Software-Based Acoustical Measurements

This textbook provides a detailed introduction to the use of software in combination with simple and economical hardware (a sound level meter with calibrated AC output and a digital recording system) to obtain sophisticated measurements usually requiring expensive equipment. It emphasizes the use of free, open source, and multiplatform software. Many commercial acoustical measurement systems use software algorithms as an integral component; however the methods are not disclosed. This book enables the reader to develop useful algorithms and provides insight into the use of digital audio editing tools to document features in the signal. Topics covered include acoustical measurement principles, in-depth critical study of uncertainty applied to acoustical measurements, digital signal processing from the basics, and metrologically-oriented spectral and statistical analysis of signals.  

1 Introduction.- 2 Uncertainty.- 3 Digital Recording.- 4 Digital Audio Editing.- 5 Transducers.- 6 Digital Signal Processing.- 7 Basic Algorithms for Acoustical Measurements.- 8 Spectrum Analysis.- 9 Testing of Digital Recorders.- Further Readings.- Appendix 1.- Appendix 2.- Appendix 3.- Appendix 4.- Appendix 5.- Appendix 6.- Appendix 7.- Appendix 8.- Appendix 9.- Appendix 10.- Appendix 11.- Appendix 12.- Appendix 13.- Appendix 14.- Appendix 15.- Appendix 16.- Index.

Federico Miyara graduated as an Electronic Engineer from the Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR) in 1984. He then joined the faculty of his alma mater, first as an assistant teacher and later as an associate professor. There, he founded the Laboratory of Acoustics and Electroacoustics and has served as its director for more than 20 years. Over the years, he has led several postgraduate courses at the UNR, as well as at other universities in Argentina, Spain, Chile, Uruguay and Bolivia.