Abstract: A method and system for determining fluidborne noise characteristics of a fluid power pump. The system includes the pump, a reference pipe fluidly connected to a discharge of the pump, three pressure sensors disposed within the reference pipe at predetermined spacings from each other and the pump, first and second loading valves, and a calculating and analysis assembly. The loading valves are selectively and alternatingly actuated to pressurize fluid contained in the system. The calculating and analysis assembly receives signals from the pressure sensors and signals indicative of the rotational speed of the pump. The calculating and analysis assembly uses these signals, together with the known physical characteristics of the reference pipe and the system fluid, to determine the source flow ripple and internal impedance.