Skip to main content

Setting up the senseBox Loudness Meter

Correct placement of the senseBox Loudness Meter is essential to obtain reliable and comparable noise exposure data. Aircraft noise is primarily generated at higher altitudes, so it is important to place the microphone as free from obstacles and reflective surfaces as possible.

Technical requirements at the installation site​

  1. Power Supply: The senseBox requires a continuous power supply. The supplied cable has a length of 3 meters.

  2. Data Transmission: The senseBox needs a way to continuously transmit data to the internet. The senseBox can be configured with WiFi, LoRa, or LAN as transmission options. Depending on the version, access to the corresponding network (WiFi network, TheThingsNetwork (LoRa), or LAN cable to the router) is required.

Microphone placement​

For noise measurements, the following applies: The more unobstructed the microphone, the better the data quality.

Distance to reflective surfaces​

Reflections (e.g., from walls) can distort the measurement values.

Keep in mind:

  • Ideal distance from walls: > 1 m
  • A distance of at least 0.5 m is still acceptable
  • Do not mount the microphone directly on a house wall
  • Avoid placing it in window recesses, under roof overhangs, or in tight corners

Suitable mounting locations:

  • Balcony or terrace railings
  • Freestanding poles
  • Fence posts
  • Railings or edges with an unobstructed view of open airspace

These locations typically provide enough distance from obstacles and allow free sound propagation.

Wind protection​

The microphone requires a foam windscreen to avoid artificially increased readings caused by wind noise.

Advantages of the windscreen:

  • Reduces wind noise
  • Protects the microphone from rain and condensation
  • Shields from direct sunlight and prevents overheating

Important:
The windscreen should be pulled back approx. 10 mm from the microphone tip.
This leaves a small air gap in front of the acoustic opening, preventing moisture from entering the microphone.

Site documentation on the openSenseMap​

Good documentation increases the value of the measurement data for all projects!
Please add the following information to your station on the openSenseMap:

  • Mounting height
  • Orientation / site description
  • Photo of the measurement station

This improves comparability between measurement locations.

Maintenance​

  1. It is essential to avoid condensation inside the senseBox. Therefore, a visual check of the senseBox is recommended at least once a month. If necessary, the silica gel should be replaced.
  2. The senseBox should be regularly cleaned of any accumulated dirt.

You can find more tips at www.sensebox.de and in our forum forum.sensebox.de.