Blog
8/7/2019

Tonal vs. Multi-Frequency Alarm: What's The Difference?


Tonal vs. Multi-Frequency Alarm: What's The Difference?

What Are The Options?

First, you can choose between a tonal alarm and a multi-frequency alarm. Industry experts have suggested either can provide an effective warning and each has its merits as described on the next page. Second, you must choose an alarm with the appropriate sound pressure level (SPL). OSHA requires a reverse alarm to be audible above the surrounding noise level. If you know the ambient noise level and it remains reasonably constant then the appropriate fixed dB alarm can be selected, whether tonal or multi-frequency. The key is complying with the requirements of OSHA while selecting the lowest SPL alarm possible so as not to create a noise nuisance. Fortunately, ECCO pioneered another solution — the Smart Alarm®, available in either tonal or multifrequency. Smart Alarms monitor ambient noise automatically and adjust their output to 5dB above that, satisfying OSHA’s requirements. Perfect for worksites with inconsistent noise or varying noise levels.

Tonal vs. Multi-Frequency

Tonal alarms emit sound at a single predominant frequency resulting in the familiar ‘beep-beep’ warning signal that we’ve all grown accustomed to. Conversely, multi-frequency alarms emit sound at multiple frequencies within a narrow band resulting in a ‘shhh-shhh’ warning sound. There is no scientific evidence to prove either sound is more effective than the other in a reversing vehicle application. However, there are several points of view that should be considered when choosing between the two.

Smart Alarms

Listen. Adjust. React. Smart Alarms self-adjust to varying environmental noise by continually listening and reacting to ambient sound levels adjusting their output to 5 dB(A) above to ensure their sound is audible without creating a nuisance. It’s the smartest way to ensure OSHA compliance and eliminate noise complaints. Choose from tonal and multi-frequency models.

Multi-Frequency

Commercial vehicle noise pollution is a growing problem, especially in residential areas and densely populated or confined locations. ECCO’s multi-frequency alarms use a range of sound frequencies within a narrow band to emit a warning signal that is perceived to be more directional and to dissipate quicker than a tonal alarm. Keep the peace while complying with OSHA safety standards.

ECCO Back-Up Alarms

ECCO has remained the global market leader in back-up alarms for over 47 years and has more knowledge and experience in the field than any other company. For decades our products and expertise have made us the choice of the world’s most prominent OE vehicle manufacturers. We offer an unparalleled range of alarms to suit any application, and all of our alarms feature encapsulated electronics that provide enhanced protection against dust, moisture, and vibration damage. Many of our alarms are so robust they come with an ECCOLIFE™ warranty, guaranteeing the alarm for the life of the vehicle.

Fixed Decibal - Tonal
87 dB: 505, 580
97 dB: 210, 510, 520, 585,610N
102 dB: 530
107 dB: 575, 630N, 830N
112 dB: 450, 850N, 876N
Switchable: SA951, 840N, 777

Fixed Decibal - Multi-Frequency
87 dB: EA5050
97 dB: EA5200, EA6100
102 dB: EA7020
107 dB: EA7070

Smart Alarm - Tonal
77-97 dB: SA951
82-102 dB: SA950, SA931N
87-107 dB: SA901N, SA907N
97-112 dB: SA914N, SA917N, SA940
97-112 dB: SA920

Smart Alarm - Multi-Frequency
77-97 dB: EA9724, EA9780
87-107 dB: EA9070

Explore all of your backup alarm options here.


Blog
Close