This specification is exactly that. It is a specification NOT a guideline to follow. It specifies the exact procedures to follow in testing and rating Outdoor Public Warning Devices.
This is one item you should look for when examining literature for these types of devices. Unfortunately, there are those who publish test results which are NOT certified by following this standard. Some manufactures test some models of their products by this standard and other models by some other method.
Independent studies done on behalf of the Federal Government have shown the models literature can be very generous when comparing actual measured outputs in accordance with ANSI specification S12.14-1992.
If everyone follows ANSI recommended procedures then everyone plays on the same, "level playing field". When you compare products of different manufactures in designing your system, INSURE the units under consideration are tested to ANSI specification S12.14-1994 in order to rate the product on the literature. Point blank ask your supplier for his personal assurance that the unit is tested to the specification.
Keep in mind that sound is sound. Don't be mislead by someone stating that there are differences due to the method of sound generation which cause this specification to not be applicable. If he can not give you his assurance or hedges, be aware. You may not be getting what you think you are.Methods are given in the specification to allow for the determination of sound pressure levels of an outdoor public warning device. A method is also given for measuring the maximum levels of warning sounds at the heads of bystanders on the ground near the source. A copy of this specification may be obtained by contacting:
Standards Secretariat c/o Acoustical Society of America 335 E 45th. Street New York, New York 10017-3483Click here to return to AMERICAN COMMUNICATIONS home page.