The Anechoic Box (AEB) Is Not Just a Box — Rethinking the AEB as a Complete Acoustic Test System —

09/15/2025

AEB

Introduction: What Is an AEB (Anechoic Box)?

An Anechoic Box (AEB) is a compact acoustic test enclosure designed to evaluate the sound characteristics of small devices or components.
While it may appear to be just a sound-absorbing box, we believe an AEB is far more than that.

An AEB should be seen as a measurement system—a tool that ensures repeatable accuracy and user-independent operation in sound testing.

Why a Box Alone Is Not Enough

Typical acoustic testing challenges in R&D and manufacturing include:

  • Inconsistent results due to variation in device positioning
  • Operator-dependent procedures leading to unreliable outcomes
  • Manual setups with varied test conditions and calibration errors
  • Frequent jig changes for different products
  • Cost and delays from outsourcing to external anechoic facilities

These issues stem not from the acoustic space itself, but from a lack of system-level standardization.

Sonora’s AEB System Configuration (Example)

Our AEB-based solutions are designed as integrated acoustic testing systems, including:

AEB unitProvides a free-field environment using broadband absorptive interior surfaces
Test instruments:HBK microphones, amplifiers, and FFT analyzers
Fixture toolingCustom mounts to maintain consistent device position and orientation
Transport mechanism:Slide trays or multi-jig switching options
Control softwareGUI interface with automated OK/NG judgment
External I/OSignal connections for integration with PLCs and production lines

With this system, the testing process becomes:
Insert → Measure → Judge, repeatable by any operator with consistent results.

Use Cases

  • Sound pressure and sensitivity tests for smart speakers
  • Functional audio verification for voice-controlled devices
  • Post-assembly performance checks for MEMS microphones
  • Noise level evaluation for small motors and sensors
  • Flexible line inspection for multiple product variants

Conclusion: The AEB Is Not Just an Enclosure

The AEB should not be seen as just a “quiet box.”
It is a platform for automating and standardizing acoustic quality control.
What matters most in measurement is not only the space, but the repeatability, efficiency, and reliability of the process.
When used as a system—not just a structure—the AEB becomes a powerful enabler of trustworthy acoustic testing.

Learn more about Anechoic Box (AEB)

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