PHOTOMETRIC APPLICATIONS
Photometry involves the measurement of electromagnetic radiation in terms of its capacity to stimulate the human visual system, and to be perceived as light. Different applications require different types of measurements, and therefore, different types of photometric instruments (photometers). The fundamental types of photometric measurements, the corresponding instruments, and their typical applications, may be summarized as follows:
Luminous Flux Measurements (in units of lumens) are performed with a luminous flux meter. This type of testing is typically used for characterizing the total output of sources such as:
- LEDs
- Lamps
- Fiber-Optic Illuminators
Illuminance Measurements (in units of lux) are performed with a lux meter. This involves the measurement of the amount of luminous flux incident upon a surface, per unit area. Such measurements are important in the following fields:
Luminous Intensity Measurements (in units of candela) are performed with an instrument that may be described as a luminous intensity meter or a candela meter. This type of testing is typically used for characterizing the output of a relatively small source in a particular direction. Typical devices under test include:
- LEDs
- Automobile Headlamps
- Signal Lamps
Luminance Measurements (in units of nits, or candela per square meter) are performed with a luminance meter. This involves measuring the light emitted in a particular direction by a given spot on the surface of a relatively large, or extended source. Typical devices under test include:
- Computer Monitors
- Television Screens
- Avionics Displays
- Other Electronic Displays
UDT Instruments offers a range of complete, pre-configured solutions to meet the most common photometric requirements. Specialized configurations, and custom designs are also available.
