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O-Solution DS-5000 Sound Power Level Measurement System
UPDATE 2026

International standard measurements are easy, while the analysis of problematic sounds is thorough.

With the electrification of automobiles and the high efficiency of home appliances, there has been an increase in products that generate high-frequency sounds. Since the loudness of high-frequency sounds varies depending on the listening position, it becomes difficult to evaluate based on a single noise level. Therefore, the use of acoustic power levels, which capture sound across the entire radiation surface, is becoming more widespread.

This system has quickly adapted to the latest international standard ISO 3744:2025. You can confidently perform reliable measurements that comply with various standards.
Additionally, it allows for easy confirmation of sound sources and frequency peaks, enabling efficient identification of factors such as abnormal noise countermeasures and noise reduction.

This system supports next-generation noise control in line with the latest standards.

Regarding the construction of the test room, we collaborate with Japan Acoustic Engineering Co., Ltd. to provide a comprehensive proposal from the introduction of the measurement system to the establishment of the testing environment.

What is sound power level?

The acoustic power level is the total amount of acoustic energy radiated by a sound source into the air per unit time. While the general sound pressure level varies depending on the distance from the noise source and the measurement environment, the acoustic power level is uniquely determined with respect to the noise source. Therefore, the acoustic power level is effective for setting noise specifications and evaluation criteria for equipment, as well as for evaluating noise reduction effects, and it is a global indicator used in environmental labels and noise regulations in various countries.

The measurement methods for acoustic power level are defined by ISO standards and JIS. The measurement principles include the sound pressure method using a microphone and the SI method using an acoustic intensity probe.

  • What is sound power level?

Flow of Acoustic Power Level Measurement

The flow of measuring the acoustic power level using the sound pressure method in a semi-anechoic chamber is shown in the figure below. Prepare a test environment and microphone arrangement in accordance with the standards, and obtain the sound pressure levels at each measurement point (background noise, target sound source, and reference sound source if environmental correction is applied).
After that, calculate the acoustic power level by adding the correction items specified by the standards.

  • Flow of Acoustic Power Level Measurement

Features

Compliant with the latest international standard ISO 3744:2025.

Easily perform measurements according to standards and output reports in Excel format.
The settings for standards can be customized, which is helpful for individual standard calculations.

  • Compliant with the latest ISO standards.

Calculate the sound power level for 1/3 octave bands up to 20 kHz.

Generally, the calculation of acoustic power levels is performed within the frequency range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz as specified by standards, but it is possible to extend this frequency range for analysis in both low and high frequencies.
If there are many measurement points, multiple split measurements are possible ※1.

  • Calculate the sound power level for 1/3 octave bands up to 20 kHz.

useful for cause analysis

  • Analysis of simultaneous recording (synchronization with other sensors is also possible)

  • FFT, instantaneous sound power level calculation ※2

  • Sound Pressure Level Distribution Display

After calculating the acoustic power level according to the standards, detailed analysis can be performed using the recorded data.
In the post-analysis, FFT and instantaneous acoustic power levels can be calculated, efficiently identifying frequency peaks and timings that contribute to the increase in acoustic power level, as well as the location of the sound source.
This allows for cause analysis without the hassle of re-measurement, leading to cost reduction in noise testing.

  • useful for cause analysis

*1 Available when the sound source is reproducible and stable.
*2 Although standard background noise correction and area correction are performed, the values are reference values and not compliant with standards due to calculations at different frequency resolution or time resolution than the standard.
*3 If calculating the acoustic power level using the FFT frequency resolution, the OS-0522 FFT analysis function is required separately.

Corresponding Standards

Sound Pressure Method Acoustic Power Level: OS-0541

Compliance with standards applicable to various objects.

The sound power level is standardized to be measurable in various environments without limiting the subject. OS-0541 corresponds to the standard for measuring sound power levels using the sound pressure method with a microphone. Additionally, the OS-0524 octave analysis function is required.

testing environment Standard number of measurement points
Anechoic chamber, semi-anechoic chamber Precision Method ISO 3745:2012, JIS Z 8732:2021 from 8 PM

semi-anechoic chamber, outdoors

Practical methods ISO 3744:2025, ISO 3744:2010, JIS Z 8733:2000 From 9 to 10 o'clock
Simple Method ISO 3746:2010 4 o'clock ~
Echo Room Precision method ISO 3741:2010, JIS Z 8734:2021 (supports comparative method only) 6 o'clock ~
High frequency acoustic power level ISO 9295:2015 (applicable only when discrete sounds are not included) Citing ISO 3741 and 3744
  • Measurement of acoustic power level in a semi-anechoic chamber.

    Measurement of acoustic power level in a semi-anechoic chamber.

    It is the most widely used measurement method. Measurements are taken using a configuration of measurement points arranged in a hemispherical or rectangular prism shape surrounding the object.

  • Measurement of acoustic power level in the reverberation room.

    Measurement of acoustic power level in the reverberation room.

    Compared to a half-anechoic chamber, accurate measurements can be made with fewer measurement points. There are direct and comparative methods, and the OS-0541 only supports the comparative method.

Information technology equipment option: OS-0542

Measurement example (radiated sound pressure level at the bystander position)
Measurement example (radiated sound pressure level at the bystander position)
Corresponding to individual specifications of office equipment.

The measurement of radiated sound from computers, printers, and multifunction devices is defined by the individual standard ISO 7779. This individual standard is referenced for obtaining environmental labels. In addition to sound power levels, the sound pressure levels at the operator's position or bystander position are calculated, along with any significant discrete sounds as necessary.

Corresponding Standards
Measurement items Standard
Acoustic power level of information technology devices ISO 7779:2018, JIS X 7779: 2012
radiated sound pressure level ISO 11201: 2010
Radiation Noise Display Value ISO 9296: 2017
prominent discrete sound ISO 7779: 2018, JIS X 7779: 2012
Tone-to-Noise Ratio, Prominence Ratio
About the revision of ISO 3744

ISO 3744:2025, Acoustics ─ Determination of sound power levels of noise sources using sound pressure ─ Engineering methods for an essentially free field over a reflecting plane

The measurement of sound power levels is governed by several international standards depending on the required accuracy (grade) and measurement environment. Among these, ISO 3744 is the most widely cited practical method (Grade 2), with techniques such as measurement at 10 points on a hemispherical surface being representative.
This ISO 3744 has been revised for the first time in 15 years, with the new version set to be released in December 2025.

The recent revision has streamlined complex regulations and simplified the main text of the standard. Additionally, changes have been made regarding environmental corrections and criteria for determining background noise. Please refer to the table below for the main changes.
The DS-5000 Sound Power Level Measurement System has quickly adapted to this latest revision.
It provides highly accurate measurements that are always compliant with the latest standards.

Main revisions of ISO 3744

item ISO 3744: 2010 ISO 3744: 2025
System Configurations - Move special measurement conditions to the annex and simplify the main text of the standard.
Environmental Correction
(Correction related to sound reflection and absorption)
K 2A ≦ 4 dB
(A characteristic Overall does not exceed 4 dB)

Correction methods: 5 types
K 2A, K 2f ≦ 4 dB
(A characteristic Overall or not exceeding 4 dB for each frequency band)

Correction methods: 4 types
Determination of background noise
(Determination of whether background noise affects the measurement results)
Two types (absolute judgment, relative judgment) Only one type (relative judgment).
Judgment criteria have changed.
directional parameter Calculation of Directional Index and Unevenness Index Delete
Method for determining environmental correction values. described in the annex Include a part in the annex and cite ISO 26101-2:2024.
calculation of uncertainty This document, as described in the annex. Include a part in the main text and cite ISO 5114-1:2024.
Others - - Removal of acoustic energy level
- Revision of measurement equipment requirements
(to accommodate measurement systems using modern computers)
- Update of requirements regarding cylindrical measurement surfaces.
- Establishment of Annex I
(provisions for procedures applicable to reduce measurement uncertainty in laboratories)

 

System Configurations

This is the configuration of a measurement system with 10 points arranged on a general hemispherical surface.

Model name Product Name quantity
DS-5100 main unit 1
DS-0526 6 channel 40 kHz input unit 2
OS-5100 platform 1
OS-0524 Octave Analysis Function 1
OS-0541 Sound Power Level Using Sound Pressure 1
OS-0542 Information Technology Equipment Option 1
MI-1235 measurement microphone 10
MI-3111 micro home preamplifier 10
MI-0311 microphone extension rod 10
MX-2020 Microphone cable 20 m 10
SC-2600 Sound calibration 1
- support services before implementation -
- after-sales service -

* A separate computer is required. Recommended specifications follow O-Solution's specifications.
* A separate microphone stand or similar is required for fixing the microphone. Please consult us.
* If selecting and arranging a microphone stand or similar, a separate system operation confirmation fee will be charged.

Follow-up service before and after system implementation

To conduct sound power level measurements in accordance with specifications, it is necessary to confirm that the testing environment and measurement methods are suitable for the customer's test specimen. Our company utilizes the technology cultivated through contracted measurements and noise reduction consulting to provide services that allow customers to measure with confidence. Please consult us for details about our follow-up services.

support services before implementation

support services before implementation

Technical consultation on individual specifications

Contract measurement of acoustic power levels
(Investigation of system requirements such as the number of necessary microphones)

Measurement of acoustic characteristics of existing test rooms
(Background noise, inverse square law, environmental correction values)

after-sales service

after-sales service

Lecture on acoustic power level standards

Software delivery explanation

Various seminars on sound level meter measurement

About the sound power level test room.

The construction of anechoic chambers and the production of micro-horn domes can be provided by Japan Acoustic Engineering Co., Ltd., which has top-class achievements in the country. The company possesses high technical skills in a wide range of fields, from the design and construction of acoustic spaces that meet diverse needs to noise control and support for the development of acoustic materials.

Japan Acoustic Engineering Co., Ltd.

For inquiries regarding acoustic power level measurement devices or general information about testing rooms, please click here.
For inquiries about the construction of anechoic chambers, microphone domes, etc., please use the contact form of Japan Acoustic Engineering Co., Ltd. (this will take you to an external site).

Case Studies

Measurement of sound power levels of air conditioners, home appliances, machinery, and office equipment.

By measuring according to specifications, you can more accurately grasp the overall sound of the product.

  • Measurement Scene

    Measurement Scene
  • Measurement Result Image

    Measurement Result Image

target example

  • target example

Air conditioning equipment, home appliances (washing machines, vacuum cleaners, etc.), multifunction devices, automotive parts (motors), generators, and other machinery.

Reduction of drive noise in the gearbox.

By checking the sound power level and the sound pressure level distribution simultaneously, it is possible to efficiently identify the sound source and verify the effectiveness of countermeasures.

  • Reduction of drive noise in the gearbox.

Acoustic power level of rotating machinery

Devices with built-in motors tend to generate high-frequency sounds associated with rotational speed. Since high-frequency sounds can sometimes be unpleasant, efforts to reduce noise are important. With OS-0541, it is possible to calculate the acoustic power level of tracking analysis by post-analyzing measurement data. By comprehensively understanding the acoustic power levels corresponding to rotational speeds, it clarifies the operational conditions that need to be addressed. An additional OS-0523 tracking analysis function is required.

  • Acoustic power level of rotating machinery

Specification