If one PC creates 20dB of noise and another makes 40dB, how louder is the second PC?

Choose wisely! The correct answer, the explanation, and an intriguing story await. Correct Answer: Four times louder What was Comdex before it was shut down in the early 2000s? The decibel (dB) scale is logarithmic, not linear, increasing by a power of ten with every 10dB, which roughly equates to a doubling in loudness based on average human hearing. Consequently, 30dB is about twice as loud as 20dB, and a computer producing 40dB of noise would be approximately four times louder than one generating 20dB. A PC emitting only 20dB of noise would be considered a relatively quiet system, while a typical office environment is around 40-50dB, and comfortable hearing levels are said to be below 60dB. A siren 10 meters away and speakers at a rock concert measure around 110dB, heavy weapons and space rockets register at 180-190dB, and at 194dB, sound waves become shock waves. While on the topic of computer noise, here's a great reference about the different 'sounds' your PC can make: ... Read full article.