This set includes: - CRY801B Headphone Test Fixture - CRY3718 Ear Simulator - CRY3202 Microphone - CRY3502 Preamplifier - CRY3602 Mouth Simulator The CRY3718 is an ear simulator compliant with the IEC60318-1 standard, designed for audiology and related fields. It allows for electroacoustic measurements of headphones in a controlled acoustic environment. The CRY3602 Mouth Simulator also features a built-in 20W power amplifier, ensuring accurate sound field reproduction during testing. The CRY801B-S12 configuration is particularly useful for evaluating the acoustics of headphones and insert earphones, ensuring thorough assessments of sound clarity, noise isolation, and comfort. The CRY801B Headphone Test Fixture Sets—whether the S11 or S12—offer unmatched versatility, precision, and ease of use for testing a wide range of audio products. From wired and wireless headphones to ANC earphones, these sets deliver consistent, reliable results. By combining the advanced features of the CRY801B Test Fixture with specialized components in the S11 and S12 configurations, you can achieve accurate, real-world testing conditions crucial for developing high-quality audio devices. Whether you are an audio manufacturer, researcher, or quality control professional, the CRY801B Test Fixture Sets ensure that your products meet the highest standards of sound performance and user experience. For more information, please contact us at info@crysound.com.

CRYSOUND is proud to announce the release of our second-generation innovative Acoustic Imaging Camera Reporting Software. This next-level software is designed to elevate efficiency and accuracy in inspection processes, bringing new and improved features tailored to meet the needs of professionals across various industries. With a comprehensive upgrade, the new version offers enhanced functionality, refined performance, and advanced capabilities, ensuring a more seamless and precise inspection experience than ever before. Whether you're conducting routine checks or handling complex diagnostics, this fully upgraded software will redefine your workflow. Seamless Data Import The CRYSOUND second-generation reporting software simplifies the data import process. By ensuring the device and computer are connected to the same network, users can effortlessly import inspection data. This eliminates the need for complex on-site wiring and enhances workflow efficiency. Connect your device to a computer via WiFi, select and download data in real time, and start analysis immediately. Comprehensive Multi-Scenario Reporting The software supports a wide range of inspection scenarios, making it an essential tool for various applications. It can automatically identify testing scenes, such as electrical, gas, and mechanical inspections, and intelligently match the appropriate report templates based on the specific scenario. Partial Discharge Analysis: Identify the location and type of discharges from power equipment. Gas Leakage Analysis: Estimate economic losses caused by gas leaks based on the selected gas type, including air, oxygen, methane, and other gases. Mechanical Noise Analysis: Pinpoint abnormal noise sources from mechanical equipment. Thermal Imaging Analysis: Analyse infrared thermal images to identify temperature variations and abnormalities. Automatically adapting to each scenario, the software generates detailed reports that include essential information such as equipment name, ID number, severity level, repair status, and maintenance recommendations. This comprehensive approach ensures that maintenance teams have all the information they need to take action effectively. Advanced Acoustic Image Analysis Achieve greater accuracy with secondary analysis capabilities. While there may be missed fault points during field testing, adjustments can be made post-inspection to refine results: Modify imaging thresholds and dynamic ranges to minimize interference from ambient noise. Adjust imaging points to ensure no critical areas are missed during acoustic analysis. These tools enable users to create more precise and reliable reports, empowering engineers to make data-driven decisions. Economic Loss Estimation for Gas Leaks Gas leaks can result in significant financial losses. With the CRYSOUND second-generation reporting software, users can calculate these losses based on the market value of the gas type in question. Supporting the selection of air, oxygen, methane and other gases, users can fill in the corresponding gas value based on the market price of the gas type to calculate a more accurate economic loss. Enhanced Thermal Imaging Analysis The software does more than just display thermal images—it identifies the highest and lowest temperatures within the image. Users can set specific points or areas for temperature measurement, and the software can automatically calculate temperature rise. These features enable engineers to quickly diagnose problems and create practical troubleshooting reports. Flexible Report Export Options The software offers both PDF and Word export formats, catering to diverse user needs. PDF Format: Ideal for final reports that require no further modification. Word Format: Perfect for users who wish to edit or add additional information before finalizing their reports. The CRYSOUND second-generation Acoustic Imaging Camera Reporting Software is a transformative solution designed to streamline inspection workflows, improve reporting accuracy, and empower professionals with actionable insights. Whether you’re diagnosing power equipment, analyzing gas leaks, or evaluating mechanical performance, this software delivers unmatched flexibility and functionality. Experience the future of inspection reporting with CRYSOUND’s latest second-generation innovation. Contact us at info@crysound.com or submit the 'Get in touch' form on the website today to learn more or request a demo.

CRYSOUND, in collaboration with our esteemed European partner, SDT Ultrasound Solutions, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the European Service Center. This cutting-edge facility is dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our valued clientele across Europe, including but not limited to: · Calibration · Maintenance · Repair · Training Leveraging SDT's rich legacy of 49 years in delivering top-notch ultrasound solutions, CRYSOUND is committed to extending unwavering support to SDT in the seamless operation of this state-of-the-art European Service Center. The primary objective of this service center is to promptly address and exceed customers' after-sales expectations within the European region. Furthermore, this strategic initiative will enable CRYSOUND to garner invaluable insights from regular monthly reports generated by the center, empowering us to continually refine and enhance both our products and services based on direct customer feedback. The European Service Center is fully equipped to provide after-sales support for three distinct models of acoustic imaging cameras: CRY2620, CRY2623, and CRY2624. Additionally, for the repair services of all CRY8124 and CRY8125 acoustic imaging cameras, customers are advised to directly return them to CRYSOUND's headquarters in China. For further inquiries or assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team at the European Service Center. We look forward to serving you with excellence and dedication.

In the field of acoustics, where precision and reliability converge to create impeccable sound experiences, the CRY3700 series of ear simulators and couplers stands out as a hallmark of technological advancement. Designed to meticulously mimic the complex acoustic structure of the human ear, these devices cater to a wide range of applications, from research and development to quality control across various audio-related industries. Advanced Simulation Capabilities The CRY3700 series includes two types of acoustic simulators: ear simulators and couplers. Both configurations are meticulously designed to precisely replicate the complex acoustic structure of the human ear. This enables them to provide highly accurate acoustic measurements, crucial for developing and testing audio devices that must perform reliably in real-world conditions. Whether used for designing high-fidelity headphones or assessing hearing aids, the CRY3700 series ensures detailed sound analysis and verification, making it a cornerstone for innovation in acoustic technology. Low-Noise and Wide Frequency Range At the core of the CRY3700 series' capabilities is its exceptional low noise performance, which is critical when testing sensitive audio devices. This feature ensures that measurements are not only accurate but also repeatable, providing a reliable baseline for assessing product audio quality. With their broad frequency range, these simulators well-equipped to meet diverse customer requirements. Versatility Across Specifications Recognizing the varied needs of the customers, the CRY3700 series offers multiple specifications to address different testing requirements. Whether for headphones, earbuds, hearing aids, or other hearing assistance devices, there is a model within the series that fits the particular needs of developers and testers. This adaptability makes the CRY3700 series a versatile tool in both product development and academic research environments. Excellent Durability and Stability The CRY3700 series products are constructed primarily from stainless steel, offering excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and the ability to withstand high pressures and temperatures, making them suitable for demanding testing environments. Leading Product: CRY3711 The flagship product in the CRY3700 series, the CRY3711, is an IEC 711 style occluded ear simulator designed for insertion-type earbuds. Complying with IEC 60318-4 standards, it simulates earplug duct insertion to accurately assess earphone performance. Its internal 1/2-inch pre-polarized microphone and input impedance closely mimic the human ear, enabling effective measurements up to 10 kHz, ideal for high-quality in-ear headphone acoustic testing. The CRY3700 series of ear simulators and couplers exemplifies the pinnacle of acoustic simulation technology. With features like low noise levels, wide frequency response, and a coupled cavity design, it sets a high standard in replicating human ear acoustics. Whether you're developing the next generation of earbuds or conducting advanced acoustic research, the CRY3700 series offers the tools you need to succeed in the competitive landscape of audio technology. For more information, please contact us at info@crysound.com.

We're excited to embark on a new journey of innovation and excellence with our new partner, AcSoft Ltd. AcSoft Ltd has become the UK distributor of all CRYSOUND products. Since 1994, AcSoft, a UK-based pioneer in noise, vibration and air quality measurement systems, has offered premium solutions to diverse clients. Founded by Technical Director John Shelton, AcSoft boasts a 30-year legacy of technological advancement and exceptional customer service. Our partnership underscores our shared commitment to delivering unparalleled products and services to our customers. CRYSOUND is confident that this alliance will usher in a new era of advancements in acoustic testing for our customers across the UK. By combining our expertise with AcSoft's, we aim to offer unparalleled acoustic testing products and solutions that are not only reliable but also designed with customer's needs at the forefront. CRYSOUND offers a diverse range of acoustic products, including ear simulators and acoustic imaging cameras, all designed to meet the highest standards of quality and performance. Our microphones are recognized globally for their cost-effectiveness and robust construction. With a titanium build, they are engineered to withstand even the harshest environments, making them a favorite among professionals in various fields. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration with AcSoft and are eager to share the exciting developments that lie ahead. As we work together to provide the best monitoring and measuring solutions, we invite you to stay tuned for more updates.

We are excited to introduce the newest addition to our product portfolio – the CRY3000 Series Measurement Microphones, a groundbreaking lineup designed to set new standards in precision and versatility for acoustic measurement. Engineered for a wide range of applications, these measurement microphones deliver unparalleled performance and durability, making them the ideal choice for R&D, manufacturing, and QA/QC environments. To help our customers customize their equipment to meet specific needs, we provide both complete microphone sets and individual microphones and preamplifiers, making it easy to integrate with any existing setup. Versatile Microphone Options The CRY3000 Series features a wide range of microphones, including pressure-field, free-field, externally polarized, and pre-polarized options. This variety ensures that you’ll have the perfect tool for your specific measurement requirements, whether conducting detailed acoustic analysis or general sound recording. Versatile Microphone Options The CRY3000 Series features a wide range of microphones, including pressure-field, free-field, externally polarized, and pre-polarized options. This variety ensures that you’ll have the perfect tool for your specific measurement requirements, whether conducting detailed acoustic analysis or general sound recording. Superior Performance Specifications With low self-noise, an expansive frequency range, and broad sensitivity coverage, the CRY3000 Series Measurement Microphones meet the demands of diverse applications. We’ll help you choose the model that best fits your project’s needs to ensure optimal accuracy and reliability in every measurement. Advanced Materials for Enhanced Durability Each CRYSOUND microphone in the CRY3000 Series features a third-generation titanium diaphragm, a titanium protection grid, and a synthetic sapphire insulator. This combination ensures superior construction and stability, making them exceptionally resilient against the wear and tear of daily use and harsh environments. High/Low Temperature Resilience Designed to perform in extreme conditions, the CRY3000 measurement microphones function effectively in temperatures ranging from -30°C to +80°C (-4°F to +140°F). This adaptability ensures accurate measurements even in the most demanding environments. Compliance with International Standards The CRY3000 Series adheres to the IEC 61094-4:1995 Measurement Microphones - Part 4 standard, ensuring that our measurement microphones meet the highest international benchmarks for quality and performance. Seamless Connectivity With SMB, BNC, and Microdot interface options, connecting CRY3000 measurement microphones to your equipment has never been easier. These connection choices allow for seamless integration into your existing setup, reducing downtime and maximizing efficiency. Best-in-Class Solutions Within the CRY3000 Series, our best-in-class products deliver exceptional performance. Here’s what they offer: CRY3203: A high-sensitivity microphone with a frequency range of 3.15 Hz to 20 kHz, mirroring the audible frequency range of the human ear. It’s perfect for environmental noise measurements. CRY3403: A high frequency response microphone with an extended frequency range of up to 90 kHz and a sound pressure level capability of up to 165 dB. Its compact design makes it ideal for high-frequency and high-sound-pressure measurements. CRY3404: A 1/4-inch pre-polarized pressure-field high sound pressure level microphone that has been widely recognized and used in various high sound pressure testing environments. This microphone has a frequency range of 10 Hz to 20 kHz, making it an ideal choice for gunfire, blasting, aviation, and aerospace acoustic testing. CRY3261-S01: A specialized ultra-low-noise microphone set that includes the CRY3261 microphone, CRY516 preamplifier, and CRY575L power supply. This set can be used in a myriad of applications, from R&D to QA/QC and beyond. Each of these featured products delivers remarkable precision and durability, exemplifying our commitment to engineering excellence. The CRY3000 Series Measurement Microphones represent a major leap forward in acoustic measurement technology. With their impressive features and unmatched versatility, they are poised to become the go-to choice for professionals who demand the highest standards in accuracy, reliability, and performance. Experience the future of acoustic measurement with the CRY3000 Series Measurement Microphones. Discover the difference today! For more information, please contact us at info@crysound.com.

With noise pollution becoming a growing concern, it's more important than ever to create solutions that help technicians assess noise in various applications. At CRYSOUND, we understand the importance of precision and versatility in noise monitoring. That's why we offer a diverse range of feature-rich and comprehensive sound level meters, tailored to meet the unique needs of our customers. From standard models to multi-functional devices, our products ensure that every user can find the perfect fit for their application, budget, and requirements. Comprehensive Features for Comprehensive Monitoring The CRY2830 series of sound level meters stands out for its exhaustive feature set. It boasts integral measurement functionality, statistical analysis, 1/1 Octave Band Analysis, sound exposure measurement, continuous monitoring, 24-hour recording and storage capabilities, and much more. These features work in harmony to provide a comprehensive solution for noise monitoring, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. Whether conducting environmental noise assessments, evaluating machinery and construction noise impacts, performing quality control testing and certification of product noise levels, or taking occupational health measurements, the CRY2830 series has got you covered. Unparalleled Performances for Accurate Measurements The CRY2830 series sound level meters exhibit exceptional measuring performance, featuring a low noise floor for unparalleled sensitivity and a wide dynamic range, ensuring accurate measurements across diverse noise levels. Compliant with IEC 61672-1:2013 Class 2 standards, they utilize high-quality components to guarantee long-term stability and reliability, meeting stringent national and industry standards for precision. Versatile Connectivity for Seamless Integration One of the hallmarks of the CRY2830 series is its versatility in connectivity options. Equipped with Bluetooth®, WiFi, USB, and RS232 interfaces, these meters enable remote control and data transmission through various methods. This flexibility ensures seamless integration with existing systems and allows for quick and easy data sharing across teams. Whether working in the field or the office, you can rely on the CRY2830 series to keep you connected and informed. User-Centric Design for Enhanced Comfort At CRYSOUND, we believe that the best tools are those that enhance the user experience. That's why the CRY2830 series features an ergonomic design that ensures enhanced operational comfort and satisfaction. The meters come with an anti-drop wrist strap, providing an extra layer of protection against accidental drops. In addition, the CRY2832 has a 320*240 color display, offering high-definition clarity and brightness, ensuring a clear and vivid visual experience even in challenging lighting conditions. The CRYSOUND sound level meters represent a versatile and cost-effective solution that caters to the diverse needs of our customers. With comprehensive features, versatile connectivity options, a user-centric design, and industry-standard accuracy, these meters are must-haves for anyone involved in noise monitoring. Choose CRYSOUND for precise, reliable, and efficient noise measurement solutions. For more details, contact us through info@crysound.com