What is white noise?

White noise gets its name from white light which includes all the colors of the spectrum. White noise includes indistinguishable sounds from the entire audible sound spectrum. Today's technology, however, focuses the sound on the frequency range of human speech.

The first question most people as is how adding more noise will help them concentrate better. Picture for a moment that you are in a dark room and someone across the room is randomly blinking a flashlight at you. The flashlight is very distracting and even irritating. But what happens if someone turns on the overhead lights? You hardly notice the flashlight because it is covered by the bright overhead lights.

Sound can work the same way; distracting noises can be hidden by the adding general background sound. This can cover the distractions of conversations, street noises, and other intrusive sounds.

Does white noise really work?

Although the science behind it may seem confusing and far fetched, the application is all it claims to be. Offices across the country use this technology to improve privacy and productivity, including government agencies, medical facilities and standard office buildings. The result is less distraction, greater productivity, and increased confidentiality.

Why use white noise?

White noise helps cover interruptive sounds. Here are a few of the many applications for white noise.

Less distraction at work - White noise will mask conversations and other noise in the work place, leaving you free to focus on your work. A sound masking system in the business space will benefit everyone in the office.

Improved privacy and confidentiality - For example, in a doctor's office or hospital, sound masking systems use white noise to cover the conversation in the hallway or neighboring room, so other patients do not overhear you personal information.

Less interrupted sleep - White noise can help you sleep through street noise, or unfamiliar sounds while traveling, resulting in a better night's sleep.

Sound therapy for tinnitus - Some sound therapies have been proven to lessen the discomfort caused by 'ringing in your ears' or tinnitus.