The PCE Instruments Weatherproof Wall-Mounted Noise Sensor (PCE-FST-100-2010-NMS) is a fixed sound level monitoring device designed for continuous acoustic measurement in outdoor, industrial, and building-management applications. It measures sound pressure levels from 30 to 120 dBA across a frequency range of 20 to 12,500 Hz using a condenser microphone with A-frequency weighting and slow time weighting. Measurement data is transmitted digitally through an RS-485 interface using the Modbus RTU protocol, allowing integration with compatible data loggers, PLCs, and monitoring systems. The sensor operates from a 10 to 30V DC power supply and includes a fixed 1m connection cable for installation. Its IP65-rated enclosure provides protection against dust and water jets within the limits of the rating, while the specified -20 to 60°C operating range supports deployment across a variety of indoor and outdoor monitoring locations. Key Features and Benefits: Continuous Sound Monitoring: Measures ambient sound levels from 30 to 120 dBA for unattended acoustic tracking in industrial, environmental, and facility applications. RS-485 Digital Output: Transmits measurement data directly to compatible monitoring and automation equipment without requiring a separate analog signal converter. Modbus RTU Communication: Supports integration with compatible PLCs, data loggers, control systems, and building-management platforms. A-Frequency Weighting: Applies A-weighting to provide sound measurements referenced to the frequency sensitivity of human hearing. Slow Time Weighting: Uses a 1-second slow response setting to provide stable monitoring of changing environmental noise levels. Wide Frequency Coverage: Measures acoustic signals across a specified 20 to 12,500 Hz frequency range. Outdoor-Oriented Enclosure: The IP65-rated housing provides specified protection against dust ingress and water jets for exposed installations. Broad DC Power Input: Operates from 10 to 30V DC for integration into a range of low-voltage industrial and monitoring systems. Specifications: Model: PCE-FST-100-2010-NMS Sound Level Measuring Range: 30 to 120 dBA Resolution: 1 dBA Accuracy: 2% full scale ±0.5 dB, referenced to 94 dB at 1 kHz Frequency Range: 20 to 12,500 Hz Frequency Weighting: A Time Weighting: Slow, 1 second Response Time: 2 seconds Microphone Type: Condenser microphone Output: RS-485 with Modbus RTU Cable Length: 1m or approximately 3.28 ft. Power Supply: 10 to 30V DC Protection Class: IP65 Operating Conditions: -20 to 60°C and 0 to 80% RH Storage Conditions: -20 to 80°C and 0 to 80% RH Dimensions: 150 x 133 x 42mm or approximately 5.91 x 5.24 x 1.65 inches Product Weight: 230 g or approximately 8.11 oz. Package Contents: PCE-FST-100-2010-NMS sound level meter / noise level meter, operating instructions, and two screws with dowels How to Use: Inspect the Sensor: Check the enclosure, microphone area, fixed cable, and mounting points for visible damage before installation. Select the Location: Choose a representative monitoring position where the sensor can measure ambient noise without obstruction or unnecessary reflection from nearby structures. Prepare the Mounting Surface: Mark the fixing points, drill suitable holes, and install the supplied dowels in a stable vertical wall or mounting surface. Secure the Sensor: Fasten the enclosure using the supplied screws while keeping the housing properly oriented and protected from physical impact. Isolate Power Before Wiring: Keep the external DC supply de-energized while connecting the sensor power and communication conductors. Connect the Power Supply: Wire the unit to a compatible 10 to 30V DC source according to the installation instructions and correct polarity. Connect RS-485 Communication: Wire the RS-485 lines to a compatible Modbus RTU data logger, PLC, controller, or monitoring system. Power On the System: Energize the installation and confirm that the sensor is communicating correctly with the connected monitoring equipment. Verify Readings: Review the transmitted sound level values and confirm that the selected location provides representative acoustic measurements for the intended monitoring task. Maintain the Installation: Periodically inspect the housing, microphone area, cable, and mounting hardware for contamination, obstruction, damage, or loosening. Benefits of Using PCE Instruments Weatherproof Wall-Mounted Noise Sensor (PCE-FST-100-2010-NMS): Supports Unattended Noise Monitoring: Fixed installation allows sound levels to be tracked continuously without requiring an operator to hold a handheld meter. Simplifies Automation Integration: Modbus RTU communication allows measurement data to be incorporated directly into compatible digital monitoring and control systems. Reduces Additional Interface Hardware: Native RS-485 output can eliminate the need for separate signal-conversion devices in compatible installations. Supports Environmental Noise Assessment: Continuous dBA measurements provide useful data for tracking acoustic conditions around industrial sites, buildings, and community monitoring locations. Supports Workplace Noise Observation: Fixed monitoring can help identify changes or recurring sound-level patterns in industrial and production environments. Handles Exposed Installations: The IP65 enclosure and specified temperature range support operation in demanding indoor and outdoor locations within the device limits. Reduces Manual Data Collection: Continuous digital transmission allows sound measurements to be logged automatically by compatible external systems. Features: Condenser Microphone: Uses a dedicated acoustic sensing element for continuous sound pressure measurement. Wall-Mounted Housing: Provides a fixed enclosure format for permanent or semi-permanent monitoring installations. Integrated 1m Cable: Supplies a fixed connection lead for power and communication wiring. IP65 Enclosure: Provides the specified protection against dust ingress and water jets without implying suitability for immersion. Low-Voltage DC Operation: Accepts a 10 to 30V DC supply for integration into compatible industrial electrical systems. Compact Housing: Measures 150 x 133 x 42mm and weighs 230 g for space-efficient wall installation.