BSWA MC3242A 4‑Channel Data Acquisition System
2026-05-19BSWA MC3242A 4‑channel data acquisition unit: 24‑bit, 1–128 kHz sampling, 2 Hz–50 kHz bandwidth, 108 dB dynamic range, ICCP powered, dual power supply. Ideal for impedance tube, building acoustics, sound insulation, reverb, sound intensity, NVH, and field noise testing.
Overview
BSWA MC3242A is a 4‑channel high‑performance data acquisition unit designed for precision acoustic and vibration measurement. It features 24‑bit AD/DA, 1–128 kHz sampling rate, 2 Hz–50 kHz bandwidth, 108 dB dynamic range, and built‑in ICCP power supply. With dual power input and compact portable design, it delivers stable, accurate data acquisition for impedance tube, building acoustics, sound intensity, NVH, industrial testing, and field measurement applications.
Key Performance Advantages
4‑Input / 2‑Output Multi‑Tasking: Sync for Complex Acoustic Tests
MC3242A provides 4 input + 2 output synchronous processing, ideal for multi‑microphone arrays, impedance tubes, sound intensity probes, and simultaneous acoustic/vibration data capture.
High‑Resolution & Wide Bandwidth: 24‑bit / 2 Hz–50 kHz
24‑bit AD/DA, sampling rate 1 kHz–128 kHz, input frequency response 2 Hz–50 kHz (±0.5 dB). It accurately captures high‑frequency acoustic and ultrasonic signals for precision material and component testing.
High Dynamic & Low Noise: 108 dB / 29 dBA
108 dB input dynamic range, 29 dBA self‑noise, linear input 42 dBA–137 dB for stable measurement from faint ambient noise to high‑level industrial sound.
Dual Power & Portable Design: Lab + Field Ready
Supports USB bus power and 7–14 VDC external power. Compact size 184×48×220 mm enables easy deployment in labs, workshops, and outdoor sites.
ICCP Integrated: Direct Microphone Connection
4× BNC inputs with 24 V / 2 mA ICCP power and software switchable AC/DC coupling for direct connection to MPA201, MPA416, and other ICP microphones without extra power supplies.
Comparison Table
| Scenario & Feature | MC3242A | General DAQ Devices |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance Tube / Material Acoustics | 4-channel sync + ICCP + wide bandwidth | Limited bandwidth, no ICCP |
| Building Acoustics (Sound Insulation / Reverb) | 2-output excitation + 4-input measurement | Separate signal source required |
| Field Noise Monitoring | Dual power, compact, low power | Bulky, AC-only, poor mobility |
| Sound Intensity & NVH Testing | 108 dB dynamic, low noise, high sampling | Narrow dynamic, noisy front-end |
| Plug-and-Play | USB 2.0, VA-Lab compatible, no extra cards | Driver complex, setup slow |
Core Application Scenarios
1. Impedance Tube & Material Acoustics Testing
Ideal for absorption coefficient, sound transmission loss, and material acoustic performance measurement. 4‑channel synchronous acquisition supports two‑microphone impedance tube methods with high accuracy and efficiency.
2. Building Acoustics & Architectural Testing
Used for reverberation time, sound insulation, sound power, and IACC measurement. 2‑channel output drives sound sources; 4‑channel input captures spatial acoustic data for labs and on‑site acceptance.
3. Sound Intensity & Industrial NVH Testing
Supports sound intensity measurement, equipment noise mapping, and automotive/appliance NVH analysis. High dynamic and low noise design ensures reliable results in complex industrial environments.
4. General Noise & Field Monitoring
Suitable for environmental noise logging, machinery fault detection, and temporary on‑site measurement. Dual power supply and compact body enable flexible deployment indoors and outdoors.
5. Laboratory & Academic Research
Works with BSWA VA‑Lab software for spectrum analysis, recording, sound level calculation, and standardized acoustic experiments.
User Scenario Benefits
- All‑in‑one DAQ: 4‑in / 2‑out design replaces multiple devices for acoustic testing.
- Cost saving: Built‑in ICCP reduces need for external power supplies.
- Time saving: 4‑channel sync cuts test duration vs single‑channel units.
- High mobility: Dual power + compact size supports lab and field use.
- High compatibility: Works with VA‑Lab and standard sensors for fast setup.
FAQ
What scenarios is MC3242A designed for?
It is built for impedance tube testing, building acoustics, sound intensity measurement, reverberation/sound insulation tests, industrial NVH, and field noise monitoring.
Does MC3242A support direct microphone connection?
Yes. It provides 4× ICCP 24 V / 2 mA inputs for direct ICP microphone use.
What is the input bandwidth and sampling rate?
Input frequency response 2 Hz–50 kHz (±0.5 dB); sampling rate 1 kHz–128 kHz.
Can it be used outdoors without AC power?
Yes. It supports USB bus power and 7–14 VDC external battery for field use.
What software does MC3242A use?
It is fully compatible with BSWA VA‑Lab acoustic analysis software for complete test workflows.

