How does a white noise generator work?

Question

There's a free white noise generator at SimplyNoise.com, and I'm using it right now. It works, which is really wierd, but how does it work?

Answer 1

A noise generator (white, pink, brown, etc) consists of:

a. A number generator (you could say "random" number generator--more on that later),

b. A digital-to-analog converter (to convert numbers to electrical power to drive a speaker), and

c. A speaker.



The one that you inquired about is using your computer and computer speaker/headphones for (a) and (c).



The cited before "noise" depends on the types of numbers.

1. If they have no correlation, then their power spectra is flat, meaning that all (at least audible) frequencies are equally represented. Since our 3 visual color sensitivities are (roughly) equally stimulated by this type of visible light, it can be called "white".

2. If they are correlated in such a way that the power spectrum is shaped as it would be by Brownian motion, that is apparently referred to as "brown" noise.

3. If the lower frequencies are more present than higher by a 1/frequency relationship, it is referred to as "pink" noise. No, it has nothing to do with the pop artist "Pink".



Realistically, you don't need a random source of numbers. Instead, a "Pseudo-random" number sequence can be used, as long as the sequence generated is long enough that the listener doesn't notice the periodicity in the noise, which might happen, for example, if the pattern repeated 100 times a second (you'd possibly notice a buzz or hum).

Answer 2

It is just a tone that is somewhat random and blocks out annoying sounds that may be real or originate in you head as tinnitus. Your brain is busy listening to the white noise and forgets about other sounds.

Answer 3

you cant hear what drs saying with other patient in the office... and so same for you if your in office and well new person waiting for dr cant hear you since noise is on... drs use privacy for your time.

ect