TC 29 - Electroacoustics

IEC 60118-0:2022 gives recommendations for the measurement of the performance characteristics of air conduction hearing aids measured with an acoustic coupler or occluded ear simulator.
This document is applicable to the measurement and evaluation of the electroacoustical characteristics of hearing aids, for example for type testing and manufacturer data sheets.
This document is also applicable for the measurement of the performance characteristics of hearing aids for production, supply and delivery quality-assurance purposes.
The measurement results obtained by the methods specified in this document will express the performance under conditions of the measurement and can deviate substantially from the performance of the hearing aid under actual conditions of use.
This document primarily uses an acoustic coupler according to IEC 60318-5 which is only intended for loading a hearing aid with specified acoustic impedance and is not intended to reproduce the sound pressure in a person's ear. For measurements reflecting the output level in the normal human ear the occluded ear simulator according to IEC 60318-4 can be used. For extended high-frequency measurements and for deep insert hearing aids, the acoustic coupler according to IEC 60318-8 can be used.
This document also covers measurement of hearing aids with non-acoustic inputs, such as wireless, inductive or electrical input.
This document does not cover the measurement of hearing aids for simulated in situ working conditions, for which IEC 60118-8 can be applied.
This document does not cover the measurement of hearing aids under typical user settings and using a speech-like signal, for which IEC 60118-15 can be applied.
IEC 60118-0:2022 merges and updates the methods previously described in IEC 60118-0:2015 and IEC 60118-7:2005. It cancels and replaces the third edition of IEC 60118-0 published in 2015. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
Measurements for quality control as described in IEC 60118-7:2005 can be found in Clause 10 of this document.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to previous editions:
a) the default use of an acoustic coupler according to IEC 60318-5,
b) addition of the optional use of an occluded ear simulator according to IEC 60318-4,
c) addition of the optional use of an acoustic coupler according to IEC 60318-8 (new standard based on IEC TS 62886) when information about the response above 8 kHz is needed, or the optional use of the acoustic coupler according to IEC 60318-8 for deep insert hearing aids,
d) the addition of measurements of the performance of hearing aids for production, supply and delivery quality assurance purposes,
e) corrected and updated measurement configuration and methods, adding the use of a sequential measurement as preferred configuration,
f) updated and expanded measurement procedures for the non-acoustic inputs of the hearing aid.

IEC TR 61904-10:2022
- is applicable to laboratory standard microphones meeting the requirements of IEC 61094-1 and other types of measurement microphones,
- describes one possible absolute method for determining the complex pressure sensitivity, based on a device capable of generating a known sound pressure, especially at low frequencies, and
- provides a reproducible and accurate basis for the measurement of sound pressure at low frequencies.
All quantities are expressed in SI units.

IEC 60318-7:2022 describes a head and torso simulator, or manikin, intended for the measurement of sound sources placed close to the ear in the frequency range from 100 Hz to 16 000 Hz.
The manikin described in this document is intended for airborne acoustic measurements only. It is not suitable for measurements which depend upon vibration transmission paths such as bone conduction, or for measurements requiring the simulation of bone or tissue.
This document specifies the manikin in terms of both its geometrical dimensions and its acoustical properties. Only manikins compliant with both sets of specifications are in conformance with this document.
IEC 60318-7:2022 cancels and replaces IEC TS 60318-7:2017. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to IEC TS 60318-7:2017:
a) changing the title;
b) extending the scope to sound sources close to the ear.

IEC 60318-8:2022 describes an acoustic coupler for loading a hearing aid or insert earphone with a specified acoustic impedance when testing its acoustic performance, in the frequency range up to 16 kHz. It is suitable for air-conduction hearing aids and earphones, coupled to the ear by means of ear inserts, earmoulds or similar devices.
The acoustic coupler does not simulate the human ear. However, it has an effective volume of only 0,4 cm3, which is small enough not to produce significant resonances in the coupler in the frequency range below 16 kHz. Therefore, it will load the earphone with a known acoustic impedance, which allows repeatable measurements with low uncertainty to be obtained on earphones used in extended high-frequency audiometry.

IEC 60118-16:2022 gives definitions for common hearing aid features such as noise reduction or feedback reduction, etc. Only acoustical inputs are considered. Binaural features are currently not covered in this document. In addition, measurement procedures are described to verify hearing aid features. The objective is not to evaluate the performance of features but to verify their existence and functionality.
Furthermore, definitions and procedures are kept as general as possible so that this document can be applied to various types of hearing aids, for example, air-conduction hearing aids or bone conduction hearing aids. To this end, the general definition for the term "hearing aid" given in IEC 60118-0 is adopted, and this document does not refer to any specific ear simulator or acoustic coupler but uses a general definition of a coupler. However, if a general view is not applicable or leads to unclear or complex wording, the situation for an air-conduction hearing aid only is considered. Nevertheless, an explanation is given on how this document can be applied to hearing aids which do not use air conduction.

IEC 606045-6:2022 applies to instruments designed primarily for the measurement of otoacoustic emissions in the human external auditory meatus evoked by acoustic probe stimuli. This document defines the characteristics to be specified by the manufacturer, specifies minimum mandatory functions for two types of instruments and provides performance specifications applicable to both instrument types. This document describes methods to be used to demonstrate conformance with the specifications in this document and guidance on methods for periodic calibration. The purpose of this document is to ensure that measurements made under comparable test conditions with different instruments complying with this document will be consistent. Instruments can provide a measurement function not specifically within the scope of this document and still comply with the relevant requirements of this document for the functions that are within the scope. This document is not intended to restrict development or incorporation of new features, nor to discourage innovative approaches. IEC 606045-6:2022 cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2009. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) the nominal test frequency used in DPOAE is now defined as the higher of the two frequencies, f2;
b) the permitted deviation of the stimulus signal for TEOAE has been specified;
c) the frequency range for DPOAE stimulus signals has been redefined,
d) the stimulus level requirements for TEOAE have been redefined;
e) the stimulus level requirements for DPOAE have been redefined;
f) the harmonic distortion requirements for DPOAE have been redefined;
g) a minimum measurement range for DPOAE has been added.

IEC 61094-2:2009 is applicable to laboratory standard microphones meeting the requirements of IEC 61094-1 and other types of condenser microphone having the same mechanical dimensions and specifies a primary method of determining the complex pressure sensitivity so as to establish a reproducible and accurate basis for the measurement of sound pressure. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1992. This second edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- an update of Clause 6 to fulfil the requirements of ISO/IEC Guide 98-3;
- an improvement of the heat conduction theory in Annex A;
- a revision of Annex F: Physical properties of humid air.

IEC 60645-3:2020 specifies a means of describing the physical characteristics, in terms of electrical waveforms, of audiometric reference and test signals of short duration and methods for their measurement.
The object of this document is to ensure that audiometric stimuli of short duration are specified and measured in the same way and that the calibration of equipment using such signals is carried out using defined methods.
This document does not describe the method of use of short-duration test signals.
IEC 60645-3:2020 cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2007. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) new figures of reference signals;
b) changes in definitions.

IEC 60263:2020 specifies standard aspect ratios for logarithmic or level characteristics expressed in decibels versus a logarithmic frequency axis and ranges for the radius of polar diagrams of level. Applications include hard copy printouts, electronic files (e.g., PDF files), scientific publications, screen displays in computer programs and apps, as well as graphs in standards.
Informative examples of graphs that conform to the requirements in this document are found in Annex A.
Although outside the scope of this document, graphs with a linear y-axis versus logarithmic frequency (e.g., phase, group delay, etc.) often accompany the standard aspect ratio graphs of level described in the normative part of this document. These are described in informative Annex B.
IEC 60263:2020 cancels and replaces the third edition published in 1982. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) the scope is expanded to include electronic files (e.g., PDF), scientific publications, graphs in other standards, and screen displays in programs and apps;
b) a Terms and Definitions clause has been added;
c) aspect ratios of 20 dB/decade, and 0,5, 1, 1,25, and 2,5 decades/decade have been added;
d) ranges of 60 dB or 30 dB are specified for polar plots of absolute level; a 30 dB range is specified for polar plots of relative level;
e) as most graphs are now computer generated, tolerances and sizes have been removed;
f) all informative figures have been updated with contemporary examples;
g) an informative annex with information about linear y-axis vs. logarithmic frequency has been added.

IEC TR 63079:2017(E) gives recommendations for and guidance on the design, planning, installation, testing, operation and maintenance of a hearing-loop system (HLS) intended for communicating speech, music and/or other signals. It is mainly concerned with HLS for hearing enhancement, in which the signals are communicated to users of hearing aids equipped with magnetic pick-up coils.
This document does not apply to induction-loop systems which use a carrier frequency, nor to other systems for hearing enhancement purposes which do not use magnetic induction.

IEC 60118-13:2019 covers the relevant EMC phenomena for hearing aids. Hearing aid immunity to high frequency fields originating from digital wireless devices such as mobile phones was identified as one of the most relevant EMC phenomena impacting hearing aids.
IEC 60118-13:2019 cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2016 and constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) it introduces a new measurement method and set of EMC requirements for hearing aids immunity to mobile digital wireless devices;
b) generic EMC requirements for hearing aids are no longer included – should be covered by other standards as appropriate.

IEC TR 62809:2019 provides an overview of the requirements and tests of IEC 60601-2-66 in combination with the applicable sections of IEC 60601-1, and the collateral standards of the IEC 60601 series. It is intended to assist various groups involved in the product lifecycles process - like designers and suppliers - to get an overview of the basic requirements without studying all involved standard documents in detail. The table includes not all but just the more common requirements and tests. It is crucial to understand that the summary in this document cannot serve as an input for a product requirement specification or as a test plan without consulting IEC 60601-2-66 itself. This document alone cannot be used to establish or assess compliance to IEC 60601-2-66.

IEC 60601-2-66:2019 applies to the BASIC SAFETY of HEARING AIDS and HEARING AID SYSTEMS, hereafter also referred to as ME EQUIPMENT or ME SYSTEM. IEC 60601-2-66:2019 cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2015. It constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) revision of the definition about ESSENTIAL PERFORMANCE;
b) revision of the application of IEC 60601-1-2:2014 for electromagnetic disturbances;
c) correction of the used voltage for HEARING AIDS from 1,6 V to 4,5 V;
d) correction of the drop test level from 1,5 m to 1,0 m;
e) correction of the wording of IEC 60601-2-66:2015.

IEC 60118-9:2019 specifies methods for the measurement of bone conduction hearing aid characteristics.
The methods described will produce a suitable basis for the exchange of information or for direct comparison of the electroacoustical characteristics of bone conduction hearing aids. These methods are chosen to be practical and reproducible and are based on selected fixed parameters.
The results obtained by the methods specified in this document express the performance under the conditions of measurement; however, the performance of the hearing aid under practical conditions of use will depend upon a number of factors (e.g. effective load impedance, environmental conditions, acoustical environment, etc.).
This document defines methods of measurement of characteristics of bone conduction hearing aids both for
• transcutaneously coupled devices measured on a mechanical coupler, meeting the requirements of IEC 60318-6, and
• bone coupled/bone anchored devices measured on a skull simulator.
IEC 60118-9:2019 cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1985. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) includes bone coupled devices measured on a skull simulator;
b) measurement frequency range increased to 8 000 Hz for bone coupled devices.

IEC 61265:2018 specifies requirements for the electroacoustical performance of systems of instruments used to measure sound for the purposes of aircraft noise certification, and for other comparisons among aircraft models, and provides methods by which tests can be made periodically to verify that the performance continues to conform to the requirements within stated limits.
In general, a sound measurement system for this purpose comprises a combination of instruments extending from a microphone, including its windscreen and other accessories, through data recording and processing devices to a suitable output. Different measurement systems, regardless of their composition, perform the necessary functions in different ways and operate on either analogue or digital principles.
IEC 61265:2018 cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1995. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) addition of guidance for measurements for aircraft other than large transport aeroplanes;
b) addition of microphones used in ground plane measurement systems;
c) addition of weighted sound level measurements other than one-third-octave band measurements, for certain aircraft types;
d) revision and clarification of requirements for digital audio recording;
e) addition of requirements for evaluation of measurement uncertainty.

IEC 60942:2017 specifies the performance requirements for three classes of sound calibrator: class LS (Laboratory Standard), class 1 and class 2. Acceptance limits are smallest for class LS and greatest for class 2 instruments. Class LS sound calibrators are normally used only in the laboratory; class 1 and class 2 are considered as sound calibrators for field use. A class 1 sound calibrator is primarily intended for use with a class 1 sound level meter and a class 2 sound calibrator primarily with a class 2 sound level meter, as specified in IEC 61672-1. The acceptance limits for class LS sound calibrators are based on the use of a laboratory standard microphone, as specified in IEC 61094-1, for demonstrations of conformance to the requirements of this document. The acceptance limits for class 1 and class 2 sound calibrators are based on the use of a working standard microphone, as specified in IEC 61094-4, for demonstrations of conformance to the requirements of this document. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2003, of which it constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) deletion of the class designations, class LS/C, class 1/C and class 2/C;
b) addition of two further class designations, class LS/M and class 1/M, specifically for pistonphones;
c) addition of an amended criterion for assessing conformance to a specification: conformance is now demonstrated when (a) measured deviations from design goals do not exceed the applicable acceptance limits and (b) the uncertainty of measurement does not exceed the corresponding maximum-permitted uncertainty;
d) modification to the short-term level fluctuation test of the sound pressure level stability;
e) change to some environmental test conditions to avoid icing;
f) addition of an alternative test for immunity to radio-frequency fields using transverse electromagnetic (TEM) waveguides.

Subscribe to IEC 60061 Database to access the full and updated content of the series.

Applies to instruments for measurement of A-frequency- weighted sound exposure resulting from steady, intermittent, fluctuating, irregular, or impulsive sound. Specifies acoustical and electrical performance requirements for personal sound exposure meters of one accuracy grade.

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Subscribe to IEC 60061 Database to access the full and updated content of the series.

IEC 60645-1:2017 specifies general requirements for audiometers designed for use in determining hearing threshold levels, relative to standard reference threshold levels established by means of psychoacoustic test methods, and those designed to perform psychoacoustic tests using speech material.
The object of this standard is to ensure:
a) that tests of hearing in the frequency range 125 Hz to 16 kHz on a given human ear, performed with different pure-tone audiometers which comply with this standard, give substantially the same results;
b) that the results obtained represent a valid comparison between the hearing of the ear tested and the reference threshold of hearing;
c) that a means of presenting speech material to a subject in a standardized manner is provided. This will ensure that tests of hearing using a specific speech signal and a specific manner of signal presentation, when performed with different audiometers which comply with this standard, give substantially the same results;
d) that audiometers are classified according to the range of test signals they present, according to the mode of operation or according to their presumed primary application.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition, published in 2012, and the first edition IEC 60645-2, published in 1993. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition now includes the requirements for both pure-tone (prior edition of IEC 60645-1) and speech audiometers (prior edition of IEC 60645-2) into a single document. The technical requirements in this edition remain similar to the intent of the prior two documents, but now eliminate technical and editorial contradictions caused by two separate standards with different review cycles applying to an audiometer.

Applies to electrical and/or electronic equipment that have a rated input current up to 16 A per phase. Aims to establish a reference for evaluating the immunity of electric and/or electronic equipment when subjected to positive and negative low amplitude voltage fluctuations. Only conducted phenomena are considered, including immunity tests for equipment connected to public and industrial power supply networks.[
]Has the status of a Basic EMC publication.

This Technical Specification specifies requirements for instruments that measure sound intensity using pairs of pressure sensing microphones with respect to their immunity to power- and radio-frequency fields and to electrostatic discharge, and the permitted radio-frequency emissions, together with test procedures to verify conformance. Sound intensity measuring instruments are available in many different configurations and may be powered by batteries or from external power supply systems. The technical requirements in this Technical Specification apply to all configurations of instruments for the measurement of sound intensity. The electromagnetic and electrostatic compatibility requirements are equally applicable for sound intensity measuring instruments used in residential, commercial and light-industrial environments, or industrial sites. The requirements of this Technical Specification are additional to those contained in IEC 61043 and do not alter any of the specifications contained therein. The requirements do not apply retrospectively to sound intensity measuring instruments complying with IEC 61043 prior to the publication of this Technical Specification.

IEC TS 62886:2016(E) which is a Technical Specification, describes a coupler and measurement methods to characterise the electroacoustic performance of hearing aids and insert earphones primarily in the range of 8 kHz to 16 kHz.

IEC 61094-3:2016 specifies a primary method of determining the complex free-field sensitivity of laboratory standard microphones so as to establish a reproducible and accurate basis for the measurement of sound pressure under free-field conditions. It is applicable to laboratory standard microphones meeting the requirements of IEC 61094-1. It is intended for use by laboratories with highly experienced staff and specialized equipment. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1995. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
The contents of the corrigendum of December 2016 have been included in this copy.

IEC 61094-5:2016 is applicable to working standard microphones with removable protection grids meeting the requirements of IEC 61094-4 and to laboratory standard microphones meeting the requirements of IEC 61094-1. This part of IEC 61094 describes methods of determining the pressure sensitivity by comparison with either a laboratory standard microphone or another working standard microphone with known sensitivity in the respective frequency range. This edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

IEC 61260-3:2016 describes procedures for periodic testing of octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters that were designed to conform to the class 1 or class 2 specifications given in IEC 61260-1:2014. The aim of this standard is to ensure that periodic testing is performed in a consistent manner by all laboratories. This first edition of IEC 61260-3 (together with IEC 61260-1:2014 and IEC 61260-2:2016), cancels and replaces the first edition of IEC 61260 published in 1995 and its Amendment 1 published in 2001. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

IEC 61260-2:2016 provides details of the tests necessary to verify conformance to all mandatory specifications given in IEC 61260-1:2014 for octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters. This first edition of IEC 61260-2 (together with IEC 61260-1:2014 and IEC 61260-3:2016), cancels and replaces the first edition of IEC 61260 published in 1995 and its Amendment 1 published in 2001. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

IEC 60118-13:2016 covers relevant EMC phenomena for hearing aids. Hearing aid immunity to high frequency fields originating from digital wireless devices such as mobile phones was originally identified as the most relevant EMC phenomena impacting hearing aids. Since the inclusion of RF generating components within hearing aids, such as digital signal processors or wireless transceivers, additional EMC compliance requirements apply. The EMC requirements now included are radiated emissions and immunity to electrostatic discharge, power frequency magnetic fields, and radiated RF electromagnetic fields. Requirements associated with connected power and signal lines are not included. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2011 and constitutes a technical revision.

IEC 61669:2015 gives recommendations and requirements for the measurement and estimation of the real-ear acoustical performance characteristics of air-conduction hearing aids and for the measurement of certain acoustic properties of the ear related to the application of hearing aids. Measurements of real-ear acoustical characteristics of hearing aids which apply non-linear or analytical processing techniques are valid only for the test signals used and conditions employed. The purpose of this standard is to ensure that measurements of real-ear acoustical performance characteristics of a given hearing aid on a given human ear can be replicated in other locations with other test equipment. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition of IEC 61669:2001 and the first edition of ISO 12124:2001. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

IEC 60601-2-66:2015 applies to the basic safety of hearing instruments and hearing instrument systems, hereafter also referred to as ME equipment or ME system. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2012. It constitutes a technical revision to adapt IEC 60601-2-66:2012 to the technical corrections introduced by Amendment 1 (2012) to IEC 60601-1:2005, as well as to clarify and correct the wording of this particular standard and to implement minor changes requested by interested parties.

IEC 60118-0:2015 gives recommendations for the measurement of the performance characteristics of air conduction hearing aids based on a free field technique and measured with an acoustic coupler. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 1983 and its Amendment 1:1994 as well as IEC 60118-1:1995, Amendment 1:1998, IEC 60118-2:1983, Amendment 1:1993, Amendment 2:1997 and IEC 60118-6:1999. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

IEC 60118-4:2014 is applicable to audio-frequency induction-loop systems producing an alternating magnetic field at audio frequencies and intended to provide an input signal for hearing aids operating with an induction pick-up coil (telecoil). Throughout this standard, it is assumed that the hearing aids used with it conform to all relevant parts of IEC 60118. This standard specifies requirements for the field strength in audio-frequency induction loops for hearing aid purposes, which will give adequate signal-to-noise ratio without overloading the hearing aid. The standard also specifies the minimum frequency response requirements for acceptable intelligibility. Methods for measuring the magnetic field strength are specified, and information is given on appropriate measuring equipment (see Annex B), information that should be provided to the operator and users of the system (see Annex C), and other important considerations. This standard does not specify requirements for loop driver amplifiers or associated microphone or audio signal sources, which are dealt with in IEC 62489-1, or for the field strength produced by equipment, such as telephone handsets, within the scope of ITU-T P.370. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2006. This edition constitutes a technical revision which includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition: Addition of Annexes G, H and I where more information is provided about practical considerations and methods of measurement.

IEC 60318-3:2014 specifies an acoustic coupler for the measurement of supra-aural audiometric earphones in the frequency range from 125 Hz to 8 000 Hz. The sound pressure developed by an earphone is not, in general, the same in the coupler as in a person's ear. However, the acoustic coupler can be used as an objective and reproducible means of measuring the output of supra-aural earphones. It can be used for specifying reference equivalent threshold sound pressure levels for the calibration of audiometers. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1998 and constitutes a technical revision which includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- adjustment of terms and wording to the other parts of IEC 60318;
- introduction of maximum permitted uncertainties;
- and revised requirements for static pressure equalization. Keywords: electroacoustics, deafness, hearing aids

IEC 62489-2:2014 applies to audio-frequency induction-loop systems for assisted hearing. It may also be applied to such systems used for other purposes, as far as it is applicable. The standard is intended for assessment of human exposure to low-frequency magnetic fields produced by the system, by calculation and by in-situ testing. This standard does not deal with other aspects of safety, for which IEC 60065 applies, or with EMC. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2011. This edition constitutes a technical revision which includes significant technical changes to reflect several updates to the ICNIRP Guide (Guidelines for limiting exposure to time-varying electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields) to which it makes frequent reference. The most significant change is that the underlying metric in the Guide has been changed from tissue current density to induced electric field. Keywords: hearing aid, accessibility, surdity, deafness

IEC 61260-1:2014 specifies performance requirements for analogue, sampled-data, and digital implementations of band-pass filters. The extent of the pass-band region of a filter's relative attenuation characteristic is a constant percentage of the exact mid-band frequency for all filters of a given bandwidth. An instrument conforming to the requirements of this standard may contain any number of contiguous band-pass filters covering any desired frequency range. Performance requirements are provided for two filter classes: class 1 and class 2. In general, specifications for class 1 and class 2 filters have the same design goals and differ mainly in the acceptance limits and the range of operational temperature. Acceptance limits for class 2 are greater than, or equal to, those for class 1. Maximum-permitted expanded uncertainties of measurement are also specified. Band-pass filters conforming to the performance requirements of this standard may be part of various measurement systems or may be an integral component of a specific instrument such as a spectrum analyser. This standard specifies the ranges of environmental conditions for operation of the filters. The required range depends on whether the instrument containing the filters is designed to be operated in a controlled environment or more generally in the field. Band-pass filters conforming to the requirements of this standard are capable of providing frequency-band-filtered spectral information for a wide variety of signals, for example, time-varying, intermittent or steady; broadband or discrete frequency; and long or short durations. This first edition of IEC 61260-1, future IEC 61260-2 and future IEC 61260-3, cancel and replace the first edition of IEC 61260 (1995) and its amendment 1 (2001). This edition constitutes a technical revision which includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the IEC 61260 (1995) and its amendment 1 (2001):
- the single document in the first edition of IEC 61260 (1995) and its amendment 1 (2001) is in IEC 61260 series separated into the three parts covering: specifications, pattern evaluation tests and periodic tests;
- the performance category class 0 is removed;
- the design goals for the specification can be based only base-10;
- the reference environmental conditions have been changed from 20 °C / 65 % RH to 23 °C / 50 % RH; and
- IEC 61260 (1995) specified tolerance limits without considering the uncertainty of measurement for verification of the specifications. IEC 61260 series specifies acceptance limits for the observed values and maximum-permitted uncertainty of measurements for laboratories testing conformance to specifications in the standard.

IEC 61672-3:2013 describes procedures for periodic testing of time-weighting, integrating-averaging, and integrating sound level meters that were designed to conform to the class 1 or class 2 specifications of the second edition of IEC 61672-1. The aim of the standard is to ensure that periodic testing is performed in a consistent manner by all laboratories. The purpose of periodic testing is to assure the user that the performance of a sound level meter conforms to the applicable specifications of IEC 61672-1 for a limited set of key tests and for the environmental conditions under which the tests were performed. Periodic tests described in this edition of IEC 61672-3 apply to sound level meters for which the manufacturer claims conformance to the specifications of the second edition of IEC 61672-1. Periodic tests described in IEC 61672-3 apply to sound level meters for which the model has been, or has not been, pattern approved by an independent testing organization responsible for pattern approvals in accordance with the test procedures of the second edition of IEC61672-2. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2006. This second edition constitutes a technical revision. The main changes with regard to the previous concern conformance to specifications which is now demonstrated when measured deviations from design goals do not exceed the applicable acceptance limits, and when the uncertainty of measurement does not exceed the corresponding maximum-permitted uncertainty, with both uncertainties determined for a coverage probability of 95 %. In this document, references to IEC 61672-1, IEC 61672-2, and IEC 61672-3 refer to the second editions unless stated otherwise. Procedures for the periodic testing of sound level meters designed to conform to the specifications of IEC 61672-1:2002 were given in IEC 61672-3:2006.

IEC 61672-2:2013 provides details of the tests necessary to verify conformance to all mandatory specifications given in IEC 61672-1 for time-weighting sound level meters, integrating-averaging sound level meters, and integrating sound level meters. Pattern-evaluation tests apply for each channel of a multi-channel sound level meter, as necessary. Tests and test methods are applicable to class 1 and class 2 sound level meters. The aim is to ensure that all laboratories use consistent methods to perform pattern-evaluation tests. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2003. This second edition constitutes a technical revision, the main technical changes with regard to the previous edition concern conformance to specifications which is now demonstrated when measured deviations from design goals do not exceed the applicable acceptance limits, and when the uncertainty of measurement does not exceed the corresponding maximum permitted uncertainty, with both uncertainties determined for a coverage probability of 95 %. In this document, references to IEC 61672-1, IEC 61672-2, and IEC 61672-3 refer to the second editions unless stated otherwise. Procedures for the pattern-evaluation testing of sound level meters designed to conform to the specifications of IEC 61672-1:2002 were given in IEC 61672-2:2003.

IEC 61672-1:2013 gives electroacoustical performance specifications for three kinds of sound measuring instruments:
- time-weighting sound level meters that measure exponential-time-weighted, frequency-weighted sound levels;
- integrating-averaging sound level meters that measure time-averaged, frequency-weighted sound levels; and
- integrating sound level meters that measure frequency-weighted sound exposure levels. Sound level meters specified in this standard are intended to measure sounds generally in the range of human hearing. Two performance categories, class 1 and class 2, are specified in this standard. Acceptance limits for class 2 are greater than, or equal to, those for class 1. This standard is applicable to a range of designs for sound level meters. A sound level meter may be a self-contained hand-held instrument with an attached microphone and a built-in display device. A sound level meter may be comprised of separate components in one or more enclosures and may be capable of displaying a variety of acoustical signal levels. Sound level meters may include extensive analogue or digital signal processing, separately or in combination, with multiple analogue and digital outputs. Sound level meters may include general-purpose computers, recorders, printers, and other devices that form a necessary part of the complete instrument. Sound level meters may be designed for use with an operator present or for automatic and continuous measurements of sound level without an operator present. Specifications in this standard for the response to sound waves apply without an operator present in the sound field. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2002. It constitutes a technical revision. In this second edition, conformance to specifications is demonstrated when measured deviations from design goals do not exceed the applicable acceptance limits, and when the uncertainty of measurement does not exceed the corresponding maximum-permitted uncertainty, with both uncertainties determined for a coverage probability of 95 %.

IEC/TR 62809:2013(E) provides an overview of the requirements and tests of IEC 60601-2-66 in combination with the applicable sections of IEC 60601-1, and the collateral standards of the IEC 60601 series. It is intended to assist various groups involved in the product lifecycles process - like designers and suppliers - to get an overview of the basic requirements without studying all involved standard documents in detail. The table includes not all but just the more common requirements and tests. During the preparation of IEC 60601-2-66, members of the involved technical committee and working group voiced concerns about the complexity of the document and its structure as part of the IEC 60601 series. There was also concern that groups in the hearing instrument community would have problems to understand and apply the standard and that this could be an issue with its acceptability. In order to have a broad consensus for the new standard it was agreed that the standard should be supported by this Technical Report, which should enable members of the community and the industry to have a basic understanding of the requirements of the standard, without the need to study the complete standard document and the documents that are referenced in it. It is crucial to understand that the summary in this document cannot serve as an input for a product requirement specification or as a test plan without consulting the standard document itself. This Technical Report alone cannot be used to establish or assess compliance to the standard. Keywords: hearing instruments, hearing aids, hearing

IEC 60601-2-66:2012 International Standard applies to the basic safety of hearing instruments and hearing instrument systems. Hazards inherent in the intended physiological function of hearing instruments or hearing instrument systems within the scope of this standard are not covered by specific requirements in this standard except in 201.7.9.2 and 201.9.6. Accessories to hearing instruments in the home healthcare environment (e.g. remote control units, audio streamers, battery chargers, power supplies) are covered by the most applicable standard, IEC 60065, IEC 60950-1 or other applicable IEC safety standards. Accessories connected to a hearing instrument may form a hearing instrument system. Only the hearing instrument and its detachable parts are subject to all applicable clauses of this particular standard. The remaining components of the hearing instrument system are subject to requirements of this particular standard that result from their connection to the hearing instrument system. This standard does not apply to:
- cochlear implants or other implanted hearing instruments;
- bone conduction hearing instruments;
- educational hearing instruments (i.e. group hearing instruments, auditory trainers etc.);
- the application of a hearing instrument for the measurement of hearing levels. IEC 60645-1 applies;
- audio-frequency induction-loop systems or their component parts, as described in IEC 60118-4 and IEC 62489-1;
- assisted hearing instrument systems using infra-red or radio;
- and the sound generating function of a tinnitus masker.

IEC 61094-8:2012 applicable to working standard microphones meeting the requirements of IEC 61094-4. It describes methods of determining the free-field sensitivity by comparison with a laboratory standard microphone or working standard microphone (where applicable) that has been calibrated according to either; IEC 61094-3; IEC 61094-2; IEC 61094-5; IEC 61094-6; or this part of IEC 61094. Methods performed in an acoustical environment that is a good approximation to an ideal free-field (e.g. a high quality free-field chamber), and methods that use post processing of results to minimise the effect of imperfections in the acoustical environment, to simulate free-field conditions, are both covered by this part of IEC 61094. Comparison methods based on the principles described in IEC 61094-3 are also possible but beyond the scope of this part of IEC 61094.

IEC 62585:2012 provides information on the corrections required over a range of frequencies in order for a periodic test of a sound level meter to be performed according to IEC 61672-3. These corrections include; corrections for the typical effects of reflections from the case of the sound level meter and diffraction of sound around the microphone; corrections for the deviation of the typical microphone frequency response from a uniform frequency response, where the actual microphone response cannot be measured; and corrections for the influence on the frequency response of a typical microphone of a specified windscreen and any other accessory that is part of the configuration for normal use of the particular sound level meter submitted for testing. This International Standard includes discussion about uncertainties of measurement of the required corrections. In some instances a maximum permitted expanded uncertainty for the manufacturer or testing laboratory is given. The aim of this International Standard is to ensure that the adjustment value at the calibration check frequency and all corrections are determined using consistent and appropriate methods. It is intended that this International Standard will be used by manufacturers to determine adjustment values and corrections, by laboratories performing pattern evaluation tests according to IEC 61672-2, and by laboratories performing periodic tests according to IEC 61672-3. Laboratories performing periodic tests according to IEC 61672-3 will also need to consult this International Standard to ensure that the expanded uncertainties of measurement for the corrections quoted by the manufacturer do not exceed the maximum permitted values.