Ecma standardization plan: modular instrumentation for acoustic measurements

The Ecma TC26 recently formed task group TG5 to create a standard on modular instrumentation for acoustic measurements (MIAM) which include microphone(s), data acquisition (DAQ) module(s), and a computer for processing. They are used to measure IT equipment noise emissions, vehicle pass-by noise, aircraft flyover noise, and air- and structure-borne noise insulation. The DAQ modules are currently regulated by reference to the IEC 61672 sound level meter and the IEC 61260 fractional octave band filter series of standards, which impose unnecessary processing or infeasible pattern/type validation requirements on the DAQ modules. In this paper the burdensome regulatory situation is presented along with an outline for creating a new Ecma standard for MIAM to help relieve the situation. Key points of the outline are to keep separate the standards that prescribe MIAM and measurement applications and to define MIAM environmental requirements, channel precision, and system check procedures. Ecma is positioned to influence MIAM regulations through its previous influence on ISO and IEC standards, fast-track JTC-1 relationship with ISO/IEC, and ability to create new standards in as little as 1 to 2 years. Interested parties are invited to participate in TG5.