In this article we will teach you how to measure the volume of sound , commonly called noise, with an Android cell phone. We will also explain some interesting facts about this phenomenon that surrounds us.
Some basics about sound
Sound is produced when we exert pressure on the air molecules that are around us. The higher the pressure exerted, the greater the volume. To measure the intensity of the acoustic pressure of sound, a sound level meter is used . And the unit of measurement is the decibel (dB), which is one-tenth of a Bel. It was named in honor of Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone.
A sound of 75 dB is already starting to be harmful. From 120 dB a sound begins to be painful. For this reason, it is important to control the intensity of the noise in our environment, as our health depends on it. That is why experts do not recommend increasing the volume of the mobile to the maximum .
In fact, there are some apps that are used to control the volume of the mobile in each application , which is a good way to protect your ears from the sounds of the mobile.
How to measure decibels with your mobile using the best apps
Currently there is no native Android application that fulfills this function. Therefore, the first thing you will have to do is log into the Google Play Store with a Gmail account and download an application that allows you to measure the decibels or the amount of noise in your environment.
If you see so many that you don’t know which one to choose, next we are going to analyze some of the best free apps and explain a little about how to use them. However, we remind you to update the Google Play Store to its latest version so that you can install these applications without problems.
Before starting the analysis, keep in mind that the microphone of mobile phones is designed to work with the range of the human voice . For that reason, when using any of these applications do not expect professional results. Although for high decibels it will not give an exact measurement , it will serve to give you an idea of the volume of the noise around you.
Splend Apps Sound Level Meter
This application, compatible with Android 4.1 or higher, allows you to measure the decibels of a room. When starting for the first time, the app will ask you for some basic permissions. After accepting them, you can start using this tool.
When taking a measurement, it will show you the average dB, as well as the maximum and minimum levels. It will also show you the variations in the measurement through a graph . On the other hand, even in their description, the developers explain that the app may not recognize sounds that exceed 90 dB .
Sound Meter – Noise detector
It is compatible with most devices. Despite being available only in English, thanks to its simple interface you will be able to use this app without problems from the moment you download it.
As in the previous example, this application will show you the average, maximum and minimum values when taking a measurement. As it weighs less than 5 MB, it is ideal for mobiles that have little storage space.
Sound Meter – Decibel Meter
This application provides you with the average, maximum and minimum value of a measurement. In addition to fulfilling its main function, it also tells you when the noise in a room begins to be harmful to your health .
On the other hand, it has an intuitive and easy to understand interface. Also, you can switch between a light and a dark theme . It also has a reduced version for very large phones.
EXXA Tools sound level meter
With this application you can make precise measurements of the noise in your environment. In order to give you the best results, the developers recommend calibrating the tool before using it. To do this, go to Settings → Calibration (automatic or manual) . On the other hand, it is compatible with Android 2.3 or higher and weighs only 3.3 MB.
Sound Meter: Decibel meter, noise detector
Finally, Sound Meter is an application with a minimalist interface that will allow you to accurately measure the noise in your environment.
It will show you the results in a simple way; by means of a graph that reports the average as well as the maximum and minimum value of the measurement.
This app, in addition to fulfilling its main function, is ideal for those who are looking for something beautiful and pleasing to the eye .
How to Measure Noise Volume with Android
Measuring noise volume with your Android cell phone is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps:
- Find a Suitable App: Start by searching for a reliable and accurate noise meter app on the Google Play Store. Look for apps with high ratings and positive reviews to ensure you’re using a reputable tool.
- Download and Install: Once you’ve found the app that suits your needs, download and install it on your Android device. Make sure to grant the necessary permissions for the app to access your microphone.
- Open the App: Launch the noise meter app on your phone. Depending on the app, you may be greeted with a user-friendly interface that displays the current noise level in real-time.
- Calibrate the App: It’s crucial to calibrate your chosen noise meter app for accurate readings. Look for the calibration option within the app settings and follow the instructions provided. Calibration ensures that the app adapts to your device’s microphone and provides reliable results.
- Take Measurements: Now that your app is calibrated and ready, position your Android device in the area where you want to measure noise volume. Keep in mind that placing your phone next to the sound source will yield more accurate results.
- Monitor the Decibel Levels: As the noise meter app records the sound, it will display the decibel levels on your screen. Pay attention to the readings and keep track of any fluctuations in noise volume.
- Take Precautionary Measures if Required: If you find that the noise levels are consistently high and potentially harmful to your hearing, consider taking precautionary measures such as wearing earplugs or seeking a quieter environment.
By following these steps, you can easily measure the noise volume in your surroundings using your Android cell phone.
Importance of Measuring Noise Volume
Measuring noise volume is essential for several reasons:
- Hearing Health: By monitoring noise levels, you can protect your hearing from potential damage caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds. Keeping track of decibel levels helps you make informed choices about your environment and take preventative measures to safeguard your hearing.
- Environmental Awareness: Noise pollution affects not only individuals but also communities as a whole. By measuring noise volume, you can contribute to awareness campaigns, engage in discussions with policymakers, and work towards creating quieter and healthier environments.
- Legal Compliance: In some situations, noise regulations may be in place to ensure the well-being of residents and workers. Knowing how to measure noise volume allows you to determine whether the noise levels in your surroundings adhere to the established standards.
- Research Purposes: Researchers and scientists often require accurate data on noise levels for various studies and projects. Having the ability to measure noise volume using your Android cell phone can enable you to contribute to important research initiatives.
Conclusion
As noise pollution continues to be a concern in our lives, understanding how to measure noise volume with your Android cell phone can empower you to protect your hearing and contribute to a quieter environment. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily monitor and track decibel levels around you. Remember, your hearing is valuable, and taking the necessary precautions can make a significant difference in the long run. Stay aware, stay safe, and enjoy a peaceful soundscape wherever you go.
