Real-time frequency analysis (RTA) with 1/1 octave and 1/3 octave band filters is a fundamental tool in acoustic measurement, providing frequency-specific noise level information that a single broadband A-weighted level cannot reveal. Understanding the frequency content of noise is essential for building acoustics calculations, hearing conservation frequency weighting, noise control engineering, product noise testing, and room acoustic characterization. Bedrock Elite Class 1 instruments with RTA capability include this as a standard feature — no additional module purchase required.
An octave band analyzer measures the sound pressure level simultaneously in multiple frequency bands centered on standardized center frequencies. Each band captures a different portion of the audible frequency range, providing a "fingerprint" of the noise source that reveals which frequencies dominate and which are contributing to hearing damage, structural resonance, regulatory exceedances, or acoustic quality issues. This information is essential for designing effective noise control measures that target the dominant frequencies.
1/1 Octave band analysis divides the audible frequency range into 11 standardized bands (31.5 Hz to 16 kHz, center frequencies per IEC 61260). Each octave covers a 2:1 frequency ratio. Sufficient for most occupational noise and environmental noise assessments, building acoustics overview, and noise control screening. Bedrock SM90 provides 1/1 octave analysis.
1/3 Octave band analysis provides three times greater frequency resolution with 33 bands covering the same range. Required for: building acoustics per ISO 16283 and ISO 3382 (which specify calculation procedures in 1/3 octave bands), product noise testing per ISO 3744, room equalization, and any detailed noise control engineering where the dominant frequencies must be precisely identified. The Bedrock Elite i10 and i9 both provide simultaneous 1/1 and 1/3 octave analysis.
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