Notice of Repair for Sound Level Meters LA-1410/LA-1440/LA-4440

Thank you for your continued patronage of Ono Sokki products.
We have recently discovered that some of our LA-1410/LA-1440/LA-4440 sound level meters may malfunction depending on the usage environment. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and trouble this may cause our customers.
The details of the malfunction are as follows: Because the product may not be able to function as a measuring instrument, we would like to collect the product and repair it.
We will strive to improve our quality to prevent such incidents from happening again in the future, and we kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation.

Target Products

LA-1410 Integrating Averaging Type Standard Sound Level Meter
LA-1440 Integrating Averaging Type Standard Sound Level Meter
LA-4440 Integrating Averaging Precision Sound Level Meter

Applicable serial numbers

(The final 'R' has been omitted.)

Details of the problem

If used or stored for extended periods in high-temperature, high-humidity environments, the function of some components in the sound level meter's preamplifier may deteriorate, potentially causing a malfunction where the measured value is lower than the actual value at 114 dB or higher for sine waves.
Based on our tests conducted at 40°C and 90% RH, we estimate the probability of malfunction occurring to be 6% at 114 dB–124 dB and 12% at 124 dB–130 dB.

Cause of the malfunction

In July 2014, we revised the manufacturing process for the preamplifier and changed the circuit board cleaning method. However, the cleaning agent used deteriorated the moisture resistance of some components, leading to insulation failures.

How to respond

We have replaced the problematic part with a more wash-resistant part, and the fix is complete. We will now proceed with repairs by picking up the units in order. We will also inspect the noise meter for any malfunctions that may have occurred and report back to you.
The preamplifier section of the sound level meter we received will be replaced with a new one.
The serial number for the sound level meter and the microphone will remain the same, but please note that the serial number for the preamplifier will change.
The preamplifier number is indicated in the framed area of the photo.

We apologize for the inconvenience, but please fill out the customer information sheet and contact your nearest branch office.
Please note that if you have purchased a sound level meter from us without certification and have subsequently had it certified by a certification body, we will apply for re-certification after the repair. Please write "Yes" in the certification section of the customer sheet. The time required for repair will vary depending on whether or not the meter has been certified.

The contact information for repair requests is listed at the end of the customer information sheet.

We also have replacement machines available for loan. If you need one, please fill out the request form and let us know. Please note that there is a limited number of machines available, so we may not be able to lend one out on your desired date.

(PDF: Please print and use this document.)

Regarding inquiries

If you have any questions, please contact our customer service center or your nearest sales office.